Activist Stuff

Special Announcment

2007-03-09T01:49:00.000-05:00

This blog will be inactive for an undetermined period of time, due to a combination of me being busy with other things and also catching on to the fact that pretty much nobody was using this blog and also starting to feel uncomfortably ambivalent with the methods of activism I was usually suggesting.

POST #65 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Letter

2006-11-20T19:54:00.000-05:00

Cuban Journalist's Health Deteriorates in Prison

Click here to send letter: http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Gonzalez?rk=t1NuZ9915Bg%2dE

The health of 62 year-old Cuban journalist Oscar Mario Gonzalez Perez has deteriorated considerably since he was detained and imprisoned in July 2005.

Mr. Gonzalez has been held without trial and is being denied adequate medical treatment for serious health problems.

Cuban prison authorities have refused to administer necessary medical tests despite pleas from his wife and a physician's diagnosis that such tests are needed. The Cuban authorities are obligated under international standards to provide prisoners with necessary medical care.
Mr. Gonzalez was arrested along with several others preparing to attend a demonstration in front of the French Embassy in Havana to demand greater European attention to the plight of political prisoners in Cuba. He is one of seven who remain in detention almost 16 months after that incident, despite not having been charged with any crime.

Mr. Gonzalez' health is worsening, exacerbated by unhygienic prison conditions and poor medical care. Please join Human Rights First in demanding his immediate and unconditional release.

Learn more about the case of Oscar Mario Gonzalez >>

Click here to send letter: http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Gonzalez?rk=t1NuZ9915Bg%2dE

POST #64 // ISSUE: Media Reform / Freedom of the Press // ACTION: Conference

2006-11-20T19:49:00.000-05:00

The 2007 National Conference for Media Reform is just two months away. If you haven't made your plans yet, now is the time. The discount for early registration ends Friday:
Register Now for the National Conference forMedia Reform

Thousands of media reformers are coming to Memphis on January 12-14 for an unforgettable and inspiring weekend.

We've told you about all the speakers -- including Bill Moyers, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Jane Fonda, Amy Goodman, Davey D and now Arianna Huffington, Laura Flanders and Benjamin Hooks -- and the array of panels and workshops happening in Memphis. We're putting together a lineup of great Memphis music and a special event to celebrate the SavetheInternet.com campaign.
If you're not convinced this is a can't-miss conference, listen to some of the feedback we received from the last conference in 2005:

"Beyond outstanding. Just being with 2,500 like-minded people on this issue is more fun than I can stand." -- Larry J.
"Congrats. I thought the speakers were amazing, and I have ideas and tools to integrate media reform into my organization." -- John D.
"This conference inspired me. It helped me realize I'm part of a movement. Strengthened my commitment and sharpened my focus." -- Erin M.

The 2007 National Conference for Media Reform promises to be even better. Join us.
Sign Up Now and Save $50

Check out the conference Web site for all the latest updates and lodging, transportation and scholarship information.

Have a blog or Web site? Going to an event or meeting? Help promote the conference.

POST #63 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Email/Letter

2006-11-20T19:44:00.000-05:00

Call on Congress to Support Human Rights Defenders in Colombia

You have an opportunity to take direct action to support Colombian human rights defenders.

Click on this link to take action: http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/DearColleagueColombia

In the last few weeks we have asked you to call on the Colombian government to protect human rights activists. This year there has been a surge in killings, disappearances and death threats against human rights defenders in Colombia, including union representatives, religious leaders, journalists and Afro-Colombian and indigenous community leaders.

We have brought this disturbing trend to the attention of members of the House of Representatives and they are now circulating a letter to help protect Colombian human rights defenders. The bipartisan letter, sponsored by Representatives Joseph Pitts (R-PA) and Jim McGovern (D-MA) asks the State Department to urge the Colombian government to support and protect human rights defenders.

If you are located in the United States, please contact your member of Congress and encourage them to sign this letter.

Make sure your voice is heard.

In addition to sending your representative an email, please also call them.
Go to www.house.gov if you do not know who is your representative.
Call Congress at 202-224-3121 and ask to speak with your Representative's foreign policy aide. You can use the text of the letter below as a guide and it is fine to leave a message if the aide is not available.

Read the Pitts-McGovern Congressional Letter and learn more about risks facing activists in Colombia >>

Click on this link to take action: http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/DearColleagueColombia

POST #62 / ISSUE: First Nations Land Rights / ACTION: Fundraiser Party

2006-11-16T15:06:00.000-05:00

DRUMS OF THE WORLD SUPPORT SIX NATIONS

Water drum, Djembe, Taiko, Tabla & more!
A Fundraiser for Kanenhstaton (The Protected Place / Caledonia)

6:30pm, Thursday December14
at the CHURCH OF THE HOLY TRINITY
10 Trinity Square (Behind the Eaton's Centre)

~Suggested Donation $25~
No one turned away

Food & Refreshments will be sold
Silent Auction! 50:50 Draw!
Bring your drums for a jam after the performances!

For more info contact: the.i.c@hotmail.com

POST #61 // ISSUE: War; The Environment // ACTION: Film

2006-11-13T16:00:00.000-05:00

Hi All,
Here is this month's update on Bloor Cinema documentary film screenings. Please print off the first page of this email to receive a $1 discount on your ticket price at the door.

DOCUMENTARY @ Bloor Cinema:Title: The Invisible War: Depleted Uranium and the politics of radiation
Location: Bloor Cinema (506 Bloor West, at Bathurst)
Date: Thursday, November 16th, 7pm
*Please see below for more information about this excellent documentary film.

GIFT CERTIFICATES NOW AVAILABLE!
In preparation for the holiday season, the Fair Trade Clothing Co-op is now offering gift certificates! A minimum of $15 must be purchase, and we suggest going in increments of $10 from there, but you can put on any amount above $15 and it can be used at any time. Please see our retail store at 509 Bloor West for more information.

The Invisible War:

Depleted Uranium and the politics of radiationThis film by Martin Meissonnier's documents the use of nuclear waste in US weapons and uses studies conducted by many experts to prove the point. In Kuwait and Iraq, the U. S. used 320 tons of Depleted Uranium. Shells used in the 1999 Kosovo conflict were tainted with trace amounts of plutonium, neptunium and americium-byproducts of nuclear reactors that are much more radioactive than depleted uranium. The US Department of Energy (DOE), which controls DU considers its use to be "utilization of waste materials." After the Gulf War, Americans celebrated their victory over Iraq believing less than 200 U.S. soldiers had been killed in combat with almost a quarter of them, caused by "friendly fire." In fact the casualty is significantly higher. Of the 696,778 U.S. veterans that served in the Gulf War, over 251,000 (36%) have filed medical claims for illness related to the war. Over 8,000 of them have died. The isotope U236 has been found in the organs and fluids of these soldiers. Damacio Lopez, director of the International Depleted Uranium Study Team (IDUST), calls the figure the "largest friendly fire death toll in history." He, like the doctors and scientists and sick U.S. vets and Iraqis you will meet in the enclosed video, believe the cause of their sickness and deaths to be the use of plutonium enriched DU weaponry by the U.S. during the Gulf War. This film features Dr. Asaf Durakoviez (Col. US Army Reserve), Dr. Siegwart-Horst Gunther (Germany), Dr. Monique Sené (Nuclear Physicist, France), Capt. Doug Rokke (US Army, retired), and Domacio Lopez (Founder, International Depleted Uranium Study Team)

-- Fair Trade Clothingwww.fairtradeclothing.ca

POST #60 // ISSUE: Animal Rights // ACTION: Submit public comments to USDA

2006-10-30T19:40:00.000-05:00

An Unprecedented Opportunity to Help Captive Elephants

Following scrutiny from the media and the public over the plight of elephants in circuses and zoos, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently seeking public comments regarding all aspects of captive elephant care, including cruel training devices such as bullhooks and electric prods, chaining, and lack of space. The federal Animal Welfare Act does not have any standards or regulations that address elephants' special needs.

Circuses and many zoos control elephants through the use of force and domination, aggressive use of bullhooks, and prolonged chaining. In many zoos, elephants are confined to barn stalls for at least 12 hours a day when zoos are closed, and in zoos in cold climates, elephants often spend weeks at a time indoors during cold winter weather.

Elephants are the world's largest land mammals, and they require significant amounts of space. In fact, in the wild, they can walk up to 30 miles a day. The leading causes of death in captive elephants are foot disorders and arthritis, which are caused by prolonged chaining, intense confinement, and forced inactivity. Since 2000, more than half of the 49 elephants who have died at zoos accredited by the Aquarium & Zoo Association never reached their 40th birthdays, dying far short of their 70-year life expectancies.

Because of their intelligence, complexity, sensitivities, and unique social and physical needs, elephants suffer immensely in small, unchallenging captive environments. To make matters worse for elephants, in circuses, every instinctual behavior is subject to discipline. If elephants reach for grass, try to comfort friends, or extend their trunks to smell something new or different, they get hit with bullhooks. If they blow a trick during a performance, they get beaten afterward.

Despite the fact that elephants fare miserably in captivity, zoos and circuses are vociferously defending the status quo.

What You Can Do

Please contact the USDA and express your support for all efforts to drastically improve conditions for captive elephants in this country. Ask the USDA to create tough new standards, and mention the following:

• The use of bullhooks should be prohibited. These barbaric devices have only one purpose: to inflict pain. In addition, the federal Animal Welfare Act should include a ban on the use of electric-shock devices, chaining, and other instruments that cause pain, injury, and suffering to elephants.

• Exhibitors of elephants should be required to provide large, climate-appropriate environments that resemble elephants' natural habitats—similar to those at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee and the Performing Animal Welfare Society sanctuary in California. These two refuges provide thousands of acres where elephants can roam, socialize, and maintain their health.

Please submit your comments by November 9 using either of the following methods:

• Visit the Federal Rulemaking portal. In the "Search Regulations and Federal Actions" box, select "Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service" from the agency drop-down menu and click "Submit." In the Docket ID column, select APHIS-2006-0044 to submit comments and view available supporting and related materials.

• Mail four copies of your letter to:
Docket No. APHIS-2006-0044
Regulatory Analysis and Development, PPD, APHIS/USDA
Station 3A-03.84700 River Rd., Unit 118
Riverdale, MD 20737-1238

POST #59 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Email, pre-written

2006-10-30T19:35:00.000-05:00

Freedom of Expression Criminalized in Tunisia

Renowned Tunisian human rights leader, Dr. Moncef Marzouki, returned to his country from exile on October 21, but his return was met by the opening of a criminal investigation against him for "inciting the population to break the law," and with a summons to appear before a judge.

Marzouki had appeared on Al-Jazeera television on October 14 where he objected to the "ruthless grip of an ever-worsening police state" that has ruled Tunisia for years. Al-Jazeera television, broadcast by satellite from Qatar, is popular in all parts of the Arab world. He called on Tunisians to engage in peaceful civil resistance to demand long-denied basic rights and freedoms.

It is these remarks that form the basis of the charges against him. The Tunisian government also closed its embassy in Qatar and withdrew its diplomats from Doha as a mark of its displeasure with the Al-Jazeera broadcast.

The new criminal investigation against Moncef Marzouki is a further intensification of the Tunisian government's efforts to suppress peaceful dissent and criticism of its policies. Join with us in calling on the Tunisian authorities to annul the criminal investigation against Dr. Marzouki, and to cease the harassment, prosecution and imprisonment of nonviolent critics, including human rights activists.

Learn more about the case of Moncef Marzouki >>
http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Marzouki/explanation

To take action, visit:
http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Marzouki/i5eewks4oj57mex?
Sample letter provided, but putting it in your own words causes the authorities to take it far more seriously.

POST #58 // ISSUE: The Environment // ACTION: Various

2006-10-30T19:26:00.000-05:00

Fall is upon us and there is much more to do to save the North American Boreal forest and stop the Kimberly-Clark Corporation from wiping away ancient forests.

This fall, we asking volunteers, like you, from across the continent and around the world to come together to hit Kimberly-Clark where it hurts – in their corporate wallets. This fall we want you to turn up the heat by identifying and educating Kimberly-Clark customers and getting them to break their contracts with the company!

IN YOUR COMMUNITY: Kimberly-Clark Private Investigators

Help us to track which chains, businesses and institutions are buying Kimberly-Clark products and supporting forest destruction. This is an international effort to identify and record businesses and institutions that are using Kimberly-Clark products.

Information can be recorded at www.kleercut.net/en/kc-pi and we will be contacting these businesses to educate them about Kimberly-Clark’s role in the destruction of ancient forests. We’ll ask these business to stop purchasing Kimberly-Clark products until the company cleans up its act.

Take Action Now!

Step 1 Find the forest crime: Keep an eye out for Kimberly-Clark tissue products used in local businesses, including KC’s Professional and Kleenex line of products. These will most likely found in washrooms.

Step 2 Record the forest crime: Record the name and address of the business and what products are being used.

Step 3 Expose the forest crime: Visit www.kleercut.net/en/kc-pi and enter the information you’ve collected into our online database or email us the info at ickc@kleercut.net. We’ll contact these businesses right away to educate them and ask them to support forest protection by ending their purchase of Kimberly-Clark products.

ON CAMPUS: Forest Friendly Colleges & Universities

#1 Adopt a green purchasing policy at your campus. This sets minimum standards of ecological responsibility for all products and materials purchased by the University.

#2 Push your campus to break its contract with Kimberly-Clark. The first step is pushing your campus administration and/or Facilities Department to write a letter to the corporation expressing concern about KC’s forestry practices.

Learn more at www.kleercut.net/en/campus

Questions? Let us know at info@kleercut.net

K L E E R C U T . N E T

POST #57 // ISSUE: War; Child Soldiers; Child Sex-Slaves // ACTION: Fundraising Walk

2006-10-09T16:04:00.001-04:00

This Saturday October 21st, participate in GuluWalk. Collect pledges in advance and participate in this walk to help children of war in Uganda.

(Visit http://www.guluwalk.com for information on registering.)

GuluWalk is about providing a future for the abandoned children of northern Uganda due to the civil war which has been raging on for two decades.

What started as an attempt by two people to better understand the ordeal of the "night commuters" of norther Uganda has now grown into an urgent, impassioned worldwide event for peace. (The night commuters are children who each night walk up to twelve miles from their villages so that they can sleep in the comparably safe streets of the city. If they stay at home to sleep they risk being kidnapped by the army and forced into being enslaved as soldiers or for sexual service.)

GuluWalk 2006 is a one-day event, set for Saturday October 21, that will take place in over 80 cities in 16 different countries around the world. The goal this year is to raise $1,000,000 to support programs on the ground that are focused on education, rehabilitation and youth outreach initiatives.

For more information visit: http://www.guluwalk.com

POST #56 // ISSUE: Various // ACTION: Films

2006-10-09T16:04:00.000-04:00

- Toronto Socialist Action Presents -

Rebel Films
All of these films are totally FREE

Friday, October 13 - 7 p.m. Peace, Propaganda and the Promised Land (Palestine & Israel conflict and the biased portrayel in the media.)

Friday, October 20 - 7 p.m. The Battle of Algiers

Friday, October 27 - 7 p.m. Wal-Mart – The high cost of low price (The human rights, labor rights, and environmental violations that are committed in order to ensure the lowest price possible at Wal-Mart.)

Friday, November 3 - 7 p.m. Ten Days That Shook the World (Sergei Eisenstein, Russia 1927.)

Friday, November 10 - 7 p.m. On the Hillsides of the Himalayas (Cuban doctors aid Pakistan earthquake victims.)

Each film will be preceded by a brief introduction, and will be followed by an open floor discussion.

OISE, 252 Bloor St. West, Room 2-212 (at the St. George Subway Station)

Everyone is welcome. $2 donation is requested. For more information, visit the SA web site at: http://www.geocities.com/socialist_action or call: 416-535-8779

If possible, let us know in advance whether you are planning to attend.

POST #55 // ISSUE: Various // ACTION: Films

2006-10-09T15:59:00.000-04:00

Here are a few upcoming films playing at Bloor Cinema this month, each of them focusing on social and political issues. There is also a speaking event at the cinema on the 25th about AIDS in the African continent.

Bloor Cinema is located at 506 Bloor Street West, just east of Bathurst.

October 11th, 6:45pm
Athletes for Africa & Gulu Walk Present:
UGANDA RISING
Uganda Rising is ... film that uncovers what has been called a 'hidden war' and brings it into clear view. Uganda Rising is an 82 minute documentary that is an Act For Stolen Children production, funded by the not-for-profit society Mindset Media. For more information visit: http://www.ugandarising.com.

October 18th - 20th
18th = 4:30pm; 19th = 7pm; 20th = 4:30pm & 9:30pm
WHO KILLED THE ELECTRIC CAR
I personally saw this film and can attest to its greatness. It's about how we not only have the technology to produce efficient and high functioning electric cars, but that these cars were already on the road. However, due to a combination of sinister forces, these cars are no longer availible, and the existing ones were even repossessed and destroyed. Meanwhile, exhaust induced pollution from gas fueled cars, and the global warming that comes with it, marches on. This film will give us answers about why this happened, and raise many questions, as well.

October 25th, 7pm
Stephen Lewis - U.N. Envoy on A.I.D.S. in Africa
"This year, RSGC will be hosting a Guild sponsored Speakers' Series with a focus on Africa. ... If you have any questions regarding the speaking events, please contact Emma Roche at eroche@rsg.on.ca. We can expect these events will sell out very quickly, so don't miss out. You can purchase tickets ($20) online at http://www.rsp.on.ca."

October 27th - 28th
27th = 7pm; 28th = 4:30
The Fair Trade Clothing Co-op Presents
UNPRECEDENTED: THE 2000 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
"This film will be followed by a talk from University of Guelph professor Michael Keefer, who will speak on the research he has done relating to issues of election fraud in the 2004 US presidential election/ This documentary is the riveting story about the battle for democracy in America ... examin[ing] modern America's most controversial political contest ... an election marred by suspicious irregularities, electoral injustices, and sinister voter purges in a state governed by the winning candidate's brother. ... Bush stole the presidency of the United States ... and got away with it."

POST #55 // ISSUE: Various // ACTION: Films

2006-10-09T15:53:00.000-04:00

Here are a few upcoming films playing at Bloor Cinema this month, each of them focusing on social and political issues.

Bloor Cinema is located at 506 Bloor Street West, just east of Bathurst.

October 11th
Athletes for Africa & Gulu Walk Present:
UGANDA RISING
Uganda Rising is ... film that uncovers what has been called a 'hidden war' and brings it into clear view. Uganda Rising is an 82 minute documentary that is an Act For Stolen Children production, funded by the not-for-profit society Mindset Media. For more information visit: http://www.ugandarising.com.

October 18th - 20th
WHO KILLED THE ELECTRIC CAR
I personally saw this film and can attest to its greatness. It's about how we not only have the technology to produce efficient and high functioning electric cars, but that these cars were already on the road. However, due to a combination of sinister forces, these cars are no longer availible, and the existing ones were even repossessed and destroyed. Meanwhile, exhaust induced pollution from gas fueled cars, and the global warming that comes with it, marches on. This film will give us answers about why this happened, and raise many questions, as well.

October 25th
Stephen Lewis - U.N. Envoy on A.I.D.S. in Africa
"This year, RSGC will be hosting a Guild sponsored Speakers' Series with a focus on Africa. ... If you have any questions regarding the speaking events, please contact Emma Roche at eroche@rsg.on.ca. We can expect these events will sell out very quickly, so don't miss out. You can purchase tickets online at http://www.rsp.on.ca."

October 27th - 28th
The Fair Trade Clothing Co-op Presents
UNPRECEDENTED: THE 2000 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
"This film will be followed by a talk from University of Guelph professor Michael Keefer, who will speak on the research he has done relating to issues of election fraud in the 2004 US presidential election/ This documentary is the riveting story about the battle for democracy in America ... examin[ing] modern America's most controversial political contest ... an election marred by suspicious irregularities, electoral injustices, and sinister voter purges in a state governed by the winning candidate's brother. ... Bush stole the presidency of the United States ... and got away with it."

POST #54 // ISSUE: Israeli Apartheid // ACTION: Interactive Conference to Build a Movement for Boycott, Divestment, & Sanctions Campaign

2006-10-01T20:01:00.000-04:00

We are building a movement to take down Israeli's apartheid system through a campaign of boycott, divestment, and sanctions.

This conference is not just about listening to others speak. It is about interacting and participating so we can build a movement together.

===================================================================
Boycotting Israeli Apartheid: The Struggle Continues
October 6-8, 2006
Toronto, Ontario
http://www.caiaweb.org/conferenceregistration

Advance tickets: $25 students or unwaged / $50 employed adults
No one will be turned away for lack of money.
===================================================================

* Conference registration fee includes:

full conference access (8 sessions)
ticket for Friday public forum
pass to Saturday culturalevent.

===================================================================

Featuring:

Jamal Jum'a - Coordinator, Stop the Wall Campaign (PENGON, Palestine)
Willie Madisha - President, Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)
Salim Vally - Palestine Solidarity Campaign (South Africa)

===================================================================

See below:

* Conference Description and Program

* Friday, October 6: e-callout and ticket locations

* Saturday, October 7: e-callout for cultural event

===================================================================

CONFERENCE DESCRIPTION

Full program @ http://www.caiaweb.org/conferenceschedule

The Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid (CAIA) invites you to join us fromOctober 6-8, 2006 for "Boycotting Israeli Apartheid: The Struggle Continues" a broad-based conference dedicated to promoting the growing anti-apartheidmovement in Palestine and abroad through a comprehensive boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaign targeting Israeli apartheid.

The conference will include participants from Palestine, South Africa andTurtle Island; bringing together all those working on BDS as a means ofdismantling Zionist racism and opening up new spaces for creative action.

The weekend will also serve as a showcase of the Palestinian arts, withcultural programming, film-screenings and a marketplace of alternative 'Apartheid Free' products from Palestine. Furthermore, BDS campaigners fromacross Canada, representing different communities, faith, labour, andstudent organizations will be on hand to share in this important strategizing, networking and learning experience.

For more information on the conference visit us at http://www.caiaweb.org or email us at endapartheid@riseup.net

To register, visit:http://www.caiaweb.org/conferenceregistration

==================================================================

South Africa to Palestine: Building an Anti-Apartheid Movement

Friday, October 6, 7:30 PM (doors open at 7:00 PM)

OISE, University of Toronto

252 Bloor Street (St. George subway)

Willie Madisha – President, Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)

Jamal Jum'a – Coordinator, Stop the Wall Campaign, Palestine

Rafeef Ziadah – Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid (CAIA), Toronto

Tickets: $10 in advance. Free for conference registrants.

Tickets available at:

Toronto Women's Bookstore, 73 Harbord St.
OPIRG Toronto Office, 563 Spadina, Room 101
A Different Booklist Bookstore, 746 Bathurst St.

Prayer space available throughout

Dates, pastries and coffee to be served

This is the opening meeting of: *Boycotting Israeli Apartheid: The StruggleContinues* a broad-based conference dedicated to promoting the growinganti-apartheid movement in Palestine and abroad through a comprehensivecampaign of boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) against Israeli apartheid.

===================================================================

BILADI (MY LAND) - A night of poetry and music celebrating struggles against Apartheid

Saturday, October 7

Join us for an Iftar (breaking the fast)/dinner followed by some of the best poets and artists in the city in an evening of solidarity between the Indigenous Peoples of the World in our struggles against Settler Apartheid:

Cecil Community Centre: 58 Cecil Street(One street South of College, just East of Spadina)

Doors open at 6:30pm

Featuring performances by:

Bassam Bishara
Faith Nolan
Rafeef
Spin
Bighead
Bill Shawanda

Part of the Boycotting Israeli Apartheid: The Struggle Continues Conference.

Admission $10 at the door (or pay what you can) Free for conference registrants

Organized by the Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid (CAIA)

For more information visit http://www.caiaweb.org or email endapartheid@riseup.net

POST #53 // ISSUE: Sexual Slavery // ACTION: Film

2006-10-01T19:58:00.000-04:00

SASSL (The Sexual Assault Survivor’s Support Line) is holding a free movie night on October 10th at York University in room 307 of the Student Centre.

The movie being shown is Human Trafficking, about the buying, selling, and trafficking of women as sex-slaves that is occurring today all over the world.

The movie will begin at 6:00pm and will be followed by a brief discussion on some of the issues raised in the movie. SASSL will be providing light beverages and snacks for all who attend.

Sexual Assault Survivors' Support Line
B 449 Student Centre, York University
4700 Keele St. Toronto, M3J 1P3
phone: 416-736-2100 ext. 40345
fax: 416-650-8051
web: www.yorku.ca/sassl
24-hour support line: 416-650-8056

POST #52 // ISSUE: Media; Palestine-Israel // ACTION: Film

2006-09-23T23:18:00.000-04:00

The Fair Trade Clothing Co-op Presents...

Peace, Propaganda & the Promised Land
Tues Sept 26 & Wed Sept 27
7:00pm
Bloor Cinema
506 Bloor Street West (east of Bathurst)

All proceeds go to the Fair Trade Clothing Co-op!

Peace, Propaganda and the Promised Land provides a striking comparison of U.S. and international media coverage of the crisis in the Middle East, zeroing in on how structural distortions in U.S. coverage have reinforced false perceptions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This pivotal documentary exposes how the foreign policy interests of American political elites -- oil, and a need to have a secure military base in the region, among others -- work in combination with Israeli public relations strategies to exercise a powerful influence over how news from the gerion is reported.

POST #51 // ISSUE: Animal Rights // ACTION: Letter

2006-09-23T23:05:00.000-04:00

Did you know certain birds such as chickens and other “poultry” are not protected by animal cruelty laws? This means that the chickens, turkeys, etc people eat can be abused and tortured with impunity.

P.E.T.A. investigators recently went undercover at a Butterball poultry factory and recorded the workers subjecting the birds to extreme abuse. The birds are routinely beaten and handled roughly, and there are also more grotesque incidents such as ripping off a chicken’s leg and fingering a turkey’s vagina.

To watch a video clip of the investigation footage (it’s not very graphic), click herehttp://www.goveg.com/feat/butterball/butterball.asp

Animal cruelty laws must be expanded to include "poultry." To sign and send an online letter, click here
http://getactive.peta.org/campaign/Butterball/

A sample letter is provided online. However, it is wise to change the subject heading and edit the letter into your own words. One original letter is worth about one hundred “form letters.”

POST #50 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Boycott

2006-09-23T22:45:00.000-04:00

.

For years, workers in Coca-Cola’s bottling plant in Columbia have been struggling for better wages and working conditions. Coca-Cola management doesn’t like this so they have hired a paramilitary to violently oppress the union leaders and other workers. Since 1989, hundreds of Coke workers have been tortured, kidnapped and illegally detained, and nine union leaders have been murdered. All Coca-Cola soft drinks should be boycotted! It would also help to write an indignant letter telling them that you're boycotting.

To take further action, or learn more information, visit:
http://killercoke.org/crimes.htm

The Coca-Cola Company doesn't just make Coke. Boycott all these blood-tainted products, all owned by Coca-Cola.

A
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A&W
Ades
Alhambra*
Ali
Alive
Ambasa
Andina Fortified
Andina Fresh
Andina Frut
Andina Nectar
Aqua
Aquabona
Aquactive
Aquana
Aquarius
Arwa
Aybal-Kin

B
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Bacardi Mixers*
Bacardi Premium Mixers*
Bankia
Barq's
Barq's Floatz
Beat
Belté
Beverly
Bibo
Big Crush
Big Tai
Bimbo
Bimbo Break
Bird's Nest*
Bistra
Bistrone
Bjare
BlackFire
Boco
Bom Bit Maesil
BonAqua/BonAqa
BPM
Bright & Early
Bubbly
Burn

C
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CAFE ZU
caffeine free Barq's
caffeine free Coca-Cola
caffeine free Diet Coke/Coca-Cola light
caffeine free diet Inca Kola
Calypso
Canada Dry
Cannings
Cappy
Caprice
Carioca
Carver's
Cepita
Charrua
Chaudfontaine
Cheers
cherry Coke
Chinotto
Chinotto light
Ciel
Citra
Club
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Black Cherry Vanilla
Coca-Cola Blak
Coca-Cola C2
Coca-Cola Citra
Coca-Cola with Lemon
Coca-Cola with Lime
Coca-Cola with Raspberry
Coca-Cola Zero
Cocoteen
Coke II
Cresta
Cristal
Crush
Crystal

D
back to top
Daizu no Susume
DANNON*
DASANI
DASANI Flavors
DASANI Nutriwater
Delaware Punch
diet A&W
diet Andina Frut/Andina Frut light
diet Andina Nectar/Andina Nectar light
diet Barq's
diet Canada Dry
diet cherry Coke
Diet Coke/Coca-Cola light
Diet Coke Black Cherry Vanilla
Diet Coke Citra/Coca-Cola light Citra
Diet Coke Sweetened with Splenda
Diet Coke with Lemon/Coca-Cola light with Lemon
Diet Coke with Lime/Coca-Cola light with Lime
Diet Coke with Raspberry
diet Crush
diet Dr Pepper/Dr Pepper Zero
diet Fanta/Fanta light/Fanta Zero/Fanta Free
diet Freskyta
diet INCA KOLA
diet Kia Ora
diet Krest
diet Lift/Lift light
diet Lilt/Lilt Zero
diet Master Pour
diet Mello Yello
diet Nestea/Nestea light*
diet Oasis
diet Quatro/Quatro light
diet Schweppes
diet Seagrams*
diet Sprite/Sprite light/diet Sprite Zero/Sprite Zero
diet Squirt
diet Tai/Tai light
diet Vanilla Coke
Disney Hundred Acre Wood*
Disney Xtreme Coolers*
Dobriy
Dorna
Dr Pepper
E
back to top
E2
Earth & Sky
Eight O'Clock
Eight O'Clock Funchum
El Rayek
Escuis
Eva Water

F
back to top
Fanta
Finley
Fioravanti
Five Alive
Flavor Rage
Fontana
Fresca
Fresca 1
Frescolita
Freskyta
Fresquinha
Fress
Frestea*
Frisco
Frugos
Frugos Fresh
Fruitia
Fruitopia
Fruitopia Freeze
Fruitopia Tea
Fruktime
Frutina
Frutonic
Full Throttle
G
back to top
Georgia
Georgia Club
Georgia Gold
Gini
Gold Spot
Golden Crush
Grapette
Groovy
H
back to top
Hajime
Hawai
Healthworks
Hero
Hi Spot
Hi-C
Hit
Horizon
Hot Point
Huang

I
back to top
Ice Cold Mix
Ice Dew
INCA KOLA
Ipsei
Izvorul Alb

J
back to top
Jaz Cola
Jet Tonic
Jolly Juice
Joy
Joya
Just Juice

K
back to top
Kapo
Keri
Kia Ora
Kilimanjaro
Kin
Kinley
Kiwi Blue
KMX
Kochakaden
Koumi Soukai
Krest
Kropla Beskidu
Kuat
Kuat light
Kuli
Kyun
L
back to top
Lift
Lift Plus
Lift Plus light
Lilt
Limca
Limelite
Limonade
Linnuse
Lion
Love Body

M
back to top
Maaza
Mad River
Malvern
Mare Rosso
Marocha
Master Chill
Master Pour
Mazoe
Mello
Mello Yello
Mer
Mezzo
Miami
Mickey & Friends*
Mickey Mouse*
Migoro-Nomigoro
Minaqua
Minute Maid
Minute Maid Deli
Minute Maid Juices To Go
Minute Maid Soft Drink
Mireille
Mone
Montefiore
Morning Deli
Moyase
Mr. Pibb
Multivita
N
back to top
Nada
Nagomi
Nalu
Namthip
Nanairo Acha
Naturaqua
Nature's Own*
Nectarin
Nescafe*
Nestea*
Nestea COOL*
Nestle Choglit*
Nevada
Neverfail
New Vegitabeta
Nordic Mist
Northern Neck

O
back to top
Oasis
Odwalla
Orchy

P
back to top
Paani
Pampa
Parle
Pearona
Peats Ridge
Pibb Xtra
Pibb Zero
Piko
Pilskalna
Planet Java*
Play
Pocket Dr
Poiana Negri
Poms
Ponkana
Pop
Portello
POWERADE
POWERADE alive
POWERADE light
POWERADE OPTION
Powerplay
Pulp
Pump
Q
back to top
Qoo
Quatro
Quwat Jabal

R
back to top
Ramblin'
Real Gold
Red Flash
Rich
Richy
Ripe N Ready
Riwa
Rosalta
Roses
Royal Tru
Royal Tru light

S
back to top
Safety First
Safia
Samantha
Samurai
Sarsi
Saryusaisai
Schweppes
Seagrams*
Seltz
Sensation
Senzao
Shizen
Shock
Sim
Simba
Simply Lemonade
Simply Limeade
Simply Orange
Smart
Sobo
Sokenbicha
Solo
Sonfil
Soonsoo
Southern Sun
Sparkle
Sparletta
Sparletta Iron Brew
Splash
Splice
Sport
Sprite
Sprite 3G
Sprite ReMix
Spur
Squirt
Stoney Ginger Beer
Sugar Free Full Throttle
Sunfill
Surge
Sweecha
Swerve

T
back to top
TaB
TaB X-Tra
TADAS
Tai
Ten Ren
The Wellness
Thextons
Thums Up
Tian Yu Di
Tiky
Top
Toppur
Top's
Tropical
Turkuaz

U
back to top
Urge
Urun

V
back to top
Valpre
Valser
Vanilla Coke
Vault
Vault Zero
Vegitabeta
VICA
Vita
Vital
Vital O
Vitingo
VIVA!
W
back to top
Wilkin's
Wink
Winnie the Pooh*

Y
back to top
Yangguang
Yangguang Juicy T
Youki

POST #49 // ISSUE: Organic, Fair Trade // ACTION: Shop with a Conscience

2006-09-02T21:05:00.000-04:00

The Fair Trade Clothing Co-op has moved to a new and more convenient location!

The new location is 509 Bloor Street West (2 blocks east of Bathurst Street)

At this co-op they sell ...
... fair trade clothes made with organic cotton
... non-perishable fair-trade food items (such as coffee, sugar, chocolate)
... progressive books, magazines, DVDs, posters, etc.

If you or anyone you know needs a bulk order of uniforms -- whether it's for a bowling league, baseball team, place of business, sorority or fraternity club -- PLEASE tell them to buy it from here! They will sew the team or company logo on, and will design them in the style you want.

Some of their clothing comes from workers in India, some of it from workers in Peru. All of it is certified organic and fair trade certified.

For more information visit: http://www.fairtradeclothing.ca/

POST #48 // ISSUE: The Environment // ACTION: Film

2006-09-02T21:02:00.000-04:00

An Inconvenient Truth
"An inconvenient truth is a necessary film." - New York Times

Friday September 8th and Saturday September 9th
at the Bloor Cinema
506 Bloor Street West, 1/2 a block east of Bathurst Street

This film is about global warming and was created by Al Gore, who despite being a former presidential candidate is also a sincere environmentalist.

A Film Review by A. O. Scott of the New York Times

"One of the most exciting and essential movies of the year. The film consists mainly of a multimedia presentation on climate change that Al Gore has given many times over the last few years. Mr. Gore is the surprisingly engagin vehicle for some very disturbing information. His explanations of complex environmental phenomena are clear, and while some of the visual aids are a little corny, most of the images are stark, illuminating and powerful. As unsettling as it can be, the film is also intellectually exhilerating, and, like any good piece of pedagogy, whets the appetite for further study. An Inconvenient Truth is a necessary film."

POST #47 // ISSUE: Human Rights; Police Brutality - Brazil // ACTION: Letter

2006-09-02T20:31:00.000-04:00

The impoverished favelas of Rio de Janeiro have had serious problems with drug-dealing gangs for a long time. The state’s response has been to use tactics of fear and violence which terrorize entire communities.Four years ago, the police brought into service a military-style vehicle, known by the people as the caveirão. Amnesty International has received reports of caveirãos driving into communities and firing at random, sending people running for their lives.Innocent victims, including children, are often killed. Local residents, especially children, are beginning to suffer from emotional and psychological problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.If you would like more details, see the bottom of this post, below the sample letter.

SEND LETTERS TO

Sr Marcelo Zaturansky Nogueira Itagiba
Exmo. Secretário de Segurança do Estadodo Rio de Janeiro
Secretaria de Segurança Pública
Praça Cristiano Otoni, s/n0 – 40 andar – Centro
20221-250 Rio de Janeiro – RJBrasil
Salutation: Exmo. Sr. Secretário

His Excellency Valdemar Carneiro Leao, Ambassador
Embassy of the Federative Republic of Brasil
450 Wilbrod Street
Ottawa, ONK1N 6M8
Salutation: Your Excellency

SAMPLE LETTER

[Salutation];

Hello. My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show this letter is from a real person]. I am writing to you because I have heard reports from human rights groups that the police have been using caveirãos to terrorize whole communities of people in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro.

I understand that there is a serious problem with drug-dealing gangs and that the police have a lot of difficulties to deal with. I also understand that the police have a right to self-defence. But this is way beyond that. This is a violation of human rights. It is also punishing entire communities for the actions of a few. The caveirãos routinely fire randomly into the streets causing innocent men, women, and even children to be killed.

This must stop at once, for at least two reasons. As already mentioned, this is a violation of international human rights law. In addition, peaceful and secure communities will never be achieved through methods of violence and intimidation. Violence always escalates violence. Even if it manages to subdue it temporarily, in the long run it will spring back up even worse than before. The reason is because violence and terror lead to psychological and emotional problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. People suffering from such problems are much more likely to be dysfunctional and violent; many psychological and sociological research studies have proven this again and again.

There have been reports that the children especially in these communities are starting to suffer from emotional and psychological problems. These actions by the police are traumatizing and brutalizing the next generation. If this continues, you can expect the next generation to be more violent than ever.

Also, the caveirãos create an arms race between the police and the gangs, which will also lead to increased violence.I urge you to adopt public security reforms to create human rights based policing agencies that are representative, responsive, and answerable to all the community.

Finally, I have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

[Signature and contact info]

DETAILS

“Imagine an official armoured vehicle, emblazoned with a skull and a sword, with police who come in shooting … this is the caveirão. An eleven year old boy had his head torn off his body by shots which came from the caveirão and we … still have to prove that it was the police [who did it].” – Resident of Caju community

The favelas of Rio de Janeiro are some of the poorest and most vulnerable communities in Brazil. Drug gangs have rushed in to fill the vacuum left by the state, organising themselves into rival factions that now dominate the city. The state government’s response has been a series of ever more confrontational crackdowns, involving large-scale police operations which target not just drug gangs, but entire communities.

Four years ago, the police brought into service a military-style vehicle, known by the people as the caveirão. This heavy armoury is being deployed in residential areas.

Amnesty International has received reports of caveirãos driving into communities and firing at random, sending people running for their lives.

Local residents, especially children, are beginning to suffer from emotional and psychological problems, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

Amnesty International understands the seriousness of drug gangs problem in Rio de Janeiro and the difficulties faced by police. Police have a legitimate right to protect themselves. But these practices are a violation of human rights, and are just exacerbating the problem by brutalizing an entire population through fear and violence, which only breeds more of the same. Security for all will never be achieved through violence and intimidation.

POST #46 // ISSUE: Israel, Palestine, Lebanon // ACTION: Film & Public Forum

2006-08-21T03:27:00.000-04:00

Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid (CAIA) invites you to...

FROM PALESTINE TO LEBANON

***Public forum and film screening***

Friday - August 25, 2006 @ 7pm (FREE!!!!)

100 St. George Street (Sidney Smith Hall)

featuring a special screening of Randa Chahal Sabbag's critically acclaimed film
"SOUHA SURVIVING HELL"

-AND-

Report backs from Palestine and Lebanon by:
* Sawsan Kalache (Tadamon, Montreal)
* Stefan Christoff (Electronic Intifada, Montreal)
* Ahmad Shokr (Arab Students' Collective)

For More Info

For more information contact the Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid (CAIA) at endapartheid@riseup.net or visit us at http://caia.tyo.ca

About the Film

'Souha Surviving Hell' :

The subject of Chahal Sabbag's latest film is the charismatic SouhaBeshara, whom many call the "fianceìe du Liban." In 1989 at the age oftwenty-one, Souha-a devoted communist-agreed to attempt the assassinationof Lebanese General Antoine Lahad, who was collaborating with the IsraeliArmy in the South of Lebanon. Lahad survived, but Souha was quicklyarrested and thrown in the Khiam prison where she spent ten years for theattempt on Lahad's life. Conditions in Khiam were horrific, and Souhaendured six of those years in solitary confinement.

Chahal Sabbag follows Souha in the months following her release, as shetirelessly travels Lebanon-speaking about her experiences at Khiam andsearching out others who were imprisoned there. And despite all shesuffered in Khiam, Souha is a survivor who shares her story with a senseof hope for the future-both her own and that of Lebanon.

About the Speakers

* Sawsan Kalache is a member of Tadamon! Montreal based collective workingto build solidarity with movements for social and economic justice inLebanon. Sawsan is from Lebanon and witnessed the first weeks of theIsraeli military assault on the country.

* Stefan Christoff is a social activist from Montreal who is also a memberof Tadamon! Montreal. Stefan recently returned from Lebanon where hewitnessed and reported on the Israeli military attack on Lebanon whilereporting for the Daily Star the Middle East's largest English daily andthe Electronic Intifada.

* Ahmad Shokr is an organizer with the ASC in Toronto. Ahmad recentlyreturned from Palestine where he worked with the Yafa Cultural Center inthe Balata refugee-camp and the Ramallah-based Addameer - Prisoners'Rights Support Group.

POST #45 // ISSUE: Human Rights -- Iran // ACTION: Letter

2006-08-21T03:02:00.000-04:00

Nobel Winner's Human Rights Center Banned by Iranian Government

Iran’s Interior Ministry has banned the country’s leading human rights group, the Center for the Defense of Human Rights, headed by 2003 Nobel Peace Prize winner Shirin Ebadi. This is an attempt to silence the Center's criticisms of the state’s arbitrary detentions and murders.
In a statement to the international community, Ebadi wrote: "of course me and other members of the center do not intend to shut down the center and we shall continue our activities. However, there is a high possibility that they will arrest us. The government's action in this regard is illegal."

The Center provides free legal representation to prisoners of conscience, supports their families, and reports on human rights violations occurring in detention facilities. Therefore, closing down the Center will have serious repercussions for all human rights defenders in Iran.

Send this online (pre-written) letter, or write your own:

http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Ebadi/i5eewks4ojj3n83?/

To learn more about this issue:

http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Ebadi/explanation

POST #44 // ISSUE: Repression of Activists -- Ethiopia // ACTION: Letter

2006-08-21T02:48:00.000-04:00

Founder and former Chair of the Ethiopian Human Rights Council, Professor Mesfin Woldemariam, aged 75, has been detained since early November 2005. He was arrested following a demonstration to protest peacefully against fraud in Ethiopia’s May elections.

Eighty-five others are in custody with him, and all are considered by Amnesty International to be prisoners of conscience. The charges against them, many carrying the death penalty, include high treason, inciting and organizing armed uprising, and genocide.

Prior to his arrest, he was in bed for two months suffering from severe back pain requiring regular medical attention.

SEND LETTERS TO

Prime Minister, His Excellency Meles Zenawi
Office of the Prime Minister
PO Box 1031
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia

His Excellency Dr Berhanu Dibaba Kuma, Ambassador
Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
151 Slater Street, Suite 210
Ottawa, ON
K1P 5H3

SAMPLE LETTER

Your Excellency;

Hello. My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show this letter is from a real person]. I am writing to you to ask for the immediate and unconditional release of prisoner of conscience Professor Mesfin Woldemariam and the eighty-five others detained with him solely for the peaceful expression of their opinions.

Professor Woldemariam is seventy-five years old. Prior to being arrested, he had been in bed for two months with back problems. I can only assume that his condition has worsened in jail, since this is not exactly the most comfortable of accommodations. Please at least ensure he and other prisoners receive adequate medical attention. Or better still, release them.Imprisoning people for peacefully expressing their political beliefs is a violation of international human rights law.

I also have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

POST #43 // ISSUE: Israel's War on Lebanon // ACTION: Protest Rally & March

2006-08-03T17:36:00.000-04:00

STOP ISRAEL'S BOMBING NOW!

MASS RALLY & MARCH
Saturday, August 12
1:00pm
Israeli Consulate
180 Bloor Street West
(west of Avenue Road, north side of Bloor)

March to U.S. Consulate
360 University Avenue
(east of University, south side of Armoury)

Called byCanadian Arab Federation
Palestine House
Muslim Unity Group - Toronto
Jewish Women's Committee to End the Occupation
Canadian Peace Alliance
Toronto Coalition to Stop the War
Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid
Trade Unionists Against the War

For more information, please e-mail info@caf.ca, visit www.caf.ca, or phone 416-493-8635 or 416-879-6766.

POST #42 // ISSUE: Western Funded Overthrow of Democracy -- Haiti // ACTION: Film Screening

2006-08-03T17:31:00.000-04:00

Film Screening:
HAITI: THE UNTOLD STORY
(Final cut version)

Saturday, August 5th
Begins at 6:00 pm (Doors open at 5:30)
1 Kings College Circle
Medical Sciences Auditorium,
University of Toronto
Entrance Fee: $5.00

"...the unprecedented chronicling of the horrific events that followed the February 29th 2004 ousting of the democratically elected government of Jean-Bertrand Aristide, an ousting carried out by Canada, the United-States and France. "

DETAILS

Come out for the Toronto premier of the FINAL VERSION of Kevin Pina’s riveting and provocative documentary film, Haiti: The Untold Story.

Kevin Pina screened the preliminary, rough version of the film in Toronto last year - but the final cut has been significantly revised and must be seen!

Labelled “53 minutes of human rights hell in Haiti”, the Untold Story is the unprecedented chronicling of the horrific events that followed the February 29th 2004 ousting of the democratically elected government of Jean-Bertrand Aristide, an ousting carried out by Canada, the United-States and France.

The film documents the abuses, massacres and suppression of democracy carried out by MINUSTAH (United Nations) and RCMP-trained Haitian National Police Forces against the poor masses of Haiti, including extensive coverage of the 2005 July 6th massacre of over 60 unarmed civilians in the slum of Cite Soleil.

This is a chance to view the reality of Haiti silenced by the Canadian state and their compliant media, a reality in which our country is complicit in ongoing atrocities that have resulted in the death of over 10,000 Haitians. It is also a chance to meet and have a discussion with the courageous journalist and director who has risked his life to capture the footage, narrate the story and expose the violators...

***********************************************************************
By the Toronto Haiti Action Committee Co-Sponsored by the OPIRG (Ontario Public Interest Research Group)
***********************************************************************

POST #41 // ISSUE: Polical Prisoners in Israeli Jails // ACTION: Fund Raiser / Evening of Entertainment

2006-08-03T17:24:00.000-04:00

HOSTAGES OF APARTHEID

*** A fundraiser in solidarity with Palestinian and Lebanese political prisoners (over 10,000 in Israeli Jails) ***

Friday, August 11 @ 6pm
Steelworkers Hall, 33 Cecil Street
(near college/spadina)

Featuring: dinner, Arabic and urban music, spoken word performances and other surprises!!!

Tickets $10 in advance / 20$ (or more!) at the door

For advance tickets email us at: sumoud@tao.ca or pick them up at OPIRG (UofT), 573 Spadina Avenue, Room 101.

All proceeds will go to support the work of political prisoner advocacy organizations in Palestine and towards Lebanon emergency relief operations.

DETAILS

SUMOUD is calling on all friends and allies to join us on August 11 for an evening of music, food and inspirational performances to remember the nearly 10,000 Palestinian and Lebanese political prisoners who are currently languishing in Zionist prisons and detention centers.

As the Israeli apartheid regime continues massacring civilians in Lebanon and as Israeli military and police forces continue assaulting communities, neighborhoods, refugee camps, villages and ghettoes throughout Palestine let us take a moment together to reflect on the Palestinian and Lebanese fighters, activists and organizers being held hostage in Israeli prisons and be inspired by their example.

For more information on the fundraiser, how to get tickets or ways you can contribute your support to Palestinian and Lebanese political prisoners please visit us at http://sumoud.tao.ca or contact us at sumoud@tao.ca

POST #40 // ISSUE: Prisoners Justice Day // ACTION: March & Demo

2006-08-03T17:03:00.000-04:00

What: March & Demo for Prisoners Justice Day
When: Thursday August 10th (Prisoners Justice Day)
Where: All Saints Church (corner of Sherbourne & Dundas)
Why: Because police are getting more funding as social service budgets are being cut back.
Because the crime rate won't go down by increasing police budgets or locking up more people.
Because the crime rate will only go down if we focus on the roots of why people turn to crime.
Because people turn to crime due to financial pressures and/or psychological/emotional disturbances.
Because those police officers who violate human rights, terrorize, and brutalize are not held accountable for their actions.
Because punitive (punishment focused) prisons and jails only produce harder and smarter criminals.
Because prisons and jails should be places of rehabilitation and healing.

DETAILS

DAVID MILLER: CALL OFF YOUR DOGS!

We need more money for Communities NOT for Police

March and Demonstration at the Police Services Board
On Prisoners Justice Day - Thursday August 10, 2006
12noon
All Saints Church (corner of Sherbourne and Dundas)
Lunch will be Served

Across the City of Toronto poor communities are feeling the full weight of the Toronto Police.

They have gunned down Jeffrey Reodica, they have launched para-millitary assaults in the North-West end of the City, they have kicked in the windows of Alexandra Park, they have brutally assaulted people in east-end parks and all the while the Mayor of our City has given them a pat on the back.

60 Richmond drop-in has been shutdown, community programs have been cut, City bureaucrats are cutting families off welfare and we hear that there is no new money for housing.

David Miller sitting in the mayors chair and on the Police Services Board is the person ultimately responsible for the brutality carried out and for the cuts slammed down peoples throats.

August 10 is Prisoners Justice Day and we say: Call off your dogs and put the money where it's needed. Housing not jails and services not cops.

For More information or to get involved in the Campaign Contact OCAP.

Ontario Coalition Against Poverty 10 Britain St. Toronto, ON M5A 1R6416-925-6939 ocap@tao.ca www.ocap.ca

POST #39 // ISSUE: Organic, Fair Trade // ACTION: Shop

2006-07-19T13:18:00.000-04:00

An organic / fair trade clothing co-op has recently opened up in Toronto.

This means that the cotton is grown organically and that the workers who grow the cotton and make the clothing work under fair conditions, get a fair wage, work fair hours, etc. (This is usually NOT the case for almost everything else we buy!)

If you or anyone you know needs a bulk order of uniforms -- whether it's for a bowling league, baseball team, place of business, sorority or fraternity club -- PLEASE tell them to buy it from here! They will sew the team or company logo on, and will design them in the style you want.

It's located in Kensington Market, on the West side of Augusta just a few seconds south of College.

I was there the other day and the clothes are very good quality. My favorite item is their hoodie sweatshirts, which are too warm for summer but would be perfect for fall because they're thin.

Some of their clothing comes from workers in India, some of it from workers in Peru. All of it is certified organic and fair trade certified.

They also sell progressive political books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, etc.

For more information, visit: http://www.fairtradeclothing.ca/

POST #38 // ISSUE: War // ACTION: Protest Rally

2006-07-19T12:59:00.000-04:00

Israel out of GAZA!! WEST BANK!! LEBANON!!

MASS RALLY
Saturday, July 22
1:00pm
Israeli Consulate
180 Bloor Street West
(west of Avenue Road, north side of Bloor)

BACKGROUND INFO

The situation in the Middle East has rapidly escalated into an international crisis that threatens to pull the entire region into full-scale war. In response to the capture of two of its soldiers, Israel has attacked Gaza - bombing water and electricity stations, bridges, roads and other vital infrastructure, creating a humanitarian disaster for hundreds of thousands of people.

While the Palestinian group has only two prisoners of war, Israel has 1,500. In fact, the only reason they kidnapped these two soldiers is to negotiate the release of their own people.

Israel has now spread its attack to Lebanon - bombing Beirut's international airport, major highways and other civilian infrastructure, at the same time issuing threats to Syria and Iran.

Scores of innocent people in both Gaza and Lebanon have now been killed by Israeli bombs. These are war crimes.

POST #37 // ISSUE: Repression of Activists -- Myanmar // ACTION: Letter

2006-07-19T12:41:00.000-04:00

Su Su Nway and lawyer U Aye Myint were jailed in October 2005 for reporting abuses, including forced labour and land confiscation, by the local authorities. Amnesty International considers them prisoners of conscience. In January 2005, in a landmark legal case which can now set the precedent for other similar cases, she and other villagers successfully prosecuted their village administration. Since winning the case, both her and her lawyer have been threatened and harassed, and recently they were sentenced to prison time. Both have suffered poor health in detention.

SEND LETTERS TO

Senior General Than Shwe
Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council
c/o Ministry of Defence
Ahlanpya Phaya Street
Yangon
Myanmar

Mr U Maung Maung, Minister & Chargé d’Affaires
Embassy of the Union of Myanmar
85 Range Road, Suite 902 / 903
Ottawa, ON
K1N 8J6

SAMPLE LETTER

Your Excellency;

Hello. My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show this letter is from a real person]. I am writing to you to ask for the immediate and unconditional release of Su Su Nway and U Aye Myint, imprisoned in connection with their legitimate defence of human rights.

There has also been reports to human rights organizations that they have been suffering poor health while in prison. Please ensure that they both receive adequate medical care.

I also have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you.

I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

POST #36 // ISSUE: Indigenous Rights; Environmental Justice // ACTION: Earth Justice Gathering at the Grassy Narrows Blockade

2006-07-05T13:03:00.000-04:00

Join a week of workshops, trainings, stories, campfires, feasting, music and action at the Grassy Narrows blockade. Let's join together to support this visionary action, deepen our understanding of the issues, and build the bonds between indigenous land struggles and the environmental movement.

*** *** ***

Since December 2002 a blockade has been in place to prevent logging companies from clear cutting the boreal forest on the land of the Anishnaabe (a Native-Canadian tribe).

A public gathering will be held atGrassy Narrows July 10-16 to participate in workshops on this issue and various social and environmental justice topics. The purpose is to learn and strategize for long term solidarity.

On July 4 we will be discussing the background of the blockade and the current situation.

For more info, please visit:

http://www.freegrassy.org

POST #35 // ISSUE: Repression of Activists -- Morocco // ACTION: Letter

2006-07-05T12:54:00.000-04:00

Seven Sahrawi human rights defenders were sentenced to prison terms for charges relating to protest demonstrations which called for Western Sahara to be granted independence from Morocco, which has ruled over it since 1975.

Each person imprisoned has been involved in collecting and disseminating information about human rights violations committed by Moroccan forces against Sahrawi protesters in recent demonstrations.The convictions were based on written confessions of guilt, which the defendants claimed that they either never made or made only as a result of torture. The court failed to examine the claims of torture. None were allowed to call witnesses in their own defence.

SEND LETTERS TO

His Excellency Driss Jettou, Prime Minister
Départment du Premier Ministre
Palais Royal
Touarga, Rabat
Morocco

His Excellency Mohamed Tangi, Ambassador
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco
38 Range Road
Ottawa, ON

SAMPLE LETTER

Your Excellency;

My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show this letter is from a real person]. I am writing to call for the immediate and unconditional release of Ali-Salem Tamek, Mohamed El-Moutaouakil, Houssein Lidri, Brahim Noumria, Larbi Messaoud, H’mad Hammad, and Brahim Dahane, unless they are promptly retried in full conformity with international fair trial standards.

I’m also disturbed to hear that their confessions were either fabricated or obtained through torture. Torture is a very unreliable way of gaining accurate information from someone; most people, when in extreme pain, will admit to anything, even if totally false. Torture is also a violation of international human rights.

Finally, I have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

[your signature, name, contact info]

POST #34 // ISSUE: The Environment // ACTION: Online Petition

2006-06-29T21:47:00.000-04:00

Aren't online petitions great? They only take a minute! Tell your friends to sign, too.

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/824823621?z00m=90767&z00m=90767&ltl=1151630903
Canada ranks as the third worst polluter in the industrialized world. Our pollution problems stem from the weak and ineffective regulation of toxic chemicals under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA). The opportunity exists now to address the shortfalls of this Act during its mandatory five-year review.

POST #33 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Online Petition

2006-06-29T21:39:00.000-04:00

Aren't online petitions great? They only take one minute!! Be sure to tell all your friends to sign, too.

http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Bloggers?rk=P7NuZ991Qa%5f%2dE
Alaa Ahmed Seif al-Islam is an Egyptian activist and blogger. He uses his blog to speak out against the repressive government in Egypt and to advocate for human rights, freedom, and true democracy. He and his fellow activists are in jail for speaking out. He needs our help!

http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/dont_forget?rk=r1NuZ991kBLjE
Despite the May peace agreement, the situation in Darfur is deteriorating. On top of this, two key architects of the U.S. policy on Darfur are leaving government service. Tell President Bush not to forget Darfur.

POST #32 // ISSUE: Native-Canadian Land Rights Under Attack!! // ACTION: Letter

2006-06-29T21:35:00.000-04:00

For three decades, vast oil and timber wealth is being extracted from the traditional hunting and trapping territory of the Lubicon Cree of Northern Alberta.In 1990, the United Nations Human Rights Committee urged the federal government to end this ongoing violation of human rights by negotiating a just land settlement. In October 2005, the Committee once again criticized the government for this. And both times the UN has been ignored.

.
SEND LETTERS TO

.
Right and Honourable Stephen Harper
Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0A2
no postage required
.
phone: 613-992-4211
fax: 613-941-6900
.
pm@pm.gc.ca
.
.
Premier of Alberta Ralph Klein
Office of the Premier
Room 307, Legislature Building
10800 - 97th Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
T5K 2B6
.
Phone: 780 427-2251Fax: 780 427-1349
.
Send comments online at:
http://www.gov.ab.ca/premier/feedback.cfm
.
.
Your MP -- can find by typing your postal code in at http://www.parl.gc.ca/information/about/people/house/PostalCode.asp?Source=SM
.
.

SAMPLE LETTER

.
[Salutation];

My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show the letter is from an authentic person]. I am very upset that vast oil and timber wealth is being extracted from the traditional hunting and trapping territory of the Lubicon Cree of Northern Alberta. This has been going on for three decades.

The Canadian and Albertan government should be recognizing and protecting their lands and territories, which are essential to their cultural survival and economic wellbeing. But both have been failing to do so. Meanwhile, they are descending further into poverty, and the disruption of their land and resources is a major source of the problem.

In 1990, the United Nations Human Rights Committee urged the federal government to end this ongoing violation of the Lubicon Cree’s human rights by negotiating a just land settlement. The government ignored this, disrespecting the wisdom and international position of the UN. In October 2005, the Committee once again criticized the government’s failure to protect the rights of the Lubicon Cree. And once again the UN is being ignored.

I am very disturbed that the UN Human Rights Committee is being so blatantly disregarded and ignored. Currently, the UNHRC is humanity’s major hope for a fair and just world. To disregard the UNHRC is to disregard the desire for a fair and just world.

Canada often likes to promote the reputation that it is on the forefront of respecting and defending human rights in the world. But respecting and defending human rights begins at home.I would like to end with a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you.

I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do the right thing.

Wishing you the best;

POST #31 // ISSUE: Genocide in Darfur // ACTION: Buy a CD - Proceeds Go to Peace & Relief Effort in Darfur

2006-06-19T14:22:00.000-04:00

Most of you are probably aware of the terrible genocide occuring in Darfur, Sudan.

Sometimes it's hard to know what to do about something happening so far away.

One thing you can do is buy this really awesome music CD, called ASAP: The Afrobeat Sudan Aid Project. Only $10 US. Available at:

http://www.modiba.net/store.html

For some info on the music in the CD and the Darfur situation, visit:

http://www.modiba.net/music.html

All proceeds go to the peace and relief effort in Darfur.

POST #30 // ISSUE: Poverty (OCAP) // ACTION: Fundraisers - Rumage Sale & Movie Night

2006-06-19T14:03:00.000-04:00

The Ontario Coalition Against Poverty June Fundraising Days are coming to a close... please support our events next weekend.

1. OCAP Rummage Sale fundraiser
Dufferin Grove Park, on Dufferin south of Bloor
Sat June 24, starting at 9am
Used books, furniture, appliances, clothes, and more
Item donations welcome!

2. Raise the Rates Film Night fundraiser
Innis Town Hall, 2 Sussex Ave, corner of Sussex & St George
Sun June 25, 7pm
$5 in advance; $10 at door; or pay what you can! Nobody turned away.

DETAILS

1. THE ANNUAL OCAP RUMMAGE SALE
Saturday June 24th
starting at 9:00am
in Dufferin Grove Park (across from Dufferin Mall, on Dufferin south of Bloor)

This is one of our biggest fundraising events of the year- Please come out for used books, furniture, appliances, clothes and more...

IF YOU HAVE DONATIONS: feel free to bring them to the park on the morningof the sale or call Mike D at 416 925 6939 to arrange pick-up

2. RAISE THE RATES FILM NIGHT*
Debut screening of a new Documentary film about the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty's campaign to raise social assistance rates in Ontario.

Following the campaign for the last year, this documentary includes first hand accounts from 5 women on assistance involved in the campaign and footage from recent demonstrations and actions.

**Sunday June 25th, 2006
7:00 PM
Innis Town Hall- 2 Sussex Avenue (corner of Sussex and St. George)
Tickets are $5 in advance, $10 at the door. (Or Pay-what-you can!)

Advance tickets are available at: OPIRG-U of T (563 Spadina Ave) or at the OCAP Office (10 Britain St.) Or by contacting: opirg.toronto@utoronto.ca OR 416-978-7770

SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
- Margarita Navarro
- Gaetan Heroux and Anna Heroux
- Representative of OCAP Women of Etobicoke

CONTACT INFO

Ontario Coalition Against Poverty
10 Britain St.
Toronto, ON
M5A 1R6
416-925-6939
ocap@tao.ca
www.ocap.ca

POST #29 // ISSUE: Repression of Activists -- Myanmar // ACTION: Letter

2006-06-19T13:57:00.000-04:00

Thet Naung Soe is serving a 14 year sentence in prison for holding a peaceful demonstration in August 2002. There have been reports that he is suffering serious and deteriorating physical and mental health.
.
Protesting with other students outside Yangon City Hall, he was arrested, tried in a special court in Insein Prison, and denied legal representation. He was charged under the 1950 Emergency Provisions Act, legislation which your military government frequently uses in order to convict political activists. Amnesty International is concerned that this legislation has been used against very many prisoners of conscience, including Thet Naung Soe.
.

SEND LETTERS TO

.
Senior General Than Shwe
Chairman, State Peace and Development Council
c/o Ministry of Defence
Ahlanpya Phaya Street
Yangon
Union of Myanmar
(Salutation = Dear General)
.
.
U Maung Maung
Chargé d’affaires, Embassy of Myanmar
85 Range Road, Suite 902 / 903
Ottawa, ON
K1N 8J6
(Salutation = Your Excellency)
.

.
SAMPLE LETTER

.
.
[Salutation];
.
My name is [your name], and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show the letter is from an authentic person]. Thet Naung Soe, a final year law student, is serving a 14 year sentence in prison for holding a peaceful demonstration outside Yangon City Hall in August 2002. There have been reports that he is suffering serious and deteriorating physical and mental health.
.
Protesting with other students outside Yangon City Hall in August 2002, he was arrested, tried in a special court in Insein Prison, and denied legal representation. This violates the universally recognized human right to have a just and fair trial.
.
He was charged under the 1950 Emergency Provisions Act, legislation which your military government frequently uses in order to convict political activists. Human rights groups are concerned that this legislation has been used against very many prisoners of conscience, including Thet Naung Soe.
.
I am writing to urge you to release Thet Naung Soe, and the 1,100 other prisoners of conscience that currently reside in Myanmar.
.
Please remember that it is your responsibility to ensure that prisoners are provided with all the medical treatment they need, which is in accordance with the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. Since Thet Naung Soe is reported to be in such poor health, he should receive this immediately.
.
Also, me and every other person in this world who cares about human rights would like to see the end of the 1950 Emergency Provisions Act, the repressive legislation which is used to criminalize freedom of expression and peaceful association.
.
I would like to end with a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.
.
Wishing you the best,

POST #28 // If We Don't Act On This Issue, ALL Is Lost!!!

2006-06-11T18:03:00.000-04:00

The Death of the Internet

This is probably the most important issue of our time.

For our generation, and future generations.

In This Post...

Summary
What you can do
More details on why you should care about this

Summary

Major telecommunications companies are spending millions lobbying the U.S. congress to make the Internet into a private network. This would mean good-bye to things such as independent news websites, blogs (such as this one), online petitions, and free activist email list-serves. It would mean censorship.

The internet is perhaps the most powerful and effective tool that activists have at their disposal. It has greatly fascilitated the organizing of countless successful progressive campaigns. No wonder the powers that be want to rob us of this tool.

What You Can Do

Watch the six minute online video: http://coanews.org/netfreedom
Sign the petition: http://action.freepress.net/campaign/savethenet
Spread the word. Email the weblink for the petition and online video, or the link to my blog, to every caring person you know.
To take further action, go to this website: http://www.savetheinternet.com/=act
Other resources include: http://www.alliancecm.org/blog.php http://www.saveaccess.org/

More Details On Why You Should Care About This

Why is our world as screwed up as it is?

Many reasons, but a major reason is because so few people actually do anything to solve the problems.

Why?

A major reason is because people are uninformed. So few people actually are aware of the true roots of the problems, or even aware that certain problems exist at all (so many awful things happen that we never even hear about!).

Why?

Two main reasons: the education system miseducates us, and the mainstream media misinforms us -- or just plain withholds information from us. There is always a right wing bias.

Why?

Focusing on the mainstream media (rather than the education system), it's because the interests of corporations (and therefore the richest of the rich) are one and the same with the interests of the mainstream media. For one thing, the media gets its funding from advertising -- and therefore they don't want to "bite the hands that feed them." And, more importantly, television networks, radio stations, newspapers, magazines -- all the major ones are owned by corporations! So when we are talking about mainstream media and corporations, we are really talking about the same thing.

Are there any media outlets that are not controled by corporations and therefore are not tainted by right wing bias?

A few. Some community radio stations, zines, local newspapers ... and of course ... THE INTERNET! It is our last safe zone, the last place we the people can get the truth out and express our views uncensored. Think of all the independent news sites, the blogs, the activist list-serves.

The internet has been an essential tool in organizing activist campaigns. It allows us to connect with countless people all over the world, connecting local issues to international ones. It is probably the greatest tool we have. And they want to take it away from us!

This is a direct attack on democracy. Without a free, independent, and accessible media, democracy becomes a dysfunctional joke.

Whatever issue you care about, you have to care about this one, because without "Net Neutrality" your ability to further your cause by organizing a successful campaign will be seriously weakened.

POST #27 // EVENTS CALENDAR for 2nd 1/2 of June

2006-06-11T17:59:00.000-04:00

error

POST #26 // ISSUE: Repression of Conscientious Objectors -- Turkey // ACTION: Letter

2006-06-06T16:09:00.000-04:00

Defend the human rights of this amazing and brave young man, Mehmet Tarhan. He is a conscientious objector from military service in Turkey. Listen to how great he is:

"I think that wars caused by power-mongering states are first and foremost a
violation of the right to life. The violation of the right to life is a crime
against humanity... I therefore declare that I won't be an agent of such crime
under any circumstances. I will not serve any military apparatus."

He has been put in prison for refusing military service. Imagine this was your good friend in this situation. Wouldn't you want to do something? I think we should consider him a good friend, since he is a friend of human rights and has the courage to take a stand.

SEND LETTERS TO

Abdullah GülState
Minister with responsibility for Human Rights
Office of the Prime Minister
Basbakanlik, 06573 Ankara
Turkey

His Excellency Aydemir Erman, Ambassador
Embassy of the Republic of Turkey
197 Wurtemburg Street
Ottawa, ONK1N 8L9

SAMPLE LETTER

My name is [your name] and I am [write half a sentence about yourself to show the letter is from an authentic person]. I am writing regarding twenty-seven year old conscientious objector Mehmet Tarhan, who is currently serving a four-year sentence in Sivas military prison after refusing to take up military service.

There are reports that he has been severely ill-treated during his imprisonment so far. Human rights groups such as Amnesty International consider him to be a prisoner of conscience.

As someone who cares about human rights, I demand that he be released immediately and unconditionally. I also urge you to recognize the right to conscientious objection to military service, and to establish an alternative civilian service – which is not discriminatory or of punitive length – for those who object to military service.

I would like to end with a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

POST #25 // EVENTS CALENDAR for 2nd 1/2 of June

2006-06-06T16:04:00.000-04:00

All events are wheelchair accessible. If you require childcare subsidy, please contact OPIRG ahead of time. TTC tickets also available.

416-978-7770 // opirg.toronto@utorotno.ca // http://www.opirguoft.org

delayedWednesday June 14thdelayed

Delayed! The woman who is going to speak has been having trouble getting a VISA. The new date will be announced later this month.

Wal-Mart's dirty business of sweatshop labour

Guest speaker: a woman who works at a sweatshop in a Latin American country (I can't remember her name or which country she's from!)

7pm

Medical Sciences Building, Room 3154

1 Kings College Circle (near Queen's Park subway station)

CLICK HERE FOR MAP

Tuesday June 20th

Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign

With the Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid

7pm

OISE 252 Bloor Street West (near St George subway station)

CLICK HERE FOR MAP

Wednesday June 21st

OPIRG Open House and BBQ

4 - 8 PM

OPIRG - Toronto

563 Spadina

All are welcome!!!

Saturday June 25th

Raise the Rates film and discussion night

7pm

Innis Town Hall (Seussex & St George)

$5 in advance as a fundraiser for the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty

POST #24 // ISSUE: Human Rights -- Malaysia // ACTION: Letter

2006-05-31T12:04:00.000-04:00

Send a letter to defend the human rights of these prisoners of conscience.
.
There are currently about 80 individuals allegedly involved in Jemaah Islamiah who are detained in Malaysia. All are being held under the Internal Security Act which empowers the Home Minister to order the detention without charge or trial of any person who is perceived to be a threat to the national security or economic life in Malaysia.
.
Such individuals are held on indefinitely renewable two-year detention orders. This means it can last a lifetime. The decision of the Home Minister is final and cannot be challenged in court.
.
There have been reports of torture for the purpose of coercing a confession or other information. The Internal Security Act is a tool to suppress peaceful political, religious, academic and even social activities perceived to be a threat to authorities.
.
.
SEND LETTERS TO
.
Prime Minister Dato’ Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi
Prime Minister’s Department Block
1 Federal Government Administration Center
62502 Putrajaya
Selangor, Malaysia
.
His Excellency Datuk Dennis Joachim Ignatius
High Commissioner of Malaysia
60 Boteler Street
Ottawa, ON
K1N 8Y7
.

.
SAMPLE LETTER

.
.
Your Excellency;
.
My name is [your name] and I am [write half a sentence about yourself to show this letter is from an authentic person]. There are currently about 80 individuals allegedly involved in Jemaah Islamiah who are detained in Malaysia, all held under the Internal Security Act . There have been reports of torture for the purpose of coercing a confession or other information.
.
This is cruel, a violation of human rights, and also an unreliable method of getting accurate information or a true confession. Most people will admit to anything when tortured severely enough, even when it’s not true. I urge you to take action to ensure that this torture ends immediately.
.
Under both international human rights law and the Malaysian constitution, all persons have a right to legal access upon arrest and detention. Nonetheless, it has been reported to human rights groups that they have been denied access to legal representation.
.
Please respect the constitution of the country you represent. Either release these prisoners of conscience, or give them a fair trial in accordance with international human rights law and the constitution of Malaysia.
.
I would also like there to be a review of the Internal Security Act. Currently, it is a tool to suppress peaceful political, religious, academic and even social activities perceived to be a threat to authorities. It violates fundamental human rights as set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, including the right to a fair and public trial and the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Please either reform it or repeal it.
.
Finally, I have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.
.
Wishing you the best,
[your name]
[your contact info, if you choose]

POST #23 // ISSUE: Human Rights / Indigenous Peoples -- Chile // ACTION: Vigil

2006-05-31T11:50:00.000-04:00

SUMMARY

.
What? Vigil in support of Mapuche political prisoners. (Mapuche is an Indigenous group in Chile.)

When?: Thursday June 1st, 12 noon -- Friday June 2nd, 12 noon (24 hours, but dropping by for an hour or even five minutes to show support is appreciated)

Where?: Chiliean consulate in Toronto (2 Bloor Street West ... Bloor & Yonge)

Why?: Today in southern Chile, the Mapuche political prisoners have been incarcerated for defending their communities from government and transnational energy, mining and forestry corporations – among others – who expropriate and poison what little land they have left in the interest of profit. Four of these Mapuche Political Prisoners are now in a second recession from a hunger strike that lasted 65 days, resulting in near death and irreparable damage to vital organs, revealing the extent of the Government’s indifference towards their plight for justice.

The imprisonment of these people has been facilitated by Chile's Anti-Terrorist law, a law which the US government has pressured nations all over the world to adopt, and which allows governments to imprison people arbitrarily, indefinately and with no evidence, simply because the state deems considers them "dangerous". (Dangerous to what? The neoliberal profit motive!)
.
.

DETAILS

.
.
This is an invitation to come support a NATION WIDE 24 HOUR VIGIL in support of the Mapuche Political Prisoners who, like Native people from north to south, are putting their lives on the line in order to protect what little remains of this sacred earth - a fight that is universal - for all of humanity's future generations.
.
Several major cities acroos Canada will be holding a 24 hr vigil outside of the Chilean consulates:-
.
Several of us will be fasting in symbolic solidarity with our Mapuche brothers and sisters and you are invited to do the same if you wish. Bring drums, voices, candles, banners, prayers, chairs, and strength.
.
Hope to see you there.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
.
PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
.
Human Rights Organizations, Collectives for the Mapuche cause and people around the world are taking action to denounce the Chilean government’s repressive and inhumane treatment of a dozen Indigenous Mapuche Political Prisoners in that country. The Mapuche people, native to Wallmapu, the territory today known as Argentina and Chile, has been fighting for hundreds of years to maintain their territory and autonomy through a succession of repressive governments that have launched campaigns of genocide against them.
.
Today in southern Chile, the Mapuche political prisoners have been incarcerated for defending their communities from government and transnational energy, mining and forestry corporations –among others – who expropriate and poison what little land they have left in favour of neoliberal interests. Four of these Mapuche Political Prisoners are now in a second recession from a hunger strike that lasted 65 days, resulting in near death and irreparable damage to vital organs, revealing the extent of the Government’s indifference towards their plight for justice.
.
The Mapuche Political Prisoners and their support groups are demanding that the Chilean government of President Michelle Bachelet grant their freedom and abolish the Anti-Terrorist law under which they were unfairly convicted. This is the same law that was created during the military dictatorship of Pinochet, being condemned internationally by different Human Rights organizations and which is still being used by the supposedly progressive government currently in power.
.
Freedom to All Mapuche Political Prisoners!
.
For further information please contact: Salvador Gallegos at 416-910-1466

POST #22 // ISSUE: 6 Nations Solidarity // ACTION: Start a Solidarity Blockade in Your Neighborhood; Contact Officials

2006-05-23T15:21:00.000-04:00

Summary
Who to contact
Details (the original email)

1. SUMMARY

.
Below is an email I recieved from the Food Not Bombs email list. Caledonia settler residents have begun to instigate violence against the 6 Nations people. The disturbing details are below, and it is better if you read it for yourself. The email is written by a 6 Nations women who was a witness to everything.
.
There is a request that people set up blockades in their own towns and cities to show their solidarity with the 6 Nations people. Personally I think it would be a great idea to block traffic at a major downtown intersection, if only for a couple hours to send a message to the government and get media attention.
.
I would really like to participate in a blockade but we need a group of people. Please, if you are interested in this, email me at harmonyisultraviolet@hotmail.com
.
Another thing to do is contact the following officials to tell them to make the OPP protect the 6 Nations people from the mob of Caledonia settlers, and to otherwise express your solidarity. It is essential that it be made clear that the world is watching.
.
Sign the online petition to Governor General Michael Jean
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/850267742
.

For daily updates regarding 6 Nations and the land reclamation, visit: http://sisis.nativeweb.org/actionalert/index.html

2. WHO TO CONTACT

It is essential that it be made clear that the world is watching. Click here for an archive of letters.

Ontario Provincial Police, Haldimand CountyInspector Brian Haggith

Phone: 905-772-3322

Fax: 905-772-5815
.

Premier of Ontario Dalton McGuinty

Phone: 416-325-1941

Fax: 416-325-3745

Email: dalton.mcguinty@premier.gov.on.ca
.

Attorney General of Ontario Michael Bryant

Phone: 416-326-2220 or 1-800-518-7901

Fax: 416-326-4007

Web comments (send email online): http://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/comments.asp
.

Federal Indian Affairs Minister Jim Prentice

Ottawa Office: Phone 613-992-4275;

Fax: 613-947-9475

Constituency Office: Phone 403-216-7777;

Fax 403-230-4368

Email: prentice.j@parl.gc.ca
.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper

Phone: 613-992-4211

Fax: 613-941-6900

Email: pm@pm.gc.ca
.

Governor General Michaëlle Jean

Phone: 1-800-465-6890 or 613-993-8200

Fax: 613-998-1664

Email: info@gg.ca

Online petition to Michaëlle Jean: http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/850267742

Your MP -- can find by typing your postal code in at http://www.parl.gc.ca/information/about/people/house/PostalCode.asp?Source=SM

3. DETAILS (THE EMAILS)

Tansi,
.
I have been asked by the people of Six Nations to send out a call to allFirstNations and supporters to set up a blockade in your region in solidaritywith SixNations.
.
Right now, Monday May 22, our people are being attacked by Caledonia residents while the police do nothing. Our people that have been attacked have been peppersprayed and beaten.
.
Organize people in your region and send the message that viloence against our people will not be tolerated. STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH SIX NATIONS. An attack on one is an attack on us all.
.
More info below from the front lines.
.
Sharon Menow
.
********************************************************
.
HELP SIX NATIONS.
.
OPP CONDONE MOB RULE.
.
"ALL HELL AND SHIT HAS BROKENLOOSE". YOUR HELP IS URGENTLY NEEDED RIGHT NOW!
.
1:00 Monday. May 22, 2006.
Day 83 of the land reclamation.
.
In agestureof goodwill, Six nations people took down the barricade on Argyle Street in front of Caledonia at 6:00 am this morning. Yesterday the Caledonians blocked the road for 6 buses of supporters from Toronto. They also blocked ambulances from going to the hospital. One man died alone because they did not let him family go to his bedside.
.
A car with a reporter and some women from Six nations paper was surrounded by Caledonian men and women. They smashed the windows. The OntarioProvincial Police stood around shoulder to shoulder without moving, justwatching, allowing the hooliganism to go on. "We are looking after it," they told the Six Nations people.
.
When Six Nations people went to help the people who were being attacked, they were surrounded by more Caledonians, who shoved and hit them and accused the Indigenous people of instigating the violence. When the woman was hit, the Six Nations men jumped in and about three or four big fights broke out. The OPP continued to allow these Caledonian hoodlums to keep up their attack.
.
The Six Nations have put up the barricade again. There is a large police presence. But just standing there. They are not stopping the Caledonia people from coming in. Everytime we try to soften things up and deal with people on the expectation they will behave in a civilized way, look at what happens.
.
This is public misbehaviour which is a direct result of the way the issues are handled by the Canadian government and the Canadian press. They do not present the legitimate basis of the Six Nations people's complaints. They make it look like we are the law breakers. They are wrong in not letting the public know of our legitimate claims. The blame for this lies squarely on the shoulders of the public officials in the way they are presenting this whole issue.
.
EVERYBODY DO SOMETHING.
.
Try the Prime Minister, the police, the UN, anyone you can think of who may take responsibility for law and order in Ontario.
.
stonedancer1@yahoo.ca

Post #21 // ISSUE: 6 Nations Solidarity // ACTION: Information Session

2006-05-23T15:09:00.000-04:00

What: Six Nations Information Session

When: Monday May 29, 7:00pm

Where: OISE auditorium (252 Bloor Street West, near St. George subway station)

Who: The four speakers are:

Jacqueline House (Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River)
Doreen Silversmith (Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River)
Peter Hill (Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River)
Salvador Gallegos (Maupauche Nation, Argentina/Chile)

Price: FREE (but cash or cheque donations to the reclamation efforts will be accepted. Cheques made out to Janie Jamieson.)

DETAILS ON THE SPEAKERS

Jacqueline House (Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River) was one of the people who planned the reclamation of the Kanenhstaton ("the protected place") and has been camped out on the land since Day 1. She will provide some background information to the action as well as an update.

Doreen Silversmith (Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River) will report on the results of her trip to the United Nations in Geneva where she presented on the Reclamation of Kanenhstaton.

Peter Hill (Cayuga, Six Nations of the Grand River) is a Native Studies specialist and will provide historical information on what has happened to the territories of the Grand River community.

Salvador Gallegos (Maupauche Nation, Argentina/Chile) will speak about the struggle for the self-determination of the Maupache People.

POST #26 // ISSUE: Repression of Activists -- Myanmar // ACTION: Letter

2006-05-18T01:40:00.000-04:00

Su Su Nway and lawyer U Aye Myint were jailed in October 2005 for reporting abuses, including forced labour and land confiscation, by the local authorities. Amnesty International considers them prisoners of conscience.

In January 2005, in a landmark legal case which can now set the precedent for other similar cases, she and other villagers successfully prosecuted their village administration. Since winning the case, both her and her lawyer have been threatened and harassed, and recently they were sentenced to prison time. Both have suffered poor health in detention.

SEND LETTERS TO

SAMPLE LETTER

Your Excellency;

Hello. My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show this letter is from a real person]. I am writing to you to ask for the immediate and unconditional release of Su Su Nway and U Aye Myint, imprisoned in connection with their legitimate defence of human rights.

There has also been reports to human rights organizations that they have been suffering poor health while in prison. Please ensure that they both receive adequate medical care.

I also have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

POST #20 // ISSUE: Repression of Activists -- Honduras // ACTION: Letter

2006-05-17T13:22:00.000-04:00

Feliciano Pineda, an Indigenous community leader, and brothers Leonardo and Marcelino Miranda, also activists, are in prison on trumped up (false) charges. Amnesty International considers them prisoners of conscience and believes the criminal charges against them are part of a pattern of politically motivated charges against activists. The goal is to deter them and other activists from their work to make this world a better place. They have endured torture and death threats while in prison.

If you would like more details, they are written up after the sample letter at the bottom of this post.

Please write a letter to the authorities demanding their immediate and unconditional release.

SEND LETTERS TO

President José Manuel Zelaya Rosales
Casa Presidencial
Boulevard Juan Pablo Segundo
Palacio José Cecilio del Valle
Tegucigalpa
Honduras

Chargé d’affaires Javier Bellederes
Embassy of the Republic of Honduras
151 Slater Street, Suite 805
Ottawa, ON
K1P 5H3

SAMPLE LETTER

Your Excellency;

My name is [your name], and I am [write half a sentence about yourself to show the letter is from an authentic person]. I am writing to you to ask that you release prisoners of conscience Feliciano Pineda, Leonardo Miranda, and Marcelino Miranda. Their release should be immediate and unconditional.

Human rights groups believe the criminal charges against Pineda and the Miranda brothers are part of a pattern of politically motivated charges against activists. The goal seems to be to deter them and other activists from their work to make this world a better place.

I am also very concerned to hear that there has been torture and death threats used against them in order to coerce confessions. This is a violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The torture of any prisoner, be they a prisoner of conscience or not, must stop immediately.

Finally, I have a personal appeal to you. Sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own political career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Wishing you the best,

[your name]

[contact info, if you choose]

DETAILS

On June 5th, 2005, Feliciano Pineda, an Indigenous community leader, was attacked and seriously injured by three men with machetes. Then men told him they had been paid to kill him.

He was taken to a hospital and police officers were waiting for him there to arrest him on trumped up charges of theft, damages, housebreaking, and homicide. They took him to prison before he could receive proper treatment.

The homicide charges were for the murder of wealthy landowner Juan Reyes Gómez in an alleged land dispute. The fabricated evidence used to convict Pineda for this homicide is the same fabricated evidence used to convict two other leaders from his community for this charge: brothers Marcelino and Leonardo Miranda. The brothers are currently serving twenty-five year sentences, even though ten witnesses place them far away from the scene of the crime at the time of the murder.

Amnesty International believes the criminal charges against Pineda and the Miranda brothers are part of a pattern of politically motivated charges against activists. The goal is to deter them and other activists from their work to make this world a better place.

Feliciano Pineda has been acquitted of the homicide charge, but remains in prison on the other charges, even though the legal period for bringing him to trial on these charges has expired.

In September, 2005, he was threatened with an assault rifle to sign a confession by a prison guard who also tortured the Miranda brothers.

POST #19 // ISSUE: Violence Against Women // ACTION: Letter

2006-05-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Many more women would turn to the authorities if they would really help us. I called the police 16 times in one night; they did not even come once."
-Liliana, age 31, in Amnesty International's Report "Russian Federation: Nowhere to turn to"

Every hour a woman in the Russian Federation dies due to violence by a relative, her partner, or her former partner. Look at your watch. What time is it? How many women in Russia have already died today? How many more will die before you take action?

According to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which the Russian Federation has signed, states must provide protection for women from violence in all its forms. States must also take action to ensure that the perpetrator is brought to justice.

However, the Russian Federation has no specific legislation on domestic violence and there are few mechanisms of protection such as shelters, hotlines, or legal and psychological support for victims.

SEND LETTERS TO

President of the Russian Federation

Vladimir Vladimirovich PUTIN

Rossiiskaia Federatsia

103132 g. Moskva

4 Staraya Square

Prezidentu Rossiiskoi Federatsii

PUTINU V. V.

Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Government

Mikhail Fradkov

Rossiiskaia Federatsia

103274 g. Moskva

Krasnopresnenskaia nab., 2

Pravitelstvo Rossiiskoi Federatsii

Primyer-Ministru, FRADKOVU M

SAMPLE LETTER

[Name of person here];

Hello. My name is [your name] and I am [write half a sentence about yourself to show that your letter is from an authentic person]. I am writing because I am concerned about violence against women in the Russian Federation. Did you know that, according to Amnesty International, every hour a women dies from domestic violence in the Russian Federation?

Violence against women is a crime against humanity and a human rights abuse. Since the Russian Federation signed the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), I'm sure that you are already aware of this.

Please implement the government's obligation to protect women against this human rights abuse. A good first step for doing this would be to give a strong public statement that violence against women is unacceptable and can never be justified.

To back this up, it would be a good idea to encourage local and regional governments to set up shelters and other protection mechanisms for women, and to give public support to measures which have already been taken by regional and local authorities and also by non-governmental organizations. Also encourage regional governments to make training on gender-specific issues -- including violence against women in the family -- mandatory for police, judges, and prosecutors.

And please cooperate with women's NGOs to draft appropriate legislation and tough laws to protect women from violence.

Thank you. I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do the right thing.

Sincerely,

[Your name]

[Your contact info, if you choose]

POST #18 // ISSUE: Genocide // ACTION: Letter

2006-05-16T23:05:00.000-04:00

China’s secret concentration camp.

Behind the barbed wire fences, thousands of innocent people have their organs harvested for profit – while they are still alive and conscious. (Organs from still living donors fetch a higher price.)

Its specific purpose is to hold practitioners of the peaceful Falun Gong spiritual discipline.

Falun Gong was introduced to the public in 1992. In 1999, the Chinese government outlawed Falun Gong after it was discovered it had attracted more adherents than the Communist Party had members.

Since then, hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been illegally detained. They are routinely beaten, raped, tortured, and drugged.

For more info, visit: http://www.faluninfo.net

Write a letter to the following people to urge them to push for Canada to take an international stand against these crimes against humanity.

SEND LETTERS TO

Right and Honourable Stephen Harper
Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0A2
no postage required

phone: 613-992-4211 fax: 613-941-6900
pm@pm.gc.ca

Your MP -- can find by typing your postal code in athttp://www.parl.gc.ca/information/about/people/house/PostalCode.asp?Source=SM

SAMPLE LETTER

[Person's name here];

Hello. My name is [your name] and I am [half a sentence about yourself to show the letter is from an authentic person]. I don’t know if you’ve heard of the ongoing extermination and torture of the adherents of the Falun Gong spiritual practice in China.

Falun Gong – a spiritual practice based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance – was introduced to the public in 1992. It combines gentle exercise, meditation, and moral philosophy; has no membership or organization; and it is taught free of charge by volunteers.

In 1999, the Chinese government outlawed Falun Gong after it was discovered it had attracted more adherents than the Communist Party had members. Fearing its popularity, then dictator Jiang Zemin declared that “no measures are too excessive” to wipe out Falun Gong.

Since then, hundreds of thousands of Falun Gong practitioners have been illegally detained in prisons, labor camps, and so-called mental hospitals for refusing to recant their beliefs. They are routinely beaten, raped, tortured, and drugged.

Prisons and forced labor camps in China have recently seen a huge decline in their Falun Gong population, as many have now been sent to their deaths in Sujiatun, a concentration camp built specifically for Falun Gong. The camp has been operating since 2001 and is located in the Sujiatun region of the north-eastern city of Shenyang.

Behind the barbed wire fences, thousands of innocent people have their organs harvested for profit – while they are still alive.

China’s practice of harvesting organs from executed prisoners, including prisoners of conscience, is believed to have begun in 1979. Many have their organs removed while they are alive and fully conscious, since organs from living donors fetch a higher price.

“China’s … regime … has found a lucrative industry in the field of organ transplantation, which not only yields great financial rewards, but provides the regime with a powerful tool to coerce and intimidate the population into submission.” - US Congresswoman Ileana Rose-Lehtinen

Prime Minister Harper, I am writing you this letter today to urge you to take a stand on behalf of Canada to help stop these crimes against humanity in China. Please speak out about this, to Canadian citizens, to other members in the federal government and provincial governments, and also to governmental and NGO members of the international community.

Best of all would be if you set an example for the world by leading an economic boycott against China until it stops these horrible crimes.

Sincerely,

[Your name here]

[and if you choose, your contact info here]

POST #17 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Eat out!!!

2006-05-16T18:14:00.000-04:00

The second annual Amnesty International Taste of Justice campaign! Eat out at any of the following places this month and a percentage of the proceeds will go to Amnesty International.

Many places are one day only (June 6th, June 10th, & June 13th) so don't miss it!

All month

Dufflet41 Dovercourt Rd - (416) 538- 2366Dufflet will be giving a percentage of sales of Chocolate Reverse cookies to Amnesty from both retail stores for the month of June! Other promotions soon to be announced!!

Oyster Boy 872 Queen Street West - (416) 534-3432Be sure to drop by Oyster Boy during the month of June to taste a specially discounted oyster plate (18 oysters for $22) with $5 from each plate sold throughout the month to Amnesty International! Help prep Oyster Boy's champion oyster shuckers for upcoming Canadian Championships by getting this special plate shucked by a champion oyster shucker!

Mangiacake Panini Shoppe160 McCaul Street - (416) 260-5156Satisfy your panini craving this June at Mangiacake Panini Shoppe! Get your own Taste for Justice Panini this June with all proceeds from each Taste for Justice Panini sold in June being donated to Amnesty International!

Tinto Coffee House 89 Roncesvalles Ave - (416) 530-5885Stop by Tinto's Coffee House this June for a special coffee based fair trade or organic beverage and/or a special menu item! A percentage of sales proceeds from these items will be donated to Amnesty International throughout June!

June 6th – 15%

Just Thai534 Church Street - (416) 928-9100Satisfy your craving for Thai at Just Thai on June 6th! 15% of all sales proceeds on June 6th will be donated to Amnesty International!

June 10th – 15%

Fresh by Juice for Life 147 Spadina Avenue - (416) 599-4442Stop by Fresh by Juice for Life's Spadina location on June 10th for your favourite Juice for Life juice, dish or dessert! 15% of sales proceeds on June 10th will be donated to Amnesty International!

Focaccia Restaurant17 Hayden Street - (416) 323-0179Join Focaccia on June 10th for a Cuban inspired evening! 15% of all sales proceeds on June 10th will be donated to Amnesty International!

June 10th – 10%

BOHO392 Roncesvalles Avenue - (416) 516-7446Dine at BOHO this upcoming June 10th for a gourmet experience of great tastes and flavours! 10% of sales proceeds on June 10th will be donated to Amnesty International!

June 10th – one dish only, 100%

Bright Pearl Seafood Restaurant346 Spadina Rd - (416) 979-3988Dine in at Bright Pearl on June 10th and savor their delicious vegetarian tofu roll dish! All sales proceeds on June 10th from this dish will be donated to Amnesty International!

June 13th – coffee only, 25%

Alternative Grounds Coffee333 Roncesvalles Avenue - (416) 534-5543Alternative Grounds will hold a Taste for Justice event at the cafe Tuesday June 13 from 7 - 9pm. They will be tasting local organic foods prepared by Carol Ferrari of "The Local Cafe" as well as cupping global coffees. The theme is "know your farmer". They will also offer a "taste for justice blend" only during the month of June and 25% of the retail sale of the coffee will be donated to Amnesty's human rights work. The coffee will only be available through the cafe, so come into Alternative Grounds to get your very own Taste for Justice blend!

POST #16 // For All You People Who Think Letters Don't Make a Difference... // ACTION: None Required

2006-05-10T04:03:00.000-04:00

Some people don't bother writing letters, sending emails, signing petitions, or making phone calls, because they think there's no point, that it's not going to do anything.

That's not true! Below are just a few examples of successful letter campaigns.

Of course letters are not going to overthrow the system. But they can make a tangible difference for those in need.

EXAMPLES OF SUCCESSFUL LETTER CAMPAIGNS

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

1. Palestinian homes saved from bulldozing by Israeli army!! When advance notice is received, international action can make a difference. In January, a court order halted the threat of imminent demolition from the home of Zarifa and Mohammad Abbasi, aged 76 and 78 (UA 305/05). "It is thought that international concern expressed by the UA network and others for the fate of the Abbasi family home may have contributed to this positive outcome," stated AI researchers. Last year there was more good news when authorities revoked an order to demolish 88 homes in East Jerusalem.

2. Salem al-Baloushi has asked us to pass on his "kindest thanks" to you for sending appeals a year ago in response to UA 57/05. Authorities released him from a United Arab Emirates detention centre in July. They laid no charges against him. Salem was not tortured during his confinement.

3. Authorities in Kazakstan freed human rights defender Lutfullo Shamsuddinov (UA 181/05) last July, and handed him over to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees. "Massive response from the Urgent Action Network made a significant contribution to securing his release," writes the UA Team at Amnesty's international headquarters in London. He is now safe in the U.S.

4. Iraqi businesswoman Huda Hafez Ahmad was detained most of last year for "financing the insurgency" (UA 42/05). She phoned Amnesty to thank you for taking action on her behalf — action which she believes led to her release.

5. The Baloch Students' Organization has spoken out about the killing of civilians in Pakistan. They allege that members of the armed forces are responsible and that the killings are unlawful. Seventeen BSO members were arrested for their criticisms (UA 111/05). Most have now been released. They too wish to pass on their thanks to all who campaigned on their behalf.

6. Gagan Thapa is a student leader. He is a former Secretary General of the Nepal Students Union. Police detained him in Kathmandu on July 27. Amnesty International issued UA 199/05 for his safety two days later. "After I was arrested, I was held in a cell in Hanuman Dhoka police station along with sixteen others," reports Gagan. "We slept eight at a time, as the cell was so cramped. As soon as the Urgent Actions began to arrive, the authorities immediately offered to transfer me to a cell where I would be held alone." Gagan chose to stay with the other prisoners so as not to appear privileged. He was released less than three weeks later on August 14. According to last reports, Gagan was awaiting trial on charges of sedition.

7. Many of you will remember Raju Sharma Dhakal (UA 275/04) because you sent appeals for his safety several times. You may also have sent him a message of joy and support after his release. The 17-year-old student was detained in June 2004 on his way home from classes. Raju was finally released 17 months later. Raju made great efforts in English to relay this message to us: "Lots of thanks for you and all of the students and my well wisher for your great approach for my release. And also thanks for your big hugs. I am absoloutly fine and happy nowadays. But some remainings are still burdening. But I have not gave them chances to make any wrong. Now I am planning to go to Ramput to join my collage where I have to complete my BSc Agriculture program. After that it will be easy to live normally. Again, lots of thanks for your great wishes. Please convay my rememberances to all of the students and my small brother and sisters who made their great approach for my release. -- Raju"

8. Imagine yourself in a Syrian prison one afternoon. You're listening to "Talk of the Hour" on BBC radio. It goes something like this: "What is the status of prisoners of conscience? Are you working on their release?" asks an AI press officer. "We don't have prisoners of conscience in Syria," replies a government spokesperson. "What about 'Abdel Rahman al-Shaghouri?" continues AI's press officer. That's how 'Abdel Rahman al-Shaghouri (UA 185/03) tells the story of how he became a supporter of Amnesty International. After his release, he wrote: "It's a duty to appreciate all the efforts from all the people everywhere, for casting some light on the cases in general, and mine in particular…All this makes me more committed to continue with them, not just for me but for all those who are 'lost'. I would like to thank again all of those who participated and supported the cause in which I lost my freedom for a while."

POST #15 // ISSUE: Political Prisoners; Torture // ACTION: Letter -- pre-written

2006-05-10T03:07:00.000-04:00

Below is a pre-written letter regarding a tortured prisoner in Guantánamo. Feel free to add to it, delete from it, tweek it, or write your own. In fact, putting it in your own words is best because if they get a bunch of identicle letters they take it less seriously. But identicle letters are better than no letters at all.

Below that are more details about this situation.

APPEALS TO:

Navy Rear Adm. Harry B. Harris
Commander Joint Task Force Guantánamo
Department of Defense
Joint Task Force Guantánamo
Guantánamo Bay, Cuba
APO AE 09360
Salutation: Dear Rear Admiral
Fax: (305) 437 1241
Email: harrishb@jtfgtmo.southcom.mil

General Bantz John Craddock
Commander United States Southern Command
3511 NW 91st Ave., Miami, FL, 33172-1217 USA
Salutation: Dear General
Fax: (305) 437 1077

COPIES TO:

Donald Rumsfeld, Secretary of Defense,
The Pentagon, Washington DC 20301, USA
Fax: (703) 697 8339
Salutation: Dear Secretary of Defense

Matthew Waxman, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Detainee Affairs
2500 Defense Pentagon 5E420, Washington, DC 2031, USA
Fax: (703) 697 6166 Salutation:
Dear Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense

His Excellency David Horton Wilkins
Ambassador for the USA
372 Rideau Street, Suite 349
Ottawa, Ontario K1N 1G7
Fax: (613) 688-3080 / 688-3101

SAMPLE LETTER

[Insert salutation here];

I am extremely concerned to hear that Jumah al-Dossari, a Guantánamo detainee, attempted suicide in March for the twelfth time. I am even more concerned to hear that camp authorities refused to give any information about his current condition to his lawyers.

I would appreciate hearing back from you, and I hope you will be able to truthfully tell me that he has received adequate and independent medical care, that his lawyers have been provided with a full report on the state of his health – both physical and emotional health – provided by his independent doctors.

I am also very disturbed to hear of the allegations that Jumah has been repeatedly tortured in US military custody. This has included beatings and death threats, prolonged isolation, exposure to extreme cold and sexual assaults. Even if you consider him a criminal, he is still a human being, and his human rights must not be violated. I would like there to be an independent investigation of these allegations and for all those found responsible to be brought to justice.

I also believe Jumah and all other Guantánamo detainees should be released, unless they are given fair trials in US courts. It is a violation of human rights to imprison people without a proper trial.

Please, I urge you to take a stand on this and advocate in support of Jumah’s human rights, and the human rights of all Guantánamo detainees. Even if you strongly believe in “the ends” (whatever they may be), the ends do not justify these brutal, sadistic, horrible means! Please take some time to think about what it would be like to suffer such extreme pain and terror on a daily basis.

Also, sometimes we know what the right thing to do is, but we don’t do it because it would mean risking our own prosperity. Perhaps you are afraid to stand up for what is right because it may mean negative repercussions in your own career or life. I truly do empathize with your position. But please realize the integrity of human rights is more important than an individual person, including you.

If you would like to read Jumah’s story in his own words, please visit http://web.amnesty.org/library/Index/ENGAMR511072005

I hope you find the compassion and courage within your heart to do what is right.

Sincerely,

[Name]

[Contact information]

DETAILS

Guantánamo detainee Jumah al-Dossari attempted suicide in March. He says he has been tortured in custody, and is believed to have made numerous suicide attempts since he was detained, in January 2001. US officials have refused to give his lawyers any information about his current condition.

Lawyers visiting other detainees at Guantánamo in late March were told that Jumah al-Dossari had recently attempted suicide, for what may have been the 12th time, by slitting his throat. Official notes from Guantánamo which have recently been declassified also record the suicide attempt. Despite requests for information, his lawyers have been unable to determine his current condition.

US Navy commander Robert Durand, a spokesperson at Guantánamo, told US journalists earlier this month that there was a suicide attempt at the camp on 11 March and that the unnamed detainee is "clinically stable". He has also noted that a single detainee, believed to be Jumah al-Dossari, accounts for 12 of the 39 reported suicide attempts at Guantánamo. Bahraini national Jumah al-Dossari was seized in Pakistan in late 2001 and held for several weeks by the Pakistani authorities. US agents then flew him to Kandahar airbase, in Afghanistan, and took him from there to Guantánamo.

Jumah al-Dossari claims he has been tortured in custody. This has included beatings and death threats, prolonged isolation, exposure to extreme cold and sexual assaults. In testimony written by Jumah al-Dossari in July 2005 and made available to Amnesty International, he wrote of "the revolting torture and those vile attacks which were a humiliation and will continue to be a vile stain on history, memories that whenever I look back on them, I wonder how my soft heart could bear them, how my body could bear the pain of the torture and how my mind could bear all that stress. How I wish my memories and my thoughts could be forgotten…"

Jumah al-Dossari's full account of his experiences can be read here: http://web.amnesty.org/library/Index/ENGAMR511072005

On 15 October 2005, Jumah al-Dossari attempted to hang himself after going into the toilet during an interview with his lawyer. In November 2005 he told his lawyer that he had wanted to kill himself so that he could send a message to the world that the conditions at Guantánamo are intolerable. He added that he had tried to do it in a public way so that the military could not cover it up and his death would not be anonymous. This suicide attempt left him with a broken vertebra and fourteen stitches in his right arm.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The first detainees were moved to Guantánamo in January 2002. Around 490 men of around 35 nationalities are still held there, unlawfully. Reports from the detainees and their lawyers suggest that many have been tortured or otherwise ill-treated, either in Guantánamo or in other US detention centres. Many have attempted suicide.

RECOMMENDED ACTION:

Please send appeals written in your own words to arrive as quickly as possible making any of the following points: - expressing concern at reports that Guantánamo detainee Jumah al-Dossari attempted suicide in March, apparently for the 12th time, and that the camp authorities have refused to give his lawyers any information about his current condition; - seeking assurances that he is being given access to appropriate and independent medical care, and urging the US authorities to provide his lawyers with a full report of the state of his health, provided by independent doctors; - expressing concern at allegations that Jumah al-Dossari has been tortured and ill-treated in US military custody, and calling for an independent investigation, with all those found responsible brought to justice; - calling on the authorities to release Jumah al-Dossari and all other Guantánamo detainees, unless they are to be given fair trials in US courts in accordance with international law and without recourse to the death penalty.

POST #14 // ISSUE: Secret Trials in Canada!! // ACTION: Various

2006-05-10T02:14:00.000-04:00

Canada is supposed to be a free, democratic country, but it can be downright fascist at times. Arbitrary arrest, secret trials, secret evidence, plantiffs not being allowed to select their own lawyer or attend their own trial, deportation to torture... all right here in this country!

We should all be outraged and frightened by this. Below, you will find suggestions for getting involved.

Below that, you will find more background info on this, including a website where you can learn even more.

For busy people, of the 8 suggestions of how to get involved, three are not time consuming are numbers 1, 5, and 8.

GETTING INVOLVED

1. LOBBY CAMPAIGN: Challenge your MP (20 March to 22 May 2006) From the endof March until the third week in May, you are invited to challenge your MPto take a position on security certificates. Are they willing to take astand? To get a kit that you can bring or mail to your MP, contactjusticeforadil@riseup.net and or visit the special page at www.adilinfo.orgto download the kit. The essential part is a follow up by phone or a visit.

2. PEOPLE'S COMMISSION on Immigration Security Measures, March through May 2006*Public Consultations across the country through March and April (seewww.peoplescommission.ath.cx for details)*10 April Deadline to apply to speak at Public Hearings (find out how viaour website)*Public Hearings, 21 to 23 April, Montreal*23 April Deadline to make written or recorded submissions to theCommission (find out how via our website)*end May Preliminary Report of the People's CommissionMore info: abolissons@gmail.com, tel 514 859 9023, www.peoplescommission.ath.cx

3. FREEDOM CARAVAN TO OTTAWA (June 3-10)From June 3-10, friends and family of the secret trial detainees invite youto join a community on wheels as we travel through each community betweenToronto and Ottawa, organizing public processions and vigils, handing outflyers, engaging in dialogue, meeting MPs, and blanketing the area withinformation about the abuses of secret trials. Meals and overnightaccommodation will be provided. To book a ride on the freedom caravan oroffer a vehicle for use, please contact (416) 651-5800 or tasc@web.ca Inaddition, a Montreal to Ottawa Caravan is also in the works.

4. CAMP HOPE (June 11-16)Upon our arrival in Ottawa, we will set up camp at the Supreme Court ofCanada, holding day-long vigils, sending delegations to appropriategovernment agencies, and being a constant national reminder of the shame ofsecret trials. Overnight accommodation will be provided. The end of theweek will feature a large, nonviolent direct action at the nationalconspiracy headquarters of CSIS.

5. SUPREME COURT BANNER PROJECT Whether you can come to Ottawa or not, we wish to blanket the huge lawn ofthe Court with banners from across the country expressing regionalrejection of secret trials. If you have a school/ church/ labour/ communitygroup, we would love for you to grab an old bed sheet, paint out "Red DeerAgainst Secret Trials: Free the Detainees!" or "St. John's United Church,Moncton, NB, Says Stop Deportations to Torture," etc., and send us thebanner for display (you can send completed and folded banners to Campaignto Stop Secret Trials in Canada, PO Box 73620, 509 St Clair Ave. West,Toronto, ON M6C 1C0. If you have ideas you want to run by us, contacttasc@web.ca or (416) 651-5800.

6. SECRET TRIALS STATEMENT While in Ottawa, we wish to present to the federal government thousands ofstatements signed by people across the country expressing rejection ofsecret trials and calling for due process. Please download the statement athttp://www.homesnotbombs.ca/STATEMENT.pdf, make copies, have folks sign it,and return completed copies to PO Box 73620, 509 St. Clair Ave. West,Toronto, ON M6C 1C0

7. LOCAL VIGILS IN SUPPORT Tuesday, June 13 is the first day of the hearings. If you cannot come toOttawa, why not organize a vigil of support in front of a local immigrationoffice, CSIS/RCMP detachment, federal government building, or MP's office?Stuck for ideas or need help with a flyer, just let us know! If you DO plansuch a vigil, also let us know, and we will inform the national media ofwhat you are up to.

8. FINANCIAL HELP Of course, any undertaking such as this requires a lot of expenses,especially for the thousands of educational flyers we will be producing,the costs of bringing witnesses to Montreal for the commission, thelogistics of the week in Ottawa, etc. Please make cheques out to Homes notBombs and mail them to PO Box 73620, 509 St Clair Ave. West, Toronto, ONM6C 1C0. Please earmark where you would like your donation to go towards(ie, People's Commission, Freedom Caravan, General Campaign expenses, etc.).

DETAILS

This June, the Supreme Court of Canada will hold three days of hearingsrelated to the CSIS secret trial security certificates. The cases of AdilCharkaoui, Hassan Almrei, and Mohamed Harkat will be heard June 13-15 inOttawa, and many activities are planned both around that week and leadingup to June to keep the focus on the gross human rights violations thatarise from this process (see bottom of this email for list of activitiesand what you can do.)

The fact that the Supreme Court is hearing these cases, while significant,does not mean that our struggle for basic human rights being appliedequally for ALL people in Canada is over. Far from it. Indeed, the largerissues of CSIS and RCMP intimidation of vulnerable communities, secret evidence, arbitrary detention without charge, and deportation to torture donot only affect the Secret Trial Five, but are systemic problems which areincreasingly directed against refugee and immigrant communities.

And while the Court makes its determinations on various parts of the secrettrial process, the men currently detained (Mohammad Mahjoub, MahmoudJaballah, Hassan Almrei, Mohamed Harkat) are likely to spend muchadditional time behind bars at the new "Guantanamo Bay North" facilityrecently constructed at Millhaven federal penitentiary, and Adil Charkaoui,though on bail, will continue to face the daily humiliation of downrightdraconian "release" conditions, including the wearing of an electronictracking bracelet.

The Supreme Court is composed of nine people who will make rulings onvarious parts of the secret trial process. Ultimately, though, it is up toall of us in Canada to look at our own conscience and ask ourselves what WE are willing to do to end this human rights nightmare.

Matthew Behrens

Campaign to Stop Secret Trials in Canada

PO Box 73620, 509 St. Clair Ave. West

Toronto, ON

M6C 1C0

(416) 651-5800

tasc@web.ca

http://www.homesnotbombs.ca/secrettrials.htm

POST #13 // ISSUE: Labor Rights // ACTION: Email, pre-written

2006-05-10T01:51:00.000-04:00

Fifty-two workers at the Rosas del Ecuador flower plantation have been on strike for 28 months, ever since the plantation owner failed to pay seven months’ wages and social security quotas, and failed to comply with agreements related to transportation and food. The owner has temporarily abandoned the plantation, in hopes the workers will get tired and give up.

For the past two years and four months, the workers have remained inside the farm to protect the equipment, growing basic vegetables to survive. They are fighting to have the courts embargo the farm in order to extract the funds necessary to pay them all of their unpaid wages.

The below link will allow you to send an email to the Ecuadorian authorities urging them to support these people. The email is pre-written, but you can add to it, delete from it, or write one entirely from scratch if you choose.

http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/RosasDelEcuador/ww6dids2f7wm65j?

Details available through the weblink.

POST #12 // ISSUE: Venezuela // ACTION: Lecture & Discussion

2006-05-10T01:41:00.000-04:00

What? HANDS OFF VENEZUELA ... US/Canada speaking tour comes to Toronto

Who? with Jorge Martin

When? Thursday, May 18th,7:00pm

Where? Sandford Fleming Building (UofT) // 10 King's College Road, (Queen's Park Subway) // Room 3202

Price? by donation

Jorge Martin is the International Secretary of the Hands Off Venezuela campaign. He is at the forefront of the international solidarity campaign in support of the Bolivarian Revolution. He has been actively involved in the revolutionary process in Venezuela and is well known for his analysis of the situation.

Jorge has contributed to many conferences and meetings on workers control in Venezuela and has participated directly in the movement of factory occupations.

As part of a Canada/US tour he will speak on the current situation in Venezuela, the advances made by the student and union movements, and the impact of the Venezuelan Revolution on Cuba, Bolivia, and the world.

Info: canada@handsoffvenezuela.org www.handsoffvenezuela.org

POST #11 // ISSUE: Racism; Repression of Activists // ACTION: Attend a Court Hearing

2006-05-10T01:28:00.000-04:00

The Bail Review hearing for Gary Freeman is scheduled to continue on Thursday, May 11, 10:30am, in Courtroom 7 of the Ontario Court of Appeal in Osgoode Hall at 130 Queen Street West (north side, near the intersection with University Avenue).

www.freemandrum.org

Joseph Pannell (now known as Gary Freeman) lived in the US until the 1970s when a police officer tried to kill him. He was targetted for being an activist, and for being Black. Many activists were murdered by the state during this decade as part of COINTELPRO. He acted in self-defense and killed his attacker to save his own life. Charged with murder, he fled to Canada. Now they are trying to send him back to the US to lock him up.

DETAILS

Joseph Pannell came to Canada to become Gary Freeman. Why?

Would a young African-American involved in an incident with police get a fair hearing in early 70's Chicago?

Did the FBI's COINTELPRO, under J. Edgar Hoover, target black community activists and organizations for extinction?

Were the peace and liberation movements being crushed under the repressive weight of the American government with Richard M. Nixon as president?

Was the USA turning away from the progressive seeds sown in the 60's?

Had many other Americans chosen to start their lives over in Canada?

After 35 years, with mishandled evidence and missing witnesses, an otherwise clear case of self-defense becomes a question of his word against that of a police officer. Since August 2004, denied bail, he waits in prison for extradition to the USA.

The story

Read "Cold Case Fueled By Race And Politics", an article published February 5, 2005, in the Toronto Star (Toronto's major daily newspaper), for an overview of this story by reporters Peter Edwards and Harold Levy.

Also read "You see a fugitive, I see a friend", a personal appreciation of Gary Freeman by reporter Morgan Campbell from the Toronto Star Sunday edition of February 6, 2005.

See NOW magazine's article "Fishing for an Extradition" published on Thursday, May 19, 2005.

POST #10 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Phone Call, Email, or Letter -- pre-written

2006-05-10T01:13:00.000-04:00

Urgent Action Needed to Save Canadian Muslim Held in UzbekistanHuseyin Celil Faces Torture, Execution if Sent to ChinaContact Minister of Foreign Affairs Peter MacKay.

Born in China, Mr. Celil advocated for the rights of the minorityUygur people, for which he was arrested and tortured by Chinese authorities. He escaped from prison and in Canada, eventually becaming a citizen. He was unable to be reunited with three of his children, left behind in China.

He recently travelled back to Uzbekistan in the hope that relatives there might be able to facilitate reunification with his children. But on his arrival in that country March 26, he was detained. It appears that Uzbekistan is prepared to hand him over to Chinese authorities, where he faces likely execution.

The government of Canada needs to speak upstrongly and demand that Mr. Celil be released and returned home.

Please contact Foreign Affairs Minister Peter MacKay (sample letter below) and cc us at tasc@web.ca

Honourable Peter MacKay125 Sussex Drive,Ottawa, ON,K1A 0G2 // FAX: 613.992.2337 // E-MAIL: MacKay.P@parl.gc.ca

Also, it would help to email a copy to your MP and to the prime minister.

Your MPP -- can find by typing your postal code in at http://www.electionsontario.on.ca/fyed/en/form_page_en.jsp

Prime Minister Stephen Harper: pm@pm.gc.ca // fax 613-941-6900 // phone613-992-4211 // Office of the Prime Minister, 80 Wellington Street, Ottawa K1A 0A2, Canada

SAMPLE LETTER

Dear Hon. Peter MacKay:

RE: Huseyin CELIL (JELIL)

Canadian Citizen Imprisoned in Uzbekistan

I am writing bercause I heard about the case of Huseyin Celil, (Jelil), aCanadian citizen and father of six children currently imprisoned inUzbekistan and facing possible deportation to China, where he faces tortureand execution for his past record as a human rights activist. Mr. Celil isof Uygur ethnicity, originally from China. He came to Canada as a refugeein 2001 after having escaped a year of torture in a Chinese prison. Herecently became a Canadian citizen along with his wife and 3 of hischildren. He had gone to Uzbekistan to see if he could be reunited with histhree older children, who have been unable to emigrate to Canada.It is clear that if Uzbekistan turns Mr. Celil over to China or Kyrgyzstan,he will be returned to the torture from which he originally escaped, andwill likely face execution as well. As you know, China's record withrespect to human rights activists is an especially poor one.I am calling on you to speak out strongly and publicly for the immediaterelease of Mr. Celil and guaranteed safe passage back to Canada.

Sincerely,

Name

Address

POST #9 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Online Petition

2006-05-09T23:01:00.000-04:00

A Turkish woman named Eren Keskin recently delivered a speech entitled "Women's Rights are Human Rights" which included information regarding violence by the state against Turkish citizens. For this she faces 10 months imprisonment.

Support her by signing the petition at: http://www.erenkeskinedestek.org/en_index.php

DETAILS

Eren Keskin (Lawyer, Founding member of the Legal Aid Office for the Victims of Sexual Harassment and Rape in Custody and human rights activist, Turkey) delivered a speech in 2002 at a conference in Cologne, Germany under the theme "Women's Rights are Human Rights". In this speech she shared the results of their study on incidents of violence originating in action of the state with the public. As a result of this speech she has been convicted of an offense defined by the article 301 of New Turkish Penal Code by the court decision, and subjected to 6000 New Turkish Liras to pay in return 10 months imprisonment.

We, the women forming Eren Keskin Solidarity Network, believe that this punishment is a punishment on all who believe in democracy and peace. We call on everyone who believes in democracy and considers freedom of speech as an essential plank of a democratic society, and we call on all who believe and all who say "Stop violence against women!" to join and take part of the campaign, "Solidarity with Eren Keskin for Women and Human Rights".

Please visit the website of the campaign and contribute to the campaign by signing the petition, and circulating all around you, who believe in democracy and human rights.

Website: http://www.erenkeskinedestek.org/en_index.php

Contact us: womenwitherenkeskin@gmail.com
The Women in Solidarity with Eren Keskin Network

POST #8 // ISSUE: War on "Terror" // ACTION: Email, pre-wrriten

2006-05-09T22:51:00.000-04:00

The Bush administration has been threatening the possibility of waging war on Iran, even the possibility of using nuclear weapons against this country that does not have nuclear weapons. Go to the link below to send a pre-written email to Kofi Annan to tell him to publically denounce a war on Iran as illegal.

http://www.democracyinaction.org/dia/organizationsORG/codepink/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=262

The email is pre-written, but you can add to it, delete from it, or write one entirely from scratch if you choose.

Also, send an email to First Lady Laura Bush to ask her how she, as a mother, can continue to support a war that is leaving thousands of American and Iraqi mothers bereft, and children orphans. Try to send this on Mother's Day weekend!

http://www.codepinkalert.org//article.php?id=878

POST #7 // ISSUE: The Environment // ACTION: Various

2006-05-09T22:15:00.001-04:00

Kimberly-Clark, the corporation which brings you Kleenex, uses old-growth trees to make its products. These ancient forests are essential in fighting climate change and providing home to wildlife, and Kimberly-Clark turns them into products that are flushed down the toilet or thrown away. Despite pressure, it has refused to adopt environmentally sustainable practices.

For more information, visit:
http://kleercut.net/en/theissues

To take action, visit:
http://kleercut.net/en/takeaction

There are six actions recommended through that link. But, if your time is limited, at least call Kimberly-Clarke to tell them you don't want the future of our planet flushed away! The phone-number and recommendations of what to say are found via the above link.

Also, STOP buying Kimberly-Clarke products.

Canada: Kleenex
United States: Kleenex, Scott, Viva, Cottonelle
Global: Kleenex, Cottonelle, Cottonelle Puppy, Andrex, Scottbrand, Hakle, Scottex

Ancient Forest Friendly Tissue Products - Canada

Toilet Paper: Fiesta, April Soft, Ambiance, Atlantic, Basic Choice, Basics for Less, Best Buy, Cascades, Fluffs, Equality, Earth Friendly Products, PC Green, Merit Selection, Econochoice, Safeway Recycled, Smartchoice, Seventh Generation, Super C, Twice as Soft
Facial Tissue: Cascades, Seventh Generation
Paper Towels: Fiesta, Atlantic, Cascades, Cascades Ultra, Equality, Earth Friendly Products, PC Green, Econochoice, Merit Selection, Safeway Recycled, Seventh Generation, Smartchoice, Super C
Napkins: Champion, Décor, No Name, Econochoice, Merit Selection, Seventh Generation, Smartchoice, Super C

POST #6 // ISSUE: Privatization of Public Services // ACTION: Various

2006-05-09T22:08:00.000-04:00

This is kind of old news, but perhaps some of you haven't heard. Public health care is under attack in Ontario!

For more information, visit: http://www.protecthealthcare.ca/ (and click on "Q & A")

For things you can do to stop this, visit: http://www.protecthealthcare.ca/ (and click on "How You Can Help")

SUMMARY

The Ontario government has rushed through radical health care legislation that sets up new regional health boards called Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs).
This legislation diminishes access to local health care delivery, threatens stability for thousands of health care workers, opens the door for private-for-profit corporations, and reduces local control.

What does this really mean for patients and health care workers?

The proposed health networks are simply government - appointed executive boards with a mandate to merge, transfer or even wind up services within the vast LHIN region.

· Service mergers mean job loss: You’ll see fewer nurses, fewer MRI technologists, fewer cleaning staff, fewer pharmacy technicians, fewer RPNs, fewer dietary staff, fewer clerical workers…

· This means no more one-stop-shopping for health care at your local hospital or clinic. Under this Liberal plan you will have to travel farther to many different “centralized” locations for procedures, depending on who wins what contracts.

The legislation opens the door to competitive bidding.

· For workers, this means re-applying for your job every couple of years, with no guarantees you’ll get the job or keep your benefits or pension.

· For patients, this means less access to health services locally. Every couple of years when contracts expire, your care provider could change and you would have to go somewhere else.

· Constant turnover of contracts will drive workers to other provinces or out of health care altogether, creating shortages.

· Providers will cut corners to reduce costs and win contracts. The quality of care you receive will suffer.

While the legislation has passed, it is not too late to act.

POST #5 // ISSUE: Abuse of Animals // ACTION: Email and/or Letter

2006-05-09T21:27:00.000-04:00

Animals are being held in captivity and subjected to pain and terror for the entertainment of humans. They call it the rodeo.

Starbucks has been sponsoring various rodeos lately. Please email or write to the CEO and tell him you won't buy Starbucks coffee or other Starbucks products anymore until this stops.

Even if you don't buy from Starbucks, or even if you do and don't plan on stopping for this, the CEO will never know the difference. Just write as if you are a frequent customer who is so outraged by this you have decided to take your business elsewhere.

Jim Donald, CEOStarbucks Corp. // P.O. Box 3717 // Seattle, WA 98124 // 206-447-1575 // 206-447-0828 (fax) // Email Starbucks

DETAILS

Urge Starbucks to Buck the Rodeo!

Starbucks Corporation has faced intense public scrutiny recently for sponsoring various rodeos and rodeo organizations, including Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming, the Miss Rodeo Washington Association, the PRCA Belton Rodeo, and the Calgary Stampede. In some instances, Starbucks donated money; in others, it donated beverages. Regardless of the nature of the donation, the company that’s been heralded for its progressive policies and hot coffee is suddenly alienating consumers through its affiliation with cruelty to animals.

Rodeos are a cruel form of “entertainment.” Every national animal protection organization opposes rodeos because of the events’ inherent cruelty. Rodeo promoters say that the animals are wild and rough, but without the use of spurs, tail-twisting, and bucking straps cinched around their abdomens, these frightened and usually docile animals wouldn’t even buck. They are often terrorized when participants shock them with electric prods, twist their necks, yank them by their tails or legs, slam them to the ground, or otherwise batter them. Following a life of confinement, abuse, pain, and fear, the final destination for most of these animals is the slaughterhouse.

The Calgary Stampede, a 10-day annual rodeo and exhibition that boasts hideous events such as chuckwagon races, bears responsibility for the deaths of at least nine horses in July 2005 alone. Animals have fallen, drowned, jumped to their deaths, and sustained injuries severe enough to require euthanasia.

Please write a short, polite letter to Starbucks and urge the company to live up to its socially responsible reputation by adopting a company-wide policy prohibiting rodeo sponsorships:

Jim Donald, CEOStarbucks Corp.P.O. Box 3717Seattle, WA 98124206-447-1575206-447-0828 (fax)Email Starbucks

POST #4 // ISSUE: Anti-Apartheid in Palestine-Israel// ACTION: Protest Rally

2006-05-09T21:14:00.000-04:00

What? Protest Rally

When? Monday May 15th, 4pm - 6pm (also the 58th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba which means catastrophe)

Where? The Lipa Green Building, 4600 Bathurst Street (between Sheppard & Finch)

Why? Nefesh B’Nefesh, a Zionist settlement organization, has been recruiting Canadians (including those from Toronto) and facilitates their settlement in Palestine. Incentives are beingoffered to Zionists to relocate to occupied arreas of Jerusalem andsettlements deep in the West Bank, like Maaleh Adumim. Meanwhile, Palestinian refugees violently expelled in1948 and 1967 are refused their internationally recognised Right of Return to their home country.

Directions? IF YOU'RE TAKING THE TTC:
From York University: 196B to Bathurst, change to 160 or 7 north
From Downsview subway station: 84 or 196B east on Sheppard to Bathurst,change to 160 or 7 north
From Sheppard subway station: 84 or 196B west on Sheppard to Bathurst,change to 160 or 7 north

Inspiring quote: This is not something happening in far away lands that we can’t doanything about. It is happening right here in the city of Toronto and mustnot go unchallenged.

DETAILS

In Commemoration of the 58th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba(Catastrophe) - Join the Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid (CAIA) to:>>>>PROTEST THE CONTINUING COLONIZATION OF PALESTINE!!! <<<================================================= Join us on May 15 2006 anytime from 4-6pm at the Lipa Green Building (4600Bathurst) to commemorate the 58th anniversary of the Palestinian Nakba –the Catastrophe of 1948 that heralded the beginning of beginning of theOccupation. More than 450 Palestinian villages were destroyed and around900,000 Palestinians driven from their homes, beginning a process ofethnic cleansing that continues to this day. We will be protesting a settler-recruitment drive by Nefesh B’Nefesh, aZionist settlement organization that recruits Canadians and facilitatestheir settlement in Palestine. These colonialist activities should not betaking place in Canada and have no place in the 21st century! WhileZionist colonization continues, Palestinian refugees violently expelled in1948 and 1967 are refused their internationally recognised Right of Returnby the Israeli apartheid regime! Nefesh B’Nefesh was founded with the purpose of recruiting North Americansfor settlement activities in Palestine. In 2002 Nefesh B’Nefesh sponsoredthe largest simultaneous 'aliyah' (Hebrew for 'ascent' to the 'promisedland') of settlers from North America to Israel. Incentives are beingoffered to Zionists to relocate to occupied arreas of Jerusalem andsettlements deep in the West Bank, like Maaleh Adumim. Despite this agrowing number of citizens of Jewish faith and/or cultural background areobjecting to Zionist political pressure, refusing to be recruited toparticipate in the colonial occupation of Palestinian land. The falseconcept of 'aliyah' is one of the many tools used to persuade NorthAmericans and other citizens that they have a homeland in someone else’sland! THIS COLONIZATION OF PALESTINIAN LANDS MUST STOP! This is not something happening in far away lands that we can’t doanything about. It is happening right here in the city of Toronto and mustnot go unchallenged. For more information contact the Coalition Against Israeli Apartheid(CAIA) at: endapartheid@riseup.net

POST #3 // ISSUE: Anti-Apartheid in Palestine-Israel// ACTION: Film & Discussion

2006-05-09T21:07:00.000-04:00

What? Film, entitled "Jerusalem 1948: Yoom Ilak, Yoom Aleik"

When? Sunday May 14th, 6:30pm

Where? Bahen Center, 40 St. George (north of College), room 1130

Price? Free, but donations welcome

DETAILS

SUNDAY MAY 14: FILM SCREENING TO COMMEMORATE AL-NAKBAOn Sunday May 14, Al-Awda Right of Return Coalition (Toronto) commemoratesthe 58th anniversary of Al-Nakba with a film screening of the documentary:Jerusalem 1948: Yoom Ilak, Yoom Aleik. The evening will include a discussionperiod about Al-Nakba and the situation of Palestinian refugees in Canada.

Al-Nakba (Arabic for Catastrophe) refers to the historic and tragic event ofthe ETHNIC CLEANSING and DISPOSSESSION of the Palestinian people fromhistoric Palestine which began in 1948. More than 450 Palestinian villageswere destroyed and around 900,000 Palestinians driven from their homes,beginning a process of ethnic cleansing that continues to this day.ABOUT THE FILMJerusalem 1948: Yoom Ilak, Yoom AleikJERUSALEM 1948 covers the events in Jerusalem and the major villages to thesouth and west in the period between the 1947 UN Partition Resolution andthe first truce between the Arab and Israel armed forces in June 1948. Thefilm challenges the major myths surrounding the war of 1948 that resulted inIsraeli statehood and Palestinian exile.The film aims, on the one hand, to explain the historical complexity of thePalestinian Nakba in 1948 and provide insight into the diversity ofPalestinian refugee experiences since then. Palestinian eyewitnesses andexperts, now refugees living in refugee camps, villages and cities inPalestine, Jordan and the USA tell the story of their lives in pre-1948Jerusalem.JERUSALEM 1948 is based on three years of research on the circumstances ofPalestinian eviction from the New City of Jerusalem (now Israeli WestJerusalem) conducted in cooperation with the Institute for JerusalemStudies.

For more information please contact us at: info@al-awda.ca

POST #2 // ISSUE: Domestic Repression in USA // ACTION: Lecture

2006-05-09T20:56:00.000-04:00

What? Lecture, entitled "From COINTELPRO to the Patriot Act: Liberation Movements & the FightAgainst State Repression"

When? Friday May 12th, 2006, 6:30pm

Where? Toronto Reference Library, on Yonge street 1 block north of Bloor street

Who? Susan Tipograph and Robert 'Seth' Hayes

Price? Free

DETAILS

Susan Tipograph has been a criminal defence lawyer in New York City for 30years. A long-time member of the National Lawyers Guild, she has been astaunch defender of activists, organizers and others made the target ofstate repression. Some of Susan's notable trials include the Ohio 7prosecution, the state and federal cases arising from the 1981 Brinksincident in Rockland County, New York (defending Judith Clark, SilviaBaraldini and David Gilbert) and the 1998 rebellion in New York City'sTompkins Square Park. Among her clients have been Raise the Fist webmasterSherman Austin, Lynne Stewart, former Black Panthers including Robert 'Seth'Hayes and Herman Bell, members of the FALN, Macheteros and other PuertoRican independistas, as well as countless civil disobedience anddemonstration arrestees from the anti-globalization, HIV/AIDS, anti-war andother movements.In addition to Susan's talk, US Political Prisoner (and former member of theBlack Panther Party and Black Liberation Army) Robert 'Seth' Hayes willaddress the audience and local organizers will give an update about Seth'sparole campaign.This event is organized by the Law Union of Ontario and the Toronto Robert'Seth' Hayes support committee, and is sponsored by Upping the Anti, OCAP,81 Reasons Campaign, Prisoners Justice Action Committee, Common Front LegalCollective, Prisoners' HIV/AIDS Support Action Network (PASAN) and theSumoud Palestinian Political Prisoners Group.This event is free. For more information or to book a space to table at theevent please e-mail info@sethhayes.org or go tohttp://sethhayes.revolt.org/node/28

POST #1 // ISSUE: Human Rights // ACTION: Email, pre-written

2006-05-09T20:42:00.000-04:00

Please take action to protect Lydia Cacho Ribeiro, president of the Women's Assistance Center in Cancun, Mexico, who has been charged with criminal defamation in reprisal for implicating prominent businessmen in a child pornography ring.

http://action.humanrightsfirst.org/campaign/Cacho?rk=l7Mpow515BaOW