by AlanMWolf on 2011-02-21 newsobserver.com blogs
A coalition of labor, civil rights and religious groups rallied in front of the General Assembly offices today to call for an end to North Carolina's ban on public employees' collective bargaining and to resist balancing the state budget at the expense of public sector jobs and programs.
The rally drew about 100 supporters who listened to several speakers representing labor, churches and the NAACP, staff writer Craig Jarvis reports. About two dozen people staged a counter-protest across across the street in Bicentennial Plaza, shouting and chanting throughout the rally.
Both sides cited the public employees' union standoff in Wisconsin, where that state's governor has proposed to reduce public employee's pay and benefits and to limit their collective-bargaining rights.
"In North Carolina and the rest of the Southern states, we are denied collective bargaining," Saladin Muhammad of the International Workers Justice Campaign and UE Local 150 North Carolina Public Service Workers Union. "That came out of a period called Jim Crow."
Coalition members filed into the Legislative Building to present copies of the call for a repeal on the bargaining prohibition to the offices of Sen. Phil Berger, pro tem of the Senate and to Rep. Tom Tillis, speaker of the house. Tillis briefly greeted rally leaders and agreed to schedule a time for a more substantial meeting.
North Carolina and Virginia are the only states that have a complete ban on public employee collective bargaining.
Randy Dye of Pittsboro, one of the counter-protesters, said the network of Triangle conservative organizations only heard about the rally 24 hours earlier, and didn't have enough time to mount a larger presence. "We wanted to face off with them," he said.
The conservative protesters carried signs reading "Unions -- Too Big, Too Costly" and "Wisconsin: Pass the Bill." They shouted "freeloaders!" and chanted "U.S.A"
The other side countered with their own chants, including "People's budget! People's budget!"
Showing posts with label Raleigh. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Raleigh. Show all posts
September 5: Raleigh Forum on Economic Crisis and G20
Fight for jobs, human rights, education, and an end to imperialist wars!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
12:00pm - 1:30pm
The Richard B. Harrison Library
1313 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, NC
Sponsored by Triangle F.I.S.T. and the Bail Out the People Movement
Info: BailOutPeopleNC@gmail.com
Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=144891892094
"If you don't have a job, fight to get one-
If you have one, fight to keep it"
"A new world is possible, but we must fight for it."
Unemployment, especially of youth and people of color, is skyrocketing, despite the misrepresentation in the mainstream media that unemployment is still low*. Many, many more are underemployed, often having to work two, even three jobs to barely make ends meet. Even more do not receive adequate benefits, such as affordable health insurance, from employment.
Many of those fortunate enough to have jobs are facing forced cuts in hours, pay, and benefits. Tuition is increasing and financial aid options are decreasing whilst class sizes continue increasing and the quality of education is decreasing.
On September 24-25, delegates from the 20 countries with the largest economies and delegates from the IMF and WTO will gather in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for the G20 summit to discuss how they can further further corporate and imperialist interests.
To protest the G20, a Tent City march will occur outside from September 20-25.
Protests will commence with a mass March for Jobs on Sunday, September 20, where we will fight for jobs at a living wage for all.
On August 29, 2009, a panel of speakers will present on the aforementioned various issues working class people are facing in relation to the G20 (youth issues, unemployment, workplace oppression, along with general information on the G20) and answer your questions
Triangle F.I.S.T. and Bail Out the People Movement NC are organizing a caravan from NC to Pittsburgh for the march and summit. More information will be provided at this forum.
So, invite all your friends and build the movement!
*mainstream unemployment figures only take into account those who are still actively searching for jobs, not taking into account people who have withdrawn from the job market, are underemployed, and/or have resorted to working 2-3 part time jobs to make ends meet.
This is even worse for youth, as: “Only 65 of every 100 men aged 20 through 24 years old were working on any given day in the first six months of this year. … For male teenagers, the numbers were disastrous: only 28 of every 100 males were employed in the 16 through 19-year-old age group. For minority teenagers, forget about it. The numbers are beyond scary; they’re catastrophic.” (source http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/11/opinion/11herbert.tm)
**NOTE: This forum is for anyone who's interested in the economic crisis at hand, unemployment, tuition hikes, budget cuts, repression in the workplace, and how to fight the increased burdens being placed on the backs of working people, NOT just people who are interested in going to the G20 march and/or tent city.
If you need a ride, we will provide it for you.**
http://raleighfist.wordpress.com/2009/08/14/aug-29-raleigh-meeting-to-build-for-g20-protest-jobs-march/#more-542
http://bailoutpeople.org/
Saturday, September 5, 2009
12:00pm - 1:30pm
The Richard B. Harrison Library
1313 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, NC
Sponsored by Triangle F.I.S.T. and the Bail Out the People Movement
Info: BailOutPeopleNC@gmail.com
Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=144891892094
"If you don't have a job, fight to get one-
If you have one, fight to keep it"
"A new world is possible, but we must fight for it."
Unemployment, especially of youth and people of color, is skyrocketing, despite the misrepresentation in the mainstream media that unemployment is still low*. Many, many more are underemployed, often having to work two, even three jobs to barely make ends meet. Even more do not receive adequate benefits, such as affordable health insurance, from employment.
Many of those fortunate enough to have jobs are facing forced cuts in hours, pay, and benefits. Tuition is increasing and financial aid options are decreasing whilst class sizes continue increasing and the quality of education is decreasing.
On September 24-25, delegates from the 20 countries with the largest economies and delegates from the IMF and WTO will gather in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for the G20 summit to discuss how they can further further corporate and imperialist interests.
To protest the G20, a Tent City march will occur outside from September 20-25.
Protests will commence with a mass March for Jobs on Sunday, September 20, where we will fight for jobs at a living wage for all.
On August 29, 2009, a panel of speakers will present on the aforementioned various issues working class people are facing in relation to the G20 (youth issues, unemployment, workplace oppression, along with general information on the G20) and answer your questions
Triangle F.I.S.T. and Bail Out the People Movement NC are organizing a caravan from NC to Pittsburgh for the march and summit. More information will be provided at this forum.
So, invite all your friends and build the movement!
*mainstream unemployment figures only take into account those who are still actively searching for jobs, not taking into account people who have withdrawn from the job market, are underemployed, and/or have resorted to working 2-3 part time jobs to make ends meet.
This is even worse for youth, as: “Only 65 of every 100 men aged 20 through 24 years old were working on any given day in the first six months of this year. … For male teenagers, the numbers were disastrous: only 28 of every 100 males were employed in the 16 through 19-year-old age group. For minority teenagers, forget about it. The numbers are beyond scary; they’re catastrophic.” (source http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/11/opinion/11herbert.tm)
**NOTE: This forum is for anyone who's interested in the economic crisis at hand, unemployment, tuition hikes, budget cuts, repression in the workplace, and how to fight the increased burdens being placed on the backs of working people, NOT just people who are interested in going to the G20 march and/or tent city.
If you need a ride, we will provide it for you.**
http://raleighfist.wordpress.com/2009/08/14/aug-29-raleigh-meeting-to-build-for-g20-protest-jobs-march/#more-542
http://bailoutpeople.org/
Health Care Rallies All Across NC on Saturday, August 29th
The novelty of the news coverage of the rowdiness of the health care reform debate is wearing off. And as the dust settles, we realize that the lies about reform didn't stick and that there are more people in North Carolina who support real reform than opponents who don't.
Our numbers have always been larger than the side fighting against reform, but at the beginning of Congress' August recess, opponents were more visible. That is not the case any more, and we need to end August with a real display of public support so our Senators and Representatives remember what they are working for when they return to Washington.
Come to the rally and listen to our speakers who include:
You are not going to want to miss this event!
We need as many people as possible to come and show their support, but we also need volunteers. Click here to volunteer to gather signatures on letters or petitions to Senator Kay Hagan. We also need people to help clean up after the event. If you want to be a member of the Green Crew and make sure we leave the Capitol as nice as we found it, please click here.
Here are the Details About the Events Happening This Saturday:
RALEIGH HEALTH CARE CAN'T WAIT RALLY
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 am - 11:30 am
WHERE: State Capital Building (south side)
FOR MORE INFO: Debra@ncjustice.org, 919.856.2169 or NC Fair Share 1.866.302.0031
ASHEVILLE HEALTH CARE CAN'T WAIT RALLY
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
WHERE: Pritchard Park on Patton Avenue
FOR MORE INFO: Leslie Boyd, 828.243.6712
GREENVILLE HEALTH CARE CAN'T WAIT RALLY
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
WHERE: Corner of Charles Blvd. & Greenville Blvd.
FOR MORE INFO: Frank, 252.327.8843
CHARLOTTE HEALTH CARE REFORM EDUCATIONAL FORUM
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 2009 3:30 - 6:00 PM
WHERE: Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church
1243 West Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28208
WHAT: To inform, educate, and provide facts to the citizens of Charlotte about Healthcare Reform
FOR MORE INFO: Gautami Desai at 704.779.9250 or gdnclt1@gmail.com.
Because of advocates like you, we will win health care reform! Thank you for all that you do, and bring a friend with you!
Warm Regards,
Pat McCoy and Lynice Williams
on behalf of the NC HCAN Steering Committee
p.s.- If you live in Eastern North Carolina and would like to come to Raleigh for the Rally, please see the information below:
2 FREE Bus Pickups in Wilmington
1- 6:00 AM Longshoreman Union Hall
2 - 6:30 AM Independence Mall
NC Kay Zwan -NCFS organizer is the coordinator for the Eastern NC Bus that will stop in Pender, Duplin, and Cumberland Counties please call her 713.267.2792. Let us know if you need transportation from your county.
Our numbers have always been larger than the side fighting against reform, but at the beginning of Congress' August recess, opponents were more visible. That is not the case any more, and we need to end August with a real display of public support so our Senators and Representatives remember what they are working for when they return to Washington.
Come to the rally and listen to our speakers who include:
* Rev. Dr. William Barber of the NC NAACPAlso, there will be a choral performance from the great folks at Fruits of Labor and a skit from Billionaires Against Health Care Reform.
* MaryBe McMillian of the AFL-CIO of NC
* Bob Jackson of the AARP
* Margarida Jorge, National Field Director for HCAN
You are not going to want to miss this event!
We need as many people as possible to come and show their support, but we also need volunteers. Click here to volunteer to gather signatures on letters or petitions to Senator Kay Hagan. We also need people to help clean up after the event. If you want to be a member of the Green Crew and make sure we leave the Capitol as nice as we found it, please click here.
Here are the Details About the Events Happening This Saturday:
RALEIGH HEALTH CARE CAN'T WAIT RALLY
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 am - 11:30 am
WHERE: State Capital Building (south side)
FOR MORE INFO: Debra@ncjustice.org, 919.856.2169 or NC Fair Share 1.866.302.0031
ASHEVILLE HEALTH CARE CAN'T WAIT RALLY
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
WHERE: Pritchard Park on Patton Avenue
FOR MORE INFO: Leslie Boyd, 828.243.6712
GREENVILLE HEALTH CARE CAN'T WAIT RALLY
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
WHERE: Corner of Charles Blvd. & Greenville Blvd.
FOR MORE INFO: Frank, 252.327.8843
CHARLOTTE HEALTH CARE REFORM EDUCATIONAL FORUM
WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 2009 3:30 - 6:00 PM
WHERE: Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church
1243 West Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28208
WHAT: To inform, educate, and provide facts to the citizens of Charlotte about Healthcare Reform
FOR MORE INFO: Gautami Desai at 704.779.9250 or gdnclt1@gmail.com.
Because of advocates like you, we will win health care reform! Thank you for all that you do, and bring a friend with you!
Warm Regards,
Pat McCoy and Lynice Williams
on behalf of the NC HCAN Steering Committee
p.s.- If you live in Eastern North Carolina and would like to come to Raleigh for the Rally, please see the information below:
2 FREE Bus Pickups in Wilmington
1- 6:00 AM Longshoreman Union Hall
2 - 6:30 AM Independence Mall
NC Kay Zwan -NCFS organizer is the coordinator for the Eastern NC Bus that will stop in Pender, Duplin, and Cumberland Counties please call her 713.267.2792. Let us know if you need transportation from your county.
NC Meeting to Plan Transportation to Upcoming G20 Protest, Jobs March and Tent City
There will be a meeting of endorsers of the G20 Protest, Jobs March and Tent City in Raleigh, NC on Saturday, August 29th at 1pm. Location TBAEndorsing organizations from North Carolina will be going up to Pittsburgh in a series of caravans. Please join us!
Contact BailOutPeopleNC@gmail.com
Info on Sept. 20 Jobs March & Sept. 20 - 25 Tent City at http://bailoutpeople.org
Bail Out the People Movement
Info on Sept. 25 People's March on the G20
http://pittsburghendthewar.org/
Rally to say "US Imperialism Hands Off Iran!" in Raleigh
Raleigh, Friday, July 31st 4-6pm
State Capital buiding in downtown Raleigh, corner of Morgan St and Fayeteville St.
Info: Raleigh F.I.S.T. 919-604-8167
Stop War on Iran says: Clarity needed
With his June 6 comments on ABC's This Week, Biden opened the door to a military attack when he said that the U.S. would not stand in the way of an Israeli strike against Iranian nuclear facilities, calling such an attack is Israel’s “sovereign right.” Israel, he said, was “free to do what it needed to do.”
The Geneva Conventions call it a war crime even to threaten to attack another state. This is not just rhetoric. Only with U.S. satellite, radar and the use of air space over U.S.-occupied Iraq could the Israeli bombing raid take place. Biden should be denounced as a war criminal for making such a reckless and dangerous encouragement of unprovoked war against Iran.
A U.S.-funded Israeli attack would immediately unleash a wider war. It would have catastrophic results for the whole Middle East and the Iranian people, even beyond what has already been done to the people of Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Palestine.
Biden’s new threat comes during a full corporate media offensive against Iran. Its timing should serve as an alert to the entire progressive and anti-war movement. U.S. aircraft carriers, destroyers, nuclear submarines, jet aircraft and drones clog the seas that wash up on Iranian shores.
Subversion, media lies target Tehran
In this dangerous war climate the entire U.S. and Western corporate media is again demonizing the Iranian government. It is using the media and well-funded, subversive organizations in a massive effort of destabilization and sabotage. Too often in the past this same combination of phony “human rights” organizations, who are given endless coverage in a corporate media frenzy, have helped to create a war climate through demonization, frauds and fabricated charges. This has happened before every U.S. attack or invasion, along with a concerted campaign of psychological warfare and internal destabilization in the target country.
One such organization leading this effort is the newly formed “United 4 Iran,” a fraudulent “left cover” for organizations funded by the U.S. government and big corporations. It is designed to use “human rights” and “democracy” to justify U.S. threats to attack Iran. This group has called phony “human rights” internationally coordinated protests for July 25. United 4 Iran is a front for organizations awash in money from the National Endowment for Democracy, a CIA cover organization for intervention, subversion, covert action in countries around the world. These same groups are supported by funds from Rockefeller, Soros, and Mellon foundations.
It is telling that United 4 Iran makes NO mention of the U.S. wars currently ripping apart the entire region. Hundreds of thousands of U.S. troops along with an army of private military contractors and mercenaries have created havoc in Iraq, Afghanistan and now Pakistan. U.S. funds and equipment have supported Israeli occupation and war on Palestine, Lebanon and Syria. Nor does this group mention the decades of U.S. military encirclement, sanctions, sabotage, attempted and actual coups against the people of Iran.
If these organizations were genuinely concerned with democracy, human rights and respect for elections why have they not called emergency actions in defense and support of the democratic elections in Gaza? In Gaza there was a democratic election overseen by Western international monitors. Hamas won overwhelmingly. The U.S. funded Israeli response was blockade and starvation against an entire people. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli bombardment.
Why the movement must reject anti-Iran provocations -
UFPJ should withdraw support of anti-Iran actions.
How we respond to these actions is a crucial question for the movement. Are we for another brutal U.S. war or against it?
It is profoundly disturbing that United for Peace and Justice UFPJ and other anti-war organizations have chosen to add their endorsement to these actions targeting the Iranian government. These anti-war groups should be in the forefront of opposing current U.S. wars and threats of wider war.
Stop War On Iran urges them and other honest anti-war forces to reconsider their endorsement of the anti-Iran actions. Anti-war activists in the United States, while demanding an end to the occupations of Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine, have an additional responsibility to oppose any military moves by the Pentagon or its allies against Iran and to oppose any moves by the former colonial powers to weaken Iran’s sovereignty.
Why U.S. imperialism targets Iran
The U.S. imperialist wars throughout the region are an effort by U.S. corporations to gain strategic domination of the vast oil and energy resources.
Since its 1979 revolution, Iran’s independence has been a thorn in the side of corporate billionaires in the U.S. and Britain and of the U.S.-funded Israeli settler state. When the Iranian people overthrew the brutal U.S.-backed shah dictatorship they finally regained control of their rich oil and gas resources. In 30 years time Iran developed industrially and vastly improved the educational and health level of the entire population.
Any intervention by the imperialist powers in Iran and any weakening of Iranian sovereignty will only diminish the rights of women, workers, and the access to democratic institutions there, just as it has happened in the rest of the region. Any intervention by the imperialists in Iran’s internal struggles is aimed either at aiding the side the imperialists see as more conciliatory to their plans, or to exacerbate the internal conflict in order to compromise and weaken the Iranian government.
U.S. wars don’t bring democracy
U.S. wars and occupations from Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan have never brought democracy or human rights. They have brought only oppressive military dictatorships, massive refugee crises, torture and millions of deaths.
Also, we cannot forget that it is U.S. troops, military equipment, and bases that keep corrupt feudal anti-woman monarchies in power in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, as well as the brutal dictatorship in Egypt.
The hypocrisy of U.S. politicians is staggering, as they condemn the actions of the Iranian government while sweeping their own crimes under the rug. Iran’s elections and disputes are an internal matter, to be resolved by the Iranian people and not the governments of imperialist countries with agendas of dominating Iran and a track record of using internal issues to justify military invasion.
Money for jobs and benefits, not for more war
In this time of global capitalist crisis, when millions are unemployed and millions more facing evictions and foreclosures, we must demand that the hundreds of billions of dollars spent on current U.S. wars and the trillions that would criminally wasted in a new war be spent for jobs, health care and housing for poor and working people in the U.S. and around the world.
We urge your endorsement and support of these simple demands:
We urge you NOT to march in the anti-Iran event, which is designed to give humanitarian cover to U.S. threats of war against Iran. Instead, come out AGAINST current U.S. wars and the threats of a new war on the following week in a National Day of Coordinated Actions on Saturday, August 1.
Contact Stop War On Iran if you are interested in organizing or supporting an action opposing U.S. threats on Iran on Saturday, August 1
Rally to say "US Imperialism Hands of Iran!"
Raleigh, Friday, July 31st 4-6pm
State Capital buiding in downtown Raleigh, corner of Morgan St and Fayeteville St.
Take action now:
Endorse this statement demand "U.S./Israeli hands off Iran!" - http://stopwaroniran.org/iran2009endorse.shtml
STOP WAR ON IRAN
www.StopWarOnIran.org
919-604-8167
State Capital buiding in downtown Raleigh, corner of Morgan St and Fayeteville St.
Info: Raleigh F.I.S.T. 919-604-8167
Stop War on Iran says: Clarity needed
* Why the U.S. anti-war movement should stand firmly against any military attack, sanctions or demonization of Iran.U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden’s new public threat against Iran underlines the dangers of a new war in the Middle East and the desperate need for political clarity within the anti-war movement concerning Iran.
* Boycott the Phony State Department/NED pro-war events on July 25
* Nationally-coordinated actions on August 1 to say "U.S. Hands Off Iran!"
With his June 6 comments on ABC's This Week, Biden opened the door to a military attack when he said that the U.S. would not stand in the way of an Israeli strike against Iranian nuclear facilities, calling such an attack is Israel’s “sovereign right.” Israel, he said, was “free to do what it needed to do.”
The Geneva Conventions call it a war crime even to threaten to attack another state. This is not just rhetoric. Only with U.S. satellite, radar and the use of air space over U.S.-occupied Iraq could the Israeli bombing raid take place. Biden should be denounced as a war criminal for making such a reckless and dangerous encouragement of unprovoked war against Iran.
A U.S.-funded Israeli attack would immediately unleash a wider war. It would have catastrophic results for the whole Middle East and the Iranian people, even beyond what has already been done to the people of Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Palestine.
Biden’s new threat comes during a full corporate media offensive against Iran. Its timing should serve as an alert to the entire progressive and anti-war movement. U.S. aircraft carriers, destroyers, nuclear submarines, jet aircraft and drones clog the seas that wash up on Iranian shores.
Subversion, media lies target Tehran
In this dangerous war climate the entire U.S. and Western corporate media is again demonizing the Iranian government. It is using the media and well-funded, subversive organizations in a massive effort of destabilization and sabotage. Too often in the past this same combination of phony “human rights” organizations, who are given endless coverage in a corporate media frenzy, have helped to create a war climate through demonization, frauds and fabricated charges. This has happened before every U.S. attack or invasion, along with a concerted campaign of psychological warfare and internal destabilization in the target country.
One such organization leading this effort is the newly formed “United 4 Iran,” a fraudulent “left cover” for organizations funded by the U.S. government and big corporations. It is designed to use “human rights” and “democracy” to justify U.S. threats to attack Iran. This group has called phony “human rights” internationally coordinated protests for July 25. United 4 Iran is a front for organizations awash in money from the National Endowment for Democracy, a CIA cover organization for intervention, subversion, covert action in countries around the world. These same groups are supported by funds from Rockefeller, Soros, and Mellon foundations.
It is telling that United 4 Iran makes NO mention of the U.S. wars currently ripping apart the entire region. Hundreds of thousands of U.S. troops along with an army of private military contractors and mercenaries have created havoc in Iraq, Afghanistan and now Pakistan. U.S. funds and equipment have supported Israeli occupation and war on Palestine, Lebanon and Syria. Nor does this group mention the decades of U.S. military encirclement, sanctions, sabotage, attempted and actual coups against the people of Iran.
If these organizations were genuinely concerned with democracy, human rights and respect for elections why have they not called emergency actions in defense and support of the democratic elections in Gaza? In Gaza there was a democratic election overseen by Western international monitors. Hamas won overwhelmingly. The U.S. funded Israeli response was blockade and starvation against an entire people. Thousands of Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli bombardment.
Why the movement must reject anti-Iran provocations -
UFPJ should withdraw support of anti-Iran actions.
How we respond to these actions is a crucial question for the movement. Are we for another brutal U.S. war or against it?
It is profoundly disturbing that United for Peace and Justice UFPJ and other anti-war organizations have chosen to add their endorsement to these actions targeting the Iranian government. These anti-war groups should be in the forefront of opposing current U.S. wars and threats of wider war.
Stop War On Iran urges them and other honest anti-war forces to reconsider their endorsement of the anti-Iran actions. Anti-war activists in the United States, while demanding an end to the occupations of Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine, have an additional responsibility to oppose any military moves by the Pentagon or its allies against Iran and to oppose any moves by the former colonial powers to weaken Iran’s sovereignty.
Why U.S. imperialism targets Iran
The U.S. imperialist wars throughout the region are an effort by U.S. corporations to gain strategic domination of the vast oil and energy resources.
Since its 1979 revolution, Iran’s independence has been a thorn in the side of corporate billionaires in the U.S. and Britain and of the U.S.-funded Israeli settler state. When the Iranian people overthrew the brutal U.S.-backed shah dictatorship they finally regained control of their rich oil and gas resources. In 30 years time Iran developed industrially and vastly improved the educational and health level of the entire population.
Any intervention by the imperialist powers in Iran and any weakening of Iranian sovereignty will only diminish the rights of women, workers, and the access to democratic institutions there, just as it has happened in the rest of the region. Any intervention by the imperialists in Iran’s internal struggles is aimed either at aiding the side the imperialists see as more conciliatory to their plans, or to exacerbate the internal conflict in order to compromise and weaken the Iranian government.
U.S. wars don’t bring democracy
U.S. wars and occupations from Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan have never brought democracy or human rights. They have brought only oppressive military dictatorships, massive refugee crises, torture and millions of deaths.
Also, we cannot forget that it is U.S. troops, military equipment, and bases that keep corrupt feudal anti-woman monarchies in power in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, as well as the brutal dictatorship in Egypt.
The hypocrisy of U.S. politicians is staggering, as they condemn the actions of the Iranian government while sweeping their own crimes under the rug. Iran’s elections and disputes are an internal matter, to be resolved by the Iranian people and not the governments of imperialist countries with agendas of dominating Iran and a track record of using internal issues to justify military invasion.
Money for jobs and benefits, not for more war
In this time of global capitalist crisis, when millions are unemployed and millions more facing evictions and foreclosures, we must demand that the hundreds of billions of dollars spent on current U.S. wars and the trillions that would criminally wasted in a new war be spent for jobs, health care and housing for poor and working people in the U.S. and around the world.
We urge your endorsement and support of these simple demands:
1. We oppose military aggression by the U.S., Britain, or Israel against Iran.Endorse here: http://stopwaroniran.org/iran2009endorse.shtml
2. We oppose economic, diplomatic or other sanctions against Iran whatever their excuse.
3. We demand an end to subversion, de-stabilization, covert actions instigated by the U.S. and its military or spy agencies directed at Iran.
We urge you NOT to march in the anti-Iran event, which is designed to give humanitarian cover to U.S. threats of war against Iran. Instead, come out AGAINST current U.S. wars and the threats of a new war on the following week in a National Day of Coordinated Actions on Saturday, August 1.
Contact Stop War On Iran if you are interested in organizing or supporting an action opposing U.S. threats on Iran on Saturday, August 1
Rally to say "US Imperialism Hands of Iran!"
Raleigh, Friday, July 31st 4-6pm
State Capital buiding in downtown Raleigh, corner of Morgan St and Fayeteville St.
Take action now:
Endorse this statement demand "U.S./Israeli hands off Iran!" - http://stopwaroniran.org/iran2009endorse.shtml
STOP WAR ON IRAN
www.StopWarOnIran.org
919-604-8167
June 21 - 25: Fr. Louie Vitale Circle of Peace NC Speaking Tour
Circle of Peace NC Speaking Tour
June 21, 2009 through June 25, 2009
The Circle of Peace NC Speaking Tour will feature Fr. Louie Vitale in several locations during the week.
Asheville, Sunday, June 21, 6:00 pm
Charlotte, Monday, June 22, 7:00 pm
Park Road Baptist Church
3900 Park Road
Charlotte, NC
Raleigh, Tuesday, June 23, 7:00 pm
Greensboro, Wednesday, June 24, 7:30 pm (Stonevile)
Durham, Thursday, June 25, 12:00 Noon
Chapel Hill, Thursday, June 25, 7:00 pm
For more info North Carolina Peace Action
http://ncpeaceaction.org/
info@ncpeaceaction.org
How do we relate with individuals and countries that believe differently than we do? How do we deal with our so-called enemies? Is torture morally acceptable? How do we respond to terrorism?
Father Louie Vitale has been grappling with these and other related questions for nearly half a century since he began his journey as a young man when he had a conversion to nonviolence after he left the Air Force. A Franciscan priest and former provincial of the California Franciscan Friars, he co-founded the Nevada Desert Experience - a movement to end nuclear testing -- and Pace e Bene. He has also served as pastor of a Catholic church in a low-income neighborhood in San Francisco, CA for more than a decade. He is the Pax Christi 2009 Teacher of the Year. He and other Pace e Bene facilitators have led faith communities of many traditions in the practice and spirituality of peacemaking.
Fr. Louie has been active in anti-torture and faith-based human-rights advocacy in several paths. He served 3 and 6-month sentences for crossing the line twice at the School of Americas in Fort Benning, GA, where the U.S. trains Latin American soldiers in torture techniques. Then Louie served 5 months for crossing the line and praying at FortHuachuca (the military installation in Arizona where the U.S. trains American Intelligence Officers in "Enhanced Interrogation" tactics such as the much- publicized water boarding, among other torture methods).
Fr. Louie also recently traveled to Iran with the Fellowship of Reconciliation as part of an Iran Civilian Diplomacy Delegation to dialogue with the government and people of Iran.
June 21, 2009 through June 25, 2009
The Circle of Peace NC Speaking Tour will feature Fr. Louie Vitale in several locations during the week.
Asheville, Sunday, June 21, 6:00 pm
Charlotte, Monday, June 22, 7:00 pm
Park Road Baptist Church
3900 Park Road
Charlotte, NC
Raleigh, Tuesday, June 23, 7:00 pm
Greensboro, Wednesday, June 24, 7:30 pm (Stonevile)
Durham, Thursday, June 25, 12:00 Noon
Chapel Hill, Thursday, June 25, 7:00 pm
For more info North Carolina Peace Action
http://ncpeaceaction.org/
info@ncpeaceaction.org
How do we relate with individuals and countries that believe differently than we do? How do we deal with our so-called enemies? Is torture morally acceptable? How do we respond to terrorism?
Father Louie Vitale has been grappling with these and other related questions for nearly half a century since he began his journey as a young man when he had a conversion to nonviolence after he left the Air Force. A Franciscan priest and former provincial of the California Franciscan Friars, he co-founded the Nevada Desert Experience - a movement to end nuclear testing -- and Pace e Bene. He has also served as pastor of a Catholic church in a low-income neighborhood in San Francisco, CA for more than a decade. He is the Pax Christi 2009 Teacher of the Year. He and other Pace e Bene facilitators have led faith communities of many traditions in the practice and spirituality of peacemaking.
Fr. Louie has been active in anti-torture and faith-based human-rights advocacy in several paths. He served 3 and 6-month sentences for crossing the line twice at the School of Americas in Fort Benning, GA, where the U.S. trains Latin American soldiers in torture techniques. Then Louie served 5 months for crossing the line and praying at FortHuachuca (the military installation in Arizona where the U.S. trains American Intelligence Officers in "Enhanced Interrogation" tactics such as the much- publicized water boarding, among other torture methods).
Fr. Louie also recently traveled to Iran with the Fellowship of Reconciliation as part of an Iran Civilian Diplomacy Delegation to dialogue with the government and people of Iran.
June 15: State Of Emergency Budget Rally
North Carolina’s budget crisis is creating a state of emergency for all working families, who face devastating cuts to vital programs.
Join us for a rally that says "NO" to destructive budget cuts and "YES" to a balanced solution that is fair and progressive and includes new revenues.
When: Monday, June 15 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Across from the Jones Street entrance to the Legislative Building. We’ll gather on the outdoor space between the NC Museum of History and the NC Museum of Natural Sciences
What: A rally followed by a march to the N.C. General Assembly to call on our state leaders to say “No” to destructive budget cuts and “YES” to a balanced solution
Why: Times are tough right now. The economy is down, unemployment is sky high, and hundreds of thousands of families are struggling. An unprecedented budget crisis threatens our state government’s ability to provide even the most basic of services. While all working families in North Carolina will feel the impact – cuts to education, health care, public safety and other crucial programs will disproportionately impact our most disadvantaged, disenfranchised, and vulnerable citizens: minority and low-income families, the disabled, older adults, and children.
We must convince lawmakers to adopt a wise, balanced approach that makes judicious cuts and raises funds equitably.
For more information see:
www.hkactivists.com
www.togethernc.org
Join us for a rally that says "NO" to destructive budget cuts and "YES" to a balanced solution that is fair and progressive and includes new revenues.
When: Monday, June 15 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Across from the Jones Street entrance to the Legislative Building. We’ll gather on the outdoor space between the NC Museum of History and the NC Museum of Natural Sciences
What: A rally followed by a march to the N.C. General Assembly to call on our state leaders to say “No” to destructive budget cuts and “YES” to a balanced solution
Why: Times are tough right now. The economy is down, unemployment is sky high, and hundreds of thousands of families are struggling. An unprecedented budget crisis threatens our state government’s ability to provide even the most basic of services. While all working families in North Carolina will feel the impact – cuts to education, health care, public safety and other crucial programs will disproportionately impact our most disadvantaged, disenfranchised, and vulnerable citizens: minority and low-income families, the disabled, older adults, and children.
We must convince lawmakers to adopt a wise, balanced approach that makes judicious cuts and raises funds equitably.
For more information see:
www.hkactivists.com
www.togethernc.org
May 30: Raleigh People’s Assembly - State of Emergency Forum
Saturday, May 30th, 2009
2:00p.m.
211 W. Martin St., Raleigh, NC
(the NC Public Service Workers Union, UE 150 office downtown between
Dawson & McDowell Sts. across from the park & city hall)
Concerned about Working People’s State of Emergency?
Budget Cuts? Lay-Offs & Furloughs? Governments balancing budgets on the backs of workers? Cuts to Education and School Programs? Recall rights for laid off workers? Increased healthcare costs? Increased tuition? Cuts in community programs?
. . then, this forum and discussion is a must for you, your family, neighbors, co-workers, church members, civic club and organization members, union members and youth.
Raise your voice & make a difference! If not you, then who?
Call: Nathanette at 919-876-7187 or Olga at 919-269-7085 for more
information or e-mail: fruitoflaborwcc@netscape.com
2:00p.m.
211 W. Martin St., Raleigh, NC
(the NC Public Service Workers Union, UE 150 office downtown between
Dawson & McDowell Sts. across from the park & city hall)
Concerned about Working People’s State of Emergency?
Budget Cuts? Lay-Offs & Furloughs? Governments balancing budgets on the backs of workers? Cuts to Education and School Programs? Recall rights for laid off workers? Increased healthcare costs? Increased tuition? Cuts in community programs?
. . then, this forum and discussion is a must for you, your family, neighbors, co-workers, church members, civic club and organization members, union members and youth.
Raise your voice & make a difference! If not you, then who?
Call: Nathanette at 919-876-7187 or Olga at 919-269-7085 for more
information or e-mail: fruitoflaborwcc@netscape.com
PALESTINE Fundraiser, Dinner and Concert at NC State Fairgrounds
PALESTINE Fundraiser, Dinner and Concert
Saturday, June 13, 2009
6:30pm to midnight
Exposition Center N.C. State Fairgrounds
1025 Blue Ridge Road
Raleigh, NC
We have all seen, heard, and felt with the people of Palestine through these last 61 years of occupation. We have protested, demonstrated, cried, wrote, sang, danced, argued, and fought for Palestine through any avenue we chose. We raised awareness and continue to raise awareness. But we also keep WAITING for others to help. Now is the opportunity where we can directly help the men, women, children, families and land of Palestine. Please join us for a night dedicated to our Holy Land. It will be our first step in putting our community back near the top where it belongs. Though this event is primarily and strictly motivated for raising funds for Palestine, it is sure to also be a great evening of entertainment, fun, and brotherhood.
-Full Dinner will be provided.
-Performances from our local community.
-Special guest keynote speaker
-Palestinian gifts and memorabilia available.
-Palestine United Dabkeh Group
and......
MAHER HALABI concert!!!
-large dance area will be provided for everyone to get up and enjoy the show!
hamedent.com
TICKETS: $40 - includes dinner and full admission
- tickets are going quick so please make sure to get yours ASAP.
TICKET CONTACT INFORMATION:
Raleigh- Feras Abdelquader
Jamaal Ali (aka Jamaal Jameel)
Hanadee Ali
Julie Abdelrahman
Raaid Abdel-Ghani
GiGi Hamdan
Hayat Shawwa
Also Available at Sahara Cafe
Durham- Rami Ghanayem
Chapel Hill- Deana Qadura
Rocky Mount- Rimah Alwan
Greenville- Feras Abdelquader
Charlotte- Hani Alkhaldi
ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED THROUGH THE JERUSALEM FUND.
http://www.thejerusalemfund.org/
-If you are interested in volunteering please contact Julie Abdelrahman or GiGi Hamdan.
-For any questions including inquiries regarding sponsorship or donation information please contact:
Feras Abdelquader: 919-538-9583
Rami Ghanayem: 919-618-2864
palestineunited@gmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=96257982305
Saturday, June 13, 2009
6:30pm to midnight
Exposition Center N.C. State Fairgrounds
1025 Blue Ridge Road
Raleigh, NC
We have all seen, heard, and felt with the people of Palestine through these last 61 years of occupation. We have protested, demonstrated, cried, wrote, sang, danced, argued, and fought for Palestine through any avenue we chose. We raised awareness and continue to raise awareness. But we also keep WAITING for others to help. Now is the opportunity where we can directly help the men, women, children, families and land of Palestine. Please join us for a night dedicated to our Holy Land. It will be our first step in putting our community back near the top where it belongs. Though this event is primarily and strictly motivated for raising funds for Palestine, it is sure to also be a great evening of entertainment, fun, and brotherhood.
-Full Dinner will be provided.
-Performances from our local community.
-Special guest keynote speaker
-Palestinian gifts and memorabilia available.
-Palestine United Dabkeh Group
and......
MAHER HALABI concert!!!
-large dance area will be provided for everyone to get up and enjoy the show!
hamedent.com
TICKETS: $40 - includes dinner and full admission
- tickets are going quick so please make sure to get yours ASAP.
TICKET CONTACT INFORMATION:
Raleigh- Feras Abdelquader
Jamaal Ali (aka Jamaal Jameel)
Hanadee Ali
Julie Abdelrahman
Raaid Abdel-Ghani
GiGi Hamdan
Hayat Shawwa
Also Available at Sahara Cafe
Durham- Rami Ghanayem
Chapel Hill- Deana Qadura
Rocky Mount- Rimah Alwan
Greenville- Feras Abdelquader
Charlotte- Hani Alkhaldi
ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED THROUGH THE JERUSALEM FUND.
http://www.thejerusalemfund.org/
-If you are interested in volunteering please contact Julie Abdelrahman or GiGi Hamdan.
-For any questions including inquiries regarding sponsorship or donation information please contact:
Feras Abdelquader: 919-538-9583
Rami Ghanayem: 919-618-2864
palestineunited@gmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=96257982305
Honor Dr. King: Stand Up For Your Rights!
Join these events:
Wed., April 1 CODEPINK Weekly Peace Vigil
Fri., April 3 Bail Out Students Not Banks Rally in Raleigh
Fri.-Sat., April 3 - 4 National March On Wall St & AIG
Sat., April 4 Book-Signing with Monica Moorehead and Fred Goldstein!
Sat., April 4 The 26th Annual MLK Support For Labor Banquet in Raleigh
Sun., April 5 Pilgrimage For Justice & Peace in Charlotte
Mon., April 6 Rock Out For Ur Rights Free Live Show at UNCC
Fri., May 1 Mayday Rally at BOA HQ for Jobs, Housing, Healthcare, Education, Workers, & Immigrant Rights
*******************
Wed., April 1 CODEPINK Weekly Peace Vigil 5pm to 6pm at Hawthorne Ln & 7th St. Cease Fire in Gaza, Iraq and Afghanistan. We call on our Government to create peace by using our tax dollars to address basic human needs around the world. Funds for Food, Housing, Health Care, Jobs, Education, Clear Air and Water, and Renewable Energy. Info: Elaine elaine-cahn@hotmail.com
*******************
Friday, April 3 Bail Out Students Not Banks Rally in Raleigh 4:00 pm at Bank Of America, 421 Fayetteville St, Raleigh NC.
YOUTH AND STUDENTS DEMAND:
Freeze Tuition Now!
Cancel All Student Debt!
Jobs Program with a Living Wage, Not Jails and Prisons!
Collective Bargaining Rights for Public Sector Workers!
Fund Human Needs, Not War!
Divest From Israel!
No Hikes in Health Care Premiums!
Endorsers include: Black Workers for Justice youth; Fight Imperialism Stand Together (FIST); UNC-CH Student Action with Workers; Student Worker Alliance at NCSU; Charlotte Action Center for Justice; United Students Against Sweatshops; India Thomas, Black Campus Progressives*, Hampton University; Angaza Mayo-Laughinghouse, African-American Studies Club, UNC-Greensboro; Haley Koch, Uniting with the Northside Community NOW (UNC NOW)*; Muslims of America Joined as One, Raleigh high schools; UNC-CH Feminist Students United!; Raleigh Anarchist Solidarity Collective; Students for Social Progress at NC State University, and more...
Info: Dante, Raleigh-Durham FIST
919-539-2051
http://raleighfist.wordpress.com/2009/02/25/bail-out-students-not-banks-rally-in-raleigh-april-3rd/
*******************
March on Wall Street & AIG on APRIL 3: Bail Out People, Not Banks!
WE NEED JOBS NOW!
MORATORIUM ON FORECLOSURES!
For march details, assembly points, etc., see: http://bailoutpeople.org/logistics.shtml
Why We Need a Bail Out the People Movement
The workers and poor are in the biggest economic crisis since the Depression of the 1930s.
Corporations are laying off while demanding deep concessions from those still employed. State and local governments are cutting jobs and slashing services. Health, schools, libraries, parks, mass transit—all are on the chopping block. Tuition and transit fares are being raised.
More than half a million jobs are being lost every month. Unemployment is the worst in more than 25 years. As bad as that is, joblessness for African Americans, especially the youth, is twice as high.
Millions of families have already lost their homes because of predatory lending and high unemployment. Millions more face foreclosure or eviction. Depression-style tent cities are growing.
On every front, working people are facing an unprecedented attack.
Since March 2008, one year ago, the federal government has committed almost $10 TRILLION of the people’s money to bailouts for Wall Street and the banks, hoping to restore their profits and start them lending money again. It hasn’t worked.
Bailing out the rich doesn’t help the people. Putting profits before the needs of the workers, employed and unemployed, is just deepening the suffering and the economic crisis. It is capitalist greed that brought this crisis on in the first place.
We demand that the government, instead of bailing out the banks, put up the money to guarantee everyone a job or income and that it stop the foreclosures, evictions and utility shutoffs that are devastating the people.
DO THE MATH: Just $1 trillion out of the $10 trillion Washington has committed to the banks could pay for 20 million jobs with salaries of $50,000 a year! That would wipe out unemployment and underemployment in this country.
It’s time to organize and fight back
The Bail Out the People Movement has launched a national campaign to organize and fight for jobs or an income--and for a national moratorium on foreclosures and evictions.
In January, many groups and individuals from different cities came together at conferences in New York and Los Angeles to launch this fightback. We said then that our objective must be to make the struggle proportional in size, scope, organization and militancy to the threat this crisis poses to the social conditions of the working class. That requires a perspective and plan for the mass organization of working and poor people on a scale unprecedented since the defining labor battles of the 1930s.
The fightback movement must be prepared to utilize a wide range of tactics in the struggle, including mass mobilizations, demonstrations, direct actions, sit-ins, occupations, strikes, boycotts, encampments and most importantly, organizing.
An essential part of our work must be to forge solidarity in the large, complex, multi-national working class in the U.S. This means grappling with and overcoming divisions caused by oppression based on race and nationality, immigration status, gender and sexual orientation.
Racism must be pushed back. Unionists and communities must come to the defense of immigrant workers who are being dragged out of their workplaces in chains and locked up in jails—often with their families.
This crisis is worldwide. Corporations are running to wherever they can pay the least and profit the most. Solidarity needs to transcend all geographical boundaries, local and international. That is key to the success of the fightback.
Who We Are
The Bail Out the People Movement is a growing national coalition of community organizers, youth and student activists, labor unionists and grassroots activists united around the demand: “Bail Out the People–Not the Banks!”
Since last October, coalition affiliates have been organizing demonstrations, press conferences and speak-outs, packing City Council meetings, and helping stop evictions and foreclosures in Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Detroit, Lansing, Los Angeles and New York.
Here’s what we are working on:
May Day Mobilizations across the Country
Establishing as broad a coalition as possible for mass mobilizations on International Workers’ Day, May 1. The program for May 1 is centered on the struggle for immigrant workers’ rights; it was immigrant workers who in 2006 revived the spirit of workers’ struggle on May Day with massive demonstrations and walkouts across the country. This year the Bail Out the People Movement is participating in the mobilizing for May Day and immigrant rights. We will also include the demand for jobs or income and other demands that reflect the needs of the workers and the poor, including opposition to the wars and occupations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
March on Washington for Jobs/Convening a People’s Assembly
With worsening social conditions, the summer is not likely to be quiet. The combination of the economic crisis and police repression--which is epidemic and deadly all year round but tends to peak during the summer--could spark rebellions of workers, unemployed and oppressed people. The late spring and summer could be a time of intensive organizing. It’s time to start planning for a mass march on Washington, D.C., for jobs and other demands.
There is ongoing discussion among the groups in the BOPM coalition and others about the convening of a National People’s Assembly in Washington in the fall. Such a gathering could help consolidate the base and work of the fightback and set the direction and course of action for the next phase of this gigantic struggle.
Join us!
This period presents us with both crises and opportunities of historic magnitudes.
The fightback must recruit an army of volunteer organizers--both veteran activists with experience and skills as well as people new to the movement but with the time and willingness to help.
Most importantly, the fightback needs volunteers who are able to work collectively, who are respectful of others and who are committed to interacting with working and poor people of all nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities and ages in a manner that is patient, dignified and devoid of negative presumptions.
Please contact the coalition at 212-633-6646 or www.BailOutPeople.org to find out how you can become part of this army of organizers.
Most importantly, join us in the streets - Friday, April 3, at 1 pm while Wall Street is open for business - continuing on to April 4 - and beyond!
Bail Out the People Movement
Solidarity Center
55 W. 17th St. #5C
New York, NY 10011
212.633.6646
www.BailOutPeople.org
bailoutpeople.org/cmnt.shtml
*******************
Sat., April 4 Book-Signing with Monica Moorehead and Fred Goldstein! 12:30pm - 2:00pm at Internationalist Books, 405 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC. Come meet two amazing longtime activists and authors!
Monica Moorehead is editor of "Marxism, Reparations, and the Black Freedom Struggle", a rich collection of articles from the pages of Workers World newspaper featuring Black Resistance, Katrina, History of Struggle and Anthology.
Fred Goldstein is the author of "Low-Wage Capitalism". Critically acclaimed by both Howard Zinn and Michael Parenti, Low Wage Capitalism provides a sorely-needed and easy-to-read analysis of the roots of the current global economic crisis, its implications for workers and oppressed peoples, and the strategy needed for future struggle.
Goldstein explains how the dramatic impact of new technology and the restructuring of global capitalism contains the seeds of its own destruction.
Info: Raleigh Fist raleighfist@gmail.com
*******************
Sat., April 4 The 26th Annual MLK Support For Labor Banquet 6:00 PM-9:00 PM at North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Buidling 700 S. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC.
Keynote Speaker: Jaribu Hill, Executive Director, Mississippi Workers Center for Human Rights
Awards, Cultural Presentations, Solidarity Statements
Contact: Rukiya Dillahunt
rukiyad@mindspring.com
http://blackworkersforjustice.org
*******************
Sun., April 5 Pilgrimage For Justice & Peace 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm at 832 E. 4th St., Charlotte, NC. March against Fear:
Moratorium on 287 (g), Investigations into the practices and transparency/reporting on part of Mecklenburg County Sheriff's office, stop funds towards 287 (g) program. Sponsored by ACORN 704-545-1919
*******************
Mon. April 6 Rock Out For Ur Rights Free Live Show 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm at UNC-Charlotte in The Cone Center 9201 University City Blvd Charlotte NC. The concept of this concert is to put a focus on the different issues that affect people in the world today such as the LGBT community, war, minorities, violence, discrimination, and so many more!!
It will be a night where everyone can come out and have a great time and rock out to live music!!!!! Sponsored by Students For A Democratic Society (SDS) - UNCC. Info at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=57545820884
*******************
May Day Rally for Jobs, Housing, Healthcare, Education, Workers, & Immigrants Rights at Bank Of America National Headquarters
YES to: Jobs, Housing, Pro-Worker Immigration Reform & Money for the People!
NO to: Raids, Deportations, 287(g), Imprisonment, Forced migration, Labor export, Racism, Foreclosures, & Bank Bail Outs!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Noon
Bank Of America HQ
Trade St & Tryon St
Charlotte, NC
March to Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center & Mecklenburg Co Jail - Central around 6:00pm
On May 1st, join us and help build a movement to fight for the rights of working people. Join billions around the world who also demonstrate on May Day to build a powerful global movement that fights against the dire economic and social crisis people face here and around the world.
To endorse, volunteer, or for more info email may1charlotte@gmail.com or call (704) 492-5226.
Immigrant & Workers Rights Project
http://immigrantworkers.blogspot.com
Action Center For Justice
http://charlotteaction.blogspot.com
*******************
DONATE - Support our work by sending donations to Action Center For Justice, 7100 Mapleridge Dr, Charlotte, NC 28210
Wed., April 1 CODEPINK Weekly Peace Vigil
Fri., April 3 Bail Out Students Not Banks Rally in Raleigh
Fri.-Sat., April 3 - 4 National March On Wall St & AIG
Sat., April 4 Book-Signing with Monica Moorehead and Fred Goldstein!
Sat., April 4 The 26th Annual MLK Support For Labor Banquet in Raleigh
Sun., April 5 Pilgrimage For Justice & Peace in Charlotte
Mon., April 6 Rock Out For Ur Rights Free Live Show at UNCC
Fri., May 1 Mayday Rally at BOA HQ for Jobs, Housing, Healthcare, Education, Workers, & Immigrant Rights
*******************
Wed., April 1 CODEPINK Weekly Peace Vigil 5pm to 6pm at Hawthorne Ln & 7th St. Cease Fire in Gaza, Iraq and Afghanistan. We call on our Government to create peace by using our tax dollars to address basic human needs around the world. Funds for Food, Housing, Health Care, Jobs, Education, Clear Air and Water, and Renewable Energy. Info: Elaine elaine-cahn@hotmail.com
*******************
Friday, April 3 Bail Out Students Not Banks Rally in Raleigh 4:00 pm at Bank Of America, 421 Fayetteville St, Raleigh NC.
YOUTH AND STUDENTS DEMAND:
Freeze Tuition Now!
Cancel All Student Debt!
Jobs Program with a Living Wage, Not Jails and Prisons!
Collective Bargaining Rights for Public Sector Workers!
Fund Human Needs, Not War!
Divest From Israel!
No Hikes in Health Care Premiums!
Endorsers include: Black Workers for Justice youth; Fight Imperialism Stand Together (FIST); UNC-CH Student Action with Workers; Student Worker Alliance at NCSU; Charlotte Action Center for Justice; United Students Against Sweatshops; India Thomas, Black Campus Progressives*, Hampton University; Angaza Mayo-Laughinghouse, African-American Studies Club, UNC-Greensboro; Haley Koch, Uniting with the Northside Community NOW (UNC NOW)*; Muslims of America Joined as One, Raleigh high schools; UNC-CH Feminist Students United!; Raleigh Anarchist Solidarity Collective; Students for Social Progress at NC State University, and more...
Info: Dante, Raleigh-Durham FIST
919-539-2051
http://raleighfist.wordpress.com/2009/02/25/bail-out-students-not-banks-rally-in-raleigh-april-3rd/
*******************
March on Wall Street & AIG on APRIL 3: Bail Out People, Not Banks!
WE NEED JOBS NOW!
MORATORIUM ON FORECLOSURES!
For march details, assembly points, etc., see: http://bailoutpeople.org/logistics.shtml
Why We Need a Bail Out the People Movement
The workers and poor are in the biggest economic crisis since the Depression of the 1930s.
Corporations are laying off while demanding deep concessions from those still employed. State and local governments are cutting jobs and slashing services. Health, schools, libraries, parks, mass transit—all are on the chopping block. Tuition and transit fares are being raised.
More than half a million jobs are being lost every month. Unemployment is the worst in more than 25 years. As bad as that is, joblessness for African Americans, especially the youth, is twice as high.
Millions of families have already lost their homes because of predatory lending and high unemployment. Millions more face foreclosure or eviction. Depression-style tent cities are growing.
On every front, working people are facing an unprecedented attack.
Since March 2008, one year ago, the federal government has committed almost $10 TRILLION of the people’s money to bailouts for Wall Street and the banks, hoping to restore their profits and start them lending money again. It hasn’t worked.
Bailing out the rich doesn’t help the people. Putting profits before the needs of the workers, employed and unemployed, is just deepening the suffering and the economic crisis. It is capitalist greed that brought this crisis on in the first place.
We demand that the government, instead of bailing out the banks, put up the money to guarantee everyone a job or income and that it stop the foreclosures, evictions and utility shutoffs that are devastating the people.
DO THE MATH: Just $1 trillion out of the $10 trillion Washington has committed to the banks could pay for 20 million jobs with salaries of $50,000 a year! That would wipe out unemployment and underemployment in this country.
It’s time to organize and fight back
The Bail Out the People Movement has launched a national campaign to organize and fight for jobs or an income--and for a national moratorium on foreclosures and evictions.
In January, many groups and individuals from different cities came together at conferences in New York and Los Angeles to launch this fightback. We said then that our objective must be to make the struggle proportional in size, scope, organization and militancy to the threat this crisis poses to the social conditions of the working class. That requires a perspective and plan for the mass organization of working and poor people on a scale unprecedented since the defining labor battles of the 1930s.
The fightback movement must be prepared to utilize a wide range of tactics in the struggle, including mass mobilizations, demonstrations, direct actions, sit-ins, occupations, strikes, boycotts, encampments and most importantly, organizing.
An essential part of our work must be to forge solidarity in the large, complex, multi-national working class in the U.S. This means grappling with and overcoming divisions caused by oppression based on race and nationality, immigration status, gender and sexual orientation.
Racism must be pushed back. Unionists and communities must come to the defense of immigrant workers who are being dragged out of their workplaces in chains and locked up in jails—often with their families.
This crisis is worldwide. Corporations are running to wherever they can pay the least and profit the most. Solidarity needs to transcend all geographical boundaries, local and international. That is key to the success of the fightback.
Who We Are
The Bail Out the People Movement is a growing national coalition of community organizers, youth and student activists, labor unionists and grassroots activists united around the demand: “Bail Out the People–Not the Banks!”
Since last October, coalition affiliates have been organizing demonstrations, press conferences and speak-outs, packing City Council meetings, and helping stop evictions and foreclosures in Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Detroit, Lansing, Los Angeles and New York.
* In New York, the Bail Out the People Movement lists hundreds of endorsers and 35 groups as organizing centers for the April 3 Wall Street demonstration. BOPM started last October with a rally on the steps of Wall Street’s Federal Hall where Black leaders, youth organizers, labor militants, Katrina survivors and immigrant rights activists pledged a united struggle against the capitalist banks oppressing the people. It organized a regional fightback conference on Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday. Since then, the coalition made national news with a protest against a foreclosure auction at the Javits Center and was a major force at the International Women’s Day mobilization.While the politicians, bankers and corporate media keep the masses out of the decision-making process, the coalition’s priority is to plan activities and strategies for a people-first fightback.
* The Michigan-based Moratorium NOW! Coalition to Stop Foreclosures and Evictions has held countless demonstrations in Detroit and at the State Capitol in Lansing to demand a moratorium. It has also helped stop evictions by mobilizing supporters in solidarity with people about to lose their homes and providing them legal help.
* In Los Angeles, the Labor-Community Coalition to Stop Foreclosures and Evictions has mobilized unions and grassroots organizations to demand a moratorium on foreclosures.
In Baltimore, the Network to Stop Foreclosures and Evictions has been leading a mass campaign to get the City Council to pass Bill 09-0289, which would require a 365-day notice before any foreclosure eviction could occur in that city.
* In Boston, the Women’s Fightback Network and the Heat and Light Campaign have gone to the streets to demand the governor declare an economic state of emergency and implement a moratorium on foreclosures, evictions and utility shutoffs.
* In Buffalo, N.Y., the struggle began last October with a “Bail Out the People, Not the Banks” rally in the financial district. The coalition has gone on to march against fare increases and, on the campuses, to protest tuition hikes and cuts in financial aid.
Here’s what we are working on:
May Day Mobilizations across the Country
Establishing as broad a coalition as possible for mass mobilizations on International Workers’ Day, May 1. The program for May 1 is centered on the struggle for immigrant workers’ rights; it was immigrant workers who in 2006 revived the spirit of workers’ struggle on May Day with massive demonstrations and walkouts across the country. This year the Bail Out the People Movement is participating in the mobilizing for May Day and immigrant rights. We will also include the demand for jobs or income and other demands that reflect the needs of the workers and the poor, including opposition to the wars and occupations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
March on Washington for Jobs/Convening a People’s Assembly
With worsening social conditions, the summer is not likely to be quiet. The combination of the economic crisis and police repression--which is epidemic and deadly all year round but tends to peak during the summer--could spark rebellions of workers, unemployed and oppressed people. The late spring and summer could be a time of intensive organizing. It’s time to start planning for a mass march on Washington, D.C., for jobs and other demands.
There is ongoing discussion among the groups in the BOPM coalition and others about the convening of a National People’s Assembly in Washington in the fall. Such a gathering could help consolidate the base and work of the fightback and set the direction and course of action for the next phase of this gigantic struggle.
Join us!
This period presents us with both crises and opportunities of historic magnitudes.
The fightback must recruit an army of volunteer organizers--both veteran activists with experience and skills as well as people new to the movement but with the time and willingness to help.
Most importantly, the fightback needs volunteers who are able to work collectively, who are respectful of others and who are committed to interacting with working and poor people of all nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities and ages in a manner that is patient, dignified and devoid of negative presumptions.
Please contact the coalition at 212-633-6646 or www.BailOutPeople.org to find out how you can become part of this army of organizers.
Most importantly, join us in the streets - Friday, April 3, at 1 pm while Wall Street is open for business - continuing on to April 4 - and beyond!
Bail Out the People Movement
Solidarity Center
55 W. 17th St. #5C
New York, NY 10011
212.633.6646
www.BailOutPeople.org
bailoutpeople.org/cmnt.shtml
*******************
Sat., April 4 Book-Signing with Monica Moorehead and Fred Goldstein! 12:30pm - 2:00pm at Internationalist Books, 405 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC. Come meet two amazing longtime activists and authors!
Monica Moorehead is editor of "Marxism, Reparations, and the Black Freedom Struggle", a rich collection of articles from the pages of Workers World newspaper featuring Black Resistance, Katrina, History of Struggle and Anthology.
Fred Goldstein is the author of "Low-Wage Capitalism". Critically acclaimed by both Howard Zinn and Michael Parenti, Low Wage Capitalism provides a sorely-needed and easy-to-read analysis of the roots of the current global economic crisis, its implications for workers and oppressed peoples, and the strategy needed for future struggle.
Goldstein explains how the dramatic impact of new technology and the restructuring of global capitalism contains the seeds of its own destruction.
Info: Raleigh Fist raleighfist@gmail.com
*******************
Sat., April 4 The 26th Annual MLK Support For Labor Banquet 6:00 PM-9:00 PM at North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Buidling 700 S. Salisbury Street Raleigh, NC.
Keynote Speaker: Jaribu Hill, Executive Director, Mississippi Workers Center for Human Rights
Awards, Cultural Presentations, Solidarity Statements
Contact: Rukiya Dillahunt
rukiyad@mindspring.com
http://blackworkersforjustice.org
*******************
Sun., April 5 Pilgrimage For Justice & Peace 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm at 832 E. 4th St., Charlotte, NC. March against Fear:
Moratorium on 287 (g), Investigations into the practices and transparency/reporting on part of Mecklenburg County Sheriff's office, stop funds towards 287 (g) program. Sponsored by ACORN 704-545-1919
*******************
Mon. April 6 Rock Out For Ur Rights Free Live Show 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm at UNC-Charlotte in The Cone Center 9201 University City Blvd Charlotte NC. The concept of this concert is to put a focus on the different issues that affect people in the world today such as the LGBT community, war, minorities, violence, discrimination, and so many more!!
It will be a night where everyone can come out and have a great time and rock out to live music!!!!! Sponsored by Students For A Democratic Society (SDS) - UNCC. Info at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=57545820884
*******************
May Day Rally for Jobs, Housing, Healthcare, Education, Workers, & Immigrants Rights at Bank Of America National Headquarters
YES to: Jobs, Housing, Pro-Worker Immigration Reform & Money for the People!
NO to: Raids, Deportations, 287(g), Imprisonment, Forced migration, Labor export, Racism, Foreclosures, & Bank Bail Outs!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Noon
Bank Of America HQ
Trade St & Tryon St
Charlotte, NC
March to Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center & Mecklenburg Co Jail - Central around 6:00pm
On May 1st, join us and help build a movement to fight for the rights of working people. Join billions around the world who also demonstrate on May Day to build a powerful global movement that fights against the dire economic and social crisis people face here and around the world.
To endorse, volunteer, or for more info email may1charlotte@gmail.com or call (704) 492-5226.
Immigrant & Workers Rights Project
http://immigrantworkers.blogspot.com
Action Center For Justice
http://charlotteaction.blogspot.com
*******************
DONATE - Support our work by sending donations to Action Center For Justice, 7100 Mapleridge Dr, Charlotte, NC 28210
The 26th Annual MLK Support for Labor Banquet
26th Annual MLK Support for Labor Banquet
Saturday, April 4th 2009 6PM-9PM
Raleigh, NC
Keynote Speaker:
Jaribu Hill
Executive Director, Mississippi Workers Center for Human Rights
Awards, Cultural Presentations, Solidarity Statements
Location:
North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Buidling
700 S. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC
Contact:
Rukiya Dillahunt
rukiyad@mindspring.com
http://blackworkersforjustice.org
Saturday, April 4th 2009 6PM-9PM
Raleigh, NC
Keynote Speaker:
Jaribu Hill
Executive Director, Mississippi Workers Center for Human Rights
Awards, Cultural Presentations, Solidarity Statements
Location:
North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Buidling
700 S. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC
Contact:
Rukiya Dillahunt
rukiyad@mindspring.com
http://blackworkersforjustice.org
Sat., Feb. 14 NC Statewide March For Progress & Unity - HKonJ: Historic Thousands On Jones St
9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Chavis Park
505 MLK Jr. Blvd, Raleigh, NC
With the nation's economic crisis and across-the-board budget cuts, it's more important than ever to show your support for a progressive agenda for the state of NC and the nation. We'll gather again in Chavis Park and march to the General Assembly building on Jones Street. So far, we have more than 80 partner organizations. Our 14-point agenda is here:
http://www.hkonj.com/2007/03/14_points_a_sum.html
For more information about this "movement, not a moment," go to www.hkonj.com or naacpnc@gmail.com
To carpool from Charlotte and/or join the Free Palestine contingent in the march contact David at charlotte4palestine@gmail.com or 704.492.5226.
Chavis Park
505 MLK Jr. Blvd, Raleigh, NC
With the nation's economic crisis and across-the-board budget cuts, it's more important than ever to show your support for a progressive agenda for the state of NC and the nation. We'll gather again in Chavis Park and march to the General Assembly building on Jones Street. So far, we have more than 80 partner organizations. Our 14-point agenda is here:
http://www.hkonj.com/2007/03/14_points_a_sum.html
For more information about this "movement, not a moment," go to www.hkonj.com or naacpnc@gmail.com
To carpool from Charlotte and/or join the Free Palestine contingent in the march contact David at charlotte4palestine@gmail.com or 704.492.5226.
Sun, May 18 Al Nakba Palestinian Concert
Sun, May 18 Al Nakba Palestinian Concert at 1pm at NC State University Witherspoon Student Cinema (corner of Cates and Dan Allen drive), Raleigh, NC
Concert for a Free Palestine!
To commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Al Nakba (Palestinian Catastrophe of 1948 land-seizure and genocide), the Muslim American Society Freedom Foundation has organized for the Sound of Reason to play at NC State Witherspoon Cinema.
Come listen to pro-Palestinian music and view slide show of the Al-Nakba and the Palestinian struggle. May 15 is the actual day that marks 60 years of Al-Nakba ("The Catastrophe") when 800,000 Palestinians were forcibly expelled from their homes by the Zionist invading forces.
Join us to learn about:
- the theft of Palestine in 1947-48, the genocide waged against Palestinians, the destruction of over 450 Palestinian villages, the dispossession of over 750,000 Palestinian refugees
- the struggle of over six million Palestinian refugees to return home
- the ongoing Nakba in Palestine: the attempts to dismantle the right to return, the siege on Gaza, the assaults on Palestinians in the occupied 48 lands, in the West Bank and Gaza and in exile
- the ongoing steadfastness and resistance of the Palestinian people in struggle for return, national liberation and self-determination
and to find out how you can be part of exciting initiatives in the struggle for Palestine!
Join us for an unforgettable evening of commemoration, music, discussion and solidarity
MAS-Freedom, NC
www.masfreedom-nc.org
This event is co-sponsored by the NC State University Student Worker Alliance
Concert for a Free Palestine!
To commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Al Nakba (Palestinian Catastrophe of 1948 land-seizure and genocide), the Muslim American Society Freedom Foundation has organized for the Sound of Reason to play at NC State Witherspoon Cinema.
Come listen to pro-Palestinian music and view slide show of the Al-Nakba and the Palestinian struggle. May 15 is the actual day that marks 60 years of Al-Nakba ("The Catastrophe") when 800,000 Palestinians were forcibly expelled from their homes by the Zionist invading forces.
Join us to learn about:
- the theft of Palestine in 1947-48, the genocide waged against Palestinians, the destruction of over 450 Palestinian villages, the dispossession of over 750,000 Palestinian refugees
- the struggle of over six million Palestinian refugees to return home
- the ongoing Nakba in Palestine: the attempts to dismantle the right to return, the siege on Gaza, the assaults on Palestinians in the occupied 48 lands, in the West Bank and Gaza and in exile
- the ongoing steadfastness and resistance of the Palestinian people in struggle for return, national liberation and self-determination
and to find out how you can be part of exciting initiatives in the struggle for Palestine!
Join us for an unforgettable evening of commemoration, music, discussion and solidarity
MAS-Freedom, NC
www.masfreedom-nc.org
This event is co-sponsored by the NC State University Student Worker Alliance
Forum: Save Your Home from Foreclosure!
Saturday, April 26, 2008 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Foreclosure Fair! On the campus of NC State
Witherspoon Student Center
3810 Cates Ave., Raleigh, NC
Free & open to the public.
ACORN Housing will also be available to provide free advice to first time home buyers or for those facing foreclosures.
And don’t miss our 12:00 pm Education Session on “How to Prevent Foreclosures”.
- Get personal help from non-profit housing counselors
- Learn about refinance opportunities & first-time homebuyer programs
- Meet with your lender about loan restructuring
Raleigh ACORN is proud to help save the homes of hard working families here in North Carolina.
If you know anyone who needs help keeping their home, please urge them to come to this free fair.
Together we can save homes!
To pre-register call (919) 833-6194.
More info: Raleigh Acorn, Phone: 919.833.6194
E-mail: acornraleigh@gmail.com
Foreclosure Fair! On the campus of NC State
Witherspoon Student Center
3810 Cates Ave., Raleigh, NC
Free & open to the public.
ACORN Housing will also be available to provide free advice to first time home buyers or for those facing foreclosures.
And don’t miss our 12:00 pm Education Session on “How to Prevent Foreclosures”.
- Get personal help from non-profit housing counselors
- Learn about refinance opportunities & first-time homebuyer programs
- Meet with your lender about loan restructuring
Raleigh ACORN is proud to help save the homes of hard working families here in North Carolina.
If you know anyone who needs help keeping their home, please urge them to come to this free fair.
Together we can save homes!
To pre-register call (919) 833-6194.
More info: Raleigh Acorn, Phone: 919.833.6194
E-mail: acornraleigh@gmail.com
'Historic Thousands' march to legislature
Several thousand activists parade through downtown Raleigh to support a 14-point agenda of social reforms
Kristin Collins, News & Observer, Feb. 10, 2008
Click here for photos.
RALEIGH - The crowd flowed down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and parted like a river around the Capitol. Carrying signs proclaiming support for unionization, vegetarianism, abolishing the death penalty, ending the Iraq war and countless other causes, the marchers converged in front of the Legislative Building.
"The people united," they screamed, "will never be divided."
Saturday was the second time in two years that protesters from dozens of social reform groups took over the streets of downtown Raleigh to demand a laundry list of legislative changes.
Organizers say the marches mark the beginning of a new activism in North Carolina. They have hopes of coalescing into a movement as powerful as the civil rights struggle, forcing state legislators to adopt reforms that aid minorities and the poor.
"I think we all understand that we have incredible opportunity to effect real change in '08," said Paige Johnson of Orange County, a Planned Parenthood employee carrying a sign demanding sex education in public schools. "We're united in a way we've never been before."
Several thousand people gathered at Chavis Park and then marched a mile and a half to Jones Street. The march, dubbed Historic Thousands on Jones Street, is organized around an ambitious 14-point agenda with an undetermined price tag that would likely reach hundreds of millions of dollars.
"The constitution says it's our mandate to care for everybody," said Rev. William Barber, head of the state branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. "We're calling on North Carolina to remember her soul."
Leadership and tactics
The marches are largely the work of Barber, who shortly after taking the reins of the NAACP in 2006 gathered the leaders of more than a dozen statewide organizations to hammer out a common agenda. He has since signed up more than 70 groups willing to rally with him.
Barber says that although blacks and whites are no longer separated by law, minorities still face huge disparities and are largely ignored by a state legislature influenced more by powerful lobbyists than the plight of the poor.
Minorities in North Carolina are far more likely than whites to drop out of school, to be imprisoned, to live in poverty, to be the victims of crime and to die young.
"We need a movement that will lift the hopes of every child," Barber screamed to the crowd Saturday. "We need a movement that will not leave the poor to fight by themselves."
Time well chosen
Some lawmakers say they are impressed with Barber's strategy. Rep. Paul Luebke, a Durham Democrat, said that he hears from Barber and other NAACP leaders regularly and that the annual Jones Street march sends a message that the group speaks for the masses.
"This agenda may take years to go forward, but if you do not have a large agenda, you will not get change," Luebke said. "Look at the civil rights movement. If you go back to the 1950s, most white people thought that black demands for equality in the South were a joke."
Rory McVeigh, a sociology professor in the University of Notre Dame's Center for the Study of Social Movements and Social Change, said Barber has chosen a time that is ripe for reform.
"When public opinion starts shifting, when people are dissatisfied, when 70 percent of the people don't approve of the president's job performance, that's an opportunity," McVeigh said.
GOP lawmakers react
However, the message of the group -- peppered on Saturday with signs demanding the impeachment of President Bush -- does not resonate with most Republican lawmakers and failed to gain much traction in the Democratically controlled legislature last year.
"There was nothing on that agenda that was practical or within our power or something I wanted to do," said Rep. Paul Stam, an Apex Republican who is House minority leader.
He was one of several Republicans who said that the reforms would be too expensive and impractical. Most said the agenda reflected liberal concerns they've been hearing for years.
"I guess I did see it," Sen. Neal Hunt, a Raleigh Republican, said of the group's agenda. "But I didn't frankly pay a lot of attention to it."
Even organizers say they were disappointed in the legislative progress they made last year.
They claimed a few small victories -- bills that improved protection for farmworkers, allowed people to register and vote on the same day, and instituted new controls on predatory lending -- but said the legislature failed to shift its fundamental priorities.
Those supporting the movement said that's not cause for discouragement.
"We don't determine our agenda on the basis of what looks immediately attainable," said George Reed, director of the N.C. Council of Churches, one of the partners in the march. "At one time, desegregation of the public schools looked like an unattainable goal."
On Saturday, at least for a few hours, hope overwhelmed the long odds for the marchers who set out under a clear blue sky.
"Ain't nobody saying we can solve all the problems," Ciscero T. Warren Jr., who works in the mailroom at the state Department of Administration, said as he marched down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. "But we can start to work on them."
kristin.collins@newsobserver.com or (919) 829-4881
WHAT THEY WANT
Here's what Saturday's marchers say they want from state legislators.
* Increase funding for failing schools.
* Raise the minimum wage and create more programs for the poor.
* Provide public health care for all residents who cannot afford insurance and address the causes of diseases that disproportionately affect the poor.
* Pay reparations to those affected by an 1898 race riot in Wilmington and by a state program in which black women were forcibly sterilized between 1947 and 1977.
* Establish public financing of elections.
* Increase funding to historically black colleges and universities.
* Document and redress past discrimination in state hiring and contracting.
* Increase funding for affordable housing and institute protections against predatory lending and foreclosures.
* Abolish the death penalty and mandatory sentencing laws.
* Establish an environmental job corps for those who don't graduate from high school.
* Allow state employees to unionize and support unionization of workers at a Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in Bladen County.
* Protect immigrants' rights.
* Increase funding for civil rights enforcement agencies and make hate crimes a felony.
* Pass a resolution demanding an end to the Iraq war.
For more details, go to www.hkonj.com.
Kristin Collins, News & Observer, Feb. 10, 2008
Click here for photos.
RALEIGH - The crowd flowed down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and parted like a river around the Capitol. Carrying signs proclaiming support for unionization, vegetarianism, abolishing the death penalty, ending the Iraq war and countless other causes, the marchers converged in front of the Legislative Building.
"The people united," they screamed, "will never be divided."
Saturday was the second time in two years that protesters from dozens of social reform groups took over the streets of downtown Raleigh to demand a laundry list of legislative changes.
Organizers say the marches mark the beginning of a new activism in North Carolina. They have hopes of coalescing into a movement as powerful as the civil rights struggle, forcing state legislators to adopt reforms that aid minorities and the poor.
"I think we all understand that we have incredible opportunity to effect real change in '08," said Paige Johnson of Orange County, a Planned Parenthood employee carrying a sign demanding sex education in public schools. "We're united in a way we've never been before."
Several thousand people gathered at Chavis Park and then marched a mile and a half to Jones Street. The march, dubbed Historic Thousands on Jones Street, is organized around an ambitious 14-point agenda with an undetermined price tag that would likely reach hundreds of millions of dollars.
"The constitution says it's our mandate to care for everybody," said Rev. William Barber, head of the state branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. "We're calling on North Carolina to remember her soul."
Leadership and tactics
The marches are largely the work of Barber, who shortly after taking the reins of the NAACP in 2006 gathered the leaders of more than a dozen statewide organizations to hammer out a common agenda. He has since signed up more than 70 groups willing to rally with him.
Barber says that although blacks and whites are no longer separated by law, minorities still face huge disparities and are largely ignored by a state legislature influenced more by powerful lobbyists than the plight of the poor.
Minorities in North Carolina are far more likely than whites to drop out of school, to be imprisoned, to live in poverty, to be the victims of crime and to die young.
"We need a movement that will lift the hopes of every child," Barber screamed to the crowd Saturday. "We need a movement that will not leave the poor to fight by themselves."
Time well chosen
Some lawmakers say they are impressed with Barber's strategy. Rep. Paul Luebke, a Durham Democrat, said that he hears from Barber and other NAACP leaders regularly and that the annual Jones Street march sends a message that the group speaks for the masses.
"This agenda may take years to go forward, but if you do not have a large agenda, you will not get change," Luebke said. "Look at the civil rights movement. If you go back to the 1950s, most white people thought that black demands for equality in the South were a joke."
Rory McVeigh, a sociology professor in the University of Notre Dame's Center for the Study of Social Movements and Social Change, said Barber has chosen a time that is ripe for reform.
"When public opinion starts shifting, when people are dissatisfied, when 70 percent of the people don't approve of the president's job performance, that's an opportunity," McVeigh said.
GOP lawmakers react
However, the message of the group -- peppered on Saturday with signs demanding the impeachment of President Bush -- does not resonate with most Republican lawmakers and failed to gain much traction in the Democratically controlled legislature last year.
"There was nothing on that agenda that was practical or within our power or something I wanted to do," said Rep. Paul Stam, an Apex Republican who is House minority leader.
He was one of several Republicans who said that the reforms would be too expensive and impractical. Most said the agenda reflected liberal concerns they've been hearing for years.
"I guess I did see it," Sen. Neal Hunt, a Raleigh Republican, said of the group's agenda. "But I didn't frankly pay a lot of attention to it."
Even organizers say they were disappointed in the legislative progress they made last year.
They claimed a few small victories -- bills that improved protection for farmworkers, allowed people to register and vote on the same day, and instituted new controls on predatory lending -- but said the legislature failed to shift its fundamental priorities.
Those supporting the movement said that's not cause for discouragement.
"We don't determine our agenda on the basis of what looks immediately attainable," said George Reed, director of the N.C. Council of Churches, one of the partners in the march. "At one time, desegregation of the public schools looked like an unattainable goal."
On Saturday, at least for a few hours, hope overwhelmed the long odds for the marchers who set out under a clear blue sky.
"Ain't nobody saying we can solve all the problems," Ciscero T. Warren Jr., who works in the mailroom at the state Department of Administration, said as he marched down Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. "But we can start to work on them."
kristin.collins@newsobserver.com or (919) 829-4881
WHAT THEY WANT
Here's what Saturday's marchers say they want from state legislators.
* Increase funding for failing schools.
* Raise the minimum wage and create more programs for the poor.
* Provide public health care for all residents who cannot afford insurance and address the causes of diseases that disproportionately affect the poor.
* Pay reparations to those affected by an 1898 race riot in Wilmington and by a state program in which black women were forcibly sterilized between 1947 and 1977.
* Establish public financing of elections.
* Increase funding to historically black colleges and universities.
* Document and redress past discrimination in state hiring and contracting.
* Increase funding for affordable housing and institute protections against predatory lending and foreclosures.
* Abolish the death penalty and mandatory sentencing laws.
* Establish an environmental job corps for those who don't graduate from high school.
* Allow state employees to unionize and support unionization of workers at a Smithfield Foods pork processing plant in Bladen County.
* Protect immigrants' rights.
* Increase funding for civil rights enforcement agencies and make hate crimes a felony.
* Pass a resolution demanding an end to the Iraq war.
For more details, go to www.hkonj.com.
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