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Syndicated Articles From Local Imc's for December 2008
January 2009 >> << November 2008
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Dec 01 2008
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Seattle WTO Shutdown 9 Year Anniversary: 5 Lessons for Today |
This was the question a group of organizers from different parts of the last decades of global justice organizing responded to last week at a forum in New York City put together by Deep Dish TV, an independent video/media pioneer. Here are my thoughts.
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Dec 01 2008
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In Colorado Big Brother is Watching Part 1 of a Two Part Series By Phillip Reynes |
The full scale of the assault on our civil liberties is hard to understate and its scope includes Colorado. Fusion Centers have sprung up around the country and Colorado of course has one. This along with the recruiting of thousands of private sector workers like the guy who reads your electric meter, delivers your mail, or installs your cable to act as “Terrorism Liaison Officers” entrusted with the job hunting for suspicious activity, not just terrorism. read more
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Dec 01 2008
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Police Spying, Searches, Raids Energize Activist Community |
Activists release spy documents; encourage participation in two events this week focused on illegal searches, raids, and spying.
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Dec 01 2008
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Editorial Cartoon: White House Bathroom, Jan. 21, 2009 |
Rahm Emmanuel? Tom Daschle? Eric Holder? HILLARY, f'crissakes? If you're still wondering – no, you're not the only one marveling in awe at the number and quickness of the old Clinton mobsters and liberal interventionists crawling out from under their rocks to score cushy gigs with the incoming Change Administration. Have any Hope'n'Change voters out there begun to sober up and wonder if, by voting against a third term of Bush, you ended up with a third term of Clinton, except without Bubba himself – or, perhaps, even worse…? Yes, now, at last, the truth can be told – your cartoonist has gazed into the future, and it ain't pretty...
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Dec 01 2008
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Call for independent review of Wrongful Death |
Friends of Gregory Wright call for an independent review of his wrongful execution on Oct. 30th 2008. The strong evidence of innocence was inadequately weighted and investigated by the prosecution and trial judge, so denying the Appeal Courts of lawful data on which to grant a Stay. His friends call upon the legislature of Texas, and appropriate media sources, to undertake an independent review of the processes and decisions that led to this terrible act.
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Dec 01 2008
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Philly's Military Amusement Park |
Facing recruitment shortfalls in urban areas, the US Army has increasingly turned to video games and combat simulators to attract teenagers. A new $12 million video gaming entertainment complex in Philadelphia has taken military marketing into uncharted waters. The Army Experience Center is a two-year pilot program that, if deemed successful, could be replicated in other cities. Listen here to the Free Speech Radio News report.
ALSO BY DENVIR: Mass Indigenous Protest In Defense of Water Caps Week of Mobilizations in Ecuador and In Ecuador, Mass Mobilizations Against Mining Confront President Correa
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Dec 01 2008
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Dec 7: Solidarity Born of Love-A panel on Prisoner Support |
Join EWOK! for a special event on the 3rd anniversary of the Green Scare...
What: "Solidarity Born of Love": a panel on political prosecution and incarceration, from the perspective of family and friends
Who: Jenny Esquivel, partner of Green Scare prisoner Eric McDavid
Aaron Zellhoefer, of SHAC 7 prisoner Kevin Kjonaas' support committee
Fred Peterson, husband of political prisoner Sara Jane Olsen
Leslie James Pickering, former ELF spokesperson
When: 7:30 pm, Sunday, December 7th, 2008
Where: 2615 E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis (thanks to the Animal Rights Coalition for donating the space!)
What: "Solidarity Born of Love": a panel on political prosecution and incarceration, from the perspective of family and friends
Who: Jenny Esquivel, partner of Green Scare prisoner Eric McDavid
Aaron Zellhoefer, of SHAC 7 prisoner Kevin Kjonaas' support committee
Fred Peterson, husband of political prisoner Sara Jane Olsen
Leslie James Pickering, former ELF spokesperson
When: 7:30 pm, Sunday, December 7th, 2008
Where: 2615 E. Franklin Ave., Minneapolis (thanks to the Animal Rights Coalition for donating the space!)
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Dec 01 2008
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Manhattan Night Court At 100 Center St. Part I |
NYPD policy targets homeless people for fare evasion on the M35 bus in Harlem
One man present who had been charged with fare beating on the m35 that morning, who did not want to give his name, claimed that he and five others here in court were picked up that morning after boarding the bus at approximately 6:30am on their way to an outpatient facility in Harlem. They are homeless, living in the shelter, and the bus is their connection to job interviews, mental health facilities, friends and family. None of them had money for the fare, and all snuck on the bus from the back door.
One man present who had been charged with fare beating on the m35 that morning, who did not want to give his name, claimed that he and five others here in court were picked up that morning after boarding the bus at approximately 6:30am on their way to an outpatient facility in Harlem. They are homeless, living in the shelter, and the bus is their connection to job interviews, mental health facilities, friends and family. None of them had money for the fare, and all snuck on the bus from the back door.
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Dec 02 2008
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Housing Activists Pitch Tents at HUD DC Field Office to Mark World AIDS Day |
Dec 1 is World AIDS Day. At noon, DC Fights Back and supporters pitched tents in front of HUD's DC field office between N Capitol st and 1st st NE. They were demanding that all 278 people on a 2-year waiting list for subsidized housing be placed immediately and the waiting list ended. Read More & Pics | Download WSQT Broadcast Audio
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Dec 02 2008
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Two dozen more RNC cases dismissed today! |
An initial review of Ramsey County court cases scheduled for today shows 25 misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases formally dismissed! Stemming primarily from the mass arrests on September 1, this dismissal of charges comes after a similar dismissal of up to two dozen cases two weeks ago.
As we find more information about the latest batch of bogus charges, we'll post it here. read more
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Dec 02 2008
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FBI Seeks ELF/ALF Suspects in Durango, CO |
Upon returning to classes from Thanksgiving break today, students at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado were surprised to discover FBI wanted posters posted on campus. After filming the flyers for historical purposes (video forthcoming), a group of anonymous disgruntled students removed the witch-hunt propaganda from at least one location. read more
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Dec 02 2008
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New York Says NO to Budget Cuts |
The NYC Local of the Socialist Party USA therefore encourages immediate acts of non-violent protest to defend education, healthcare, transportation and social services. All of these are our rights as human beings and are fundamental to the creation of a democratic socialist political project.
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Dec 02 2008
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Police Claim Filming Them is 'Violation of Patriot Act', Arrest Fois Gras Protestors |
On Saturday, November 29, approximately 7:00 pm, I was falsely arrested for “filming police officers, which is illegal under the Patriot Act,” according to the cop who arrested me. They were trying to take my boyfriend, Adam Ortberg, into custody to be (wrongly) identified as a protester who allegedly assaulted someone, and I was trying to film the impending confrontation and possible arrest with my camera phone.
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Dec 03 2008
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Mt. Ashland Expansion Alert! |
On Tuesday Dec. 2 (today), the City Council will decide whether or not to Appeal the decision of Judge Schiveley in the Mt. Ashland Association vs. City of Ashland case that was heard in the Jackson County Circuit Court. The City has a strong case on Appeal and the opportunity to recover significant legal costs. Please speak out to the Council and let them know that the citizens support them standing firm and Appealing this poor and unexpected ruling.
Location: Council Chambers, 1175 East Main St.
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2008
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Council Chambers, 1175 East Main St.
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2008
Time: 7:00 PM
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Dec 03 2008
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Police Harassment of Worcester's Latino Livery Taxis Subsides - Questions Remain |
The on-again, off-again harassment of Worcester’s livery taxis appears to have subsided, lessening frustration and anger within Worcester’s Latino community.Community members and taxi drivers have reported harassment of patrons and drivers and multiple civil rights violations. On multiple occasions the Worcester Police Department has shut-down business completely, sending drivers home and leaving waiting patrons needing rides to doctors’ appointments and markets stranded.
The targeting of the taxis is another attack against Latino small business owners in Worcester where these businesses are primarily comprised of Ecuadoran and Dominican owners and drivers.
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Dec 03 2008
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100 Confront Gaertner at DFL Fundraiser; No Arrests |
Last night's rally and dance party outside RNC felony prosecutor Susan Gaertner's gubernatorial fundraiser in downtown Minneapolis was a smashing success from the perspective of protest organizers. At 4:00, the RNC 8 held a press conference satirically endorsing Gaertner's run for Governor, and presenting a giant check for "Eight dollars and zero sense." Soon thereafter a banner was dropped from a nearby parking ramp, and the crowd for the CRASS-organized rally swelled to about 100. A large police presence of nearly two dozen MPD officers with a booking van and flexicuffs was also on the scene, but the crowd avoided arrests and ended the party at about 6:30, chanting "We'll be back!"
Meanwhile, the number of cases dismissed by St. Paul City Attorney John Choi this week is at 30 according to CRASS, all but three of which were scheduled for trial on December 15. Many of the cases are from the Shepherd Road and 7th/Jackson parking lot mass arrests. A minimum of 63 misdemeanor/gross misdemeanor cases have now been dismissed and a dozen others declined for prosecution.
Press Statement from the RNC 8 | CRASS | Petition to Susan Gaertner: Drop the Charges | (did you take photos or videos of the rally? publish or link to them on TC Indymedia and we'll add them here!) read more
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Dec 03 2008
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worker coop needs support in Port Townsend |
The owner of a popular coffee house and bakery suddenly shut the doors of the business leaving a group of people without jobs. Those workers and some past employees are now trying to re-open the business as a worker-owned coop.
The workers have a plan to make this coffee house become a place that people can use for community organizing as well as offering bake goods and coffee and tea. First they need to raise the money to ask the bank and past owner to let them take over the loan. The workers need capital and they are asking the community and past customers to help them raise that money.
The workers have a plan to make this coffee house become a place that people can use for community organizing as well as offering bake goods and coffee and tea. First they need to raise the money to ask the bank and past owner to let them take over the loan. The workers need capital and they are asking the community and past customers to help them raise that money.
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Dec 03 2008
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Jeff's Birthday and Daniel McGowan Events Coming Up! |
Dear Friends, A reminder that Jeff's 30th birthday, and 8th birthday in prison, is this coming Friday December 5th. Please send him a card, or donate to his prison commissary account or education/release fund. In other news, political prisoner Daniel McGowan's 3rd anniversary of his arrest is December 7, and a few events are taking place to mark the occasion as well as bring attention to the Federal Prison Work Incentive Act (or "Good Time Bill") - a bill to restore good time allowances toward service of Federal prison terms.
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Dec 03 2008
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Working Class Book Fair Dec 6th!!!! |
The PDX IWW hosts the 3rd annual Working Class Book Fair-
Saturday December 6th - 12-4pm
Liberty Hall - 311 N Ivy, Portland OR, 97227
Local Book Vendors will dish out Books on Work Class: History, Fiction, Political Theory, and more. Vendors include: Laughing Horse Books, In Other Words, Tarantula Press, Eberhardt Press, Just Seeds, Malkriad@s, IWW Books, Olin, Red Letter Press, Great Northwest Books, Decentra Collective, Black Rose Collective, and many more. It's only once a year that you will see these 12 plus vendors shoved all under one roof. Find books, children's stories, zines, posters, stickers, buttons and friends
Come Early 11-12 to participate in a Workshop on Marx's Value Price and Profit This essay was never published till after Marx's death, but serves as a handy guide ("Addressed To Working people") to the main concepts he presented in Capital Volume One— "Production, Wages And Profit"; "Supply And Demand"; "Value And Labor"; "Laboring Power"; "Surplus Value"; "Struggle Between Capital And Labor"; and much more!
The Book Fair will also be the Grand Unveiling of the 2nd Edition of Think it Over...an introduction to the IWW. Handsomely printed by Portland's own Stumptown Printers, this pamphlet carries the heart and soul of the IWW, and explains solidarity, direct action, and class struggle in way that's easy to swallow and digest in one sitting. Contact: IWW Hall 503-231-5488
Saturday December 6th - 12-4pm
Liberty Hall - 311 N Ivy, Portland OR, 97227
Local Book Vendors will dish out Books on Work Class: History, Fiction, Political Theory, and more. Vendors include: Laughing Horse Books, In Other Words, Tarantula Press, Eberhardt Press, Just Seeds, Malkriad@s, IWW Books, Olin, Red Letter Press, Great Northwest Books, Decentra Collective, Black Rose Collective, and many more. It's only once a year that you will see these 12 plus vendors shoved all under one roof. Find books, children's stories, zines, posters, stickers, buttons and friends
Come Early 11-12 to participate in a Workshop on Marx's Value Price and Profit This essay was never published till after Marx's death, but serves as a handy guide ("Addressed To Working people") to the main concepts he presented in Capital Volume One— "Production, Wages And Profit"; "Supply And Demand"; "Value And Labor"; "Laboring Power"; "Surplus Value"; "Struggle Between Capital And Labor"; and much more!
The Book Fair will also be the Grand Unveiling of the 2nd Edition of Think it Over...an introduction to the IWW. Handsomely printed by Portland's own Stumptown Printers, this pamphlet carries the heart and soul of the IWW, and explains solidarity, direct action, and class struggle in way that's easy to swallow and digest in one sitting. Contact: IWW Hall 503-231-5488
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Dec 03 2008
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Government needs to reform auto industry |
Never has there been a greater opportunity for an ailing automobile industry to turn their lemons into lemonade. But they do not deserve a blank check. If the Big Three don't agree to go green, then let ExxonMobil bail them out.
RELATED: Blame the Takers, Not the Makers
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Dec 04 2008
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Remembering a Media Pioneer: Greg Carr |
In late October, Greg Carr's body was found in the doorway of a Sacramento muffler shop. Greg had been living on the streets of Sacramento for most of a decade and had been a watchdog for Sacramento's homeless population. This is my reaction to hearing about the last years of his life and of his death.
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Dec 04 2008
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International Day of Solidarity for Mumia Abu-Jamal |
At noon, on Saturday, Dec. 6, supporters of death-row journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal will gather at Philadelphia City Hall for a protest march through downtown that will conclude at the Federal Court Building. International solidarity actions are being held in France, Switzerland, Germany, England, and Mexico, while in the US, events are organized in Detroit, San Francisco, Baltimore, Portland, and San Diego. Mumia is currently appealing to the US Supreme Court for a new guilt-phase trial, while the Philadelphia DA is appealing to the same court in an effort to execute Mumia without a new sentencing-phase jury trial.
The new video Fighting for Mumia's Freedom: a report from Philadelphia focuses on the March 27, 2008 denial of a new guilt-phase trial for Mumia, the DA's continued attempt to execute him, and the response of Mumia and his international support network.
RELATED: Mumia's Message for Dec. 6 II Journalists for Mumia flyer II British film In Prison My Whole Life premieres Dec. 8 on Sundance TV II Previous IMC feature II FreeMumia.com II APOC Contingent for Mumia on Global Day of Action
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Dec 04 2008
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A Critique of the “Celebrate People’s History - Build Popular Power Bloc” |
An anonymous critic's take on a widely-publicized call for anarchists to celebrate rather than protest at Obama's inauguration.
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Dec 04 2008
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December 5th-7th: Schedule for North West Anti-Imperialist Direct Action Coalition conference |
The North West Anti-Imperialist Direct Action Coalition's founding conference will be December 5th - 7th in Olympia, WA at the Evergreen State College. Attached is a schedule of the events.
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Dec 04 2008
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A conversation about the Worcester Slave Narratives |
A conversation with Thomas L. Doughton and B. Eugene McCarthy, co-editors of From Bondage to Belonging: The Worcester Slave Narratives. 52 Mason St, Worcester, Massachusetts. October 22, 2008. Download the mp4 video directly (362 MB) or see other formats. | Audio: Download the mp3 or see other formats. | More about this program.
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Dec 04 2008
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Climate Activists Invade DC Offices of Environmental Defense, Daughter of ED Founder Accuses Group of Pushing False Solutions to Climate Change |
December 1, 2008 - As the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change opened today in Poznan, Poland, grassroots climate activists took over the Washington DC office of Environmental Defense. The activists stated that they had targeted ED, one of the largest environmental organizations in the world, because of the organization’s key role in promoting the discredited approach of carbon trading as a solution to climate change. Read More | | | Audio: Raw Audio courtesy of WSQT Radio | Finished WSQT Broadcast Audio | | | www.risingtidenorthamerica.org
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Dec 04 2008
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SCI Camp Hill Update—Call for Action, Increased Monitoring, Constant Vigilance |
December 2, 2008 — Prisoners in the Camp Hill Special Management Unit report that the retaliation against them has escalated again. The timing of the reports indicate that the last action alert stayed the hands of the guards for a while, but once the calls died down, the threats, deprivations of food, fabricated misconducts, and other forms of harassment and torture have escalated again.
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Dec 04 2008
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Worcester Food Not Bombs Wants to Grow |
Do you like to cook? Do you like human beings? Do you prefer food to bombs? Come to Food Not Bombs! (Noon on Sundays at Stone Soup!) Our numbers are dwindling, plus we have a hankering for some new FNB faces. (More FNB-ers means more interesting, funny, quirky folks for us to know and hug!) We know it's cold outside but we can easily bundle up and huddle together and share the warmth while we share our hot meals with the community.
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Dec 04 2008
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ACLUM Urges City to Act on Rights of Photographers |
After receiving complaints from photographers who claimed they had been prevented from taking photographs at city ponds, pools, lakes, and beaches, ACLUM has asked the Worcester city manager to clarify the city's policy on public photography. Following several attempts to obtain information about the city's position, ACLUM today made a formal request under the state's Public Records Law seeking copies of any policy, memorandum or rule concerning photography in public places, including pools, ponds, lakes and beaches under the control of the Worcester Parks Department.
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Dec 04 2008
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Baltimore Police Invoke Patriot Act to Arrest Reporter Recording False Arrest at Animal Rights Demo |
After an animal rights protest with graphic images of force fed ducks calling for the boycott of 'SALT'-an upscale Baltimore restaurant serving 'foie gras', Baltimore cops handcuff a protester, and arrest a reporter filming the scene and an eye witness who protested their action…
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Dec 05 2008
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Metro advisory board calls for freeze on Metro searches |
Riders Advisory Council calls for public meetings to examine controversial policy. Read More | RELATED: Audio: Metro police chief says ALL "contraband" grounds for arrest at searches
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Dec 05 2008
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Cleveland ABC is Working on Building The Community |
The Cleveland ABC is in need of bright minds and hard workers of this region, north-east Ohio, and work together to amplify the message, to impact the community, and to build a strong network of resistance in our area. Since the beginning of the Twentieth Century, the Anarchist Black Cross (ABC), has been on the frontline in supporting those imprisoned for struggling for freedom and liberty. The Cleveland ABC is currently working towards bringing like minded folks together to organize events, distribute literature, and further political learning and education. Read Full Article
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Dec 05 2008
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Take Back the Tech Campaign in Central America |
A campaign called Take Back the Tech aims to reclaim “Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to End Violence Against Women,” as well as continuing the battle against AIDS. This is one of the many initiatives across the globe that are encouraging women not to be afraid of technologies and through education on how to use it to improve their lives. Today more than ever, it is important for women and girls to use technologies to improve their lives, especially in Central America.
Women in this region often make the headlines, but not for the reasons that one would like to read in the news. Instead, their news are about gender violence, extreme poverty, lack of opportunities, malnutrition, high mortality rates even gendercide. In spite of this, there are amazing women from all the region, who write primarily about technology and who try to make a difference in the lives of women.
Sweetsakura not only is a software expert, she is also a supporter of free software, sharing information and tips on her blog about software, hardware and Ubuntu from El Salvador. From Honduras, Librecaos shares with her community the importance of software in local languages and celebrates that they finally have Ubuntu, an operative system, localized in Miskito, an indigenous language of Central America. Vinculación by Ivonne Aldana from Guatemala, is quite impressive. She discusses new inventions, new models and designs, ICT clusters and the importance of development scientists. La Piensa Libre, from Costa Rica writes with charm about technology, among other important issues, since it cannot be isolated from society, the environment and others. Read Full Article
Women in this region often make the headlines, but not for the reasons that one would like to read in the news. Instead, their news are about gender violence, extreme poverty, lack of opportunities, malnutrition, high mortality rates even gendercide. In spite of this, there are amazing women from all the region, who write primarily about technology and who try to make a difference in the lives of women.
Sweetsakura not only is a software expert, she is also a supporter of free software, sharing information and tips on her blog about software, hardware and Ubuntu from El Salvador. From Honduras, Librecaos shares with her community the importance of software in local languages and celebrates that they finally have Ubuntu, an operative system, localized in Miskito, an indigenous language of Central America. Vinculación by Ivonne Aldana from Guatemala, is quite impressive. She discusses new inventions, new models and designs, ICT clusters and the importance of development scientists. La Piensa Libre, from Costa Rica writes with charm about technology, among other important issues, since it cannot be isolated from society, the environment and others. Read Full Article
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Dec 05 2008
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Don't Let Them Get Away with the Murder of Julian Alexander...Turn Grief into Resistance |
At 1:30 am on Tuesday, October 28, Julian Alexander heard noises outside the middle class home he shared with his wife Renee, who is seven months pregnant. They had just gotten married about a week ago when Julian turned 20 years old. Feeling like their safety was threatened, Julian grabbed a broomstick and walked out on the front lawn to look around. Minutes later, he was killed by two bullets to his chest, one of which struck his heart. Hearing gunshots, Renee and her 15-year-old sister looked out the window and saw the killers—Anaheim police—turn Julian’s body over and handcuff him. Family members tried to rush to Julian’s side, but were told to get back…or else.
Full story from the newswire: Don’t Let Them Get Away with the Murder of Julian Alexander...Turn Grief into Resistance by Revolution newspaper
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Dec 05 2008
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Updates on Malik Rahim's campaign; election day Sat. Dec. 6 |
The grassroots campaign to Elect Malik Rahim to Congress has shifted into high gear in recent weeks. Here are some updates recently posted to the Indymedia newswire: Campaign to Elect Malik Rahim Kicks in to High Gear | Times-Picayune uses their media hegemony to disparage Green Party Candidate | Is Picayune Coverage of Rahim's Candidacy Biased, Inaccurate? | Malik Rahim Campaign Moves into High Media Profile! Elsewhere, Jason Neville writes in the Indypendent (NYC Indymedia newspaper): In Final Days of Congressional Campaign, Green Party Candidate Fights Local Media Blackout in New Orleans | | | Past Coverage: Malik Rahim honored with 2008 Thomas Merton Award | Malik Rahim Speaks to Northwesterners of Unity, Preparedness, Faith
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Dec 05 2008
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Assault of Mentally Ill, Homeless, Senior Citizen by HPD |
I am a volunteer at the Beacon, a homeless day center, A part of Cathedral Health Outreach Ministries in Houston located at 1212 Prairie, 77002 and I would like to express major injustice in witnessed today, 11/03/2008.
We have guidelines guests are expected to follow and if they are not followed the guest is asked to leave for the day. Today, Michael X; who has had difficulties before because he is mentally ill, was asked to leave. Officer Cuffy; a jailer at the Southeast Houston Jail on Mykawa who, decided Mr. X wasn’t leaving fast enough so Cuffy slammed Mr. X into a locked glass door then drug him outside, kicked him like an animal and drug him to the street so visibility is limited. All the volunteers then witness Cuffy pull out his billyclub and stuck him at east 9 times while Mr.X was still on the ground. He was then cuffed and another office came to take him too jail but it was determined he was too injured and he was sent to St. Joseph hospital. He was later released and not arrested. So, Michael X was effectually beat for no reason, whatever reason Officer Cuffy had for the initial brutality. [Read Full Story]
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Dec 05 2008
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December 6th at Cowboy Monkey "What Matters" WRFU benefit |
**** WRFU BENEFIT SHOW ****
Saturday, December 6 at the Cowboy Monkey
Saturday, December 6 at the Cowboy Monkey
This benefit is being held to raise funds towards a new permanent tower for WRFU. In the spirit of the station, the show features a smorgasbord of local musicians and poets performing short sets, all of which include pieces related to the show theme: "what matters."
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Dec 05 2008
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Minnesota Protest Demands a 'People’s Bailout' |
From Fight Back News Service: Minnesota Protest Demands a 'People’s Bailout'
By staff
St. Paul, MN - While state officials announced a record $5.2 billion dollar budget deficit at the State Capitol here, Dec. 4 , about 25 members of the Minnesota Coalition for a People’s Bailout were outside the room chanting, “Hey politicians, here’s the fix! Tax the rich! Tax the rich!”
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Dec 06 2008
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Rights advocates protest “Diamonds & Champagne” cocktail at Leviev’s store |
New York human rights advocates protested this evening at the Madison Avenue jewelry store of Israeli billionaire and settlement mogul Lev Leviev where the elite, online social group “A Small World” held a cocktail party to "Buck the Recession with Champagne & Diamonds." Ten protesters chanted and banged drums on the street in front of the store despite the rain and cold, and despite an aggressive, but failed attempt by the NYPD to move them down the street from the store.
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Dec 06 2008
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Rent-A-Center Protests Continue in Queens; 2 Arrested |
Councilman Eric Gioia and other religious and community leaders gathered outside a Rent-A-Center on Steinway Street in Astoria, Queens to denounce the destabilizing influence of rent-to-own businesses in low-income communities. Activist Taharka Robinson urged the passage of Assembly Bill 66, which would provide more consumer protection in the rent-to-own industry. Robinson and activist Kirsten Foy were arrested in an act of civil disobedience.
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Dec 06 2008
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Santa Cruz Mulls Decision to Permanently Close Museums, Pool, and Community Center |
On Tuesday, December 9th at 3:00pm, Santa Cruz City Council will decide the fates of the Beach Flats Community Center, Harvey West Pool, Museum of Natural History and Surfing Museum. In light of the current fiscal crisis the city faces, closures of these facilities and reduction in the employee workforce are possibilities on the table for discussion at the council meeting.
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Dec 06 2008
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Homeless Help |
Getting donations to help the homeless
The holidays are a busy time. You want to have fun. It’s easy to forget that there are those of us who are not well off. Especially you can forget that some of us do not have houses, or family. But it really doesn't take long to set up a donation day if you’re willing to help
The holidays are a busy time. You want to have fun. It’s easy to forget that there are those of us who are not well off. Especially you can forget that some of us do not have houses, or family. But it really doesn't take long to set up a donation day if you’re willing to help
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Dec 06 2008
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International Day of Solidarity for Mumia Abu-Jamal |
On Saturday, December 6th, supporters of death-row journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal will gather at Philadelphia City Hall for a protest march through downtown that will conclude at the Federal Court Building. International solidarity actions are being held in France, Switzerland, Germany, England, and Mexico, while in the US, events are organized in Detroit, San Francisco, Baltimore, Portland, and San Diego. The San Francisco protest will be held from 4:30 to 5:30pm at the Federal Courthouse at 7th and Mission Streets.
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Dec 06 2008
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Tree Sitters Occupy Humboldt Redwoods |
On December 3rd, tree-sitters unfurled a 30 ft. wide banner on the edge of the Great Redwood Forest, east of Eureka, CA. The banner read "Hey Green Diamond, Stop Clear-cutting - Earth First!". The Green Diamond Resource Company plans to log 60 acres of large second growth and residual old growth Redwoods in the near future. The two groves represent the oldest remaining forest and best habitat for old-growth dependent species like the northern spotted owl.
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Dec 06 2008
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VA Announces Hospital Plan for Lower Mid-City |
City officials and LSU still working to pull together controversial LSU hospital plan. Hundreds of Mid-City homes will be demolished from area, and Big Charity Hospital will still be closed.
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Dec 06 2008
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"Angola 3" Member to Be Released On Bail After 37 Years |
November 25, 2008 — Albert Woodfox, who has spent 37 years in prison at Angola Penitentiary, must be released on bail, according to a ruling issued today by United States District Judge James Brady. On September 25th, Judge Brady overturned Woodfox's conviction for the 1972 murder of prison guard Brent Miller. Though the State has announced its intention to appeal that decision, until such an appeal is successful, according to today's ruling, there is no conviction on which to hold Woodfox.
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Dec 06 2008
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UNITE HERE Hotel Workers' Protest and Food Drive Dec. 10, 5pm In Crystal City |
Hotel workers at the Crystal City Hilton have been pushed to work without contracts since October of 2007 by their employer, Columbia Sussex, who has also eliminated sick days, pensions and seniority rights, and increased the cost of health benefits. A protest and food drive is scheduled for Wednesday December 10th at 5pm, at 2399 Jefferson Davis Highway in Arlington.
Find out more about UNITE HERE, and see what they were up to in Baltimore a few weeks ago.
Find out more about UNITE HERE, and see what they were up to in Baltimore a few weeks ago.
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Dec 07 2008
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Constructive Change of our Political Institutions: Toward a Bioregional state |
"Do you voters understand why so many of us have less-than-zero faith in the electoral process now?" But explain, spell it out for us. What is this better method of decision making you have in mind? How does it work? Are you under the impression that a vast number of Americans [and billions around the world] wanted some particular (different) major change and so were denied a choice of that at the polls? And that is the reason why the electoral process didn't work to bring about that change. Look, I want major change as much as you do, but we're not going to make much progress toward that goal as long as we keep deluding ourselves as to what the real problem is. The real problem is that we haven't managed to project a clear vision of those changes, convinced many other people to want them. That comes first. ORGANIZE.
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Dec 07 2008
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Yes, we can - fool the gullible voters again! |
President-elect Barack Obama has been busy picking out the cabinet and advisers that will staff his administration: Lots of familiar faces, including some Bush loyalists. Obama on Monday announced a foreign policy team which includes President Bush's defense secretary, Robert Gates - an early supporter of the invasion and occupation of Iraq.
Also picked to re-up is Gen. David Petraeus, the general who heads up U.S. Central Command, in charge of running the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Though he believes that al Qeada has become more of a threat in Afghanistan, he still thinks they are the power causing so much unrest in Iraq. A view few Iraqis share, by the way. Also in line for a seat in the cabinet is Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, as secretary of homeland security. According to John Trazvina, president of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, under her term: "Arizona has become one of the worst states for immigrants in this country."
[...] Do you voters understand why so many of us have less-than-zero faith in the electoral process now?
Also picked to re-up is Gen. David Petraeus, the general who heads up U.S. Central Command, in charge of running the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Though he believes that al Qeada has become more of a threat in Afghanistan, he still thinks they are the power causing so much unrest in Iraq. A view few Iraqis share, by the way. Also in line for a seat in the cabinet is Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, as secretary of homeland security. According to John Trazvina, president of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, under her term: "Arizona has become one of the worst states for immigrants in this country."
[...] Do you voters understand why so many of us have less-than-zero faith in the electoral process now?
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Dec 07 2008
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Martin Luther King and The Peaceful Revolution |
It may still be the case that some people do not properly understand what a 'Great Depression' is and why it would be the case that the only correct strategy to adopt at a time like this is that of 'class warfare'.
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Dec 07 2008
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Upcoming Event: Harm Reduction & Intervention w. Dicentra Collective (12/11) |
Join Dicentra for its second event in its monthly series "creating radical communities of care", and our first at In Other Words Books. This event will address Harm Reduction & Intervention, presentations from organizers will be followed by a practical workshop, and as always we have a support team for anyone that may need it!
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Dec 07 2008
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Pit Bull Attacked and Killed by Cowardly Police |
On Thanksgiving day, a beautiful little blue nose pit bull was shot to death by a Cornelius police officer, claiming that the dog had "charged" him. This dog was a very predictable victim of the hysteria and ignorance being pumped out by the likes of KPTV and other corporate "news" in the past month. It was also a victim of the officer's own cowardice, and the thoughtlessness with which humans often approach the lives of non-humans. Please see the bottom of this article for contact information for Cornelius, and please call them to demand that the officer be punished.
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Dec 07 2008
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Jeffrey Free Luers interviews Grant Barnes |
JL: You are currently serving a long prison sentence for arsons claimed on behalf of the Earth Liberation Front. What compelled you to take such actions?
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Dec 07 2008
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Battle in Seattle Showing 12/9/08 |
The 1999 WTO riots in Seattle were historic for several reasons. This was the first World Trade Organization meeting in the United States and the first to be effectively shut down. The riots also brought the term 'anti-globalization' to several Americans for the first time. Also, Indymedia emerged from the tear gas of the riots. Now, nine years later, the mainstream media gives its take on the events of late November of 1999. "Battle in Seattle" is a major Hollywood film that manages to leak some truth in with some melodrama. Using staged scenes and actual footage, the movie tells the story of several protesters, bystanders, delegates, cops and politicians and illustrates how everyone was affected by the riots.
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Dec 07 2008
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Dozens Ride A Cold Critical Mass |
December 5th 2008's Critical Mass was cold. Two years ago, 5 riders could have shown up, but last night about 60 riders departed Dupont Circle for another celebratory bike romp through their city. On a route through Shaw, U St and Georgetown, riders tribute the Brian McKenzie Infoshop and get loud cheers from U Street pedestrians.
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Dec 07 2008
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Portland Police Boast of Torture |
On the cover of The Rap Sheet's November, 2008 edition, an article appears that was authored by the Portland Police Association (PPA) President Scott Westerman, entitled "An objective view of the Chasse incident."
In his article, Westerman claims (among other things) that the media attention of the Chasse case was "misdirected" and that the Chasse family attorney is "posturing himself for financial gain" and "attempting to cloud the issue." Westerman further attempts to direct responsibility for Chasse's death from the police to "our degrading mental health system and others in his life."
However, perhaps even greater insight is provided in another article that also appears on the same Rap Sheet's front page, "Riding with Rick." In this article, retired Portland police detective Kent Perry writes about working with his former partner, officer Richard Hegrenes, at North Precinct. Describing events that occurred during the 1970's, detective Perry seems to fondly recall, and vividly describes, incidents of violence, police brutality and torture.
The fact that the Portland Police Association printed detective Perry's 1970's stories of police torture, in 2008, and then put it right next to their article defending themselves in the James Chasse "incident," speaks volumes.
In his article, Westerman claims (among other things) that the media attention of the Chasse case was "misdirected" and that the Chasse family attorney is "posturing himself for financial gain" and "attempting to cloud the issue." Westerman further attempts to direct responsibility for Chasse's death from the police to "our degrading mental health system and others in his life."
However, perhaps even greater insight is provided in another article that also appears on the same Rap Sheet's front page, "Riding with Rick." In this article, retired Portland police detective Kent Perry writes about working with his former partner, officer Richard Hegrenes, at North Precinct. Describing events that occurred during the 1970's, detective Perry seems to fondly recall, and vividly describes, incidents of violence, police brutality and torture.
The fact that the Portland Police Association printed detective Perry's 1970's stories of police torture, in 2008, and then put it right next to their article defending themselves in the James Chasse "incident," speaks volumes.
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Dec 07 2008
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What, Another One? Finnish Neo-Nazi Seeking Political Asylum in USA |
Okay, to all you boneheads that keep coming here thinking we are going to save you from your native land trying to kick your behind, let us make this clear - it's not going to work! Not only supporting this kind of immigrant would make a lot of anti-immigrant groups pretty damn suspect, but being a neo-Nazi just isn't all that politically palatable here. We allow you freedom of speech, but don't push your luck…!
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Dec 07 2008
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Housing Activists Crash Mayor Fenty's Birthday Party/Fundraiser |
Mayor Fenty's 38th birthday bash was held at developer Donatellis' home-a palatial estate off Chesapeake St that looks like something out of a Godfather movie. About 60 labor and housing activsts converged on this "party" for a 2 hour plus protest. Download Audio(right click and save): WSQT Broadcast Audio - Godfathers of Gentrification | Speeches | Jack Evans Cornered | Three interviews | some chants
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Dec 07 2008
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Black Mesa/ Big Mountain ACTION in Denver November 7th-8th |
Come show your solidarity at the action Monday, and come to find out more about this pressing threat to Navajo and Hopi people at the forum today!
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Dec 07 2008
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Support Swells for Chicago Union Workers Factory Occupation |
The worker occupation of the Republic Windows and Doors factory on Chicago's Goose Island by members of UE (United Electrical, Radio and Machine Workers of America) Local 1110 went into its third day on Sunday, and workers have vowed to continue the occupation until they are paid back pay and benefits, or until the plant is re-opened. The occupation was declared on Friday, the day the company moved to shutter the plant with only three days notice — in violation of federal and state labor laws. Owners have also cut off employees' insurance and failed to pay back pay. The takeover has sparked a groundswell of support across the nation, with rallies, petition drives (2), fundraisers and plans for future actions. [ Updated news links ]
Company management blames the shut-down on Bank of America, which cut their credit line — after BoA received $25 billion in federal bailout money that the bank said they did not need. Since the bailout began, BoA — like big banks across the globe — has slashed credit lines to businesses, forcing a growing number of small and medium-sized companies to shut down. Workers plan to meet with company and bank representatives on Monday — and to picket BoA's LaSalle St. offices on Tuesday if Republic's line of credit is not restored.
The action at Republic Windows comes on the heels of a drive to kick out the company union, which had colluded with company owners and management for years. That effort succeeded after three years of struggle. Republic Windows' worker occupation is one of the first actions of its kind in the United States since the Great Depression, when a wave of sit-in strikes and occupations of factories and manufacturing operations marked one of the most militant phases in U.S. labor history.
Accounts from the CIMC newswire [ 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 ] Blogs: [ 1 |2 ]
Photos: [ 1 | 2 ] Video: [ 1 | 2 | 3 |4 | 5 ]
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Dec 07 2008
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Iraq-US Status Of Forces Agreement |
The U.S.-Iraq Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) is a pact that provides a legal basis for U.S. troops in Iraq and establishes their departure from Iraq by December 31st, 2011 pending any negotiations. On November 16th, 2008, Iraq's Cabinet approved the agreement. On November 27th, the Iraqi Parliament ratified the agreement. Followers of Moqtada al-Sadr and many others protested the passing of the accord as prolonging and legitimizing the occupation, and Grand Ayatollah Sistani expressed concerns with the ratified version. On December 4th, Iraq's presidential council approved the security pact. A referendum must be held by mid-2009 which may terminate the agreement and require Coalition forces to completely leave by the middle of 2010.
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Dec 07 2008
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Police Athens (Greece) shoot dead 16 yr. old anarchist |
A police car patroling in Exarchia, central Athens, passing through Mesologgiou cobbled street (considered an alternative place with music, bars etc and lots of youth in the streets, so we can easily assume the police car was sent there to provoke and harass the youth), was confronted by a few young people, shouting to the policemen to get lost. There are a few reports that an empty bottle or a brick was thrown to the police car. The cops went out of the car provoking the youth and one of the pigs shot against one 15-16 year old boy, right on the heart, murdering him in cold blood. The name of the boy that stood up to the cops is Alexandros Grigoropoulos. Anarchists and residents gathered, but riot police forces circled the area. There are hundreds of policemen in the streets around central Athens.
Anarchists gather in squats, universities, and central squares at Greece's largets cities to protest and fight back the police...
Anarchists gather in squats, universities, and central squares at Greece's largets cities to protest and fight back the police...
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Dec 07 2008
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Dealing with Killers and Kidnappers: The High Cost of Free Trade in Colombia |
President Bush is using his final days in office to push through a free trade agreement with Colombia that would reward one of the hemisphere’s worst human rights abusers.
Meanwhile, major media outlets have ceded their role as critical watchdogs and instead have indiscriminately thrown their support behind a pact with a country which Human Rights Watch notes has “the world’s highest rate of killings of trade unionists... [and that] The violence there is so serious, and the lack of response by the authorities so overwhelming, that workers simply cannot exercise their rights,” such as the basic right to organize.
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Dec 08 2008
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***URGENT *** ANIMAL RIGHTS ACTIVIST ARRESTED AGAIN IN MD |
December 7, 2008 Friendship Heights MD- Between 2:45 and 3pm today an animal rights organization was exercising their rights to free speech on a public side walk as a protest against Max Mara 5471-F Wisconsin Avenue, when police officers asked for the use of a bullhorn to be stopped, saying "You're outta here." The activist then complied with the police officer's request, and continued the chanting without the bullhorn. Without any warning the activist was then grabbed by 2 police officers and put under arrest.
The arrest was witnessed by this reporter as overtly aggressive with brutal force used completely unnecessarily. During the situation, once again, MD police tried to threaten persons who were trying to record the situation, telling them that video "with voice recording" or just voice recording was illegal without their permission under MD law. The activist was then taken away and is still in custody as far as we know.
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Dec 08 2008
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ASHLAND CARSHARE:KICK-OFF Member Drive |
ASHLAND CARSHARE: KICK-OFF Member Drive & Celebration
ASHLAND CARSHARE and Rogue Valley Transportation District are hosting a Member Drive on Sunday, December 14, from 2:00-5:00 pm at the Ashland Community Center (73 Winburn Way), to celebrate their new service and introduce their first vehicle. Come see their snazzy new Toyota Prius (it’s red!) that will initiate their future fleet. Acting Executive Director, Becky Brown, has announced that, in collaboration with the RVTD, ASHLAND CARSHARE (ACS) has been awarded a generous grant from the Oregon Department of Transportation Public Transit Division, enabling them to acquire their first vehicle and launch the long-awaited program.
ASHLAND CARSHARE and Rogue Valley Transportation District are hosting a Member Drive on Sunday, December 14, from 2:00-5:00 pm at the Ashland Community Center (73 Winburn Way), to celebrate their new service and introduce their first vehicle. Come see their snazzy new Toyota Prius (it’s red!) that will initiate their future fleet. Acting Executive Director, Becky Brown, has announced that, in collaboration with the RVTD, ASHLAND CARSHARE (ACS) has been awarded a generous grant from the Oregon Department of Transportation Public Transit Division, enabling them to acquire their first vehicle and launch the long-awaited program.
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Dec 08 2008
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Former Drug Officer Launches 'KopBusters' TV Show |
Barry Cooper, a former Texas police officer with eight years of specialty in drug interdiction, first made waves when he released the film "Never Get Busted Again," a how-to guide for evading police drug seizures. Austin, Texas-based Cooper's latest project, 'KopBusters,' is not nearly so benign, and sparked an immediate response after RAW STORY covered a news brief of their first sting.
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Dec 08 2008
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16-year-old shot dead by policeman in Athens. Actions all over Greece |
On Saturday December 6th, two Greek policemen in Athens had a verbal argument with several youth. During the argument, one of the cops pulled his gun and shot a 16-year-old twice, killing him. In response, thousands of people gathered in the centers of most of Greek cities. The evening in Athens evolved with the takeover of several buildings at the Polytechnic University, and rioting throughout the whole center of Athens. Protesters attacked and set on fire, police departments and banks, until the early hours of the next morning. Protests and riots took place again on Sunday and large protests are planned Monday.
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Dec 08 2008
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Appeal from the streets of Prince William County |
Today on the streets of Woodbridge and Manassas, the temperature was in the 20s, with the wind gusting to more than 40 mph. Despite this extreme weather, nearly 200 men were huddled outside the 7-11s desperately seeking work. Many told us that they hadn't worked in weeks, and that when they finally found some, they were ripped off by their employers. About a dozen volunteers for Woodbridge Workers Committee and Mexicanos Sin Fronteras put in many dozens of hours purchasing, packing and distributing bundles of food, enough to last an individual 4 or 5 days. It still costs about $800 each time we provide a food bundle for 200 workers. (Our goal is bi-weekly distributions through the winter). To provide a warm cap, gloves and socks, in addition to any winter coats we collect costs over $10 for each worker.
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Dec 08 2008
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Celebrating 20 years of Grassroots organizing: The Southwest Workers Union |
This past weekend, December 5th and 6th, in San Antonio, Texas, grassroots organizations, from across the US, and other countries, gathered to celebrate 20 years of struggle by the Southwest Workers Union. The celebration was attended by activists from 10 states, as well as workers from Mexico and Puerto Rican freedom fighters. The Southwest Workers Union was formed in 1988 to represent public school workers in the San Antonio area. Since its founding, the organization has put organizing and empowering working class, people of color, at the center of its movement. Currently, over 3000 member families form the foundation, from which their work is built upon. In addition to representing public school workers, the SWU organizes and trains young people in grassroots organizing, for clean energy and equal education, environmental justice communities fighting military toxics, immigrant families mobilizing for human rights, and rural communities like Hondo, empowering voters to make real change. [full story | Photos] | Audio: 1| 2] | Southwest Workers Union Website | SWU Blog
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Dec 09 2008
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Brian MacKenzie Infoshop to Close at End of 2008 |
Dear Infoshop Friends and Supporters, For many reasons, it's been some time since we have put out an update on the status of the Infoshop. We are writing now to try to catch everyone up to speed on what's going on with us. There is a lot to say. As many have noticed, the Infoshop has been closed considerably more than it has been open over the last few months. For some time, those of us doing the core work involved in maintaining this project have felt overwhelmed and stretched very thin. Although there has always been a steady stream of interest from willing volunteers to support the project, finding people who are committed to doing the more intensive work entailed in sustaining the project over the long term, has always been a challenge…
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Dec 09 2008
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First Annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair |
The 1st Annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair - Saturday, December 13th, 2008 Zines, pamphlets, DVD, Cd's, radical bumper stickers, protest shirts, records, tapes, speakers, workshops, panels, open discussions, games, diy distros and much more... Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair Saturday, December the 13th, 2008 Southern California Library for Social Studies & Research 6120 South Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, Ca. 90044 $5 (includes free vegan dinner - we want to add free vegan lunch as well but it's not confirmed - if your part of Food Not Bombs chapter and would like to get involved please get in touch) For this event we will have an open meeting. If your collective/organization would like to take part please get in touch. We would like to make this event huge so any help and ideas are needed. We want this event to be fun and educational.
LA IMC Calendar: First Annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair
LA IMC Calendar: First Annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair
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Dec 09 2008
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December 10th "Day Without A Gay" Protest |
"A Day Without A Gay" protest and boycott will be taking place across the US on Wednesday December 10th to show opposition to California's Proposition 8 and show the power of the LGBT community. Organizers are encouraging people to "call in gay" to work and spend the day volunteering at local LGBT and/or human rights organizations. There will also be several rallies in the Bay Area, including a noon rally in UC Berkeley's Sproul plaza and a 4pm press conference in Oakland's Frank Ogawa Plaza.
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Dec 09 2008
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Whitewashing history |
Bush is now attempting to re-write history. Reality gets in the way.
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Dec 09 2008
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Fouad Kaady Civil Suit Goes Forward; Trial Scheduled for April 2009 |
The federal civil rights case filed by the family of Fouad Kaady will proceed following a November 26 order by United States Magistrate Judge Paul Papak. Judge Papak's order settles summary judgment motions from the defendants in the case, a process in which the Judge determines which issues have been judicially proven by one side or the other and which facts remain to be determined by a jury.
On September 8, 2005, Fouad Kaady was shot seven times by a Clackamas County Sheriff's deputy and a Sandy, Oregon police officer after being badly burned and disoriented in a fiery car crash minutes earlier. The judge cited conflicting statements by several witnesses, including the two officers, as proof that material facts need to be decided by a jury at a trial.
On September 8, 2005, Fouad Kaady was shot seven times by a Clackamas County Sheriff's deputy and a Sandy, Oregon police officer after being badly burned and disoriented in a fiery car crash minutes earlier. The judge cited conflicting statements by several witnesses, including the two officers, as proof that material facts need to be decided by a jury at a trial.
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Dec 09 2008
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Victory for the United Electrical Workers Plant Takeover in Chicago! |
On December 5, in Chicago, the owners of Republic Windows and Doors were set to close their doors after declaring financial ruin and abruptly laid off its 260 mostly Latino workers. Rather than passively accepting this kick in the teeth, the United Electrical Workers Union (UE) members decided to fight back, using a tactic not seen in this country since the 1930's. They occupied the factory and have continued to do so in shifts since Friday.
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Dec 09 2008
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OHSU President Joe Robertson to OHSU Workers: Fuck You |
Citing the downward-spiraling economy, OHSU president Joe Robertson informed employees last week that the annual employee appreciation Christmas party is canceled. He made this announcement less than a month after telling workers what a "priority" it was to him to acknowledge their hard work through this annual event. He now says that canceling this event is necessary because such an event would be "fiscally imprudent."
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Dec 09 2008
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Yay for public bathrooms! |
A solar potty has been installed downtown. Cool. In a city where the cops routinely cite people for "sex crimes" for having to piss in public, it's just sick that there are so few public restrooms. (James Chasse was actually beaten to death by police because they said that they suspected that he had urinated in public. Turns out he hadn't, but there's one more casualty of no bathrooms. Also, peoples' lives have been ruined by cops who tag them with a sex crime just for having to piss. Damn, what thoughtless, bullying demons those Portland cops are.)
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Dec 09 2008
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New Clown House |
Things a Clown House can and has done: Pirate radio, screen printing, Dawg Snax our wheat free, vegetarian dog treats, yoga classes, direct action training, black cross training, circus skill training, free bike shop, freak bike shop, brewing booze, housing tent people, meeting place, car free info, Much more indeed I promise.
In the 10 years of the former clown house we nailed down plenty of good ideas for the world. The last month before C.H. eviction we also had a bike/kite that generated electricity, a lawn mower that is bike powered and last I checked...a lot of happy denizens.
Since then the Clown House kids have been constantly evicted and classed out, we need a home. I (Dingo) have been living in a house bike since May and I love it...I still need a place for the lab and tools to live. My favoright thing that a Clown House does is BRING DOWN PROPERTY VALUES through obnoxious clownery and gladiator style single combat events such as mud wresling and tall bike jousting!!!! The honey is organic, raw and amazing[...]
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Dec 09 2008
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Citizens Rally to Stop Philly Free Library Branch Closings |
Philadelphians rally at the Central Parkway Branch on December 6, 2008 before marching to city hall to protest Mayor Nutter's plan to close branch libraries. Ironically, three years ago when he was a councilman Nutter denounced his predecessor's plan to do the same. Read More & VIDEO by Brian Rudnick | Photos by Joe Piette | Past Coverage by Hannah Jane Sassaman RELATED: Santa Cruz Plans to Permanently Close Museums, Pool, and Community Center | Photos
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Dec 09 2008
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Minneapolis Police Taser Man to Death |
Quincy Smith was a former DJ with KMOJ Radio in North Minneapolis, and died shortly after being tased by Minneapolis police during a confrontation on Knox Avenue on the north side. He is at least the 20th person killed by police in Minnesota this year.
The initial corporate news report is below. If you have information about Quincy Smith or this incident, please submit it to TC Indymedia. read more
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Dec 10 2008
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December 11th: Solidarity March For Greek Unrest (Olympia) |
5:00 pm Thursday December, 11 Sylvester Park
Greece's largest rioting in years erupted late Saturday night after an Athens policeman shot and killed a teenage boy in a central autonomous neighborhood in Athens.
Greece's largest rioting in years erupted late Saturday night after an Athens policeman shot and killed a teenage boy in a central autonomous neighborhood in Athens.
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Dec 10 2008
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Finnish Neo-Nazi to Have Political Asylum Case Heard Next Summer |
The funniest thing during the court appearance of Finnish neo-Nazi Henrik Holappa (pictured here) was the makeup of all the court employees we encountered from the security guards to the clerk, to the government's attorney, right on up to the judge herself: Everyone of them, save for the security guards on the ground floor were black, and the ones on the ground floor, were Hispanic. Oh, wait, there was also a Spanish-speaking interpreter there, and she was Hispanic!In fact, with the exception of the few lawyers here and there, the only white people in the courtroom the entire time were Holappa, deNugent and the two others that came with them! Welcome to America, Henrik. Read More | Past Coverage: "What, Another One?" Finnish Neo-Nazi Seeking Political Asylum in USA by One Peoples' Project 07 Dec 2008
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Dec 10 2008
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Carpool to "Felony Friday" from MPLS! Leave 8:15am |
Start: 12/12/2008 - 08:15
In an effort to pack the courtroom for Joe Robinson's sentencing on Friday, we've organized a carpool leaving from Minneapolis. To get or offer a ride to the courthouse in downtown St. Paul, be at (corner of 22nd Ave and Franklin Ave) at 8:15am on Friday!
See info about the three felony cases, two being heard at 9am on Friday, here:
http://twincities.indymedia.org/2008/dec/rnc-courtwatch-friday-3-felony-...
More info on felony support:
http://rnc08arrestees.wordpress.com/arrestees/felony-info-and-support/
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Dec 10 2008
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Marijuana Decriminalized, Don't Light Up on Campus |
Marijuana, It’s NOT Legal, But Decriminalized
Although Massachusetts voters have passed ballot question 2, decriminalizing marijuana, most public places will not change their rules or regulations on the illegal substance.
College campuses deal with a large number of drug and alcohol violations during the school year. Many students enter with a sense of “Animal House” in their minds, using the time to experiment (outside of the classroom). Many kids test the waters and never get caught; others continue their habits and eventually are sanctioned for their violations...
These sanctions aren’t changing anytime soon for schools. Local campuses such as Worcester State College or WPI, acknowledge alcohol and marijuana use by the students, many whom voted in favor of question 2, but also remind residents and commuters alike that presences, possession, and/or use on campus will still NOT be tolerated.
Although Massachusetts voters have passed ballot question 2, decriminalizing marijuana, most public places will not change their rules or regulations on the illegal substance.
College campuses deal with a large number of drug and alcohol violations during the school year. Many students enter with a sense of “Animal House” in their minds, using the time to experiment (outside of the classroom). Many kids test the waters and never get caught; others continue their habits and eventually are sanctioned for their violations...
These sanctions aren’t changing anytime soon for schools. Local campuses such as Worcester State College or WPI, acknowledge alcohol and marijuana use by the students, many whom voted in favor of question 2, but also remind residents and commuters alike that presences, possession, and/or use on campus will still NOT be tolerated.
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Dec 10 2008
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Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) Pursues Disclosure of FBI Surveillance Guidelines |
As the guidelines have not been publicly disclosed, there is no way to analyze if the directives incorporate meaningful privacy safeguards to ensure that field agents honor constitutional values and civil liberties while conducting domestic surveillance.
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Dec 10 2008
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Stone Soup Celebrates 2 Years |
Celebrating 2 years of having a home at 4 King St, Stone Soup threw an Anniversary Fiesta at Centro Las Americas on December 6, 2008. The party featured the Murga group, La Klandestina, from Leominster and Toxic Soil Busters. Awards were given to the Worcester Immigrant Coalition and Stone Soup members, Cosme Sierra and Becky Rothberg.
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Dec 10 2008
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DEMAND CONTINUANCE FOR NOAH JACOBS |
Editorial note: Noah Jacobs in previous stories has been known as Noah Balloon. These are the same person. Learn about the horrific police brutality that took place at the Republican National Convention. Support Noah and demand accountability for the fascist actions of these goons.
Rogue Valley activist is called to St. Paul, Minnesota for jury trial on week from today, on December 15th. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he cannot attend this court date. He has appealed to the court for continuance of his trial, only to be denied it for petty political reasons. He is requesting that you call some of the bigwigs in the Twin Cities and demand continuance!
Rogue Valley activist is called to St. Paul, Minnesota for jury trial on week from today, on December 15th. Due to circumstances beyond his control, he cannot attend this court date. He has appealed to the court for continuance of his trial, only to be denied it for petty political reasons. He is requesting that you call some of the bigwigs in the Twin Cities and demand continuance!
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Dec 10 2008
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Indy TV #19 Interview with Frank Lopez (aka "the stimulator") |
Frank Lopez, creator of submedia.tv and the show "Its the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine" joins us on Indy TV this week to explain what his show is about, how he's been able to pull it off, and some of his future projects. Frank explains his show: "the name is inspired by the song by R.E.M. with the same title. Its end of the world news, lots of natural disasters, high oil prices, food riots. But also news from the front lines of the resistance, people who do eco-activism, people who go to protests, people who do direct action." The show includes regular music segments and interviews with inspiring thinkers and activists involved in resistance work.
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Dec 11 2008
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Miami Critical Mass December Bike Ride Sat. Dec 13th (10 am) |
This will be a north ride from Government Center up Biscayne Blvd to the City of Miami limits. After that we'll be heading back down south probably on NE 2nd Ave. This route may change in the next few days but this is the tentative ride.
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Dec 11 2008
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Bay Area Groups Rescue 650 Hens |
A rescue effort by local animal protection groups has saved 650 hens from a California egg farm. The hens were rescued on Friday and Saturday from battery cages and will soon be placed in permanent homes. Coordinating the effort was Animal Place, a farmed-animal sanctuary and education center in Vacaville, about 45 miles northeast of San Francisco.
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Dec 11 2008
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Wobblies Leaflet Minneapolis Bank of America in Solidarity with UE Occupation of Republic Window and Door |
Today, members of the Twin Cities branch of the IWW handed out leaflets to workers and passersby in front of the US Trust Building in Minneapolis. US Trust was recently bought our by Bank of America and now functions as their "Private Wealth Management Division." They got positive reactions from every single person who took a leaflet. A few of the people they talked to were being laid off themselves. Workers in this country are hungry for change, and increasingly ready for a fight. read more
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Dec 11 2008
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City Manager Decides Public Records Not Available to Public |
During the course of the months long fight to get Police Chief Gary Gemme to comply with the state’s public records law and Supreme Court decision, City Manager Michael O’Brien has repeatedly stood-up proclaiming his commitment to full transparency and public disclosure. Unfortunately as many of us already knew, that was just window dressing to hide behind. There was never any intention to make the Rojas file truly public. Over the past week I have made public records requests of the City Clerk, City Manager and Police Department to “view” and “possibly copy” the document released to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette. My public records request effort has gone nowhere.
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Dec 11 2008
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Portland, OR : Solidarity Picket with Chicago workers |
Why we are doing it...Republic Windows and Doors illegally let go 240 union workers without severance pay and only 3 days notice, all caused by lack of financing from Bank of America.
In the past few weeks Bank of America received "bail out" money. This makes us curious to wonder where our tax money is going. Clearly its original purpose of stimulating the economy is not something they had in mind.
In solidarity we are picketing in front of the 517 SW Stark Bank of America in down town Portland from 12:30 - 5:00. We will be there Wednesday 10th to Friday 12th.
Background: United Electrical Workers Plant Takeover in Chicago
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Dec 11 2008
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SF AIPAC Protest: "Say No to the Lobby for War and Occupation" |
On Tuesday, December 9th, anti-apartheid and human-right activists gathered to protest an AIPAC benefit at the Hilton Hotel in San Francisco.
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Dec 11 2008
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Berkeley Council Approves Bike Station |
On Monday December 8th, the Berkeley City Council voted to approve the contract for an expanded, street level Bike Station with many more services and features than the existing station to the cheers of a packed council chamber. Bike activists say that this is the culmination of over ten years of work by local advocates.
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Dec 11 2008
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Chuck Turner Stands for Us, We Stand with Chuck |
In an amazing show of solidarity, people in Boston's progressive community stand for Boston City Councilor Chuck Turner defying FBI charges of corruption. We repost here a report-back from the latest community gathering for Chuck. -- BIMC Editors
Ever the visionary, ever the rebel, Councilor Turner rallied hundreds of supporters and neighbors at Roxbury Community College this evening. In a crowd that swelled from a capacity of 300 at the outset to a couple hundred more at its high point, Turner methodically refuted the two main media narratives against him: “victimhood” and “need for new leadership”. Throughout the emotional evening, the Councilor and all the speakers, singers, and poets connected with a deep spirituality as they prepared for the next day’s hearing in federal court. The event however was grounded by a serious analysis of US Attorney Sullivan’s motives in bringing charges against Councilor Turner.
Ever the visionary, ever the rebel, Councilor Turner rallied hundreds of supporters and neighbors at Roxbury Community College this evening. In a crowd that swelled from a capacity of 300 at the outset to a couple hundred more at its high point, Turner methodically refuted the two main media narratives against him: “victimhood” and “need for new leadership”. Throughout the emotional evening, the Councilor and all the speakers, singers, and poets connected with a deep spirituality as they prepared for the next day’s hearing in federal court. The event however was grounded by a serious analysis of US Attorney Sullivan’s motives in bringing charges against Councilor Turner.
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Dec 11 2008
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WSQT solidarity with Greek Uprising |
WSQT Broadcast the solidarity piece below yesterday in support of the Uprising in Greece against police brutality: Download Audio
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Dec 11 2008
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UNITE HERE Protest Lights Up Crystal City Hilton |
"IF IT'S GONNA TAKE US TEN YEARS, WE'LL BE HERE TEN YEARS!" DECLARES HILTON COOK
Overworked housekeepers? Health benefits cost going ballistic? Seniority, sick leave, pensions gone? All this and more, thanks to Columbia Sussex, employer of hotel workers at the Crystal City Hilton. It's no wonder workers agree: Columbia Sussex "sucks", and called a boycott against their own hotel, at an energetic picket and rally outside the Crystal City Hilton...
Still photography by Isis: Video by Mike Flugennock, via YouTube, 05min 27sec | Broadcast audio by WSQT 88.1FM, 06min 30sec
Overworked housekeepers? Health benefits cost going ballistic? Seniority, sick leave, pensions gone? All this and more, thanks to Columbia Sussex, employer of hotel workers at the Crystal City Hilton. It's no wonder workers agree: Columbia Sussex "sucks", and called a boycott against their own hotel, at an energetic picket and rally outside the Crystal City Hilton...
Still photography by Isis: Video by Mike Flugennock, via YouTube, 05min 27sec | Broadcast audio by WSQT 88.1FM, 06min 30sec
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Dec 11 2008
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Bank Of America, We're Still Breaking Up! |
Rising Tide Boston wishes to announce that the group will continue its part in the widespread campaign to pressure Bank of America to drop its involvement with the coal industry, despite the bank's recent release of a new "Coal Policy". We view this so-called policy as a PR gimmick intended to distract the public from Bank of America's ongoing funding of the coal industry. Bank of America's Coal Policy fails to commit to a timeline or any concrete action to halt their financing of mountain top removal coal mining, and the alternatives the bank pledges to support are not solutions at all.
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Dec 11 2008
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Chicago Workers' Plant Occupation Ends in Victory |
In the overnight hours of December 11, a sit-in and plant occupation at Chicago's Republic Windows and Doors has, after six days, ended in victory. More than 200 workers and members of UE Local 1110 voted unanimously to end the sit-in upon agreeing on the terms of a $1.75 million settlement which includes eight weeks of back pay, two months of continued health coverage, and compensation for unused vacation time. The effort also laid the basis for future initiatives. From the announcement: "UE announced the creation of a new foundation, dedicated to reopening the plant. It will be initiated with seed money from the UE national union and the thousands of dollars of donations to the UE Local 1110 Solidarity Fund that have come in from across the country and around the world in just the past five days. Melvin Maclin of Local 1110 announced the name of the foundation, which was chosen by the workers themselves: the Window of Opportunity Fund. Maclin said that the fund will be open to receive donations from all friends of the Republic workers and supporters of their struggle."
Accounts on Chicago IMC newswire: [1 | 2 | 3 ] Photos: [ 1 ]
Solidarity Protest Reports: Baltimore | Philadelphia, PA | Minneapolis, MN | New York, NY | Portland, OR | San Francisco, CA | Santa Cruz, CA
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Dec 11 2008
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Rally for a People’s Bail-Out Now! |
Rally for People’s Bail-Out Now! No More Plant Closures or Foreclosures. Support the Employee Free Choice Act!
Friday (12/12/08) NOON
Bank of America in Medford, Oregon (Crater Lake Ave. and Stevens Street)
Sponsored by Southern Oregon Jobs with Justice
It appears the attack by the Bank of America on workers at Republic Windows and Doors in Chicago is now over, but the atrocity in Chicago is just the tip of the iceberg. We Need A People's Bail-Out Now!
Friday (12/12/08) NOON
Bank of America in Medford, Oregon (Crater Lake Ave. and Stevens Street)
Sponsored by Southern Oregon Jobs with Justice
It appears the attack by the Bank of America on workers at Republic Windows and Doors in Chicago is now over, but the atrocity in Chicago is just the tip of the iceberg. We Need A People's Bail-Out Now!
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Dec 11 2008
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Events in Athens |
A Greek radio reports : (1431 AM free radio of Thessaloniki , Greece) About the greek riots .. from a free radio Thessaloniki in Greece the condition in general, is out of control. since the early hours the police attacks the protesters who expressed no intention to fight back. all over the country, the police attacked teenagers, students and ordinary people who manifested against the police violence in peace and arrested 8 persons in athens, 1 in thessaloniki and an unconfirmed number in other cities and the numbers grow rapidly. the provoking behavior of the police with the silent agreement of the government lead to impudent use of violence from their part resulting in extended episodes all over greece
a lot of police departments have been destroyed along with a great number of banks and commercial shops. the police uninterruptedly pursue the protesters. unconfirmed information speak about the proclamation of a state of emergence in the country by the government. there is a strong possibility of annuling the asylum tonight or tomorrow morning in all universities. the prime minister asked for harsher protection measures and no tollerance toward the riots from the police. the whole country is burning. the state rules with impunity. the wholesome anger of the people about the state, the education, the economic problems and the church scandals are exhibited through the riots. the funeral of the young alexandros takes place tommorow at 3 o' clock. protests will also take place tommorow and we assume all the following days. a lot of universities are occupied.
The Greek embassy in London occupied: the Greek embasy in London occupied by protestors. seems that meanwhile police managed to get in Read More
The Greek Embassy in Berlin occupied : The Greek Embassy in Berlin occupied since 9 hours! Read More
A statement in support of Greece : To all dreamers, revolutionaries, Anarchists, Riots are lighting up Greece like a structure fire. A sixteen year old boy was murdered by the heavy handed activities of the bulldogs of capitalism: the police. Greece is responding in kind, with riots and protesters filling the streets with the fires of rage. Dreams and desires of freedom and a world without these assassins are flooding from a population who has had to deal with an oppression that sneaks its way into every facet of life. Read More
greece: !BREAKING NEWS! The riot-cops attacked the funeral of Alexis !!! Right now there are fights both in Athens and Thessaloniki. In thessaloniki thousands of protestors attacked the ministry of north greece and thrace. The city centre is closed to all traffic and the streets taken over since 11am. Small fights between people and riot-cops... big groups of 30 civil police each are walking through the centre as well. In athens there are fights in a few spots of Athens and especially in the parliament and around the polytechnic school. THE UNBELIEVABLE IS THAT THE RIOT COPS APPEARED AT THE FUNERAL OF ALEXIS! Read More
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Dec 11 2008
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Mass Transgender Political Coalition working for anti-discrimination law |
Yesterday, community members, legislators and Worcester leaders attended a state – wide gathering for the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition at AIDS Project Worcester. MTPC chapters in Worcester, Boston and the Northshore, as well as activists in New Bedford/Fall River, Cape Cod and the western part of the state, are gearing up to pass legislation protecting residents from discrimination based on gender identity and expression in 2009. 
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Dec 12 2008
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Olympia Solidarity March Gets Rowdy |
March in Olympia in solidarity with Greek revolt, Jose Ramirez-Jimenez and Chicago factory occupation.
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Dec 12 2008
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RNC Courtwatch Friday - 3 Felony Cases! |
Three felony cases, including the first felony sentencing, are on the docket at in St. Paul this Friday. Supporters plan to pack the courtroom! Check TC Indymedia on Friday afternoon for a report back, and check the Upcoming Events for other RNC solidarity events this weekend and next week.
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Dec 12 2008
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Proposition 8 Solidarity: Interview with Equal Rights Activist Katie Hunter-Lowrey |
Katie Hunter-Lowrey, a New Orleans resident and a former employee of the gay rights advocacy group Mass Equality, talks about her trip to California before the historic November 2008 election to fight the passing of Proposition 8, which bans equal marriage for gay couples.
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Dec 12 2008
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Sham Election Denounced by Fresno Elected Officials |
Service Employees International Union's (SEIU) latest scheme to destroy SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West was denounced by Fresno elected officials on Thursday, December 11. Henry R. Perea, chairman of the Fresno County Board of Supervisors exposed the sham election that the International is using to break up SEIU-UHW.
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Dec 12 2008
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Philadelphia Solidarity With Republic Windows Workers |
Local journalists Betsey Piette and John Kalwaic report on the Wednesday December 10th demonstration at the main Bank of America in Philadelphia near City Hall at 16th and JFK. The crowd had gathered to protest both the government sponsored bailout of Bank of America as well as the fact that this bank did not help out the laid-off workers of Republic Windows and Doors.
Dave Lindorff writes: "We workers of America, white collar, pink collar, blue collar, and no collar at all, have just gotten a wonderful example of the power of having a union. It’s an example that should have every unorganized employee in America looking for a union organizer."
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Dec 12 2008
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Couple Marching Through California to Revoke Prop 8 |
Valerie Paget and Tracie Jones, a Los Angeles couple affected by the passage of Proposition 8, are on a march through California to demonstrate their conviction that the California Supreme Court should revoke Prop 8. They are marching from West Hollywood Park to the California Supreme Court in San Francisco. In coordination with Rick Jacobs of the Courage Campaign, they will deliver a petition to revoke Prop 8 that has been signed by over 250,000 people.
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Dec 12 2008
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Cleveland Passing the Domestic Partnership Registry |
On Monday, December 8th, Cleveland City Council became the third city in Ohio – joining Cleveland Heights and Toledo – to create a domestic partnership registry.
While the registry does not create any new legal rights, it can be an invaluable tool for unmarried same and opposite sex couples to access other services – such as employment benefits, child care, hospital visitation, and more.
While the registry does not create any new legal rights, it can be an invaluable tool for unmarried same and opposite sex couples to access other services – such as employment benefits, child care, hospital visitation, and more.
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Dec 12 2008
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Protest Re Police Misconduct in Dover, NH |
On December 6, 2008 Seacoast Liberty Police Anti-Corruption Campaign held a demonstration in downtown Dover, protesting abuse of police power and last week's arrest of David Montenegro. Read More
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Dec 12 2008
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InPDUM Publicly Summons Philadelphia Mayor to Appear at December 13 Tribunal for Reparations to African People! |
On Wednesday, December 10, an International People's Democratic Uhuru Movement contingent intervened in a townhall meeting that was organized by the neo-colonial (white power in black face) administration of Mayor Michael Nutter to discuss the recently imposed cuts on the City's budget.
InPDUM International Organizer Diop Olugbala served Mayor Nutter and Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey with the People's Subpoena to appear in the Philadelphia Tribunal for Reparations to African People - a court organized by InPDUM to serve the interests of the African working class and to put the City of Philadelphia on trial for crimes committed against the African community. The Tribunal is to be held on Saturday, December 13, 2008 in downtown Philadelphia.
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Dec 12 2008
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First RNC Felony Sentence: Probation - Victory for Court Solidarity |
No jail for Joe! Joe Robinson was sentenced this morning on felony first degree property damage stemming from slashed delegate bus tires during the RNC. The judge rejected nearly all the prosecutor's wishes, sentencing Robinson instead to three years probation, a $100 fine and 100 hours of community service in an organization of his choice. The standing-room only courtroom was packed with about 50 friends and supporters, who all stood when Robinson's name was called. Judge Salvador Rosas - soon to become the judge for the RNC 8 - mentioned the action favorably before delivering the sentence, calling it "Gandhi-like." read more
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Dec 12 2008
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VIDEO: Indymedia Presents |
We have four short pieces: Critical Mass, Excerpt from Building a Movement for the Future We Want, Indymedia Cooks, and How to Make An Electric Peace Sign Out of Christmas Lights.
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Dec 12 2008
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The Longest Nights - Worcester Remembers Those Who Died From Homelessness |
For the past several years, Worcester has held local Longest Night observances, the national homeless persons memorial day, on December 21st. This year observances will be held each evening December 17th to 19th to mark the tragic deaths of three homeless women this past year, and a memorial service for all 7 Worcester Deaths will be held on December 21st at the P.I.P. Shelter. All are invited to participate as we remember Ruby, Nancy, Joyce, Robert, Ziggy, Lenny and Michael. Earlier Stories Midnight on the Steps Reflection | 2005 article & photos 
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Dec 12 2008
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English Language Independent Reporting from Athens |
A "bilingual restaurant worker" in Athens has published English language coverage including an article, and photos: 1, 2 to the Houston Indyemdia open publishing newswire. You can add your thoughts about the riots and what effect they may have here.
If you read Greek, of course, Athens Indymedia has ongoing coverage, or you can just look at the pictures: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
If you read Greek, of course, Athens Indymedia has ongoing coverage, or you can just look at the pictures: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
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Dec 13 2008
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3 Bank of Americas Attacked in Santa Cruz |
From the open publishing newswire: "Last night rocks were thrown through the windows of 2 Bank of Americas and another ATM location. We did this because the uprising of our comrades in Greece, England, Moscow and elsewhere will not go without a response. People here are killed by cops, screwed by banks, and we will revolt with just as much fury."
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Dec 13 2008
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Anti-Authoritarians Disrupt Bank of America Branches in NYC |
This is one of many actions that were held in solidarity with the striking UE workers in Chicago.
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Dec 13 2008
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PEOPLES BAIL-OUT RALLY in MEDFORD, OREGON |
12/12/08, Medford, Oregon--Twenty folks stood on the busy street corner at Crater Lake Ave. & Stevens St. today, right in front of Bank of America. It was a cold one as the first severe weather advisory of the season had already been declared: Massive Snowstorm tonight will paint the Rogue Valley white. In the cold today it was easy to remember the huddled masses during the depression who stood in soup lines.
Today's protestors called attention to the United States' tanking economy and the attacks on the working class that make those old photos of the 1930's somehow jump up and take center stage again. History does tend to repeat itself and the plight of the working class might well be headed for soup lines and huddled unemployed masses again. Times are getting very tough for hard working Americans. There is a palatable War On The Workers today. You can feel it in the air.
Today's protestors called attention to the United States' tanking economy and the attacks on the working class that make those old photos of the 1930's somehow jump up and take center stage again. History does tend to repeat itself and the plight of the working class might well be headed for soup lines and huddled unemployed masses again. Times are getting very tough for hard working Americans. There is a palatable War On The Workers today. You can feel it in the air.
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Dec 13 2008
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47 East Third St. Tenants Concede, Take Buyout |
Fearing that they would lose in court after evidence crucial to their case was barred, the remaining tenants of 47 East Third Street have agreed to take a buyout and move out of their building.
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Dec 13 2008
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Hundreds in Mass kick off campaign for passage of Employee Free Choice Act |
On International Human Rights Day hundreds of community and labor leaders gathered to make the link between workers' rights and human rights. The Massachusetts campaign for Employee Free Choice Act will tie broad economic recovery to passage of landmark labor legislation. Read More | Related: PEOPLES BAIL-OUT RALLY in MEDFORD, OREGON
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Dec 14 2008
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City Councilor Barbara Haller Stifles Debate of Police File and Public Records |
While most of Worcester has been waiting for the release and review of the “Rojas File” to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette (T&G), District 4 City Councilor Barbara Haller has been pro-actively working to prevent full disclosure, cutting off discussion and preventing a complete public review of the contents, public records process and workings of the WPD’s internal affairs investigations.
As the Chair of the Council’s Public Safety Committee, Haller has been blocking efforts to have the “Rojas file” reviewed and discussed publicly and has used a parliamentary maneuver to table City Councilor Rick Rushton’s request for a Law Department report explaining the legal justifications behind the failure to comply with the initial and subsequent requests.
As the Chair of the Council’s Public Safety Committee, Haller has been blocking efforts to have the “Rojas file” reviewed and discussed publicly and has used a parliamentary maneuver to table City Councilor Rick Rushton’s request for a Law Department report explaining the legal justifications behind the failure to comply with the initial and subsequent requests.
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Dec 14 2008
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Tree Sit Ends, Redwoods and Oaks Cut on UCSC's Science Hill |
Over four hundred days ago, a handful of activists climbed up into the trees on Science Hill as a symbol of resistance to the University of California's plan to destroy 120 acres of campus forest. On December 13th at approximately 8:00am, the tree sit drew to a close as police seized control of Science Hill, arresting one tree sitter. Later, a tree cutting company hired by the university cut down a grove of 100 year old redwood trees to make way for construction of a Biomedical building.
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Dec 14 2008
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Officer Bergin Arrained, Kyle Iboshi Gets an Earfull |
William Bergin: Murder, rapist, thug. Ex Sandy police officer who killed unarmed accident victim Fouad Kaady.
He was being arraigned today, alas not for murder (yet), but for theft, official misconduct, and misuse of a license. The courtroom was filled with supporters of the Kaady family including Juan Rubio. When Bergin got up to appear, his lawyer Des Connell was served by Michelle Burroughs with an order to recuse himself because of a conflict of interest because Connell's daughter formerly represented the Kaady family. After some fireworks between the two Connell said he needed some ethical guidance from the bar, and the Judge agreed to set the arraignment over until January 5th at 1:30. As soon as it was clear that the proceeding for Bergin was over the courtroom immediately emptied with Bergin running out the back door.
For the record, I am the person who shouted at Kyle Iboshi. Just to recap why: Kyle Iboshi "reported" on the murder of Fouad Kaady in the following manner: He held up a packet of papers that came right from the police agency responsible for the killing, and pretended that this was the last word on the matter. And he apparently did not even read it. Not only did he fail to ask any questions about the inconsistencies and obvious, glaring abuses of power in that sheaf of papers, but Iboshi went many steps further.
He was being arraigned today, alas not for murder (yet), but for theft, official misconduct, and misuse of a license. The courtroom was filled with supporters of the Kaady family including Juan Rubio. When Bergin got up to appear, his lawyer Des Connell was served by Michelle Burroughs with an order to recuse himself because of a conflict of interest because Connell's daughter formerly represented the Kaady family. After some fireworks between the two Connell said he needed some ethical guidance from the bar, and the Judge agreed to set the arraignment over until January 5th at 1:30. As soon as it was clear that the proceeding for Bergin was over the courtroom immediately emptied with Bergin running out the back door.
For the record, I am the person who shouted at Kyle Iboshi. Just to recap why: Kyle Iboshi "reported" on the murder of Fouad Kaady in the following manner: He held up a packet of papers that came right from the police agency responsible for the killing, and pretended that this was the last word on the matter. And he apparently did not even read it. Not only did he fail to ask any questions about the inconsistencies and obvious, glaring abuses of power in that sheaf of papers, but Iboshi went many steps further.
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Dec 14 2008
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Lawsuit Takes on NYPD Press Credential Policy |
The New York Police Department’s system for issuing annual press credentials to journalists is unconstitutional and arbitrary, a federal lawsuit filed Nov. 12 alleges.
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Dec 14 2008
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Preparing for the worst: The coming Heffelfinger/Luger report on RNC policing |
[TCIMC note 12/14 5PM: We have heard a rumor the Heffelfinger/Luger RNC Public Safety Review Commission may fail to release their report on Monday, Dec. 15 as mandated. Plz send more RNC-related materials into TC Indymedia & RNC '08 Report.]
Just a few days after the RNC dust settled, it was announced that the City of St. Paul hired former U.S. Attorney Tom Heffelfinger and former assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Luger to review police plans and how they were carried out during the Republican National Convention.
What became immediately clear was that the independent review would not be a fact-finding mission to explore allegations of police wrongdoing or violations of people's rights but a look at the City's security plan, how it was implemented, and whether it reflected what Heffelfinger described as "best practices" (Star Tribune, September 9th, 2008).
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Dec 14 2008
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A Book Review of the Grieving Garden: Living with the Death of a Child |
There is perhaps no greater depth of sorrow one can experience than the loss of one’s child. It is the type of feeling that you would not wish on your worst enemy.
If you have not experienced the loss of a child, I pray you never will. But regardless, I recommend to you The Grieving Garden. The book allows parents with a diversity of backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities the space they need to tell their stories, free from judgment, or the requirement that they justify their feelings and circumstances to others. This book, unlike much of society, allows them their humanity.
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Dec 15 2008
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South Central Farmers Call for Boycott of Forever 21 Stores |
PASADENA, Dec. 13, 2008 - Despite the threat of rain and many other competing activist events this Saturday there was a very good turnout at the demonstration in front of Forever 21 in Old Town Pasadena. Forever 21 intends to build warehouse space on the land of the South Central Farm, which developer Ralph Horowitz acquired by dubious means. (More details here.)
Story/photos: "BOYCOTT FOREVER 21! BOYCOTT FOREVER 21!" by RP
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Dec 15 2008
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Creating a Housing and Community Space Use Collective in Olympia |
We invite everyone to attend the Potluck Supper Forum Title: Creating a Housing and Community Space Use Collective in Olympia.
Location: Traditions Café and World Folk Art, 300 5th Avenue SW, Olympia, WA 98501
Date: Friday, January 30, 2009.
Time: 7pm-9pm
Location: Traditions Café and World Folk Art, 300 5th Avenue SW, Olympia, WA 98501
Date: Friday, January 30, 2009.
Time: 7pm-9pm
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Dec 15 2008
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RNC 8 Now Face Four Felony Charges in Amended Complaint |
Lawyers for the RNC 8 reportedly received a letter today from the Ramsey County Attorney's office amending the complaint against them. The new complaint reportedly lists the charges as follows:Count 1 - conspiracy to riot in the second degree in furtherance of terrorism (the original charge)
Count 2 - conspiracy to riot in the second degree (without terrorism enhancement)
Count 3 - conspiracy to damage property in furtherance of terrorism
Count 4 - conspiracy to damage property (without terrorism enhancement)
The timing of the additional charges from Ramsey County is unique, coming on the heels of a successful court solidarity action on Friday and upcoming call-in days to Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner. Ramsey County prosecutor Richard Dusterhoft also recently sent a letter threatening more charges to the lawyer for Dave Mahoney.READ MORE
RELATED: Preparing for the worst: The coming Heffelfinger/Luger report on RNC policing | First RNC Felony Sentence: Probation - Victory for Court Solidarity | DEMAND CONTINUANCE FOR NOAH JACOBS
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Dec 15 2008
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SF School Bus Drivers Protest Union Busting |
On December 4th, over a hundred San Francisco school bus drivers who are members of UTU 1741 picketed and protest the illegal firings and union busting tactics by Scottish owned First Student. This company which recently purchased Laidlaw is in a war to bust the unions at these operations by firing bus drivers in violation of the contract and for incidents that have nothing to do with their driving record.
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Dec 15 2008
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Muntadar al-Zaidi Did What We Journalists Should Have Done Long Ago |
Al-Zaidi listened to Bush blather that the half-decade of war he had initiated with the illegal invasion of Iraq had been “necessary for US security, Iraqi stability (sic) and world peace” and something just snapped. The television correspondent, who had been kidnapped and held for a while last year by Shiite militants, pulled off a shoe and threw it at Bush—a serious insult in Iraqi culture—and shouted “This is a farewell kiss, you dog!” When the first shoe missed its target, he grabbed a second shoe and heaved it too, causing the president to duck a second time as al-Zaidi shouted, “This is from the widows, the orphans, and those who were killed in Iraq!”
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Dec 15 2008
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Baltimore Protest in Solidarity with Sit-In Workers |
Watch the video
On Wed., Dec. 10, 2008, a demonstration at the Bank of America (BOA) was held in downtown Baltimore, MD. It was led by activists from the All Peoples Congress, among other groups, [including the Baltimore IWW, the International Socialist Organization, and members of the newly formed Baltimore Economic Crisis Response Network -ed] . The purpose of the protest was to show solidarity with the 200 Sit-In Republic Windows and Door Workers of Chicago, Il, whose plant has been shut down. The BOA canceled the companys financing. Its action left the workers without any severance and vacation pay. Critics are insisting that the BOA should use some of the billions of dollars it received in a recent federal-taxpayers-funded bailout to help the workers. The BOA, in turn, blames the company for this situation. For background, see: ueunion.org and counterpunch.org
For continuing updates on the situation at Republic, see chicago.indymedia.org
On Wed., Dec. 10, 2008, a demonstration at the Bank of America (BOA) was held in downtown Baltimore, MD. It was led by activists from the All Peoples Congress, among other groups, [including the Baltimore IWW, the International Socialist Organization, and members of the newly formed Baltimore Economic Crisis Response Network -ed] . The purpose of the protest was to show solidarity with the 200 Sit-In Republic Windows and Door Workers of Chicago, Il, whose plant has been shut down. The BOA canceled the companys financing. Its action left the workers without any severance and vacation pay. Critics are insisting that the BOA should use some of the billions of dollars it received in a recent federal-taxpayers-funded bailout to help the workers. The BOA, in turn, blames the company for this situation. For background, see: ueunion.org and counterpunch.org
For continuing updates on the situation at Republic, see chicago.indymedia.org
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Dec 15 2008
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The Indypendent Issue 129: Inside Obama's Recovery Plan |
President-elect Barack Obama has announced a massive stimulus package to jumpstart the faltering American economy. But will it work? How is appointing Clintonite neo-liberals to be the chief economic advisers to Obama going to help?
Arun Gupta, in this issue of the award-winning newspaper the Indypendent, writes, “And like the New Deal, Obama’s stimulus plan will almost certainly fail to pull the economy out of a historic free-fall. For one, the plan is inadequate. Two, it will be drafted and overseen by Obama’s economic “dream team,” who are committed to the failed ideology that got us into this mess. Three, there’s the matter of the still-festering financial crisis. And four, there has been no national debate over economic priorities such as who controls the economy, how production should be structured and what should be produced.
Because of these factors, the stimulus plan will be designed to benefit specific industrial and financial sectors, not the public. If the downturn proves vicious and long-lived, the government will have to introduce even more dramatic economic programs and policies, just like during the Great Depression.”
Also included in this issue: a first person account of a videojournalist’s journey with an Iraqi refugee that is now living in Brooklyn; how the existence of a “tenant blacklist” is making tenants’ lives harder; a review of David Bacon’s “Illegal People”; and a report from Ecuador about President Correa’s vow to default on Ecuador’s debt is picking up steam. For more, see the links below!
Blacklist Blues: Landlords Use Dodgy Database to Fend Off Feisty Tenants || Lawsuit Takes on NYPD Press Credential Policy || Tapping the System: How to Navigate New York’s Stringent Unemployment Law || From Baghdad to Brooklyn: My Journey With an Iraqi Refugee || Wilting Wages: Money Sent Home to Mexico Declines as U.S. Economy Deteriorates || A Lesson In Class: CUNY Students Stand Up to Tuition Increase || 47 E. Third St. Tenants Concede, Take Buyout || The Indy Sweeps the Ippies || Community Calendar || Reader Comments || Obamanomics: Why the Stimulus Plan Will Not Revive the Economy || Female Priests Altar the Rules || Zeroing In On Obama’s Hawks || Ecuador Drops the Money Ball: President Correa Threatens to Stiff Banks, Pay Social Debt First || International Briefs || Climate Change Exhibit Falls Gravely Short || Returning to Lebanon: Waltz with Bashir Animates the Brutality of War || Labor on the Move: David Bacon’s “Illegal People” Explores Ties Between Repression and Migration || Fearless Cinema: Here’s the Best of This Year’s NYC Horror Film Festival || Frontline Testimonies: Winter Soldier Vets Portray the Reality of Combat
Arun Gupta, in this issue of the award-winning newspaper the Indypendent, writes, “And like the New Deal, Obama’s stimulus plan will almost certainly fail to pull the economy out of a historic free-fall. For one, the plan is inadequate. Two, it will be drafted and overseen by Obama’s economic “dream team,” who are committed to the failed ideology that got us into this mess. Three, there’s the matter of the still-festering financial crisis. And four, there has been no national debate over economic priorities such as who controls the economy, how production should be structured and what should be produced.
Because of these factors, the stimulus plan will be designed to benefit specific industrial and financial sectors, not the public. If the downturn proves vicious and long-lived, the government will have to introduce even more dramatic economic programs and policies, just like during the Great Depression.”
Also included in this issue: a first person account of a videojournalist’s journey with an Iraqi refugee that is now living in Brooklyn; how the existence of a “tenant blacklist” is making tenants’ lives harder; a review of David Bacon’s “Illegal People”; and a report from Ecuador about President Correa’s vow to default on Ecuador’s debt is picking up steam. For more, see the links below!
Blacklist Blues: Landlords Use Dodgy Database to Fend Off Feisty Tenants || Lawsuit Takes on NYPD Press Credential Policy || Tapping the System: How to Navigate New York’s Stringent Unemployment Law || From Baghdad to Brooklyn: My Journey With an Iraqi Refugee || Wilting Wages: Money Sent Home to Mexico Declines as U.S. Economy Deteriorates || A Lesson In Class: CUNY Students Stand Up to Tuition Increase || 47 E. Third St. Tenants Concede, Take Buyout || The Indy Sweeps the Ippies || Community Calendar || Reader Comments || Obamanomics: Why the Stimulus Plan Will Not Revive the Economy || Female Priests Altar the Rules || Zeroing In On Obama’s Hawks || Ecuador Drops the Money Ball: President Correa Threatens to Stiff Banks, Pay Social Debt First || International Briefs || Climate Change Exhibit Falls Gravely Short || Returning to Lebanon: Waltz with Bashir Animates the Brutality of War || Labor on the Move: David Bacon’s “Illegal People” Explores Ties Between Repression and Migration || Fearless Cinema: Here’s the Best of This Year’s NYC Horror Film Festival || Frontline Testimonies: Winter Soldier Vets Portray the Reality of Combat
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Dec 16 2008
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Rally to Save Charity, Lower Mid-City |
December 11, 2008 -- A small group of protesters gathered in the freezing cold today in front of the Avery C. Alexander Charity Hospital demanding it be reopened. They also voiced concerns about the massive VA-LSU project that will demolish 70 blocks of lower Mid-City, ostensibly to replace Charity and the old VA hospitals. Read More Also a related indymedia article on mass land acquisition in the footprint by a wealthy New Yorker: Land Acquisitions in Mid City Raise Questions by A. Caritas
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Dec 16 2008
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McKinley Health Center's plans to cease offering sonogram services at the end of this year. |
Members of the Graduate Employees' Organization Healthcare Working Group learned on Thursday of McKinley's plans to cease sonogram service by January 1, 2009. read more
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Dec 16 2008
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The Destructive Class |
A common reaction to our Governor's latest legislative maneuverings (the governor has promised that at trial, we will see there was clearly no wrongdoing on his part - if we would just quit closing in on him and give him some space.) has been sprinkled with a fairly consistent belief that the Governor's arrest comes as no surprise. read more
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Dec 16 2008
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First Annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair: A Beginning Marker of Resistance |
Friday, December 13, 2008 LOS ANGELES - The organizers of the first annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair sent out a call for "dreamers, fighters, organizers, and rebels to come, meet, strategize, learn from each other, get books, attend workshops, participate, and join the movement." And despite the state's efforts to squelch our efforts, come they did--more than 700 people, mostly from the greater Los Angeles area, although some came from as far as San Diego, the Bay Area, Oregon, New York, and even Canada, to participate in this herstory-making event.
Story with photo: First Annual Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair: A Beginning Marker of Resistance by Rockero | | PHOTOS: Photos from the Los Angeles Anarchist Bookfair by Spicy Organic Tofu
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Dec 16 2008
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Ecuador Defaults on Foreign Debt |
President Rafael Correa declared on Friday that Ecuador would not make a $30.6 million interest payment on $510 million in bonds due in 2012, calling the debt illegal.
Last month, a special debt audit commission released a report charging that much of Ecuador's foreign debt was illegitimate or illegal. The commission found that usurious interest rates were applied for many bonds and that past Ecuadorian governments illegally took other loans on. The report also accused Salomon Smith Barney, now part of Citigroup Inc., of handling the 2000 restructuring without Ecuador's authorization, leading to the application of 10 and 12 percent interest rates. Ecuador's military dictatorship (1974-1979) was the first government to lead the country into indebtedness.
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Dec 16 2008
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Police Officer Shown in Tape Shoving Critical Mass Biker Indicted |
A police officer who was videotaped knocking a man off his bicycle in July during a monthly cycling event in New York City has been indicted, the officer’s lawyer said on Monday.
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Dec 16 2008
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Seattle Against Defense Of Marriage Act (DOMA) |
In the fight against homophobia, which side are you on?
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Dec 16 2008
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Temporary Free Speech Win Over Seattle's March Ordinance |
In a victory for free speech, on Friday, December 12 the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ruled that the City of Seattle's Parade Ordinance is "constitutionally defective on its face."
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Dec 16 2008
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Editorial Cartoon: Obama's Economic Stimulus Plan for DC |
So far as most of us can tell, the "economic stimulus" plan issuing from The Office Of The President-Elect (snicker) includes the most staggeringly pants-pissing amounts of cash to prop up failing corporations, banks and executives, and jack for the rest of us, unless we're prepared to summon up some cajones and engage in a little good old-fashioned shop-floor smackdown, like those laid-off workers in Chicago. On the local level, here in DC, as Inauguration Day – or, as now known to some, Barack Obama Day – approaches, The One's economic stimulus program for DC has finally begun to jell; according to The Office Of The President-Elect (snurf), this plan will take a two-pronged approach: one prong for the quite well-off, and another big prong for the rest of us...
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Dec 16 2008
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Free Market Economist Scales New Georgetown Business School Building, Unfurls Pro-Greed Banners |
"MONEY, MONEY, MONEY" SEZ NOBEL PRIZE WINNER
/b> Friedman, making the first appearance since his alleged death in November 2006, scrawled the messages “Greed Forever,” “Money Money Money” and “Milton Friedman wuz here” in paint on three large sheets before dropping them from the rooftop and out of a top-story window of the 179,000 square-foot MSB building...
/b> Friedman, making the first appearance since his alleged death in November 2006, scrawled the messages “Greed Forever,” “Money Money Money” and “Milton Friedman wuz here” in paint on three large sheets before dropping them from the rooftop and out of a top-story window of the 179,000 square-foot MSB building...
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Dec 16 2008
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Solidarity Demo With Greece, This Saturday |
This Saturday Dec. 20 is the International Day of Action in Solidarity with the uprising in Greece. Solidarity demonstrations have happened all over the world, from embassy occupations, to burning cop cars, to candle light vigils, to banners and signs with words of what's to come.
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Dec 17 2008
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The Salvation Army's red kettle of trouble |
First let me say that the Salvation Army has done some good work in the past in providing assistance to the poor, the addicted, and the marginalized. But their methods are not ones that I approve of. The Salvation Army has a long and disturbing history of religious coercion, abuse, and intolerance.
...The Salvation Army is also homophobic -- so much so that they would stop helping the poor if it meant they had to respect equal rights for gays and lesbians. In 2004, they threatened to close their soup kitchens in New York City rather than comply with the city's legislation requiring firms to offer domestic partnership benefits to gay employees.
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Dec 17 2008
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VIDEO: Human Rights Day |
Seattle citizens took to the streets to protest lack of human rights in USA and around the world.
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Dec 17 2008
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Code Pink Stages 'Shoe-icide Attack' at White House |
HONOR IRAQI JOURNALIST FOR COURAGE IN ACT OF RESISTANCE BEYOND ABILITY OF U.S. LIBERALSEven amidst the cacophony of construction equipment building Oprah's seat for the Inaugural Parade, Code Pink staged a mildly entertaining street theater and exhibit featuring the shoes of Iraqi civilian war dead, and a historic re-enactment of Iraqi reporter Muntader Al-Zaidi's bold, courageous "shoe-icide" attack on President Chimp at a Baghdad news conference last week. Still photography by Isis, via Flickr | Video by Mike Flugennock, streaming out of YouTube | More video by William Hughes, streaming out of YouTube | Broadcast audio via WSQT Direct Action Radio 88.1FM | Editorial cartoon by Mike Flugennock: "Mission Accomplished!"
Related: Muntadar al-Zaidi Did What We Journalists Should Have Done Long Ago by Dave Lindorff
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Dec 18 2008
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Health Care Workers Win at Westgate! |
(Gates, NY) - Employees of Westgate Nursing Home delayed their planned picketing this morning while union and management met to hammer out a settlement of the multi-year labor dispute. When no agreement was reached by 1 pm, the workers took to the street and marched in front of the facility on Beahan Road. In a dramatic turn of events, less than two hours later, union officials announced that a tentative agreement had been reached. The picket stopped.
"I am very glad that we have won our first union contract." said Michelle Lane, a certified nursing assistant. "I thank my coworkers for sticking together and I thank the community for their support."
Details of the final settlement will be released after Westgate workers have voted on the proposed contract, their first ever. No date for the vote has yet been set.
Additional Information: Nursing Home Workers with SEIU/1199 Educational Picket Monday 12/15 | 1199 SEIU
"I am very glad that we have won our first union contract." said Michelle Lane, a certified nursing assistant. "I thank my coworkers for sticking together and I thank the community for their support."
Details of the final settlement will be released after Westgate workers have voted on the proposed contract, their first ever. No date for the vote has yet been set.
Additional Information: Nursing Home Workers with SEIU/1199 Educational Picket Monday 12/15 | 1199 SEIU
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Dec 18 2008
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New Yorkers Reject Paterson’s “Doomsday” Budget |
We must encourage democratically organized political expressions which reflect the growing anger and disillusionment of poor and working class communities. All available forms of non-violent protest – from sit-ins to occupations, from education to mass direct action – must be employed in this struggle.
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Dec 18 2008
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Shakespeare Santa Cruz may close its door forever on December 22nd |
From the open publishing newswire: "I received some unsettling news yesterday that Shakespeare Santa Cruz - the country's fifth largest Shakespeare festival - will close its door forever on December 22nd unless they raise $300,000. If this sounds last minute, it is because they themselves found out only a couple of days ago that UC Santa Cruz will take away their place on campus unless they can come up with those funds. SSC has been a part of the Santa Cruz and Theatre communities for 28 years during which time it has not only produced some magnificent work, but it has also helped to enrich the education of many of UC Santa Cruz's theatre students..."
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Dec 18 2008
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City Council Votes for a Sweatfree Ashland |
Ashland, Oregon - December 16, 2008 : It was unanimous when the vote came down at the Ashland City Council's 12/16/08 meeting. All councilors voted "Yes" in support of "A RESOLUTION FOR A SWEATSHOP FREE PROCUREMENT POLICY" which is for the uniforms and garments the city purchases with public dollars...
Watch the debate and the vote by the Ashland City Council, streaming video... http://www.ashland.or.us/Page.asp?NavID=745 (under "City Council Meetings" click on "December 16, 2008")
Note* The meeting is 3 hrs.15 mins. long. & the Sweatfree Resolution is at 2 hrs. 15 mins., about 2/3rds way through
Watch the debate and the vote by the Ashland City Council, streaming video... http://www.ashland.or.us/Page.asp?NavID=745 (under "City Council Meetings" click on "December 16, 2008")
Note* The meeting is 3 hrs.15 mins. long. & the Sweatfree Resolution is at 2 hrs. 15 mins., about 2/3rds way through
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Dec 18 2008
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Indy TV #18: Celia Kutz of the RNC Welcoming Committee |
Celia Kutz was a member of the RNC Welcoming Committee, the organization that organized support for actions against the Republican National Conventions in the Twin Cities at the end of Summer 2008. It turns out Celia is from our area and stopped by for a visit in October. As many of our readers/ viewers know, the RNC Welcoming committee was the target of pre-emptive raids and trumped up charges by law enforcement. In this interview, Celia talks about her experience with this group, some of the lessons learned, and how people can support the RNC-8. This Episode of Indy TV was aired on Rochester Channel 15 but is just now being posted to our Blip Channel, thus the wacky order of #18 coming after #19.
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Dec 18 2008
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Obama's Inauguration: How to Respond? |
The internet has been a flood lately with discussions on what anarchists, anti-authoritarians and others should do on January 20th.
On one side of the debate is the website hopefrompeople.com, who put out a call to form a "Celebrate People’s History and Build Popular Power" bloc. Signed by many high-profile figures, including Noam Chomsky and Howard Zinn, the site states:
As people striving toward a non hierarchical society, yes, we can—and should—be rigorously critical of Barack Obama. […]But not all heads of state are alike, and if we fail to recognize both the historical meaning and power of this particular moment, we will ensure our own irrelevance.
Perhaps, as people working to build a world from below without electoralism or statecraft, we also need to listen on January 20. It is neither the time nor the place to critique hope or excitement on the part of people who have engaged in grassroots struggles in so many ways and won a substantial victory.
Many strongly disagree with this idea though. On DC indymedia, an anonymous author posted a critique of the call
The quickest way for anyone to ensure their own irrelevance, especially in the face of seminal historical events such as this one, is to renege on one’s responsibility to offer true and honest analysis of the situation, as one sees it through one’s own eyes.
Is it a "victory" to be "celebrated" when we get our half a loaf? Or is it a set-back? If the sole motivation for being given half a loaf is to dissuade us from revolution, to restore our faith in the supposedly “representative” nature of liberal democracy, aren’t we dutifully serving the interests of the ruling class we purport to oppose by acting as agents of conduit for the very lies they seek to spread?
The discussion continued on many rochester email lists and face-to-face conversations (post 1, post 2). It seems the radical community is split on how to respond to the this historic election.
So what do you think? How should people respond to Obama's inauguration? What plans do you have for the 20th? Click the "Read More" link below, and let's discuss.
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Dec 18 2008
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Militant Sex Workers Protest at DOJ Demands 'Support Whores, Not Wars!' |
CALL FOR END TO STIGMATIZATION, CRIMINALIZATION, DISCRIMINATION
Members and friends of the Sex Workers Outreach Project join together to march and rally at the Justice Department for an end to violence against sex workers and for the legalization of prostitution.
Still photography by Isis Video by Mike Flugennock via YouTube. Broadcast audio via WSQT Direct Action Radio 88.1FM.
Members and friends of the Sex Workers Outreach Project join together to march and rally at the Justice Department for an end to violence against sex workers and for the legalization of prostitution.
Still photography by Isis Video by Mike Flugennock via YouTube. Broadcast audio via WSQT Direct Action Radio 88.1FM.
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Dec 18 2008
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New School University has been occupied! |
Students occupying the cafeteria of the New School University released their first statement this evening, linking their struggle with student uprisings around the world and other struggles across the United States. Readm More | Demands from the Radical Student Union | Press release | Photos
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Dec 18 2008
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March to Support the Greek Insurrection |
In response to the call to action from Greece, at noon on Saturday, December 20th people will meet at Faneuil Hall to march in support of the Greek insurrection. “It is important to take action in support of the rebels who are risking their lives to fight against the conditions imposed upon them by authoritarian governments and a broken capitalist system,” says Boston Anarchist Frances Roylos. “If we have to choose between starvation and revolution, we choose revolution.”
RELATED: New School University has been occupied
RELATED: New School University has been occupied
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Dec 18 2008
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I Live and Die On Principles |
The following article was written by Andre Jacobs, a state prisoner recently awarded $185,000 by a jury in a federal lawsuit after they found 3 current and former employees of the PA Department of Corrections guilty of conspiring to deny him access to the courts by seizing and destroying his legal property.
SEE ALSO: Pro se Prisoner Awarded $185,000 II Human Rights Coalition -FedUp! Chapter
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Dec 18 2008
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Greece: Over A Week Since Police Murder of Youth, Protests Still Escalating |
WORKERS' CONFEDERATION BUILDING, CITY HALLS, PARTHENON OCCUPIED, Banks, Police Stations Attacked
It's more than 10 days since the murder of Alexandros and despite the government's wishes for the protests to stop, they are increasing! Banner Drop at Acropolis calls for resistance, mass protests
Statement From Occupiers of Workers' Confederation Building: "We declare the building a Liberated Workers' Zone"
It's more than 10 days since the murder of Alexandros and despite the government's wishes for the protests to stop, they are increasing! Banner Drop at Acropolis calls for resistance, mass protests
Statement From Occupiers of Workers' Confederation Building: "We declare the building a Liberated Workers' Zone"
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Dec 18 2008
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Santa Cruz's Fourth Annual Do-It-Yourself New Year's Celebration |
In what is rapidly becoming a homespun Santa Cruz New Year's tradition, the Last Night DIY Parade and Street Party will take over the streets on New Year's for the forth continuous year. This year the do-it-yourself, grassroots celebration returns with hopes for a parade, street party, entertainment, and performers to take over downtown for a whole evening of DIY adventure and entertainment.
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Dec 18 2008
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City Manager Misses ACLU Public Records Deadline |
On December 4th, the Worcester Chapter of the ACLU submitted a formal public records request to the City Manager requesting a copy of "any policy, memorandum or rule concerning photography in public places, including pools, ponds, lakes and beaches". The formal request was made after the repeated failure of informal requests.
That request, reported on earliershould have been responded to earlier this week. I followed up with Ron Madnick to find out the status of this public records request.
That request, reported on earliershould have been responded to earlier this week. I followed up with Ron Madnick to find out the status of this public records request.
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Dec 18 2008
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New School University Students Continue Occupation |
More than one hundred students are occupying parts of New School University, demanding the resignation of President Bob Kerrey and other administrators, student participation in decision making processes, transparency and the immediate suspension of "capital improvement projects" that the students say take money away from financing their education. Students from CUNY schools have joined the protest as well, saying that this is the first step towards more occupations in their system as they face budget increases due to Governor Paterson's budget ax. newschoolinexile.com | newschoolinexile blog | | | PHOTOS: 1 | 2 | 3UPDATE 12/19: New School occupation ends in victory
MORE: CUNY Students' statement of solidarity with students in New School | Rules of Thumb Learned by An Occupant of the New School in Exile | Notes From the New School Occupation
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Dec 18 2008
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Action in San Francisco this Saturday in Solidarity with Greece |
The insurrection in Greece has entered its second week with increasing occupations of high-schools, universities, government buildings, TV and radio stations. Municipalities have declared autonomy and workers have taken over trade union offices critiquing union bureaucrats across the country. There will be a solidarity march and general assembly in San Francisco on Saturday, December 20, at 4pm starting at 24th and Mission.
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Dec 19 2008
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Prop 8 advocate to deliver Obama invocation |
Barack Obama has chosen Rev. Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the Presidential inauguration. Warren and his Saddleback church are well known for their strong anti-gay and anti-abortion views. LGBT activists demonstrated at Saddleback following the passage of Prop 8.
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Dec 19 2008
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Beloved community activist Beauty Turner dies |
Chicago lost a giant tonight, with the death of community activist Beauty Turner, who died late this afternoon after suffering a stroke several days ago that left her in a coma. She was 51. For those who didn't know Beauty, she was a tireless fighter against police brutality and state violence, and lent her formidable organizing and writing skills to the battle for justice for public housing residents and working class people throughout the metro area. Read More | Housing activist Beauty Turner dies | Post Remembrances HereRead Some of Beauty's Work: 'I Want You to See What I See' | Beauty's Ghetto Bus Tours | When it Rain it pours
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Dec 19 2008
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New School occupation ends in victory |
At approximately 3 a.m, students ended their occupation of New School University and declared victory in ongoing negotiations with university administration. While president Kerry has not been ousted, he has been forced to agree to a wide range of demands bringing greater student democracy and transparency to the functioning of the New School. Read More
Photos from inside and outside new school occupation: 1, 2
Photos from inside and outside new school occupation: 1, 2
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Dec 19 2008
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Worcester Longest Night Memorials |
Longest Night remembrance witnesses are being held throughout Worcester as part of the national homeless persons memorial day, on December 21st. Witnesses have been and will be held to recognize the deaths of 7 Worcester residents that died from homelessness this past year. Three of these individuals were women All are invited to participate as we remember Ruby, Nancy, Joyce, Robert, Ziggy, Lenny and Michael. Dec. 17th Witness - Ruby Dec. 18th Witness - Nancy Dec. 19th Witness - Joyce, 5pm @ 856 Main St. Dec. 21st, Memorial Service, 3pm @ PIP Shelter, 701 Main St. Original 
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Dec 19 2008
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New Yorkers Urge Gov. Paterson to Appoint Ralph Nader to US Senate |
A group of concerned New York citizens announced today that they are launching a campaign to have Governor David A. Paterson appoint long-time consumer advocate Ralph Nader to the US Senate. There are no real residency requirements for US Senate. Nader’s supporters noted that while President elect Obama has made a big point of naming many of his former Presidential opponents to Cabinet positions, he has not yet offered a position to Nader, who finished third in the general election. Obama’s first public interest job, which he credits for training him as an organizer, was with a group that Nader helped established, the New York Public Interest Research Group.
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Dec 19 2008
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Stars’ Photos Removed from Leviev Website as Celebs Seek Distance from Rights Ab |
Following complaints by at least four major Hollywood stars whose photos were posted on Israel diamond mogul Lev Leviev’s website, Leviev staff removed the entire celebrity photo section from his website 
http://www.leviev.com this week. The photos’ removal came after Adalah-NY and Jews Against the Occupation-NYC sent letters to and spoke with representatives for Salma Hayek, Halle Berry, Drew Barrymore, Brooke Shields, Andie MacDowell, Lucy Liu, Whitney Houston and Sharon Stone, all of whose names and photos, apparently wearing Leviev jewelry, were featured in a Celebrity section of Leviev’s website.
http://www.leviev.com this week. The photos’ removal came after Adalah-NY and Jews Against the Occupation-NYC sent letters to and spoke with representatives for Salma Hayek, Halle Berry, Drew Barrymore, Brooke Shields, Andie MacDowell, Lucy Liu, Whitney Houston and Sharon Stone, all of whose names and photos, apparently wearing Leviev jewelry, were featured in a Celebrity section of Leviev’s website.
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Dec 19 2008
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Houston's 6th Annual Latin@ bookfair brings writers and readers together |
Hundreds of folks came down to the George R Brown Convention Center to check out the wares and listen to the speakers at the Latino Book Fair organized by the grassroots efforts of the scrappy folks at Nuestra Palabra. Dozens of publishers (Like Houston's Arte Público Press, pictured), authors, bookstores and community organizations set up tables on the third floor of the building.
I got there in time to catch the tail end of powerhouse writer Victor Villaseñor, and most of the presentation by Gustavo Arellano, the Mexican behind Ask A Mexican, which you can read every week in the Houston Press.
The book fair is really a world class event, Gustavo Arellano pointed out that the only other cites in the US that have a Latino bookfair are LA and Chicago. The bummer of getting such a big space, is that the large crowd seemed very slim. [read full article with photos]
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Dec 19 2008
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Free Press Houston Open Call for Entries for 'Worst of Houston' |
Complaining is fun and fruitful! Free Press Houston invites anyone and everyone to submit to their yearly Worst of Houston Issue. This is an open chance to make their gripes on everything from city government to local culture and everything in between. Please limit entries to single paragraphs and submit them by December 25th.
Send to editors@freepresshouston.com
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Dec 20 2008
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The Biometric Databases Bill Passes its First Call in the Israeli Parliament |
On October the 29th, the Biometric Databases Bill passed its first call in the Israeli parliament. The bill requires all Israeli citizens to submit finger prints and facial photos to the Israeli government or face up to one year in jail. The database can be used freely by the Israeli secret police and military without the approval of a court.
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Dec 20 2008
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Rules of Thumb Learned by An Occupant of the New School in Exile |
Some of these rules of thumb can be generalized, and perhaps others cannot; nevertheless, they comment on the specific context of the student occupation that lasted two days and won important concessions from the New School, including amnesty. The students agreed to continue the struggle next semester. This is only the beginning...
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Dec 20 2008
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Two Animal Rights Activists Arrested |
FRIENDSHIP HEIGHTS HOME DEMO LEADS TO ARRESTS At the december 19, 2008, demonstration at Intergen's VP Janet Lambert home in Friendship Heights, two activists were assaulted and arrested by police.
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Dec 20 2008
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Images from the New School, December 18, 2008 |
Students, workers, and supporters gathered by the hundreds outside the New School Thursday night. They were here to support the three-day occupation of 65 Fifth Avenue. The sit-in was reinforced, streets barricaded, traffic blockaded, President Kerrey chased down the street, and police prevented from making any further arrests. Later that night, we learned that the occupying students had won what many saw as a decisive victory in their battle with the administration.
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Dec 20 2008
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Mumia Abu-Jamal faces US Supreme Court, as supporters mobilize globally |
On Friday, Dec. 19, 2008, death-row journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal filed his appeal to the US Supreme Court, asking it to consider his case for a new guilt-phase trial. One month before, the Philadelphia DA filed its separate appeal to the court asking to have Abu-Jamal executed without a new sentencing-phase trial. Both are appealing the March 27, 2008 rulings by the US Third Circuit Court. At this critical stage in Abu-Jamal’s case, supporters organized a week of global solidarity actions that began on December 6, the day of the main protest in Philadelphia. RELATED: Journalist for Mumia's video report from Dec. 6, plus extended footage of the crime scene presentation (download presentation flyer) II PVN's video report from Dec. 6 II Reports from the US, Venezuela, Germany, and Mexico II From Mumia Abu-Jamal: Free the Atenco 13! II Legal Update II GeoClan.com interview with Hans Bennett II DVD video made for Dec. 6 events: Fighting for Mumia's Freedom: a report from Philadelphia
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Dec 21 2008
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Notes From the New School Occupation |
Overall, the occupation was a victory. It was a victory for a particular method of direct action politics which is sorely needed in the US. There will be no Greece in the US anytime soon but the energy and romantic leaps made by university students still hold the possibility for reviving the near-moribund political imagination of the left. Occupy-Refuse-Resist!
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Dec 21 2008
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NYC cop who knocked down CM cyclist indicted on felony and misdemeanor charges |
A grand jury indictment is expected to be unsealed Tuesday in the case of a New York City police officer shown in video footage knocking a bicyclist to the ground in Times Square. Officer Patrick Pogan is expected to plead not guilty.
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Dec 21 2008
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US Opposes UN Declaration Affirming Gay Rights |
At the United Nations, the General Assembly has approved a historic measure supporting gay rights worldwide. On Thursday, sixty-six countries voted to approve a declaration calling for the decriminalization of homosexuality and guaranteeing equal rights for gays, lesbians and transgendered people. Most of the support came from Europe and Latin America. The Bush administration refused to support the measure, joining Russia, China, the Vatican and several Arab states. Maxime Verhagen, the Netherlands' Minister of Foreign Affairs, criticized the US objection.
So if the US opposes the UN declaration affirming that gays, lesbians and transgendered people have rights (meaning the right to live and not be stoned to death for just being) then THEN why not affirm this thorough our BIOREGION. Get all of Cascadia to affirm this declaration on human rights.
Why the fuck are we remaining part of the US?
So if the US opposes the UN declaration affirming that gays, lesbians and transgendered people have rights (meaning the right to live and not be stoned to death for just being) then THEN why not affirm this thorough our BIOREGION. Get all of Cascadia to affirm this declaration on human rights.
Why the fuck are we remaining part of the US?
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Dec 21 2008
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Dear MR OBAMA, or what a dupe I am |
wow. I have no problem "bringing in people that are disagreed with" and my problem is not JUST a support of measure 8. Seriously he compared me and my loved ones to beastiophiles and pedophiles. I can not think of another minority group that such direct hate and bigotry could be leveled against and cast off so easily. As you make room at the table sir, I am sad to see that I will remain at "the other table". I actually backed you in the primaries, after giving up on mainstream politics, as have many of my friends. I am sure that next election I will note this. And yes I know you democrats believe you own my vote one way or another. but once again I find myself finally feeling the need to sit it out.
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Dec 21 2008
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Fort Collins: Bank Attacked in Solidarity with Greece |
A Wells-Fargo bank in Fort Collins, Colorado had a window smashed last night. This action was in solidarity with the social insurrection in Greece and with immigrants and prisoners everywhere. It was also done as direct action against capitalism. read more
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Dec 21 2008
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Did you know the UC gets a cut every time Monsanto sells a dose of bovine growth hormone? |
From the open publishing newswire: "That's how the corporate university works. It's because of the licensing of bovine growth hormone (rBGH) by the UC system (human growth hormone is also a UC patent). In the past (before Bayh-Dole in 1980), any company that wanted to use the results of academic research for their business could - but with Bayh-Dole came the exclusive licensing of patents to private industry, for which the UC gets a little cut, as do the professors who created the patent - at taxpayer expense."
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Dec 21 2008
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Anti-consumerism caroling attracts singers in Georgetown event |
From 7-10 PM on Friday, December 19, roughly ten people gathered at the intersection of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue NW to protest consumerism in a season of rampant consumerism.
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Dec 21 2008
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Reports from RNC 8 Hearing Wednesday |
Here's a compendium of reports from the RNC 8's scheduling hearing this past Wednesday. With the new felony charges, the 8 face a maximum penalty of 12 and a half years in prison. Their next court date is a motion hearing on January 26.
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Dec 21 2008
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about the buses |
I'll just call this the Great BP Blow of '08. 'Cause believe it or not, this cold weather is brought in by excessive retained solar energy, which will doubtless bring us more yet, knocking dents in our global-warming civilization. If the ice storm follows as predicted (a big if), we could call it the Fina Freeze. And so forth.
In any event, the fact that the Pacific has teased us so, has worn out the Tri-Met bus service. Days of driving with tire chains in expectation of --well, of today's phenomenon-- has overtaxed the mechanics, who have had to maintain chain repair/removal/installation stations in four locations constantly. Their fatigue is tremendous, and they are running out of chains as the bare asphalt tore them to pieces. They look like coal miners after a double shift. I feel so sorry for them.
In any event, the fact that the Pacific has teased us so, has worn out the Tri-Met bus service. Days of driving with tire chains in expectation of --well, of today's phenomenon-- has overtaxed the mechanics, who have had to maintain chain repair/removal/installation stations in four locations constantly. Their fatigue is tremendous, and they are running out of chains as the bare asphalt tore them to pieces. They look like coal miners after a double shift. I feel so sorry for them.
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Dec 21 2008
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VIDEO: Warming Centers in Portland Oregon - City Hall on 12.17.08 |
Warming Centers City Hall 2008: I video taped (from my TV) [on Saturday 12.20.08] the City Hall discussion about Warming Centers in Portland Oregon that took place on Wednesday 12.17.08
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Dec 21 2008
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Candle Light Vigil for Equality in Ashland |
Saturday night 100 people braved the cold temperatures to come to the Light Up the Night For Equality candle light vigil on the Ashland Plaza in downtown Ashland.
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Dec 21 2008
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Legal Brief Filed to Nullify Marriages as Gay Rights Marchers Arrive at Supreme Court |
On December 19, The Yes on 8 campaign issued a brief seeking to nullify existing same-sex marriages in California. Kenneth Starr, the former independent counsel who investigated President Bill Clinton, co-wrote the argument and will argue the case as head counsel possibly as early as March 2009. The same day Attorney General Jerry Brown asked the California Supreme Court to strike down the same-sex marriage ban because it is inconsistent with the guarantees of individual liberty safeguarded by the California Constitution.Gay rights activists have been organizing demonstrations since Proposition 8, largely backed by out-of-state donations, passed in California on November 4. The Courage Campaign and Join the Impact, joined by other groups, have called for peaceful demonstrations across the nation... Read More
Related: Proposition 8 Solidarity: Interview with Equal Rights Activist Katie Hunter-Lowrey | Couple Marching Through California to Revoke Prop 8 | December 10th "Day Without A Gay" Protest | Thank Cleveland City Council for Passing the Domestic Partnership Registry! | Mass Transgender Political Coalition working for anti-discrimination law | Candle Light Vigil for Equality in Ashland | US Opposes UN Declaration Affirming Gay Rights
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Dec 21 2008
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PFLP calls for Dec. 25 solidarity action for imprisoned leader Ahmad Sa'adat |
The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, is calling for an international demonstrations on December the 25, to demand the freedom of Ahmad Sa'adat and all Palestinian political prisoners. Sa'adat, the secretary general of the PFLP, was illegally jailed by the colonial army two and half years ago and is supposed to be sentenced on Dec. the 25.
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Dec 21 2008
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In Support of the So-Called "Somali Pirates" |
The recent shrill cry from the corporate media for Somali blood has moved me to put a few points of reason into writing. I am referring to the recent condemnations of the so-called "Somali Pirates" that have been appearing in the press.
The first important point to consider is that the "ransom"* money that the Somali Pirates are collecting is supporting impoverished Somali communities and feeding malnourished children. For these impoverished people, their government and the international community has allowed them to go starving, but the "pirates" provide for their needs by redistributing some of the wealth from those who have too much to those who have too little and no time to wait.
The first important point to consider is that the "ransom"* money that the Somali Pirates are collecting is supporting impoverished Somali communities and feeding malnourished children. For these impoverished people, their government and the international community has allowed them to go starving, but the "pirates" provide for their needs by redistributing some of the wealth from those who have too much to those who have too little and no time to wait.
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Dec 22 2008
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International Solidarity Marches on in Support of Greek Uprising |
Two weeks ago in Athens, Greece, a 16 year old anarchist got shot in the back of the head by a cop. Rochester SDS-Students for a Democratic Society-organized a march of approximately 20 people on December 20th, a day of international solidarity, to support the uprising that is happening in Greece and spread the word about what is going on. The demonstrators marched from Washington Square park to the News 10 NBC building on East Avenue where SDS delivered a statement to the corporate media. In addition to condemning the murder of Alexandros Grigoropoulos, SDS demanded that local media cover the uprising in Greece.
Photos: 1 | 2 | 3
Additional Information: In Syracuse: Solidarity with the Greek Uprising | US IMC coverage | Greek youth take over TV and radio stations | The Rage in Greece | “We don’t forget, we don’t forgive” -12-20-08 day of international action against state | University of Rochester SDS | Rochester SDS discussion forum
Photos: 1 | 2 | 3
Additional Information: In Syracuse: Solidarity with the Greek Uprising | US IMC coverage | Greek youth take over TV and radio stations | The Rage in Greece | “We don’t forget, we don’t forgive” -12-20-08 day of international action against state | University of Rochester SDS | Rochester SDS discussion forum
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Dec 22 2008
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Put a Million Dollar Smile on Child's Face |
Collateral Repair Project is a locally based, grass roots organization that helps Iraqi refugees who have fled the violence of their country for relative safety in Jordan. After 6 years of refugee life, their savings exhausted, few are able to afford the basics. Currently we are focussing on providing chidren warm coats for the cold Jordan winters.
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Dec 22 2008
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New York Human Rights Carolers Renew Call for Boycott of Leviev |
Thirty human rights carolers braved the cold and ice today to serenade Manhattan’s holiday shoppers with a call, for the second year, to boycott the jewelry store and companies of Israeli settlement-builder and diamond mogul Lev Leviev. Leviev’s Madison Avenue store has been the site of 12 protests since it opened in mid-November, 2007, and protests against his businesses have spread to London, Dubai and the West Bank villages where he is building settlements. Additionally, during the past year UNICEF and Oxfam have renounced Leviev, major Hollywood stars have distanced themselves from him, and the governments of United Kingdom and Dubai are under pressure to boycott Leviev’s businesses.
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Dec 22 2008
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Obama's New Appointments |
The beat goes on. As with his economic and security appointments, Obama again disappointed but didn't surprise. Without exception, his team assures business as usual, a near-seamless transition from George Bush, and not "change to believe in." His latest choices raise more cause for concern and with good reason.
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Dec 22 2008
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Canadian Company Threatens El Salvador with Free Trade Lawsuit Over Mining Project |
A Canadian mining company intends to sue El Salvador's government for several hundred million dollars if it is not granted permission to open a widely unpopular gold and silver mine that scientists warn would have devastating effects on local water supplies. Pacific Rim Mining Corp., using its Nevada-based subsidiary Pac Rim Cayman LLC, filed a Notice of Intent on Dec. 9 through provisions in the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) that allow transnational corporations to sue governments over laws and decisions that often put public interests ahead of corporate profits.
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Dec 22 2008
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Equality Texas mourns the death of Jennifer Gale |
Equality Texas mourns the death of Jennifer Gale, a 47-year-old transgender homeless woman who died December 17th. Jennifer's body was found Wednesday morning. She was lying in an outdoor walkway at the First English Lutheran Church in Central Austin. A perennial candidate for public office in Austin and Dallas, Jennifer's notoriety came through years of putting herself in the public eye. She took a shot at nearly every city office, from council seats, to the mayor's office. She never won, but in 2004, Gale came closer than ever, winning more than 38 percent of the vote for a seat on the Austin ISD School Board. Jennifer’s voice rang through Austin Council Chamber doors every week, often times in support of the homeless population of which she was a part. "Let's give the homeless a place to exercise that need jobs and need help," said Gale Tuesday night before the city’s Health Services Board. Her death points to critical problems faced by the homeless, and especially by homeless women and the transgender homeless. “Jennifer most nights slept outdoors,” said Austin Mayor Will Wynn. “Jennifer, we believe, is the 136th person who has died sleeping on the streets (of Austin) over the last 12 months.” [read full article]
Related: The Longest Nights - Worcester Remembers Those Who Died From Homelessness | More Queer People Murdered. Lesbian and Gay Organizations Seem to Care Less by Bash Back! News
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Dec 22 2008
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Sheriff Shooting Sparks New Calls for Citizen’s Police Control Board |
December 20, 2008 - In the wake of another fatal police shooting community members living under the gun of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lennox Division are calling for the formation of a new Citizen Police Control Board. Citing the failure of the appointed Office of Independent Review they are calling for all-Elected, all-Civilian, Sheriffs/Police Control Board.
The call comes in the aftermath of the fatal shooting of Christian Portillo who witnesses say was killed by L.A. County Sheriffs while he sat unarmed in his parked car in the driveway of his home. A demonstration was held this Saturday at the Lennox Sheriffs Station. Christian’s mother, Mrs. Elida Portillo, spoke at the rally. This December 20th would have been Christian’s 35th birthday. From the newswire: Justice For Christian Portillo! Stop Killer Cops! March On Lennox Sheriffs by jubilee shine
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Dec 22 2008
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Galveston Rallies to Save UTMB |
The rally and press conference took place on Market Street between 10th and 11th Streets, across from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB)'s Levin Hall, in Galveston. About 100 people protested against the drastic downsizing of UTMB Galveston and the layoffs of about 3000 workers. UTMB employees, community members, health care advocates, union organizers, and activists participated in a spirited circular picket and spoke to reporters. Protesters demanded the full restoration of medical and psychiatric services at UTMB Galveston, and some chants at the rally called for the resignation of Governor Rick Perry and the Texas Board of Regents. Plans were announced for a pro-UTMB contingent to have a presence at the Regents' meeting in Austin on December 18. [read full article]
Texas State Employees Union represents hospital workers | Corporate News Coverage: Galveston County Daily News | Fox 26
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Dec 22 2008
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Despite Blizzard Anarchists Take Direct Action In Solidarity With Greece |
40 people or so marched through downtown Portland streets on a very snowy Saturday night in solidarity with the insurrection in Greece and against state repression everywhere.
Chants of "from Portland to Greece, these are our streets!" and "rain or snow the police must go!" were met with cheers by many of the people who were downtown during the blizzard, some even joined the march with their own chants of "F-ck the Police!"
The march encountered only one cop who was laughed off when he asked "who is the leader?". a window broke at a large department store (nordstrom rack?), and circle A's appeared on on doors and buildings in the wake of the march.
Chants of "from Portland to Greece, these are our streets!" and "rain or snow the police must go!" were met with cheers by many of the people who were downtown during the blizzard, some even joined the march with their own chants of "F-ck the Police!"
The march encountered only one cop who was laughed off when he asked "who is the leader?". a window broke at a large department store (nordstrom rack?), and circle A's appeared on on doors and buildings in the wake of the march.
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Dec 23 2008
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Obama's "Hope" for Iraq and Afghanistan: leftovers and deceptive advertising |
Those following Obama's earlier presidential campaign rhetoric recognize a substantial shift from his stump speech promises. Author Jeremy Scahill's Dec. 5th Alternet article ("Obama Doesn't Plan to End the Occupation in Iraq") notes Obama as recently as July telling his progressive anti-war constituency (a key voting block in his election), "I intend to end this war. My first day in office I will bring the Joint Chiefs of Staff in, and I will give them a new mission, and that is to end this war — responsibly, deliberately, but decisively." Obama's transitional website is now pledging to send an additional 65,000 American military personnel to Afghanistan, and expand the "Global War on Terror" (GWOT). An important feature of the expanded war on terror, according to the Obama website, will be the U.S. government's extensive investment in surveillance technology. The website also states that U.S. military incursions into Pakistan will be part of his plan for the "war on terror." Click here to read the full article.
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Dec 23 2008
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Interview with Paul Kivel, Author of Men's Work & Uprooting Racism |
On the December 19 indynewswire program on Free Radio Santa Cruz, danielsan spoke with Paul Kivel about opposing racism and patriarchy, pitfalls to progress in the struggle, moving beyond discussion to action, myths like american exceptionalism and progress, the individual and the institutional, and more.
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Dec 23 2008
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Demonstrators Holding Candles Shed Light on Struggle for Marriage Equality |
In the early evening of December 20th, LGBT activists lit up the night for marriage rights in gatherings throughout the greater San Francisco Bay Area. In San Francisco, protesters demonstrated with a candlelight vigil in Union Square crowded with holiday shoppers, while in the South Bay city of San Jose activists chose CineArts theater as the location for a protest. CineArts theater is owned by Cinemark, whose CEO donated to the Yes on 8 campaign.
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Dec 23 2008
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Prop 8, Jim Crow, Nuremberg and Other Unjust Laws |
Today’s laws banning same-sex marriage - including California’s Proposition 8, a ballot measure which passed in the November 2008 election - are the descendants of these pernicious Jim Crow laws and the Nuremberg laws enacted in Nazi Germany. All of these forms of codified intolerance are promulgated for the same reasons: to justify and perpetuate a regime of supremacy, hatred and violence against a group of people, end of story. And the stated rationale for these restrictions, these human rights violations, is always couched in terms of the need to protect tradition, custom, the family or social integrity. Such laws are cloaked in self-righteous, sanctimonious religious ideology, completely reflecting the obsessions and hang-ups of those who write and support them. So, in the case of invalidating same-sex marriages, those who subscribe to that proposition say that they seek to protect the institution of heterosexual marriage, whatever that means.
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Dec 24 2008
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More Queer People Murdered. Lesbian and Gay Organizations Seem to Care Less |
New Orleans Police discovered the bodies of three young, Black, Queer people in a 7th ward house Saturday. The three people, one of whom was gender variant, were all shot to death in the house sometime around 3 or 4am Thursday. Mainstream media and the Police are as of now ignoring the fact that the three people were queer and possibly trans. However, Facebook groups devoted to the three and comments on news sites, are raising interesting questions by Queer people of color as to why large Lesbian and Gay organizations are ignoring this. Many people have wondered as to whether there would be an LGBT organizational black out on such violence had the three been wealthy and white Gay businessmen.
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Dec 24 2008
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Colorado Independent Media Needs You! |
On November 23rd as many of you know Colorado Indymedia got a new look. We hope you like it. This is however just a beginning because not only did the website get a new look but Colorado Indymedia also reaffirmed its commitment to our mission: to be an open media outlet for the creation of radical, accurate, and passionate telling of the truth. In short the new face of Indymedia is a change that is more then just skin deep. read more
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Dec 24 2008
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Syracuse Solidarity with the Greek Insurrection |
Anarchists and anti-authoritarians from across Upstate New York hit the bitter cold streets of Syracuse, NY December 20th, 2008. As part of the Day of International Action Against State Murders, we marched with raised fists and blaring music in memory of young Alexandros Grigoropoulos and with the Greek uprising.
While our comrades in Rochester Students for a Democratic Society rushed their streets a few hours to the west, participants from the Syracuse Solidarity Network, Activists of Oswego County, and Binghamton Not Bombs gathered in the snow around a banner reading "Solidarity with the Greek Unrest, No State Murders!"
After reading a letter from friends of Alexis entitled "Our rage is a love for life," about 15 of us took over the roads with "Fight for your right to party" blasting from a boombox. We blocked traffic and marched right through the middle of the busy downtown bus stop area. The quiet night air of our rustbelt ghost town was shattered by anti-police chants and rowdy music from KRS-ONE and the Infernal Noise Brigade.
photos: 1 | 2 | 3
Additional Information: International Solidarity: In Support of Greek Uprising | Syracuse Solidarity Network | On MySpace: Syracuse Solidarity Network | North East Anarchist Network
While our comrades in Rochester Students for a Democratic Society rushed their streets a few hours to the west, participants from the Syracuse Solidarity Network, Activists of Oswego County, and Binghamton Not Bombs gathered in the snow around a banner reading "Solidarity with the Greek Unrest, No State Murders!"
After reading a letter from friends of Alexis entitled "Our rage is a love for life," about 15 of us took over the roads with "Fight for your right to party" blasting from a boombox. We blocked traffic and marched right through the middle of the busy downtown bus stop area. The quiet night air of our rustbelt ghost town was shattered by anti-police chants and rowdy music from KRS-ONE and the Infernal Noise Brigade.
photos: 1 | 2 | 3
Additional Information: International Solidarity: In Support of Greek Uprising | Syracuse Solidarity Network | On MySpace: Syracuse Solidarity Network | North East Anarchist Network
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Dec 24 2008
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Oregon Job Market Failing Families |
Report finds living wage jobs are scarce – Governor’s budget making matters worse
* * * This year’s report has data for all counties in Oregon * * *
For every nineteen job seekers, there is only one available job that pays a living wage of $26.70 for a family of three. This, according to the 2008 Job Gap, Tough Times for Northwest Families compiled by the Northwest Federation of Community Organizations.
* * * This year’s report has data for all counties in Oregon * * *
For every nineteen job seekers, there is only one available job that pays a living wage of $26.70 for a family of three. This, according to the 2008 Job Gap, Tough Times for Northwest Families compiled by the Northwest Federation of Community Organizations.
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Dec 24 2008
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Give Your Children the Gift of Truth this Christmas |
Between the middle 1800s and the early 1900s, the desire to sell magazines merged with two historical tales, one from the pagan Germanic past and the other from Christan lore, to form the Santa Claus memeplex. The memeplex quickly morphed into a capitalist dream that, once saddled upon the working class, turned a nation into insatiable consumers and gave reason to the production of frivolous goods. A new religion was born and children everywhere began to pray to Santa - a super-hero-like being, an über-elf, the Führer of naughty and nice.
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Dec 24 2008
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BAAM's 16th Monthly Newsletter: Free! |
Heres the PDF of BAAM's 16th Monthly Newsletter. On this issue: Page 1. Boston Stands with Greece page 2. Chuck Turner Fights Back page 3. City Council to vote on Biolab Ban page 4. Obama Appointments Disappoint page 5. Chicago Workers Occupy Factory and Win page 6. The Greek Insurrection
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Dec 24 2008
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Judge Finds Starbucks Guilty of Extensive Union-Busting |
Following a lengthy trial here last year, a National Labor Relations Board judge has found Starbucks guilty of extensive violations of federal labor law in its bid to counter the IWW Starbucks Workers Union
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Dec 24 2008
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Yo-Ho! Tally-Ho! Sea Shepherds Set Japanese Whalers to Flight! |
lines join in faint discord and the Stormwatch brewsa concert of kings as the white sea snaps
at the heels of a soft prayer,
whispered
— jethro tull
On December 19, the Sea Shepherd ship Steve Irwin caught the Japanese whaling fleet - and immediately launched the Delta boat for a butyric acid attack on the Yushin Maru #2. A storm at sea forced them to abort the attack run-but now the entire whaling fleet is on the run! Read More & Audio by WSQT
12/26 UPDATE: "We still have them on the run and we intend to keep them on the run for as long as our fuel resources allow," said Captain Watson. Read More
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Dec 25 2008
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Gathering Days at the Bellview Grange |
The Gathering Days are taking place Saturday, December 20th - Thursday, December 25th at Bellview Grange in Ashland (1050 Tolman Creek Rd). The Bellview Grange - in cooperation with other local organizations* – presents 6 days of potlucks and activities from Winter Solstice to Christmas. It is a place and time for the Community to come together over the holidays to celebrate.
All parts of the Gathering Days are free of charge and open to the whole community.
All parts of the Gathering Days are free of charge and open to the whole community.
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Dec 25 2008
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Sacramento Safe Ground Homeless March |
March in Sacramento To Protest War On HomelessOn December 23rd, homeless people and supporters took to the streets of Sacramento to protest oppressive laws and discrimination. Marching through the cold streets of Sacramento they demanded safe ground, the right to live without being arrested, fined, and their property being confiscated. In Sacramento there are more then twelve hundred people who go to sleep under the skies every night.
Sacramento lacks affordable housing and places to rent often require high deposits and credit checks. There are not enough shelters, and a "anti-camping" ordinance is used to harass the homeless, despite the fact that they have nowhere to sleep. This law allows the police to arrest and fine people who are sleeping in the streets and to seize their personal belongings (blankets, personal documents, camping gear) making their survival even harder. A leaflet distributed by the Sacramento Homeless Organizing Committee at the demonstration reads "the powers that be have ordained that rich and poor alike are forbidden to sleep under a bridge. The problem is that only the poor need a bridge to sleep under on a rainy night."
The march started on 12th street and ended at Cesar Chavez Park. Homeless people spoke about the condition they face everyday, the difficulties of overcoming social barriers and their demand for a safe ground. At the end of the event the names of homeless people who died last year in Sacramento were read. This coincided with National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the homeless people who die every year.
Photos: 1 | 2 | | | Related Links: Sacramento Loaves & Fishes | Francis House of Sacramento | National Coalition for the Homeless | Sacramento housing alliance | Relocalize Sacramento! | Sacramento Food Not Bombs | His Streets Ministries
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Dec 25 2008
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Denver Solidarity with Greece |
While most people were driving in a hurry from one holiday shopping excursion to the next a small group of angry elves took to a bridge in the heart of Denver and dropped two banners. These banners hung in hopes to remind people that struggle still exists both in Greece and at home.
The banners that hung over I-25 in between Speer Blvd. and 20th St. read:
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Dec 26 2008
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CODE PINK delivers Xmas songs on Xmas Eve |
CODE PINK swarmed Ashland's KSKQ studio on Christmas Eve and sang Christmas carols "live" on the Brain Labor Report... Seven Code Pinksters shared their tunes which have a special political twist and were a hit for early morning listeners this December 24, 2008...
The show is archived and can be listened to online here: http://www.kskq.org/brainlabor/?p=434
The show is archived and can be listened to online here: http://www.kskq.org/brainlabor/?p=434
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Dec 26 2008
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Miami's King Mango Strut Parade is baaack!!! for the 27th time - Dec 28th - Sunday 2 PM |
The King Mango Strut is baaack!!! for the 27th time to bring much needed mental climate change on Sunday, December 28th at 2pm in downtown Coconut Grove. Parade route includes Commodore Plaza, Main Highway and Grand Avenue. This year's Grand Marshal is Mr. Clucky, the famous rooster, who was voted "Best Activist of 2008 in the Tri-county Area" by City Link Magazine.
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Dec 26 2008
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2008 AntiMall |
This year's AntiMall was held at East LA's Chavez Studio. As organizer Laura Palomares explained on Uprising last year (full interview here), the concept was inspired by her experiences with Zapatistas and the notion of an alternative, parallel economy. The AntiMall brings together many co-ops. “So the idea of El Puente is providing a space where you know you're buying something directly from the artisan, and that group of people are working on making things better for their community,” she explained to Uprising's Sonali Kolhatkar. “So they--for example, the Zapatistas--are not waiting for the government to come in and fix what's going on in their community. They're going to make a demand, but at the same time they're working on creating their own autonomous communities. So the purpose of El Puente is to support those communities in their struggles and not support things like Walmart and Target in our neighborhoods but really invest back into social change .” Story and photos: 2008 AntiMall (part 1) and 2008 AntiMall (part 2) by RP
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Dec 27 2008
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Sea Sheperd Update 12.26.08 |
"We still have them on the run and we intend to keep them on the run for as long as our fuel resources allow," said Captain Watson. The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society ship Steve Irwin closed in on one of the vessels of the Japanese whaling fleet at 0730 Hours GMT (1930 Hours Sydney Time) on December 26th off the coast of the Australian Antarctic Territory north of the Mawson Peninsula.
The Kaiko Maru emerged from dense fog in front of the Steve Irwin. The Sea Shepherd crew pursued and delivered 10 bottles of rotten butter and 15 bottles of a methyl cellulose and indelible dye mixture... Since Saturday, the Sea Shepherd crew have chased the Japanese fleet for 400 miles through heavy fog, dense ice and nasty weather. During that time they have not been able to kill any whales. [ Read more |Sea Shepherd News]
The Kaiko Maru emerged from dense fog in front of the Steve Irwin. The Sea Shepherd crew pursued and delivered 10 bottles of rotten butter and 15 bottles of a methyl cellulose and indelible dye mixture... Since Saturday, the Sea Shepherd crew have chased the Japanese fleet for 400 miles through heavy fog, dense ice and nasty weather. During that time they have not been able to kill any whales. [ Read more |Sea Shepherd News]
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Dec 27 2008
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Animal Rights Activists in UK Convicted of Blackmail |
On December 23rd, four out of five activists on trial at Winchester Crown Court, UK were found guilty of 'Conspiracy to Blackmail' Huntingdon Life Sciences (HLS) after a three and a half month long trial. The trial is part of a larger attack on the animal rights movement. In May this year, Sean Kirtley, an activist involved with Stop Sequani Animal Torture (SSAT), was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for updating a website with news about a legal, nonviolent campaign to close down Sequani laboratories in Ledbury.
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Dec 27 2008
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Over 200 Palestinians Dead As Israel Attacks Gaza |
On December 27th, Israeli air strikes targeted police stations in Gaza killing at least 205 people and injuring hundreds more. Many of the dead were Palestinian police officers, including more than a dozen traffic police officers undergoing training. An unknown number of civilians have been killed and injured; the Israeli attacks came at the time thousands of Palestinian children were in the streets on their way home from school.
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Dec 27 2008
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Day Laborers in Woodbridge and Manassas Face Hunger |
The situation for the day laborers in Woodbridge and Manassas is increasingly grim, and hunger has become a major issue. Last Sunday Woodbridge Workers Committee volunteers conducted our second bi-weekly food distribution of the winter. During the night, freezing rain fell and distribution began under dangerous conditions. By noon, we distributed over 200 bags of food - enough to last an individual 4 or 5 days. The total cost of last week's distribution alone was over $1,000 and winter has just begun.
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Dec 27 2008
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Editorial by Jenka and Cartoon by Latuff re: New Israeli Assault on Gaza |
Editorial Cartoon by Latuff speaks out on renewed attacks on Gaza which killed and wounded just over 1100 people according to reports on Al Jazeerah Arabic posted Sunday evening.AP Video via youtube
Jenka 'on Israeli Airstrikes and Shoes':
I sit in front of the computer, editing the article, trying, as always, to maintain objectivity, "Israeli airstrikes kill 205 Palestinians in Gaza"…..my eyes begin to blur …..images of bodies, of wailing mamas screaming for their sons, of children missing limbs, hospital crews running, rushing….bodies everywhere……I can no longer see the computer screen through the tears. I think of our friends in Gaza - "Are they ok?" …..I try to think of an appropriate response: a protest at the Israeli consulate? A petition? A boycott campaign? They all seem so trivial, so ineffective. Send ANOTHER letter to my congressman, only to be rebuffed again with a form letter stating that the Congressman is in full support of Israel and their War on Terror…? more…
Help Influence the Obama Administration:
Yes We Can End Military Aid to Israel! Emergency Action: Stop the Massacre of Palestinians "WE WILL NOT BE SILENT"
When: Monday, December 29 at 4:30pm
Where: Barak Obama's Transitional Office, 451 6th Street NW, One block from Verizon Center
Other Actions in Solidarity with Palestine
Click HERE, and Take Action!
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Dec 27 2008
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Indy TV # 20: Hannah Dobbz on Her Movie "Shelter: A Squatumentary" |
This week on Indy TV, we talk with Hannah Dobbz, a flimmaker and writer, about her movie: "Shelter: a Squatumentary." Hannah screened her movie at St. Joe's in Rochester earlier this month. "With universally skyrocketing property values, rent and home-ownership have become unaffordable at best and impossible at worst. Thus, people all over the world continue a long tradition of circumventing the expensive price tag and reclaiming this basic human right by squatting. Shelter: a Squatumentary is a documentary film that explores the squatting movement in the East Bay from 2004 to 2007. We follow three examples of the struggle for housing in an unaffordable marketplace such as the San Francisco Bay Area. Hellarity House, Banana House, and Power Machine are stories of squatters who have found one tentative solution to the ongoing housing crisis"
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Dec 27 2008
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Impeachment Protest Vigil Continues 12.18.08 |
December 18 2008 as the temperature drops to the low 30's the weekly protest/ vigil (Thursday at high noon) continue outside of the Portland office of House District 3 Representative Earl Blumenauer.
The protest vigil is "to encourage & remind him (Earl) that his constituent's want accountability and an honest and forthright presidency. By Earl Blumenauer refusing (and continuing to ignore the lawlessness) to hold the Bush administration accountable for their human rights violations and for their disrespect on holding-up (protecting) the US Constitution as our honored "law of our land" ...we (protesters) are outside his office (weekly) showing the world we (as individual's and citizens for justice) are displeased and outraged that Earl Blumenauer will tolerate and allow these violations. The group holding this protest will be here till Jan 20 (2008)when the Liar in Chief steps down from his stolen position.
The protest vigil is "to encourage & remind him (Earl) that his constituent's want accountability and an honest and forthright presidency. By Earl Blumenauer refusing (and continuing to ignore the lawlessness) to hold the Bush administration accountable for their human rights violations and for their disrespect on holding-up (protecting) the US Constitution as our honored "law of our land" ...we (protesters) are outside his office (weekly) showing the world we (as individual's and citizens for justice) are displeased and outraged that Earl Blumenauer will tolerate and allow these violations. The group holding this protest will be here till Jan 20 (2008)when the Liar in Chief steps down from his stolen position.
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Dec 27 2008
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Local Urban CSA sponsoring Seed Exchange - Jan 3 |
Sunroot Gardens is an urban CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) farming enterprise. We bike around, growing vegetables in people's yards and "unimproved" public rights-of-way, etc. We saved a boat-load of seeds this year from a ton of veggies, herbs, and flowers, and will be making the collection available at an Exchange on Jan. 3.
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Dec 27 2008
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Call out for Practical, Original Ideas? |
Do you have any ideas that could benefit humanity? I mean really? Are there any solutions? I've been checking out Indy Media here for about three weeks and it's fascinating. It really is. I've learned a lot, and had some almost productive conversations. I've read some interesting discussions about eliminating poverty, anarchic society, consumerism, pirates and Zimbabwe; it's really been an education. There is no doubt that Portland Indy media has a readership of very intelligent people.
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Dec 27 2008
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Intel Fails to Make Good on Green Rhetoric |
Oregon Intel calls itself a "green" company and a "good corporate citizen." However, Intel belongs to the business association Industrial Customers of Northwest Utilities, which has consistently lobbied against progress on global warming and clean energy issues in this state. Please ask Intel to live up to its green rhetoric by lobbying FOR clean energy in Oregon.
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Dec 27 2008
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Let's paint the Hawthorne Bridge PINK |
I'm in favor of asking the City Council in Portland to paint the Hawthorne Bridge pink. It would serve as our memorial, our HomoMonument to all those who were murdered for being gay, lesbian, bi, or transgendered, during and after the Second World War. The wages would be welcome in this economy, too. There is a Homomonument in Amsterdam, and its website gives the following reason for its existence:
"Immediately following the end of the Second World War there were calls to establish a memorial to commemorate the gay men and women who lost their lives in the war. However, all efforts to establish a monument failed. It took until the 1980's, almost 40 years after the war, before the time was ripe. It wasn't until then that thorough research into the persecution of homosexuals in the Second World War was properly conducted.
"Immediately following the end of the Second World War there were calls to establish a memorial to commemorate the gay men and women who lost their lives in the war. However, all efforts to establish a monument failed. It took until the 1980's, almost 40 years after the war, before the time was ripe. It wasn't until then that thorough research into the persecution of homosexuals in the Second World War was properly conducted.
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Dec 27 2008
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Protest In Palo Alto Against Facebook's Removal of Breastfeeding Photos |
A controversy began in 2007 when a young mother's profile photo of her nursing her infant suddenly disappeared from the social networking website Facebook. There was no explanation as to why the photo was removed, and Facebook has not responded to her inquiries. Despite queries from other women who have found similar family photos removed over the last year, Facebook still hasn’t changed its policy. On December 27th, about twenty demonstrators gathered in front of Facebook's headquarters in Palo Alto to protest discrimination against nursing mothers. They told members of the press that in some cases their family pictures have been reported as "obscene" and they have been warned by Facebook that if they repost the photos they risk being banned from the online site.
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Dec 28 2008
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January 1st: Housing Rights Rally and March |
On January 1st, 2009, residents of the U-Districts Nickelesville Tent City will be rallying for housing rights. There will be live music and speakers on the housing situation in Seattle. There will also be a march and direct action against a condo complex in the U-District.
WHEN: January 1st
WHAT: Rally @ 12:30
March @ 2:30
WHERE: Tent City at 15th Ave NE & NE 45th St (U-District)
WHEN: January 1st
WHAT: Rally @ 12:30
March @ 2:30
WHERE: Tent City at 15th Ave NE & NE 45th St (U-District)
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Dec 28 2008
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Kwanzaa Celebrates Family Community and Culture |
The first night of Kwanzaa was organized by the Sankofa Pan-Afrikan Student organization and took place in the Ensemble Theater in Midtown. Around 200 people came together to celebrate the first night of Kwanzaa, check out the stalls and wach the musical and cultural presentations. I arrived an hour an a half late, but got to catch almost all of M1 from Dead Prez's Presentation, and some of the music and spoken word afterwards. A really amazing event, check out this link for information on the events being put together this week all over town as part of the Kwanzaa program.
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Dec 28 2008
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Protests Against Israel's Attacks on Gaza |
A day after Israel's air raids on Gaza, which claimed at least 290 lives and more than 900 wounded according to the Palestine News Network, a coalition of groups in Boston gathered on Park Street to protest Israel's aggression. Protests have been carried out in several cities in the United States and around the world.Haaretz, one of Israel's main newspapers, reported that the attacks had been in the planning for months. Hundreds in Tel Aviv came out to protest the bombings saying that military action against Gaza does nothing to improve security in Israel. Read More
More Solidarity Reports: Hundreds Rally in Houston | Thousands Rally in NYC (PHOTOS): 1, 2 | Protests Planned in Los Angeles, Portland and Twin Cities, MN | | | In Depth Reports From: Indybay | Rochester IMC | DC IMC | Indymedia.Org: Today We Stop The War and Massacre in Palestine - Responses and Developments | | | Alternative News Sources: Israel IMC | Palestine News Network | International Middle East Media Center and Radio Free Palestine
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Dec 28 2008
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Photos From Today's NYC Gaza Massacre Protest |
Thousands of people marched today in New York City to protest the Israeli massacre in Gaza. Photos by NYCLAW -- New York City Labor Against the War
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Dec 29 2008
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Hundreds Rally in defense of Gaza, more protests begin Monday |
On a very cool Sunday afternoon, more than 600 people came out to rally in the Galleria area, showing support for Palestinian rights, and in opposition to recent Israeli air attacks on the citizens of Gaza. The mood was clear, "Stop the Attacks Now". Photos: 1 | 2
A second protest is planned for Monday, December 29, 2008 starting at 4pm in front of the Israel Consulate: 24 Greenway Plaza (near Wesleyan and 59), with more protests in the works.
On December 27th, Israeli air strikes targeted police stations in Gaza killing over 200 people and injuring hundreds more. Air strikes continued on December 28th, with the death toll reaching close to 300 by mid-day. [In Depth Coverage from Indybay Here]
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Dec 29 2008
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Photos: Protest Against Israeli Bombings of Gaza |
Palestinian activists protest Israeli bombing of Gaza
Between 1000 and 1500 people marched marched from Rockefeller Center to the Israeli Consulate on 2nd Avenue to protest the Israeli government's bombings in Gaza. The march, which, seemed even larger because of the huge crowds lining 5th Avenue in the unseasonably warm weather, was made up mostly of Palestinian and other Arab Americans, and maintained an extraordinary level of spirit and militancy for several hours. There was also a sizeable contingent from International Answer and several other Marxist political organizations.
Between 1000 and 1500 people marched marched from Rockefeller Center to the Israeli Consulate on 2nd Avenue to protest the Israeli government's bombings in Gaza. The march, which, seemed even larger because of the huge crowds lining 5th Avenue in the unseasonably warm weather, was made up mostly of Palestinian and other Arab Americans, and maintained an extraordinary level of spirit and militancy for several hours. There was also a sizeable contingent from International Answer and several other Marxist political organizations.
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Dec 29 2008
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Striking Workers at Bronx Cookie Plant Face Difficult Christmas Season |
It is Christmas time, but there is little holiday cheer at the Stella D’Oro cookie factory in the Bronx. The 136 workers at the famous Italian biscuit company, members of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers, and Grain Millers (BCTGM) International Union Local 50, have now been on strike for more than four months and it may be several more before they head back to work. The workers’ contract extension expired at the end of July and Local 50 called the strike when the owners walked out of negotiations on August 13. Read More | Audio from Building Bridges RadioRelated: Day Laborers in Woodbridge and Manassas Face Hunger
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Dec 29 2008
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Gaza Solidarity Protest in Portland Tuesday |
Portland, come out in numbers and show your solidarity with the people of Palestine! As Israel prepares for a ground invasion of Gaza, cities worldwide are demonstrating their outrage of Israeli war crimes against the besieged Palestinian people.
Tuesday December 30, 2008
Gather at 4:30 and Rally 5:00 pm
Where: Federal Building, Downtown Portland, SW 3rd & Madison
Organized by: Americans United for Palestinian Human Rights, Portland Peaceful Response Coalition, and others.
Contact: (503) 344-5078
Tuesday December 30, 2008
Gather at 4:30 and Rally 5:00 pm
Where: Federal Building, Downtown Portland, SW 3rd & Madison
Organized by: Americans United for Palestinian Human Rights, Portland Peaceful Response Coalition, and others.
Contact: (503) 344-5078
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Dec 29 2008
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Israel Reins Death and Destruction over Gaza |
The Israeli army launched a massive strike against the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. So far nearly 300 Palestinians have been killed and many more have been wounded. The Israeli government says they are executing this deadly invasion because of missile strikes from areas in the Gaza Strip. But let's look at what preceded these missile strikes from the Gaza Strip which landed in empty fields and caused no casualties.Tues. Dec 30: Rochester Demonstration against Assault on Gaza
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Dec 29 2008
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Local Protest Against Israeli Massacre in Palestine Tuesday |
Today is the third day of an intense Israeli military assault on the Gaza Strip. In addition to destroying bulidings of the Palestinian Authority, the Israeli army has bombed schools, mosques, universities and other targets, with the death toll being overwhelmingly civilian. By midday Monday (Twin Cities time), the Palestine News Network was reporting a death toll of 345 with at least 1,450 injured, many still in overflowing Gaza hospitals that are lacking supplies due to the Israeli blockade. The prolonged attack has prompted protests and renewed calls for an Israeli boycott worldwide; the U.S. and U.K. stand alone in the world in their support for Israel.
Locally, the progressive Jewish community is mobilizing in opposition to the siege. A joint demonstration has been called for Tuesday outside Amy Klobuchar's office on Washington Avenue near downtown Minneapolis. In a press release (copied below), organizers say they expect hundreds to attend, adding, "As Jews in the Twin Cities, we stand with the world majority in the call to immediately end Israel's current and devastating aggression in Gaza, for Israel to be held accountable for it's actions, and for our fellow Minnesotans and specifically Jews to join us."
News: IMC-US coverage of protests | Electronic Intifada coverage | A Massacre in Palestine - Responses and Developments by Cyprus Indymedia | Israel Indymedia | Palestinian News Network | Intl. Middle East Media Center
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Dec 29 2008
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CLEVELAND RALLY TO PROTEST ATTACK ON GAZA, MONDAY 4:30PM, PUBLIC SQUARE |
The Israeli military attack against Palestinian civilians in Gaza Strip has reached an unprecedented mass scale level in the past two days. This has left more the 300 people dead and over 700 injured, most of whom are women and children as well as causing collateral damage to civic and residential buildings.
Israeli air strikes pounding Gaza are deepening the humanitarian crisis in an area that was already in deep distress, according to a United Nations official. "The situation is absolutely disastrous," U.N. official Christopher Gunness told CNN on Sunday.
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Dec 29 2008
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Banner Drop Over Storrow Drive in support of Palestinians |
Today before the evening rush, activists dropped a banner that read "The Real Terrorists: The US & Israel." The action was done in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza and in the West Bank who are currently under attack by the Israeli Military. WIth the increasing violence against unarmed civilians in Gaza, it is important to be aware of the support that the US government gives to the Israeli Military, including supplying them with "bunker buster" bombs which have been used in the last three days of attacks, which have killed over 315 people.
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Dec 29 2008
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Fashionable Death in Gaza |
As we enjoy the usual holiday season of excesses which make those of the Roman empire appear minor, as we gorge ourselves on food and drink and gifts, we might spare a moment of reflection for those who are suffering on the periphery of 'news' worthiness. Our thoughts should turn to what is happening in Palestine.
The last 48 hours has been witness to one of the greatest and most violent attacks levelled by the State of Israel against the civilian population of Gaza. The 'security compounds' which are being targeted by the IDF are, for the most part, government run bodies such as the police station, and a mosque (which is not government run). Suffice it to say that when a Canadian works for the Federal Government today, they are not by default a Conservative, and a Muslim in any part of the world, is not a de facto Hamas supporter, not even if they are Palestinian.
The last 48 hours has been witness to one of the greatest and most violent attacks levelled by the State of Israel against the civilian population of Gaza. The 'security compounds' which are being targeted by the IDF are, for the most part, government run bodies such as the police station, and a mosque (which is not government run). Suffice it to say that when a Canadian works for the Federal Government today, they are not by default a Conservative, and a Muslim in any part of the world, is not a de facto Hamas supporter, not even if they are Palestinian.
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Dec 30 2008
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"Stop Killing Our Children": Images from 12/28 March on the Israeli Consulate |
On Sunday, December 28, New Yorkers gathered at Rockefeller Center, rallied, sang, chanted, and proceeded to march through midtown on their way to the the Israeli Consulate. With a day's notice, they came out by the thousands in protest of the Israeli state, its bombing of Gaza and its siege of Gaza.
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Dec 30 2008
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"Yes we can free Palestine"-say marchers at Obama HQ |
In afternoon rush hour on December 29, at least 100 marchers gathered at Barrack Obama's transition office in DC's Chinatown to demand that he take a stand against Israel's relentless and murderous bombing of the Gaza Strip... more... | Download audio
This was one of some 50+ U.S. Protests of Israel's War on Gaza says the US Campaign to End the Israeli Occupation...more...
Emergency Actions:
1-Stop the Massacre of Palestinians
2-rally Tuesday, December 30, 4:30 pm; State Department: 22nd St and C St NW
3-after rally: raise funds for Gaza...
4-Other Actions...
This was one of some 50+ U.S. Protests of Israel's War on Gaza says the US Campaign to End the Israeli Occupation...more...
Emergency Actions:
1-Stop the Massacre of Palestinians
2-rally Tuesday, December 30, 4:30 pm; State Department: 22nd St and C St NW
3-after rally: raise funds for Gaza...
4-Other Actions...
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Dec 30 2008
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The Payday loan game |
I have had personal experiences with this cash cow. Only problem is that the cash went back to them 5 maybe 10 times what was originally borrowed. I wanted the experience, one to see if it was real. Two, cause I could find ways to spend it. Read MorePast Payday Loan Coverage: DC Council Caps Payday Loan Interest; Check'N'Go Sues Whistleblower | "Check'n'Go" Payday Loan Sharks Protested In Anacostia
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Dec 30 2008
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A Mayoral Directive and a Boston City Council Order for the More Routine Transmittal of City Public Documents |
History is what you think of when you think of the city of Boston. Yet the history of city hall departments needs to be made more accessible to those of us with strong interests in municipal governmental history. Routinely public access is deflected or blocked for public meetings and to public records regardless of what officials claim about transparency. A Mayoral Directive and a Boston City Council Order are needed for the more routine transmittal of public city documents to our Government Documents Department of Boston Public Library. In addition to the city archives city departments keep their own archives but deflect interest when approached. TEXTHERE
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Dec 30 2008
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They are selling our personal medical records! |
Another problem with for-profit healthcare. They are selling our personal health care information to the highest bidder! A gap in the HIPAA law, the very law that is suppose to protect an individual's privacy, has it such that greedy companies are selling our private information... This is the latest example of just how broken the corporate healthcare system has become in the United States of America. It is a national disgrace.
Listen to Monday's (12/22/08) edition of the Brain Labor Report and hear guest Linda Ackerman describe gross violations of the HIPAA law (holes in the law) and how companies like CVS-Caremark sell prescription information to drug manufacturers and other third parties--such as health, life and long term insurers. >>>Listen Here: http://www.kskq.org/brainlabor/?p=432
Listen to Monday's (12/22/08) edition of the Brain Labor Report and hear guest Linda Ackerman describe gross violations of the HIPAA law (holes in the law) and how companies like CVS-Caremark sell prescription information to drug manufacturers and other third parties--such as health, life and long term insurers. >>>Listen Here:
http://www.kskq.org/brainlabor/?p=432
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Dec 30 2008
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Local Actions in Solidarity with Gaza |
On Monday, actions in solidarity with Gaza occurred in several locations around Boston. In Cambridge, about 100 people showed up with signs (see article from Open Media Boston below). The number of people was smaller in Roxbury Crossing, but they still made their presence. A larger rally and march has been planned in downtown Boston for Tuesday afternoon to join a National Day of Action.
RELATED: From DC Indymedia, Over 100 Protest Israeli Atrocities in Gaza at Obama Transition HQ
RELATED: From DC Indymedia, Over 100 Protest Israeli Atrocities in Gaza at Obama Transition HQ
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Dec 30 2008
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Bay Area Protesters Take To The Streets To Protest Attack On Gaza |
On December 28th, a San Francisco protest against the attack on Gaza took place at Powell and Market at noon. On December 29th, there was a protest at Feinstein's Office at 5pm; around 5:30pm, hundreds of protesters in San Francisco took over the intersection of Montgomery And Market to protest the Gaza massacre. Slightly before 6:30pm, police ordered protesters to clear the intersection. 30-40 members of a Jewish anti-occupation activist group refused to leave the street as police threatened arrests. After over an hour of threats, nobody was arrested and at 7:25pm everyone marched to Union Square and then to Powell and Market.
On Tuesday, December 30th, as part of a National Day of Action, there will be a demonstration at the Israeli Consulate in San Francisco on Montgomery Street.
On Tuesday, December 30th, as part of a National Day of Action, there will be a demonstration at the Israeli Consulate in San Francisco on Montgomery Street.
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Dec 30 2008
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The Governor Wants a Mileage Tax: Why You Should Care |
If you've ever wondered why there never seems to be an end to road building/re-paving/repair projects, so have I. No matter how bad the economy gets, it seems there is *always* enough money laying around to tear up perfectly adequate streets and re-pave them, to close down perfectly useful on-ramps and re-vamp them, to block lanes and close roads in an orgy of machinery and men in orange vests. A lot of money is flowing through our highway and road projects, and one might reasonably ask why we make this such a priority at the same time we shave the last few cents off programs to help senior citizens and people with disabilities. Governor Kulongoski isn't asking such questions, though. Instead, he's proposing new ways to keep the money spigot flowing toward ODOT projects now that people are buying less gas. And boy, does he have a stupid idea now.
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Dec 30 2008
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Indymedia in the Police State |
An interesting thing happened at the Republican National Convention this past September. As police donned riot gear and readied their rubber bullet rifles and tear gas canisters to combat thousands of anti-war/anti-police state protesters, minute-to-minute updates of police brutality and resultant street fighting began to appear online on Indymedia centers across the United States.
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Dec 30 2008
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NYC Marches Again to Demand End of Massacres in Gaza and Boycott of Israel |
For the second day in a row, over a thousand New Yorkers marched through midtown Manhattan, chanting and carrying signs and Palestinian flags, to voice opposition and demand an end to Israel's assault on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. In the last three days, Israel's bombing of Gaza has killed over 360 Palestinians. Reports indicate that at least 60 of those killed were women and children.
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Dec 30 2008
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Denver Responds to Israel's Attack on Gaza |
Please come express your solidarity with the people of Gaza. Join with groups across the county on this national day of action. Tuesday, December 30 - rally and other actions at the State Capitol Building at 3pm, bring Palestinian Flags, bullhorns, and signs. Peace vigil at 5pm in front of the State Capitol Building. Bring a candle. read more
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Dec 30 2008
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Gaza solidarity protest in Portland Tuesday |
Tuesday December 30, 2008
Gather at 4:30 and Rally 5:00 pm
Where: Federal Building, Downtown Portland, SW 3rd & Madison
Organized by: Americans United for Palestinian Human Rights, Portland Peaceful Response Coalition, and others.
Gather at 4:30 and Rally 5:00 pm
Where: Federal Building, Downtown Portland, SW 3rd & Madison
Organized by: Americans United for Palestinian Human Rights, Portland Peaceful Response Coalition, and others.
Contact: (503) 344-5078
a list of all of the protests nationwide can be found at: endtheoccupation.org | Ongoing updates from Palestine can be found at: imemc.org
Related: Portland Protests Massacres in Gaza
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Dec 31 2008
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Portland Protests Israeli Massacres in Gaza |
December 28th, 2008, American citizens concerned with Social Justice gathered at Pioneer Square in downtown Portland to protest recent Israeli massacres of innocent Palestinian civilians in Gaza. A lone speaker at the small gathering spoke passionate truth to those Sunday shoppers who, for the most part hurried past, disregarding his plea for compassion and action.
He spoke of Israeli War crimes, the illegal and immoral collective punishing of Palestinian civilians and wondered, "where is the outrage?" According to the speaker, this "Occupation has been condemned by every Human Rights organization around the world. We must start to protest this inhuman brutality, which is supported by the United States, wholeheartedly."
And he states further that Barak Obama, for whom so many people voted, hoping for a change in Foreign Policy, has said nothing since this has started. "His silence is deafening, and you know he is not going to criticize Israel and their war crimes. He is no better than George Bush!" "We have to be in support of the Palestinian people, who are innocent. These massacres are not stopping..............do something....we cannot let these massacres go on." Hastily organized at the last minute, the event was ill attended, but those who choose to stand up and speak out may attend another event Tuesday, December 29, at 4:30 at the Federal Building, Downtown Portland, SW 3rd & Madison.
Video of 12/28/08 Portland Protest
Related: Hamas releases important statement on AlJazeera.com | listing of other protests nationwide | Ongoing updates from Palestine
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Dec 31 2008
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142 Words the Worcester Police Dept. Doesn't Want You to See |
The Worcester Telegram & Gazette was in court yesterday (Dec. 30th) seeking a judicial review and forced re-release of the most excessively redacted complaints in the Rojas file. Months could pass before a judge finally forces their release and unveiling. The WPD claims the redactions were to preserve people’s privacy, but it was pretty clear to me from my brief review of my own records that the redactions were more about covering up than preserving Officer Rojas’ or anyone else’s privacy. I kept a copy of my original complaint, which when compared with the WPD redacted version, now reveals the 142 words the WPD doesn’t want you to see. You be the judge.
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Dec 31 2008
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Protesters Denounce Gaza Massacre |
LOS ANGELES, December 30, 2008 – Demonstrations were held at the Westwood Federal Building and the Israeli Consulate today in response to continued air strikes on Gaza City by Israeli Defense Forces. Protesters are calling for an immediate ceasefire and a resumption of peace talks between all warring parties. Close to 1,000 people demonstrated outside the Israeli Consulate this evening. Despite a few incidences with a small group of pro-war counter demonstrators the protest was mostly peaceful. From the Newswire: Video: Jeff Warner, LA Jews for Peace | Video: Mike Farrell at Gaza Massacre Protest | | Timeline of call ins: Protests Dispatch #1 & #2 | | Cel Phn Photos from Gaza Massacre Protest
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Dec 31 2008
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Gaza Rally Outside Israeli Consulate |
On the fourth day of Israel’s bombing campaign in Gaza, hundreds of Bostonians turned out to a rally to demonstrate their solidarity with the Palestinian people. The rally, which was organized by a coalition of pro-Palestinian groups, took place in front of the office building that houses the Israeli Consulate’s office in Boston’s Back Bay. The spirited rally was followed by a boisterous march from the Israeli Consulate to Copley Square, where preparations for Boston’s First Night were underway.
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Dec 31 2008
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Hundreds Rally for Gaza Outside Israel's UN Mission |
Hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists gathered in front of the Permanent Mission of Israel to the UN in midtown Manhattan on Tuesday evening, protesting Israel’s bombing campaign against Gaza, which has left over 370 Palestinians dead and over 1,700 injured. The spectators covered the sidewalk of the entire block at the corner of 42nd St and 2nd Ave; at the opposite corner of the street, a much smaller pro-Israel counter-protest was held in support of the Jewish state’s military action against Hamas.
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Dec 31 2008
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Roundup of New York City's Response to Israel's Attack on Gaza |
New York City residents and activists sprung into quick action as soon as the Israeli bombing campaign of the Gaza Strip in Palestine began. Numerous protests, sponsored and organized by a variety of pro-Palestine and peace organizations, have occurred, all calling for an immediate end to the violence in the Gaza Strip and an end to U.S. military aid to Israel.
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Dec 31 2008
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freeskool guerilla gardening |
The snow is gone, and the ground is warming up! So its time to get back to transplanting and planting perennials. Now is the time to plant so they may make the most of this season to build healthy rootsystems. The class will meet in several locations, as there are a few gardens to work on, so check the schedule to see where we will meet for each class.
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Jan 01 2009
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year in review |
The editorial collective of Rochester Indymedia would like to reflect on the local and global stories and issues that arose in our community in 2008. We hope our recap motivates and builds enthusiasm for the new year.
In 2008, we saw the election of the first US President of color; we also saw the continued erosion of human rights and civil liberties, here and around the world. We saw the 5th year anniversary of the illegal invasion and occupation of Iraq and the escalation of US intervention in Afghanistan; we were delighted to see an Iraqi journalist throw "a farewell kiss to Bush." Continuing the Bush tradition of rewarding the incompetent and corrupt, we saw trillions of public dollars going to "bailout" the very financial elites who caused the current economic meltdown. Out of desperation we saw struggles for economic justice re-energized, in particular the successful occupation of Republic Windows and Doors by Chicago workers as well as the noncompliance and resistance to eviction notices by residents and their neighbors due to foreclosures.
These stories and many others came across our newswire this year and we've selected some highlights for your viewing pleasure!
• Police/State Repression • Fighting Poverty
In 2008, we saw the election of the first US President of color; we also saw the continued erosion of human rights and civil liberties, here and around the world. We saw the 5th year anniversary of the illegal invasion and occupation of Iraq and the escalation of US intervention in Afghanistan; we were delighted to see an Iraqi journalist throw "a farewell kiss to Bush." Continuing the Bush tradition of rewarding the incompetent and corrupt, we saw trillions of public dollars going to "bailout" the very financial elites who caused the current economic meltdown. Out of desperation we saw struggles for economic justice re-energized, in particular the successful occupation of Republic Windows and Doors by Chicago workers as well as the noncompliance and resistance to eviction notices by residents and their neighbors due to foreclosures.
These stories and many others came across our newswire this year and we've selected some highlights for your viewing pleasure!
• Police/State Repression • Fighting Poverty
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Jan 01 2009
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Worcester Indymedia & WCCA TV 13 Mark One Year Anniversary Archiving City Council Meetings - What Now? |
This January marks the one year anniversary of the Worcester City Council multimedia archives, a project of Worcester Indymedia facilitated by WCCA TV13. Over the past year, Mike Benedetti has picked-up the work of getting Worcester City Council meetings on-line. Maintained at the Internet Archive, every Worcester City Council meeting from this past year is available as either a full video or simply an audio/podcast download. It's been our public records and open meeting gift to Worcester. A directory of the Council meetings is available at Worcester Activist. While positive responses have accompanied the project throughout this one year pilot, there have sadly been no steps taken by the City Manager’s Cable Services Division (Gov Ch12) to assume their responsibility to more broadly disseminate these broadcasts. 
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Jan 01 2009
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PHOTOS: Seattle Activists Demand the End of the Gaza Masacre |
 | December 30, 2008 -- Approximately 200 hundred activists gathered at the Seattle Federal Building at 4 pm today to demand the end of the bombing of Gaza. Although the call to action was made only 72 hours earlier, Seattle activists joined tens of thousands of other people across America showing their disgust at Israel's war crimes. |
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Jan 01 2009
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December 30th: Protest Gaza Massacres |
The ANSWER Coalition, Muslim American Society Freedom, Free Palestine Alliance, National Council of Arab Americans, and Al-Awda, International Palestine Right to Return Coalition are calling for Tuesday, December 30 to be a National Day of Action to show solidarity with the Palestinian people in Gaza and to demand an immediate end to the murderous attacks carried out by the Israeli military against the people of Gaza.
Protest against the ISRAELI war crimes committed against the Palestinian people in Gaza on Tuesday, December 30th. Demonstrations will be held in Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellingham.
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Jan 01 2009
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December 11th: Protest/Vigil in Solidarity With Greek Rioters (Tacoma) |
Protest/Vigil
December 11th: 11am-1pm
Corner where 17th, Pacific and Commerce meet in Tacoma
December 11th: 11am-1pm
Corner where 17th, Pacific and Commerce meet in Tacoma
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Jan 01 2009
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December 13th: ICE Action, Downtown Tacoma |
Help spread information about the detention center and the raids.
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Jan 01 2009
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I.C.E. Agents Targeting Salal Pickers in Quilcene |
Report back from a permit-issuing in Quilcene, Washington. I.C.E. agents (Immigrations and Customs Enforcement) have been showing up to watch and kidnap people they deem illegal.
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Jan 01 2009
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Confronting the Food Crisis: Teach-in Friday and Saturday! |
Confronting the Food Crisis: Cultivating Just Alternatives to the Corporate Food System
Join the movement to support a just, sustainable food economy! Participate in a range of discussions, panels, and hands-on workshops that help us to Understand Corporate Control and Build Just Alternatives with respect to local and global food systems.
Join the movement to support a just, sustainable food economy! Participate in a range of discussions, panels, and hands-on workshops that help us to Understand Corporate Control and Build Just Alternatives with respect to local and global food systems.
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Jan 01 2009
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December 6th: A Marxist Looks at Capitalism's Meltdown |
Public Forum
Saturday, December 6, 7:30pm
A Marxist Looks at Capitalism’s Meltdown
Speaker: Megan Cornish: Feminist journalist and economic analyst, co-author of Viva La Raza
Saturday, December 6, 7:30pm
A Marxist Looks at Capitalism’s Meltdown
Speaker: Megan Cornish: Feminist journalist and economic analyst, co-author of Viva La Raza
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Jan 01 2009
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Dec. 6: Human Rights Day Speak-Out and March (Port Angeles) |
HUMAN RIGHTS DAY Speak-Out
Sat., Dec. 6th - 1:00 pm
Veterans Park in Port Angeles, WA
Commemorate the 60th anniversary of the adoption by the United Nations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by calling for the Border Patrol to stop the checkpoints and other intrusive activities. Demand a world without military invasions and occupations. Condemn the racial profiling and attack on immigrant rights.
Sat., Dec. 6th - 1:00 pm
Veterans Park in Port Angeles, WA
Commemorate the 60th anniversary of the adoption by the United Nations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by calling for the Border Patrol to stop the checkpoints and other intrusive activities. Demand a world without military invasions and occupations. Condemn the racial profiling and attack on immigrant rights.
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Jan 01 2009
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Brandon Darby Acknowledges working with FBI as informant in Texas 2 Case |
Below is a statement by a group of Austin-based community organizers that documents that a local activist, Brandon Michael Darby of Austin, is a government informant/provocateur. Using FBI documents previously unknown to us, but recently provided by one of the defendant's defense teams, we have positively confirmed the identity of the unnamed informant ("CHS 1" in the affidavit) as Brandon Michael Darby of Austin, Texas, based on the following evidence... Darby operated in and around the Austin community for about 6 years, and this is the same Brandon Darby who participated in the Common Ground Collective in New Orleans during 2005-2006. Based on the evidence we have, Brandon has been giving the state information since at least November 2007, but there is also information that suggests his informant activities may go back further, at least to 2006 or earlier. In the documents, Darby makes numerous remarks that are inflammatory and often untrue or grossly taken out of context. There is also compelling evidence to suggest that Darby, more than just reporting on Crowder and McKay's activities, was actively encouraging, enabling, and provoking the two men to take illegal action. Read Full Document
Open Letter from Brandon Darby on his cooperation with the FBI | Past HIMC coverage: The cases of Brandon Darby, grand juries and our movements made a case in defense of Brandon | Police Continue Harassment of Texas Activists in Wake of RNC | Related: War At Home by Brian Glick