LL:DDV: Women Say No to the War at Home
Melbourne Radical Women Meeting Tuesday, 28 October, 7.00 pm Women Say NO to the War at Home Bush's war of global conquest is claiming casualties at home. In the United States, women face a full-scale gender war. Hard-won rights to reproductive choice and affirmative action are under attack, while the militarised economy destroys social services, education funding, welfare relief, housing programs, healthcare, childcare and supports for elders and the disabled. George W. has defunded agencies that monitor discrimination, he opposes sex education programs which advocate anything other than abstinence, and he's on a mission to outlaw abortion. He wants women to clean up the mess from this broken-down profit system. Bush is not alone. His visit this month with John Howard, fellow warmonger and patriarch-in-arms, signals open warfare on women here. Add your voice to feminists around the world who are speaking out against these attacks, and discuss how to build an anti-capitalist revolution for global peace and women's rights. Everyone is welcome! A mouthwatering dinner, with vegetarian option, served at 6.30 pm for a $6.50 donation. The meeting will be held at Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick. Plenty of parking, or take a North Coburg tram or Upfield train. For information, contact Radical Women * Ph: 03-9386-3230 * Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * website: www.radicalwomen.org . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
LL:DDV: Aborignal Workers Fight for Stolen Wages
Radical Women Meeting Tuesday, 23 September, 7.00 pm Pay Up Now! Aboriginal Workers Fight for Stolen Wages From 1897 until 1972, the Queensland Government had the power to declare Aborigines as wards of the State and therefore take control of their lives, including their earnings and their children. Women and men worked as domestics, stockmen and labourers in Queensland's most profitable industries, but this large Indigenous workforce never saw their pay packets. After decades of fighting for hundreds of millions in back pay, claimants last year were given Premier Beattie's Lousy Little Offer of a few thousand dollars each. Learn about the historic Stolen Wages Campaign which is winning support from unions and activists across Australia. Find out what you can do to help win justice. Everyone is welcome! Hear from Ruth Hegarty, Stolen Wages claimant and Brisbane Indigenous Elder, plus speakers: * Gwynnyth Evans, Member of the Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union and Australia-Asia Worker Links * Debbie Brennan, Feminist and Australian Services Union delegate At Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick (Plenty of parking, or take a North Coburg tram or Upfield train) The meeting is free. Dinner, with vegetarian option, will be served at 6.30 pm for $6.50 donation For information, contact Radical Women * Ph: 03-9386-3230 * Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * website: www.radicalwomen.org . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
LL:DDV: How you can fight the war and the Blackshirts
STOP THE BLACKSHIRTS! NEVER AGAIN! On Saturday, 29 March, fight war AND fascism =8B Before the anti-war rally at the State Library (1.00 pm), * Rally from 11.30 am at Brunswick Town Hall (corner of Dawson Street Sydney Road, Brunswick). Speeches start at noon. * Then come along to a Street Party to celebrate diversity: 2.00 - 6.00 pm, Percy Street, Brunswick Hearkening back to Mussolini's fascist gangs, the Blackshirts stalk women who leave often-violent relationships, win custody of the children or may be in a lesbian relationship. They regularly demonstrate outside the Family Court to harass women who are fighting custody battles and to recruit like-minded brethren. Blackshirts' leader, John Abbott, says he has no problem with fascism. Fascism sent Jews and all groups that big business targeted as threats or burdens - women, queers, people with disabilities, immigrants, unionists, radicals - to their death. Organised by Diversity in Safe Communities (DiSC). ENDORSERS: Victorian Trades Hall Council; Moreland City Council; Denis Evans, Organiser for Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU); Radical Women; Workers Liberty; Freedom Socialist Party; Australia Asia Worker Links; Socialist Alliance; tallpaul, Editor of The Internet Anti-Fascist; LaTrobe University Women's Department; National Union of Students; Council of Single Mothers and their Children; Friends of the Earth; Refugee Action Collective; International Socialist Organisation; Monash Student Association; Men Against Sexual Assault; Socialist Party; Brunswick Women's Choir; Moreland Peace Group FOR MORE INFORMATION: For the rally, contact Debbie: [EMAIL PROTECTED] For the street party, contact Paula: [EMAIL PROTECTED] .. -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
LL:DDV: War No More!
Tuesday, 25 March, 7.00 pm International Women's Day Celebration War No More! Getting from anti-war protest to permanent global peace Almost a century ago, socialist feminists founded International Women's Day in a world facing an all-out war for profit and power. That was World War I. Today, feminists are again marching on the frontlines of a burgeoning international movement - this time to stop George W. Bush from plunging the world into another corporate war. Join us as we celebrate IWD's proud fighting tradition and discuss how we can build a movement to end all war. Guest speakers are Surma Hamid, Committee in Defence of Iraqi Women's Rights, Reta Kaur, Women for Peace, and Debbie Brennan, veteran anti-war activist. International buffet dinner, 6.30 pm for a $6.50 donation. At Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick. Everyone welcome! For information, email [EMAIL PROTECTED] or phone 03-9386-3230 .. -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
LL:DDV: Stop the Blackshirts
STOP THE BLACKSHIRTS! NEVER AGAIN! Saturday, 29 March * Rally March: 12.00 noon, Brunswick Town Hall (corner of Dawson Street Sydney Road, Brunswick) * Street Party celebrating diversity: from 2.00 pm, Percy Street, Brunswick Hearkening back to Mussolini's fascist gangs, the Blackshirts stalk women who leave often-violent relationships, win custody of the children or may be in a lesbian relationship. They regularly demonstrate outside the Family Court to harass women who are fighting custody battles and to recruit like-minded brethren. Blackshirts' leader, John Abbott, says he has no problem with fascism. Fascism sent working people - independent women, queers, people with disabilities, radicals and all groups that big business targeted as threats or burdens - to their death. In September, a public meeting which packed out Brunswick Town Hall launched Diversity in Safe Communities (DiSC) to defend everyone's right to decide how they will live and with whom - and to enjoy that right in safety. The meeting voted to set up a Rapid Response Network and organise a protest rally. The March rally will follow on from DiSC's highly successful counter-demonstration against the Blackshirts outside the Family Court just before Christmas. After the rally, DiSC is holding a street party in the neighbourhood of the Blackshirts' Brunswick organising centre. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For the rally, contact Debbie: [EMAIL PROTECTED] For the street party, contact Paula: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ENDORSERS: Victorian Trades Hall Council; Denis Evans, Organiser for Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU); Radical Women; Workers Liberty; Freedom Socialist Party; Australia-Asia Worker Links; Socialist Alliance; tallpaul, Editor of The Internet Anti-Fascist; LaTrobe University Women's Department; National Union of Students; Council of Single Mothers and their Children; Friends of the Earth; Refugee Action Collective; International Socialist Organisation; Monash Student Association; Men Against Sexual Assault; Socialist Party; Brunswick Women's Choir; Moreland Peace Group .. -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
LL:AA: Call for Endorsements - Rally Against Blackshirts
Hello LeftLinkers Rally to Stop the Blackshirts! This is another chance to endorse and help build a huge anti-Blackshirts protest rally and march on March 29 in Brunswick. It is being organised by Diversity in Safe Communities (DiSC), a coalition of residents, grassroots activists and anti-fascist fighters that formed last August out of widespread community opposition to these patriarchal thugs. Hearkening back to Mussolini's fascist gangs, the Blackshirts stalk women who leave often-violent relationships, win custody of the children or may be in a lesbian relationship. They regularly demonstrate outside the Family Court to harass women who are fighting custody battles and to recruit like-minded brethren. In September, a public meeting which packed out Brunswick Town Hall launched DiSC to defend everyone's right to decide how they will live and with whom - and to enjoy that right in safety. The meeting voted to set up a Rapid Response Network and organise a protest rally. The March rally will follow on from DiSC's highly successful counter-demonstration against the Blackshirts outside the Family Court just before Christmas. RALLY DETAILS: Saturday, 29 March. Rally 12.00 noon at Brunswick Town Hall, corner of Dawson St and Sydney Rd, Brunswick. TO ENDORSE: please contact Debbie on (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To get involved, come to the next DiSC working group meeting on Saturday, 1 March, 1.00 pm at Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick, or contact Debbie (details above) to let us know what you can do. DiSC General Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month, 7.00 pm at Cafe Mingo, 600 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. Next meeting is Tuesday, 11 March. Everyone is welcome. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DiSC: contact Riki: [EMAIL PROTECTED] or Paula: [EMAIL PROTECTED] . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Dismantle the War Machine, Not Welfare!
Hi Leftlinkers Radical Women invites you all to our upcoming meeting: Stop Welfare Fraud - No more handouts to the rich! Tuesday, 25 February, 7.00 pm On orders from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Howard=B9s Government is planning the biggest ever assault on welfare. One scheme is to encourage working families and individuals to help themselves by slashing benefits. The other is to hand over more Centrelink operations to private companies. In this latest pick-pocketing of the poor in order to add to the treasures of the rich, women would be robbed the most. Come along to hear Deb Carlon from the Council of Single Mothers and their Children and Alison Thorne, an activist in the Community Public Sector Union, unravel this scam and its consequences. Join us in discussing how welfare workers and recipients resisting together can stop it. A refreshing summertime dinner will be served at 6.30 pm for a $6.50 donation. At Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick (between Blyth and Stewart Sts). For more information, phone 9386 3230 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Rally to Stop the Blackshirts
Hello LeftLinkers Rally to Stop the Blackshirts! This is a call to endorse and help build a huge anti-Blackshirts protest rally and march on March 29 in Brunswick. It is being organised by Diversity in Safe Communities (DiSC), a coalition of residents, grassroots activists and anti-fascist fighters that formed last August out of widespread community opposition to these patriarchal thugs. Hearkening back to Mussolini's fascist gangs, the Blackshirts stalk women who leave often-violent relationships, win custody of the children or may be in a lesbian relationship. They regularly demonstrate outside the Family Court to harass women who are fighting custody battles and to recruit like-minded brethren. In September, a public meeting which packed out Brunswick Town Hall launched DiSC to defend everyone's right to decide how they will live and with whom and to enjoy that right in safety. The meeting voted to set up a Rapid Response Network and organise a protest rally. The March rally will follow on from DiSCB9s highly successful counter-demonstration against the Blackshirts outside the Family Court just before Christmas. RALLY DETAILS: Saturday, 29 March. Rally 12.00 noon at Brunswick Town Hall, corner of Dawson St and Sydney Rd, Brunswick. TO ENDORSE: please contact Debbie on (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] DiSC is preparing the first rally leaflet for distribution at Pride on Sunday, February 2. Endorsements received by this Tuesday, 28 January will be included. If you can't send in your endorsement by then, that's OK - the leaflet will be regularly updated. To get involved, come to the next DiSC working group meeting on Saturday, 15 February, 1.00 pm at Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick, or contact Debbie (details above) to let us know what you can do. DiSC General Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month, 7.00 pm at Cafe Mingo, 600 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. Next meeting is Tuesday, 11 February. Everyone is welcome. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DiSC: contact Riki: [EMAIL PROTECTED] or Paula: [EMAIL PROTECTED] .. -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Feminist Answer to the Low Fertility Hype
Geelong Radical Women Meeting Tuesday, 17 September, 7.00 pm Feminist Answer to the Low Fertility Hype Government has always cracked the whip on working people to deliver profits to its corporate masters. John Howard and his business mates are now in a flap, because the women they consider suitable for breeding future generations of workers have been making their own life choices. To stem the declining birthrate, Howard wants them back behind the white picket fence. Meanwhile, Aborigines, queers, people with disabilities and migrants still face various forms of population control. Refugees are denied the right to be here. Join us in discussion about what drives the current fertility hysteria and how to win full reproductive freedom for ALL women. The meeting eill be held at Geelong Radio Building, Meeting Room 3, 9 Market Street, Geelong. Everyone is welcome! A tantalising supper, with vegetarian option, will be served at 6.30 pm for a $4.00 donation. . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Sub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsub: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Winning A Just Peace in Palestine
Radical Women Meeting Thursday, 6 June, 7.00 pm Global Feminism: An Irrepressible Force for Justice and Peace in Palestine Join Radical Women and the Committee in Defence of Iraqi Women's Rights for a forum in solidarity with the people of Palestine and feminists in Israel working to end the Israeli occupation. Come along and hear a panel presentation on the role of women organising for a just resolution to Israel's oppression of Palestinians and contribute your ideas on how to achieve justice in the Middle East. Panelists are: Surma Hamid, Committee in Defence of Iraqi Women's Rights Jeni Allenby, Palestine Costume Archive, Canberra Debbie Brennan, Radical Women A Middle Eastern dinner will be served at 6.30 pm for a $6.50 donation. At Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. (Just north of Blyth Street, on the Sydney Road tram or Upfield railway line. Plenty of parking off Staley Street.) Phone Radical Women (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Website: www.socialism.com -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Equal Pay - Women's Unfinished Business
Radical Women Meeting Tuesday, 21 May, 7.00 pm Equal Pay: Women's Unfinished Business! After decades of struggle, women have still not won wage justice. Today we get two-thirds of men's average pay. Through casualisation and privatisation, women keep slipping backwards. In Geelong, the entire workforce is wracked with job insecurity and unemployment - just because employers can choose from the most exploited supplies of labour. Join the discussion on women's unstoppable fight for wage parity and economic independence, which could only benefit all workers. All welcome! Supper, with vegetarian option, will be served at 6.30 pm for a $4.00 donation. Venue: Geelong Radio Building, Meeting Room 3, 9 Market Street, Geelong For more information, phone 5252-3373 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Women in the Arab World - Study Group
Radical Women Study Group Saturdays, through 25 May 2.00 - 3.30 pm Women in the Arab World: Essays by Nawal El Saadawi. Join in our continuing discussion of selections from The Hidden Face of Eve and The Nawal El Saadawi Reader. For over three decades, Saadawi has analysed the impact of religious fundamentalism and class inequalities on women, especially poor women. Upcoming readings: 27 April: Women and Islam 4 May: Islamic Fundamentalism and Women, Fundamentalism: Old Friend, New Enemy 11 May: Arab Pioneers of Women's Liberation 18 May Arab Women and Politics 25 May: Women in Resistance: The Arab World, Women and the Poor: The Challenge of Global Justice Everyone is welcome. Lunch is served at 1.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. (North of Blyth St tram stop; 5 minute walk from Anstey Station on Upfield Line; parking off Staley St) For more information, phone 9386 3230 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Stop Howard's Anti-Terrorism Laws
Radical Women Meeting: Monday, 25 March, 7.00 pm DEFEND OUR CIVIL LIBERTIES: STOP HOWARD'S LEGISLATION TO EXTEND ASIO POWERS! A bill now before Parliament threatens to severely restrict our civil rights. Howard is manufacturing another Big Lie: this time, the existence of an 'enemy within.' Similar to George Bush's USA PATRIOT Act and Tony Blair's UK Terrorism Act, dissent in Australia - against anything from war to loss of jobs - would be treated as acts of terror. Join a discussion about how we can stop this new McCarthyism. Speakers are: * John O'Brien, member of the State Committee of Management, Furnishing Trades Division of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), Victorian Branch * Debbie Brennan, campaigner against police spying and Melbourne Organiser for Radical Women Bring your ideas for building a bold feminist civil rights movement, capable of strengthening our capacity to defend ourselves and solidarise with our sisters and brothers throughout the world. A hearty dinner, with vegetarian option, will be served at 6.30 pm for a $6.50 donation. At Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick (north of Blyth St tram stop; 5 minute walk from Anstey Station on Upfield Line). All welcome! For information, phone: (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Women in the Arab World: New Radical Women Study Group
Radical Women is about to start a new 10-session study group, and everyone is welcome: Saturdays, 2.00 - 3.30 pm, starting March 16 Women in the Arab World: Essays by Nawal El Saadawi Since the 1970s, Egyptian feminist, novelist and physician Nawal El Saadawi has documented and organised against female oppression and foreign domination in the Middle East. Her stereotype-exploding writings examine family, health, sexuality, work, Islamic traditions, the impact of religious fundamentalism, and women's role in national liberation struggles. We will read selections from The Hidden Face of Eve and The Nawal El Saadawi Reader. 16 March - 25 May (no session on 30 March) Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick (Just north of Blyth Street, on the Sydney Road tram or Upfield railway line. Plenty of parking off Staley Street.) Lunch is served at 1.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. For information, call (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Website: www.socialism.com . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Defend Student Unionism at Chisholm TAFE
Reminder: Radical Women Meeting Wednesday, 13 February, 7.00 pm DEFENDING STUDENTS UNDER FIRE: THE FIGHT TO STOP UNION BUSTING AT CHISHOLM TAFE Chisholm's Director chose the summer break to change the locks of Student Union offices across its campuses. Over a decade of cutbacks, TAFE managements have used similar thuggery to crush student unionism and silence protest. Discuss how the community and trade unions, in solidarity with students, can defend the right to organise and win back quality, free education for all. Special panel of speakers: * Louise Doolan, President of the Chisholm Student Union * Caspar Cumming, President of the Victorian TAFE Students and Apprentices Network * Delia Maxwell, veteran of the No More Intimidation of Teacher Unionists campaign A dinner to delight both vegetarians and carnivores is served at 6.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. At Solidarity Salon (address below). Everyone is welcome! At Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick. (Upfield line, near Anstey station; Tram #19, between Blyth St and Stewart St stops) For more information, call 03-9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] . -- -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Stop the War on Immigrants and Refugees
Radical Women Meeting Wednesday, 28 November, 7.00 pm Feminists Say NO Racism: Stop the War on Immigrants and Refugees! John Howard blames migrants for working people's misery and slams the door on those seeking asylum. Only big business is welcome. Join our panel discussion, addressing what people are up against when they migrate or escape to this country. What is behind Fortress Australia? What role can feminists play in the growing anti-war and anti-racism movements? Speakers are Silvia Martinez, Uruguayan feminist, Rosemary Jimenez, journalist working with human rights organisations in Colombia, Rachel Evans, member of Refugee Action Collective, Iudita Trifa, from Working Women's Health, Surma Hamid, Iraqi refugee working with the Committee in Defence of Iraqi Women's Rights, Esperanza Acosta, Salvadoran freedom fighter. Everyone is welcome! Meetings are free. A delicious multicultural dinner is served at 6.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick Victoria. Solidarity Salon is a 5 minute walk from Anstey Station on the Upfield train line or between Blyth St and Stewart St stops on the #19 Tram. For information, phone 9386 3230. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Geelong: Study Series on Socialist Feminism
Radical Women invites you to join us on Week #2 of our 6-week study of The Radical Women Manifesto: Socialist Feminist Theory, Program and Organizational Structure Saturday, 22 September, 2.00 - 3.30 pm This week: Origins of Oppression; Women under Capitalism; Race and Gender New participants are most welcome. Come at 1.30 pm for light snacks beforehand ($3.00 donation) The Radical Women Manifesto is available in English and Spanish for $10.00 by mail (email [EMAIL PROTECTED] for details). Copies will also be available for purchase at study group meetings. Everyone is welcome! Venue: Wathaurong Cooperative, Morgan St, North Geelong Sponsored by: Radical Women, PO Box 94, Drysdale Vic 3222, www.socialism.com For information or a lift, phone Brenda (03) 5253 3373 or Brigitte (03) 5241 3901 -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Socialists Stand Up for Reproductive Freedom
Wednesday, 26 September, 7.00 Radical Women Meeting Not the Church, Not the State. Women Must Decide our Fate! Stand Up for Reproductive Freedom for ALL Women Limited as they are, women's reproductive rights are under fire. Abortion clinics are under tight protective security from rightwing terror. In Melbourne, a guard was recently killed. Abortion is still a crime. The Howard Government is trying to further impose his family values by allowing only certain women access to fertility treatment. Women with disabilities, Indigenous women and other women of colour are sterilised. Childcare is only for those who can afford it. The good news is feminists are fighting back, and we can defeat the Right! Join us in a panel discussion with Jackie Lynch, Socialist Alliance candidate for Batman in the upcoming federal election, Melissa Venville, federal Queer Officer for the National Union of Students, and Debbie Brennan, veteran reproductive rights activist. Meetings are free and held at Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick. Dinner is served at 6.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. For more information, email [EMAIL PROTECTED] or phone us on (03) 9386 3230 -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Geelong Study Group on Socialist Feminism
Geelong Radical Women invites you to a 6-week study series on The Radical Women Manifesto: Socialist Feminist Theory, Program and Organizational Structure Saturdays, 15 September - 20 October 2.00-3.30 pm (Light snack is served at 1.30 pm for a $3.00 donation) 15 September: Introduction and Preamble -- Who We Are; The Vanguard Role of Women 22 September: Theory -- Origins of Oppression; Women under Capitalism; Race and Gender 29 September: Theory -- Reform or Revolution; Feminism: Class Struggle or Sex Struggle; Women and Socialism; Building for a Socialist Feminist Future 6 October: Platform -- Legal Rights; Economic Equality; Women and Unions; Biological Self-Determination; Quality Healthcare; Rights of Children; Education; Politics; People of Colour, National/Ethnic Minorities and Indigenous Nations 13 October: Platform -- Sexual Minorities; Elder Women; Young Women; Women with Disabilities; Women and Poverty; Women in Prison; Legalisation of Prostitution; Violence against Women; The Environment; Media and Culture; The Military and the Draft; The Right to Self-Defence; For a United Front against the Right Wing and Fascism 20 October: Organisational Structure Principles; Notes and Recommended Reading The Radical Women Manifesto is available in English and Spanish for $10.00 by mail (email [EMAIL PROTECTED] for details). Copies will also be available for purchase at study group meetings. Everyone is welcome! Venue: Wathaurong Cooperative, Morgan St, North Geelong Sponsored by: Radical Women, PO Box 94, Drysdale Vic 3222, www.socialism.com For information or a lift, phone Brenda (03) 5253 3373 or Brigitte (03) 5241 3901 -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:INFO: Proposed Peaceful Assemblies Bill
Hello LeftLinkers Below is a letter that Radical Women sent to Steve Bracks about the proposed Peaceful Assemblies Bill and forwarded to Donna Robertson, who recently asked subscribers for opinions. The letter was presented at an RW meeting this past Thursday on the militarising of Australia's police (guest speaker was Jude McCulloch, feminist community lawyer and author of Blue Army: Paramilitarity Policing in Australia) and signed by RW members and guests. Debbie Brennan Melbourne Radical Women Organiser Radical Women PO Box 266, West Brunswick Vic 3055 The Hon Steve Bracks Office of the Premier 1 Treasury Place Melbourne 3000 30 August 2001 Dear Premier Bracks We, the undersigned, condemn your government's proposed Peaceful Assemblies Bill which would revoke the right of assembly in Victoria. Coming just before the Commonwealth Business Forum in October, its immediate purpose is self-evident. Empowering police to crush demonstrations and threatening protesters with collective penalties is a transparent and desperate attempt by your government to protect the global profiteers. Working people and society's most downtrodden, who are the targets of this bill, will not tolerate repeats of the infamous scenes at Richmond Secondary College in 1994 and the S11 protests last year. We will not be scapegoated for the economic crisis, nor coerced into paying for it. Our rights are not for sale. At the very least, justice requires the establishment of an elected, community-controlled police review board, independent of government and the police, with power to discipline and dismiss officers who harass, brutalise or kill women, people of colour, young people, queers and workers - today's protesters. The police must not be unleashed, they must be held accountable. Yours sincerely -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Paramilitary Policing - Melbourne Radical Women Meeting
Radical Women Meeting Thursday, 30 August, 7.00 pm Feminists talk about: Policing Rebellion vs Our Right to Resist =8B the militarising of Australia's police From Seattle to Prague, Melbourne to Quebec, brutal police attacks on massive anti-capitalist protests have shattered the image of the community-spirited cop. The shooting down of protesters in Port Moresby and Genoa show their far-reaching powers. Jude McCulloch, feminist lawyer and author of Blue Army: Paramilitary Policing in Australia, will be Radical Women=B9s special guest speaker. RW's Delia Maxwell, veteran of the Richmond Secondary College picketlines and the anti-capitalist protests of S11 and M1, will chair. In the lead-up to Melbourne's demonstrations against the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) Business Forum in October, join us in learning how Australia's police forces have been transformed into crack troops, and why. Discuss what those on the front lines of today's revolts - women, unionists, queers, migrants, Aborigines, students, elders and young, people with disabilities - can do about it. Everyone is welcome! The meeting is free and held at Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. Dinner is served at 6.30pm for a $6.00 donation. For more information, email Radical Women on [EMAIL PROTECTED] or phone us on (03) 9386 3230. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Radical Women Study Series
Radical Women invites you to join us on Week #3 of our 6-week study of The Radical Women Manifesto: Socialist Feminist Theory, Program and Organizational Structure Saturday, 11 August, 2.00 - 3.30 pm This week: Reform or Revolution -- Building for a Socialist Feminist Future New participants are most welcome. Come at 1.30 pm for a delicious lunch beforehand ($6.00 donation) The Radical Women Manifesto is available in English and Spanish for $10.00 from Solidarity Salon (Tuesdays or Saturdays, 10.00 am - 5.00 pm) or by mail (email [EMAIL PROTECTED] for details). Copies will also be available for purchase at study group meetings. Radical Women Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd., Brunswick (Upfield line between Brunswick Anstey stations, Tram #19 between Blyth and Stewart St. stops; plenty of parking at rear, off Staley St.) Information: (03) 9386 3230 or [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Women in Prison: Benefit Gig
Press Release Press Release Press Release Press Release Advocacy Program for Women In Prison Benefit Gig Women inside prison have little effective access to the information and resources they need in relation to their imprisonment and post release needs such as housing, employment, social welfare, legal rights and access to children. The Advocacy Program for Women Prisoners is a non-profit, non-government funded program that provides pre and post release advocacy and support for women prisoners in Victoria. Currently the program is run by approximately 12 women activists who volunteer their time and energy to provide resources and advocacy to women inside. However, the Advocacy Program desperately needs funds in order to stay alive. In order to raise funds the Advocacy Program is holding a benefit gig on Saturday, 21st July at 8pm at: Bar 303, High Street Northcote Bands included: Git (little bit of country from Melbounres finest trio) Milk (divine harmonies, lush melodies and rich textures) Women (rhythm and blues) featuring Monica Weightman, Kate Hosking and Mia Dyson and heaps more come along and show your support Tickets cost $10 and $6 and any donations to the program will also gratefully be accepted on the night or by contacting Cherry or Jiselle For More Information contact Cherry: 0412 487 779 or Jiselle 0403 278 610 -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Melbourne Radical Women Study Group
Melbourne Radical Women invites you to a 6-week study series on The Radical Women Manifesto: Socialist Feminist Theory, Program and Organizational Structure Saturdays, 28 July - 1 September 2.00-3.30 pm (Lunch is served at 1.30 pm for a $6.00 donation) 28 July: Introduction and Preamble -- Who We Are; The Vanguard Role of Women 4 August: Theory -- Origins of Oppression; Women under Capitalism; Race and Gender 11 August: Theory -- Reform or Revolution; Feminism: Class Struggle or Sex Struggle; Women and Socialism; Building for a Socialist Feminist Future 18 August: Platform -- Legal Rights; Economic Equality; Women and Unions; Biological Self-Determination; Quality Healthcare; Rights of Children; Education; Politics; People of Colour, National/Ethnic Minorities and Indigenous Nations 25 August: Platform -- Sexual Minorities; Elder Women; Young Women; Women with Disabilities; Women and Poverty; Women in Prison; Legalisation of Prostitution; Violence against Women; The Environment; Media and Culture; The Military and the Draft; The Right to Self-Defence; For a United Front against the Right Wing and Fascism 1 September: Organisational Structure Principles; Notes and Recommended Reading The Radical Women Manifesto is available in English and Spanish for $10.00 from Solidarity Salon (Tuesdays or Saturdays, 10.00 am - 5.00 pm) and New International Bookshop or by mail (email [EMAIL PROTECTED] for details). Copies will also be available for purchase at study group meetings. Radical Women Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd., Brunswick (Upfield line between Brunswick Anstey stations, Tram #19 between Blyth and Stewart St. stops; plenty of parking at rear, off Staley St.) Information: (03) 9386 3230 or [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Study for Radicals
Melbourne Radical Women invites you to a 6-week study group =8B The Radical Women Manifesto: Socialist Feminist Theory, Program and Organizational Structure Saturdays, 28 July - 1 September 2.00 - 3.30 pm Feeling radical? Then join other activists in an exciting exploration of the revolutionary tendency of the feminist movement, its ideas and strategies. This new, updated edition of the Manifesto is required reading for rebel grrrlz, working women and sisters of all colours. Radical Women's brand of multi-issue, multi-racial, queer and straight, cross-generational, working class politics will inspire you and give you optimism that together we can change the world! Everyone is welcome. Admission is free. Lunch is served at 1.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. The Manifesto is $10.00 and available at our office (address below) on Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10.00 am - 5.00 pm or by mail (add $1.50 postage). Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick. Upfield line between Brunswick Anstey stations, Tram #19 between Blyth Stewart St stops, or plentiful parking is available (enter from Staley St). -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: May Day Book Launch
Saturday, 5 May, 5.00 pm Feminism and Revolution -- Alive and Inseparable Join Radical Women in celebrating the publication of their red hot Manifesto to the world. This book tackles the big questions like why sexism is intrinsic to capitalism and how to build a movement for international justice. Festivities include a presentation by Debbie Brennan on the radical origins of the fight for equal rights, a tribute to our trailblazing foremothers and readings from the book. An international hors d'oeuvre buffet will be served for a $6.00 donation. Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick (Upfield train line between Brunswick and Anstey stations or tram #19 between Blyth and Stewart Sts). Sponsored by Radical Women. For more information, phone 9388 0062. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:REM: Socialist Feminism vs Rightwing Backlash
Apologies for re-posting. The date and time were missing from the original. Melbourne Radical Women Meeting. Everyone is welcome! Thursday, 5 April, 7.30 pm FEMINISTS RISE UP AGAINST THE GLOBAL BACKLASH Around the world, rightwing regimes are being met by grassroots resistance. Come along to hear about international and national struggles against the likes of John Howard, George Bush and Saddam Hussein. A panel of dynamic speakers will feature Surma Hamid, organiser for the Committee in Defence of Iraqi Women's Rights; Maria Mardones, Chilean feminist and community activist; and Alison Thorne, Radical Women member and a leader in Socialist Alliance. We'll explore what drives the Right, why it has become a global force and how a multi-issue feminist movement can defeat it. A tasty dinner, with vegetarian option, is served at 6.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. Place: Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick For more information, contact Radical Women at (03) 9386 3230 or [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Socialist Feminism vs Rightwing Backlash
Melbourne Radical Women Meeting. Everyone is welcome! FEMINISTS RISE UP AGAINST THE GLOBAL BACKLASH Around the world, rightwing regimes are being met by grassroots resistance. Come along to hear about international and national struggles against the likes of John Howard, George Bush and Saddam Hussein. A panel of dynamic speakers will feature Surma Hamid, organiser for the Committee in Defence of Iraqi Women's Rights; Maria Mardones, Chilean feminist and community activist; and Alison Thorne, Radical Women member and a leader in Socialist Alliance. We'll explore what drives the Right, why it has become a global force and how a multi-issue feminist movement can defeat it. A tasty dinner, with vegetarian option, is served at 6.30 pm for a $6.00 donation. Place: Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Road, Brunswick For more information, contact Radical Women at (03) 9386 3230 or [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Transgenders' Fight for EO
Melbourne Radical Women Meeting: "Victoria's Equal Opportunity Law for Transgenders: A Victory that Needs Extending" The Equal Opportunity (Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation) Bill, recently passed by the Victorian State Parliament, is the first to make discrimination against transgender people unlawful in a range of areas. Its passage has been a battle against conservative forces hell-bent on maintaining society's sexist and homophobic definitions of gender identity. And limitations have been imposed. Come along to hear Sharon Saunders, from Transgender Liberation and Care, Kayleen White, a transgender rights activist, and Alison Thorne, from Radical Women, discuss why protection for transgenders is an urgent necessity and what it will take to win full equality. Thursday, 30 November 7.00 pm (dinner at 6.15 pm for a $6 donation) Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick For more information, phone Radical Women on (03) 9386 3230. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink LL.VK
LL:PR: Crisis Leadership: timely new book
Dear LeftLinkers On the heels of S11 and in the midst of exciting global anti-capitalist revolt, upcoming discussions about lessons to be drawn and where to go from here couldn't be more welcome and timely. To go forward and meet the opportunities presented by the new anti-WEF coalitions, as Trotsky might have said, one must understand the past. A new publication called "Crisis and Leadership," published by Red Letter Press, is a superb resource for this. Written in 1965, the book examines how and why the U.S. Socialist Workers Party, originally a vibrant model of principled Trotskyist organising and thought, abandoned its revolutionary program. When the radical 1960s exploded, the SWP was paralysed by its ties to the most privileged sectors of the union movement and its ambivalent and wildly contradictory approach to the upsurges of African Americans, youth, and women. In an attempt by the Kirk-Kaye Tendency (Richard Fraser and Clara Fraser) to re-orient the SWP, "Crisis and Leadership" studies the SWP's political errors in relation to Cuba, the unions, the civil rights movement, feminism, youth, and the emerging far right. The authors provide a visionary analysis of world economic and political developments. They track down the source of the bureaucratic methods that prevented the ranks from correcting the party's downward spiral. Although the SWP failed to change course, the political critique presented in these pages became the seeds for a new beginning. The authors formed the Freedom Socialist Party, which became the first and only Bolshevik feminist party. Founding documents of the FSP are published for the first time in this book. Extensive notes clarify the issues and historical events of the time, as well as identify the people and organisations involved. Today's new generation of organisers against global corporate rule will find the perspectives offered in "Crisis and Leadership" as fresh and relevant as when first written. It also provides answers for a generation of exSWPers who dropped out of politics or tried to start new organisations or who turned against Trotskyism/Leninism because of their experience. Here's how to order from the publisher: Red Letter Press PO Box 266 West Brunswick Vic 3055 e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Fax: 03-9386-5065 For more information, visit our website at www.socialism.com Cost: Australia: $19.95, postage $2.50. In struggle Debbie Brennan Freedom Socialist Party -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Feminism Unites the Global Revolt against Corporate Rule
Melbourne Radical Women Meeting: Wednesday, 25 October FEMINISM UNITES THE GLOBAL REVOLT AGAINST CORPORATE RULE In September, the thousands of people who blockaded the World Economic Forum Summit in Melbourne joined the spreading international resistance against capitalism. When unionists, Aborigines, migrants, queers, people with disabilities, young people and seniors linked arms, we united our struggles and showed our combined power. As the special target of this sexist system, women were in the forefront. Join us as we discuss the impact of capitalist globalisation on women and queers and how we, in all our diversity, are the fiercest fighters for revolutionary change. Panelists include Jess Permezel from QUEER (Queers United to Eradicate Economic Rationalism) and Debbie Brennan from Radical Women. Everyone is welcome. 7.00 pm (dinner at 6.15 pm for a $6 donation) Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick For more information, phone (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink LL.VJ
LL:DDV: Reproductive Rights for ALL Women!
Radical Women Meeting Wednesday, 27 September, 7.00 pm ACCESS TO IVF AND DONOR SPERM FOR ALL WOMEN! John Howard's attack on the right of lesbians and single women to access IVF and donor sperm programs is part of a vicious backlash against women's independence. When Howard preaches "family values," he speaks for big business. Women are key to maintaining its profits: we reproduce the labour force; and the system's treatment of women is its benchmark for everyone. To maintain power, our corporate rulers must control women's reproduction: sterilising women of colour or with disabilities, deciding who can use reproductive technology and criminalising abortion. Come along to discuss how we can defeat this latest assault and win full reproductive freedom for ALL women. Everyone is welcome! Dinner will be served at 6.15 pm for a $6.00 donation. Venue: Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick For further information, email Radical Women: [EMAIL PROTECTED] or phone (03) 9386 3230. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Archived at http://www.cat.org.au/lists/leftlink/ Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink LL.VI
LL:DDV: Women Workers' Victory Over Nike: Melbourne Radical Women
An invitation from Melbourne Radical Women: Wednesday, 16 August, 7.00 pm (dinner at 6.15 pm for a $6.00 donation) WOMEN TAKING ON A GLOBAL GOLIATH -- GARMENT WORKERS WIN A VICTORY OVER NIKE Women unionists are at the forefront of resistance against the sweatshop barons. When the Textile, Clothing and Footwear Union and the FairWear Campaign stood up to Nike -- for the first time anywhere in the world -- this corporate giant had to front a court and answer for its super-exploitation of its overwhelmingly female labour force. The $15,000 penalty was pitiful. But the significance of this victory is immense. Next step: September 11 at Melbourne's Crown Casino. There, the World Economic Forum, the organisation of the world's richest companies, will meet to plan how they'll extract more profit at our expense. Again, working people will be there! Come along to hear special guest speaker, Pam Curr, from the FairWear Campaign. Join the discussion of how we can defeat the Nikes of the world and take a lesson from Cuba, where wealth is measured by the well-being of its people, not the profits of cartels. Everyone is welcome. Place: Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick. For more information, phone Radical Women on (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] LL.VH -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DD: Meet the Federation of Cuban Women
WELCOME FEMINISTS FROM REVOLUTIONARY CUBA! Bertha Acosta Segua, member of Federation of Cuban Women's National Committee, and Nancy Iglesias Mildenstein, from FMC's Department of Foreign Affairs, will visit Australia July 22 - 30. The Federation of Cuban Women, an outstanding champion of women's rights around the world, was organised by women leaders of the 1959 Cuban Revolution. Its first campaign wiped out illiteracy in the country. For more than four decades it has worked tirelessly on behalf of Cuban women. This is a unique chance to share experiences and learn from women revolutionaries who believe that their aspirations are tied to the liberation of women worldwide. Initiated by Radical Women, the tour is co-sponsored by: Australia-Cuba Friendship Society (Brisbane and Sydney), Committees in Solidarity with Latin America and the Caribbean, Green Left Weekly, LINKS (Committee in Solidarity with the FMLN in El Salvador), Ocean Travel, Progressive Labour Party (Geelong), Resistance Endorsed by Victorian Trades Hall, Wathaurong Women's Group, Indigenous Social Justice Association and many unionist, environmentalist, feminist and solidarity organisations and activists. RECEPTIONS IN MELBOURNE AND GEELONG WILL LAUNCH THE TOUR: MELBOURNE: Saturday, 22 July, 6.00 pm Trades Hall, Old Ballroom (Victoria and Lygon Streets, Carlton) Reception and Forum -- "Stand in Solidarity with Cuba: We can Turn this Beacon into a Torch!" Speakers: Bertha Acosta and Nancy Iglesias, Federation of Cuban Women Debbie Brennan, Radical Women Alejandro Rodriguez, Committees in Solidarity with Central America the Caribbean Philippa Sandford, LINKS (Committee in Solidarity with the FMLN in El Salvador) Deb Shnookal, Ocean Travel A speaker from Resistance $12/$8 concession Delicious Buffet Spread International Entertainment * Raffle Proceeds go toward the FMC Tour For information, contact Radical Women: 03 9386 3230 GEELONG Sunday, 23 July, 12.00 noon Wathaurong Cooperative Morgan Street, North Geelong Speakers: Bertha Acosta and Nancy Iglesias, Federation of Cuban Women Brenda Hunter, Radical Women FMC Tour Coordinator Deb Nicholson, Regional Woman of the Year Entry by donation Lunch $5/$3 Proceeds go toward the FMC Tour Contact details: Radical Women 03 5253 3373 Progressive Labour Party 03 5241 3901 OTHER TOUR EVENTS MELBOURNE: Tuesday, 25 July, 1.00 - 2.00 pm: Forum hosted by International Conflict Resolution Centre, University of Melbourne. Room 1123, 11th Floor, Redmond Barry Building, University of Melbourne. Phone: 9486 8312. Tuesday, 25 July, 6.00 pm: Dinner with women unionists hosted by Victorian Trades Hall. La Notte, 140 Lygon Street, Carlton. RSVP required: Ellen Kleimaker 9662 3511. Wednesday, 26 July, 12.00 - 2.00 pm: Luncheon hosted by Union of Australian Women. 4th Floor, Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne. $10/$8. Phone UAW: 9654 7409. Thursday, 27 July, 12.00 - 2.00 pm: Forum hosted by Latin American Society, La Trobe University. Social Sciences Room 429, La Trobe University, Bundoora. Phone 9329 5808. Saturday, 29 July, 9.30 am: Global Action Conference, sponsored by Green Left Weekly and Friends of the Earth. University of Melbourne, Daniher Hall, Orr Street, Carlton. $10/$5. Phone GLW: 9639 8622. Saturday, 29 July, 7.00 pm - 1.00 am: =A1Viva Cuba! Fiesta. Sponsored by Cuba Solidarity Coalition. Brunswick Town Hall, 233 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. $12/$10. Phone: 9329 5808. Sunday, 30 July, 12.00 - 4.00 pm: Australia-Cuba Friendship Society celebrates Cuba=B9s Revolution. Venue: Viva La Vita! Restaruant, 141 Lygon Street, Carlton. Phone: 9478 9473. SYDNEY: Tuesday 25: 7.00 pm, hosted by UWS Latin American Studies. University of Western Sydney, Bankstown Campus, Bullecourt Rd, Milperra. $7/$5. PHONE: 9690 1240. Wednesday 26: 7pm: Celebrate the 41st anniversary of Cuba's Revolution, hosted by Australia-Cuba Friendship Society and Committees in Solidarity with Latin America and the Caribbean. University of Technology, Ground Floor,Tower Block Entrance, Broadway, Sydney. $7/$5. Phone: 9690 1240. Thursday, 27 July: 12.30 - 2.00 pm, Waratah Room, Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney. NEWCASTLE: Thursday, 27 July: 6.00 pm, venue to be confirmed. Organised by Committees in Solidarity with Latin America and the Caribbean. BRISBANE: Friday, 28 July: 7.00 pm, venue to be confirmed. Organised by Australia-Cuba Friendship Society. Phone: (07) 3848 5208. For updated information, including interstate events, phone RW in Melbourne (03) 9386 3230 or Geelong (03) 5253 3373, or email us. LL.VG LL.NG -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:AA: Federation of Cuban Women Australian Tour
FEDERATION OF CUBAN WOMEN AUSTRALIAN TOUR 22 - 30 JULY 2000 YOU are invited to help organise the national tour of feminists from revolutionary Cuba! The Federation of Cuban Women, an outstanding champion of women's rights around the world, was organised by women leaders of the 1959 Cuban Revolution. Its first campaign wiped out illiteracy in the country. For more than four decades it has worked tirelessly on behalf of Cuban women. From 22 - 30 July, the FMC will be in Australia. This is a unique chance to share experiences and learn from women revolutionaries who believe that their socialist aspirations are tied to the liberation of women worldwide. Do you want to: * Co-sponsor or endorse the tour? * Help raise funds or publicise the tour? * Set up a meeting with the Federation? Then talk to us! Phone: (03) 9386 3230 (Melbourne); (03) 5253 3373 (Geelong) Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sponsors (in progress): Radical Women, LINKS (Committee in Solidarity with the FMLN in El Salvador), Progressive Labour Party (Geelong branch), Resistance Endorsers so far are unions; parliamentarians; activists; socialist, feminist, environmentalist, solidarity, indigenous and women's organisations from Australia and internationally. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Cuba Solidarity Coalition 2000
To LeftLinkers in Melbourne -- The Cuba Solidarity Coalition (CSC) meets each year to plan its exciting Cuba solidarity activities. In previous years, we have held stimulating public forums with Cuban speakers, rallies and film nights. And who can forget the vivacious and successful Viva Cuba Fiestas to celebrate revolutionary Cuba! The next meeting will be: Tuesday, 11 April, 7.30 pm Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick All groups and activists interested in defending Cuba are welcome. For details, contact Debbie at: [EMAIL PROTECTED] or phone (03) 9386 3230. LL.VC -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Study Group: Voices of Color
To LeftLinkers around Melbourne -- Radical Women and Freedom Socialist Party invite you to: A Weekly Study Group: "VOICES OF COLOR" Join this lively discussion of writings by activists of colour. Authors explore their experiences as African Americans, Chicanas/os, Asian Pacific Americans and Native Americans. They provide fresh, optimistic outlooks on issues ranging from personal identity and inter-racial solidarity to the realities of confronting racism, sexism and homophobia at work and in the movements for social change. 23 MARCH - 20 APRIL, THURSDAY NIGHTS, 7.00 - 8.30 PM SOLIDARITY SALON, 1 APPLEBY CRESCENT, WEST BRUNSWICK Admission is free * Dinner served at 6.15 pm for $6 donation "Voices of Color" is available at sessions for $18.95 For information or to obtain the book and study guide, call (03) 9386 3230 * Email [EMAIL PROTECTED] * Fax (03) 9386 5065 * Website: www.socialism.com PROGRAM: 23 March -- VOICES OF COLOUR RING OUT * Introduction 30 March -- BUILDING UNITY ACROSS DIVISIONS OF RACE, SEX SEXUALITY AND TURNING RAGE INTO RESISTANCE * Lesbians of Color Conference: The Politics of "Sisterhood" * Blacks and Asians: We are NOT Enemies * Leglislating Language: Behind the Attack on Bilingualism * Turning Rage into Resistance: Solidarity Challenges San Francisco Cop Crackdown 6 April -- WORKERS OF COLOUR -- NEW LIFE FOR LABOUR * Women Strikers Shake Up the Bay Area * After Chavez, Where Next for the UFW (United Farm Workers)? * Multi-racial Strikers Persevere against Diamond Walnut * You Were Born 13 April -- INTERNATIONALISM -- DEFYING BORDERS TO FIGHT A COMMON FOE * NAFTA: Tri-Country Genocide Against Indigenous People * For the Good of Palestine and Israel: Bring the Political Exiles Home! * California Prop 187 Rings with Echoes of Japanese American Concentration Camps 20 April -- LEADERS ON THE ROAD TO REVOLUTION * Campasina's Journey * Invisible Women: Sexism in the Black Panther Party * We are the Leaders We've Been Waiting For LL.NC LL.ND -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:AA: Elian action alert
Hello LeftLinkers Below is an action alert on Elian Gonlzales Brotons, forwarded to Melbourne Radical Women from our comrades in the United States. Elian's case is now at a very critical point. Radical Women thanks all who supported our petition campaign to free Elian. We have just faxed the petition to key U.S. Government players below. Comradely Debbie Brennan Melbourne Radical Women Organiser - Forwarded message -- From: ifco [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000 17:15:38 -0500 Subject: Elian action alert ACTION ALERT FOR ELIAN: January 12, 2000 RENO CLARIFIES THE INS' POSITION; DEMONSTRATIONS IN NEW YORK AND SAN DIEGO GET BROAD MEDIA COVERAGE; LET'S KEEP THE PRESSURE ON! Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) staff members let us know yesterday that the 1/11 AP report stating that the INS would not contest the Florida court ruling on Eli=E1n's temporary custody was INCORRECT. Their actual position is reflected in today's letter from Janet Reno to the Miami attorneys Eig and Bernstein, who represent the distant relatives detaining Elian. The essence of this four-page letter, which was just released to the press, is as follows: a) Attorney General Reno sees no reason to reverse the INS Commissioner's decision that Elian's custody remains with his surviving parent, who has sole authority to speak for his son on immigration matters. b) Nothing in the local court's action or the temporary protective order overrides the father's authority. "In the Department [of Justice's] judgment, the Florida court's order has no force or effect insofar as INS' administration of the immigration laws is concerned." c) While state courts, and not the INS, have authority to rule on custody matters, the INS has already made clear that there is no question whatsoever of Elian's custody. d) Reno affirms that "the first responsibility of the INS when confronted with an unaccompanied minor is to attempt to remedy the situation by finding the child's parent or legal guardian, even if that person is outside the United States." e) Reno affirms the father's close relationship with Elian, and the absence of coercion in the father's appeal for his child. She also indicates that there is "no credible information indicating that the child would be at risk of torture or persecution if returned to his father," and thus sees "no objective basis for a valid asylum claim." f) The INS' ruling can only be challenged in federal court. "Accordingly, Commissioner Meissner has determined that the January 14 date should be extended to accommodate any federal court proceedings. This little boy has been through so much, and it is therefore imperative that all of us do what we can to resolve his case as soon as possible." WE NEED TO KEEP MAKING A BIG NOISE IN THE DIRECTION OF WASHINGTON. We want to let them know that they do have the political space in which they can enforce the Reno/INS decision and send Elian home. We need to insist that there be no more delaying tactics, that the federal review should be immediate, and that the boy must go home as soon as possible. PLEASE CONTINUE TO REACH OUT TO JANET RENO AND THE WHITE HOUSE. Ask Reno not to back down; ask Clinton to do the right thing; tell Gore to get out of the way! URGE THEM TO ENFORCE THE INS RULING, RESOLVE THIS MATTER RIGHT AWAY, AND SEND ELIAN HOME NOW! PLEASE CONTACT: PHONE: FAX: Attorney General Janet Reno 202/514-2001202/307-6777 Pres. Clinton and VP Gore 202/456-202/456-2461 We also need to keep reaching out to members of Congress. Contact your senators and rep in Washington (202/225-3121) or at their home district offices until 1/27 (meet with them personally if you can!). Ask them to show the Administration that they support the INS ruling to SEND ELIAN HOME NOW! The New York Committee to Return Elian to His Father In Cuba held a tremendously successful demonstration in front of the INS office at Federal Plaza in lower Manhattan on 1/11. Speakers at the rally included Ramsey Clark, Rev. Lucius Walker, and activist Minnie Bruce Pratt. Eleven people were arrested for blocking the entrance to the building. Every TV station in the metro-NY area gave positive coverage to the demonstration, and CNN and Spanish-language stations 41 and 47 gave national coverage which was viewed in Miami. Another successful demonstration was held on 1/11 at San Diego's Federal Plaza; San Francisco and other cities will have demonstrations today. Continued acts of civil disobedience are planned -- until Elian is home in his father's arms. As public outrage over the detention of Elian continues to grow, we are confident that this movement will grow! According to a local ABC news reporter in Miami: While Elian was p
LL:ART: Elian Gonzales Case: Eyewitness Account from Miami
Hello LeftLinkers Below is an excellent eye-witness report of the demonstrations in Miami, organised by the Cuban-American Mafia, to block the return of Elian Gonzales to Cuba. Radical Women received the report from the Cuban Consulate. It's written by a Cuban journalist in Miami who condemns the anti-Cuba thuggery and gives some telling insights. Comradely Debbie Brennan Melbourne Radical Women Organiser Subject: Eyewitness in Miami Date: 08-Jan-00 at 19:56 From: Luis Martin, INTERNET:canagc.org The Latest Commotion in Little Havana By Luis Ortega Miami Friday, January 7, 2000 On Thursday, January 6, at 12 noon, I went to downtown Miami to see what the big demonstration called for in front of the Federal Building to protest the case of the child Elian was all about. What I saw there was 300 yelling Cubans with little flags. One must realize that Miami is always congested with people and traffic. It is not exceptional for a bunch of people yelling and waving flags on a corner to create a commotion. In the meantime, I kept listening to all the Radio Mambi slogans on my car radio. I heard the ex-Commander, Hubert Matos uttering frightening screams and demanding justice. Hubert Matos has a world record on having executed a man on a wheel chair in 1959 in Camaguey province and has become incredibly rich in Miami with numerous businesses, to the extent that his son is on the run for having embezzled millions from Medicare and Medicaid. I also heard Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart who, in the tone of a media pundit, accused Castro of being a monster and insinuated that Clinton is despicable. Someday for sure there will be an investigation of the business activities of the Diaz Balarts. There are too many of them. Suddenly, the demonstrators, flags in hand and always yelling, began moving eastbound on Flagler Street (yelling is a tradition among my compatriots). Then, they sat on the street to stop traffic. I was forced to stop on a Flagler side street, I think it was on South Miami Avenue. A stout Cuban with a huge cigar in his mouth lay across the street with a Cuban flag while an old man sold Cuban and American flags at $5 each. The car horns began to sound and then I saw two men with Walkie-Talkies direct the operations. Miami police, made up of mostly Cubans, looked the other way. Mayor Carollo, probably gave them orders not to become too demanding in defense of the rights of the victimized citizens. There was a certain air of impunity to the entire show. In other more civilized cities, all would have been carried to awaiting cages in accordance with city ordinances. But, in Miami, the Cuban Mafia controls everything -judges, lawyers, police, state construction, mass media, public officials- that is, everything. Anything goes in Miami. Dubious contracts can be concocted, the public can be scammed, people can be taken advantage of, the loot of contracts can be spread around, criminals can be freed from jail with light penalties, etc. Judges here depend on the votes and campaign contributions of the Cuban Mafia. The presidential candidates come to Miami and collect millions. It's nobody's land. The Radio Mafia gave the order to paralyze Miami, something easy to do in the downtown area. In reality, there were more people on the sidewalks watching the unpleasant spectacle of these thugs stopping traffic than the number of demonstrators at hand. Let's be clear about something. They spent thousands of dollars to organize the commotion. The CANF, which is agonizing over pending trials for fraud,=DD was at the lead of it all. The show over Elian was carried out by the CANF as a vendetta against Clinton. Not knowing anything about Cuba and not having inherited his father's political chicanery, Mas Canosa Jr. felt slighted by the President's apparent willingness to rid himself of the Foundation on his recent trip to ask him for money In retaliation, the Foundation has wanted to show Clinton that they can paralyze the city of Miami, Florida. But they didn't, they haven't paralyzed anything, although they have certainly annoyed a lot of people. Miami Cubans have become a nuisance. They agitate, yell, make a scene, create traffic jams. They are a curse for the rest of the Cuban people who tend to their daily chores minding their own business. This entire event has a quality of blackmail. Although there are almost one million Cubans in South Florida, only a only a small minority participates in these extortions. Of course, Cuban campaign contributions are behind this whole thing. But the American candidates have begun to investigate where the millions are coming from. At some point, there will be an awakening and the federal government will have to ask where these amazing fortunes are coming from. When? Who knows. Corruption in Miami is asphyxiating and its impunity is intolerable. The Americans
LL:AA: Abduction of Cuban Child
For all LeftLinkers Radical Women has initiated a petition campaign to Pres Clinton for the immediate release of 5-year-old Cuban, Elian Gonzales Brotons, back to his country. The U.S. Government's abduction of Elian Glonzales Brotons, has disgusted the world. Late last month, Elian was one of 3 survivors of a boat that sank while transporting people from Cuba to Miami. Thanks to the U.S. Government's vicious and unrelenting efforts to crush Cuba's revolution, the trafficking of Cubans by petty profiteers (who get $8,000 - $10,000 per person) has become a new business. Washington DC swiftly "repratriates" undocumented immigrants, but illegally trafficked Cubans is another matter. Elian gets to stay in the U.S. -- in the custody of U.S. Immigration. What's common in this blatant contradiction? The rights of Elian and his Cuban family, and the sovereign rights of the Cuba, are utterly violated. Elian is a political hostage, plus a stolen child. Radical Women's petition campaign to Bill Clinton, demands the release of Elian to his country and the end of the U.S. embargo against Cuba. For copies of the petition, contact us. Below are two letters from Cuba with detailed information. Debbie Brennan for Melbourne Radical Women IMPORTANT TO LET PEOPLE KNOW WHAT'S GOING ON WITH THIS CASE AND ASK FOR SUPPORT FOR THE RETURN OF THE BOY Letter by Dr. Ricardo Alarcon de Quesada, Speaker of the National Assembly of People's Power of the Republic of Cuba, to all members of Parliament in the world. Letter by Dr. Ricardo Alarcon de Quesada, Speaker of the National Assembly of People's Power of the Republic of Cuba, to all members of Parliament in the world. Dear Members of Parliament, Cuba has repeatedly denounced the double standard policy that the United States government pursues towards Cuba with regards to immigration. While the nationals of other countries are quickly deported when they illegally enter that country, the Cubans are immediately granted permission of residence in compliance with the so-called Cuban Adjustment Act thus undermining the migratory agreements signed by both countries while encouraging illegal migration. This has lately given rise to a new phenomenon: the illegal smuggling of aliens when unscrupulous individuals wanting to profit from others and despising human life have come from the United States and surreptitiously enter our territory on speed boats to fetch Cuban citizens that they take to that country on payments of 8,000 to 10,000 US dollars per person. Most often, the travelling takes place on overcrowded boats and not few people, women and children included, have perished during such trafficking in humans. In addition to this, over two thousand weekly hours of radio stations programming invade our radio-electronic space as part of a campaign that repeatedly incites to ignore the established procedures for a legal and safe migration in accordance with aforementioned agreements signed by the United States and Cuba. The trafficking in humans is conducted on rudimentary and unsafe vessels, either built or stolen in our country by people who receive money from and act in complicity with others living in the United States of America. Last November 22, ancillary troops of our Coast Guard Forces detected, within our jurisdictional waters, a vessel carrying a group of people to Florida. As the efforts to persuade them to abandon their undertaking failed --and in compliance with the well-known conduct observed in such cases to avoid the use of force and intimidation to prevent accidents-- it was decided to escort them up to the international waters. Additionally, an immediate communication was forwarded through the established channels, that is, fax and telex to the U.S. Coast Guard Service patrolling the seas adjacent to Cuba about the presence and characteristics of such vessel navigating towards Florida "with a group of about 13 people, including children, on the northern coast of Matanzas province with the intent to illegally enter the territory of the United States of America. A few days later, on November 25, we learned that the U.S. Coast Guard Service had rescued, near the coast of Florida, three survivors of a shipwreck and that five-year-old Eli1n Gonza1lez Brotins was one of them. That child was being illegally carried aboard that vessel by a man named L'E1zaro Munero Garcia who had close personal relations with the child's mother already divorced from the boy's father, Juan Miguel Gonz=E1lez Quintana, a resident in the city of Cardenas, Matanzas province, Cuba. The father had a very close relationship with his son whom he constantly visited as he properly discharged his obligations as a parent. The child's grandparents, on both sides of the family, had also a very close and loving relationship with him as they live in the same city. They, too, have been deprived of the boy's presence. Nei
LL:DDV: Women Workers of Malaysia and Indonesia are Organising
You are invited to a Radical Women Meeting: Thursday, 28 October, 7.00 pm Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick In Malaysia and Indonesia: Women Workers are Organising! In the upheavals that are rocking Southeast Asia, women are on the frontlines for radical change. As a largely unorganised, super-cheap workforce for Nike and other corporate fortune seekers, they have every reason to fight for a social overhaul. Come along to hear special guest speaker Chloe Beaton, a student at Victoria University of Technology in Asia Pacific Community Development, who is researching how working women are organising in these two hotspots. We will also discuss the Freedom Socialist newspaper editorial, "Union Aid, Not Foreign Troops, to East Timor!" Dinner is served at 6.15 pm for a $6 donation. Everyone in welcome. For more information, phone 9386 3230. LL.VJ -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: We Can Stop Reith!
Melbourne Radical Women Meeting Thursday, 19 August, 7.00 pm REITH'S INDUSTRIAL THUGGERY CAN BE STOPPED -- LESSONS FROM THE FRONTLINES State and Federal Government clampdowns on working people's rights are being matched by unionist and community defiance. Come along to hear an exciting panel of guest speakers who will relate inspiring fights for our hospital services and schools and our right to be in a union. Pam Neisner, member of the Health Services Union, participated in an 8-day occupation by women and migrant kitchen staff at Box Hill Hospital against the tendering out of services and loss of jobs. Lilly Rejneveld, from the Australian Education Union, helped organise the teachers' strike at Blackburn High which exposed Kennett's "self-governing" schools as a privatisation scam and showed how it can be stopped. Ruth Frenzel, industrial officer for the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers Union, will tell about the landmark legal victory of Mario Kobza who had been sacked for being a union member. Dinner will be served at 6.15 pm for a $6 donation. Everyone is welcome! Place: Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick. For more info, ph (03) 9386 3230 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] LL.VH -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Fighting the Heroin Epidemic
For Melbourne Subscribers -- Thursday, 29 July, 7.00 pm Radical Women Meeting: Fighting the heroin epidemic -- treat addiction as a health issue, NOT a crime At the beginning of 1999, more Victorians died from drug overdoses than in road accidents. As heroin dependency rises throughout the country, the Howard Government's answer is to crack down on users. His "zero tolerance" regime turns a public health and social policy problem into a criminal one, sending more poor women, women of colour and young people to prison or causing them to die in the streets. Join us as we look at why effective strategies, such as needle exchange and safe injecting facilities, are considered a crime -- and what we can do about it. Where: Solidarity Salon 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick Dinner will be served at 6.15 pm for a $6 donation. Everyone is welcome! for more information, phone (03) 9386 3230 LL.VG -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: 1999 Viva Cuba! Fiesta
You are invited to A Latin American Fiesta to celebrate 40 years of inspiration. The Cuba Solidarity Coalition presents: 1999 VIVA CUBA! FIESTA featuring Guararey, authentic Cuban Salsa Espiritu Latino, Latin American Orchestra Saturday, 24 July 7.00 pm - 1.00 am North Melbourne Town Hall (cnr Errol and Queensberry Sts, North Melbourne) Tickets; $12/$10 concession For tickets, phone: Andrea 9376 8840, Adam or Sharryn 9416 8812, Marita 9306 3312, Brenda (03) 5253 3373 (Geelong) All proceeds to aid projects in Cuba: Australian Conservation Foundation Green Team -- Urban Permaculture Project Committee in Solidarity with Latin America and the Caribbean -- Children's Asthma Clinic in Havana Radical Women -- July 2000 Australian Tour of the Federation of Cuban Women ENDORSEMENTS ARE WELCOME To endorse the 1999 Viva Cuba! Fiesta: Send your endorsement (indicating whether as an individual or an organisation) to [EMAIL PROTECTED] or radical.women.melb @ bigpond.com Or phone 9416 8812 If you can help with publicity, please let us know. VIVA CUBA! HELP BREAK THE ECONOMIC BLOCKADE AGAINST CUBA! LL.VG -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV: Workers Strike Back!
An invitation to all Melbourne Leftlinkers: Radical Women Meeting -- "Workers Strike Back! Teachers, hospital and garment workers are on the move" Wednesday, 26 May, 7.00 pm Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick Come along to hear about the battles and victories that you won't find highlighted in the Packer and Murdoch press. The bad news is: * nearly 1 in 5 workers in Australia is a casual * they are just part of an expanding pool of low-paid and discardable labour that also includes wage earners forced onto individual contracts and unregistered outworkers * bosses need them all as a bulwark against waning profits * unions are under attack The GOOD news is: these workers -- most of them women and migrants -- are fighting back! Come and hear Pamela Curr tell us about the FairWear Campaign to unionise outworkers in the garment industry. She will introduce the video, "20 Pieces: outworkers tell the real fashion story." Hear about the recent landmark victory of Mario Kobza in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal! He was sacked for joining the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers Union. VCAT ruled that it is unlawful for employers to disciminate on the basis of industrial activity. And there's more. Everyone is welcome. Dinner will be served at 6.15 pm for a $5 donation. -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:PR: Activists of Color Speak Out in New Anthology
Dear Leftlinkers As fighters for justice and human rights, you will undoubtedly be as thrilled as I am by "Voices of Color," a new offering from Red Letter Press. This powerful anthology, edited by Yolanda Alaniz and Nellie Wong, is an essential tool for anyone who wants to hear what grassroots activists of colour have to say about the forces impacting their lives. In 35 articles, writers of different racts, genders, and sexual orientations offer insightful reports on little-known union and community organising campaigns, news on Native struggles, frank discussions on how to combat racism within progressive organisations, film and book reviews and much, much more. All articles tie together the issues of sex, sexuality and race in a way that is seldom seen. The book conveys great optimism about race relations and social progress, because it presents the actual experiences of people who are out there every day in the struggle. As Ria Roncales-Goodwin writes in The Asian Reporter, "Their writings urge us to realise that we are powerful as individuals, that people will listen to us, and that we can make a difference." Another appreciative review by Aboriginal activist Ray Jackson is reprinted at the end of this letter. I urge you to purchase "Voices of Color" for your library, or perhaps as a special gift for a friend. By responding immediately, you will not only gain an inspiring new book but you will also help Melbourne Radical Women and the Freedom Socialist Party, make our collective goal of selling 85 books by 14 June. If you email your order form (below) to us by 14 June, you will get a free copy of the current issue of the Freedom Socialist newspaper, featuring the Voices of Color column: "Energy and optimism of young people needed to win back affirmative action." I will contact you directly to make arrangements for payment. I look forward to hearing from you soon. In solidarity, Debbie Brennan Freedom Socialist Party (Melbourne) Clip here__ ORDER FORM Yes, I want a copy of "Voices of Color" Red Letter Press, 160 pp, paperback, ISBN 0-932323-05-7 $18.85 (AUD) + $2.50 for shipping Name: Address: City: State: Area Code: Tel: Fax: Email: RED LETTER PRESS PO Box 266 West Brunswick Vic 3055 Tel: (03) 9386 3230 FAX (03) 9386 5065 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Find out more about Red Letter Press at: http://www.socialism.com/bookstore/bookstor.html (Email bookstore and review requests to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]) ___ Book Review by Ray Jackson In 35 exciting articles, "Voices of Color" encompasses the whole rainbow of struggle and empowerment for people of colour in the United States and Canada. We hear the strong, vibrant voices of African Americans, Chicanas/os, Asian pacific Americans and Native Americans detailing their fights for social justice over the past 15 years. These are the voices of the Comrades of Colour Caucus of the Freedom Socialist Party and Radical Women. In their writings is the recognition that struggles for the equality of all races, sexes, sexualities and working people are linked -- each finding strength and purpose by being mutually inclusive. The 20 authors are all leading activists with attitude -- and proper attitude at that! Though the writers are in the United States, their struggles for justice mirror ours in Australia. In "NAFTA: tri-country genocide against indigenous people," Chippewa writer, Ann Rogers, explains most clearly how the North American Free Trade Agreement is being used to sweep aside all remaining rights of the original peoples of Mexico, Canada and the United States and give corporate capital open slather. She calls NAFTA "a cannon aimed by big business." NAFTA is precursor to even more ambitious boardroom plans, like the Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI), to turn the world into one big "free trade" zone. For Aboriginal people everywhere, this would be the ultimate genocide. But Ann Rogers doesn't mourn. She talks about resistance -- Native peoples, trade unions and environmentalists unifying as a counterforce that can beat our common enemy: international big business. The authors cover so many more shared struggles -- against bans on bilingual education, racism in sport and entertainment, racist police crackdowns and racist bosses. They are activists in the trade unions and the movements of gay/lesbian/transgender rights, Native American cultural and land rights, among others. This is but a taste of the banquet served up in "Voices of Color." It is not a book to just read and then put back on the shelf. "Voices" is a resource for day-to-day struggles -- struggles that are worldwide and as fresh today as they were in 1982. It is a call for urgent, united action. "Voices of Color" is a very st
LL:DDV: Solving the Housing Crisis
Melbourne Radical Women Meeting Wednesday, 28 April, 7.00 pm Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick Vic The Housing Crisis: A Refreshing Electoral Solution At Least 200,000 Australians are on public housing waiting lists, while the shrinking private rental market costs at least 50% more for a roof over the head. The major electoral parties have no answers to this escalating crisis. Instead, they consistently legislate in the interests of the speculators. On the other hand, the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) is committed to low-cost, quality shelter as a fundamental right for everyone. Radical Women will look at the PLP's official draft housing policy. Join us as we study its program for the elimination of housing insecurity and homelessness. EVERYONE IS WELCOME. Dinner will be served at 6.15 pm for a $5 donation. For more information, phone Radical Women: (03) 9386 3230 or email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] LL.VD -- Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV:Feminists Defend Cuba
In Melbourne, the theme for International Women's Day this year is "Women and workers of the world united in action." Radical Women invites everyone, women and men, to our special IWD meeting: Feminists Defend Cuba. Monday, 8 March, 7.00 pm Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick. Celebrate with Radical Women as we join the global feminist call to support Cuba and salute its revolutionary achievements! In the spirit of International Women's Day, we continue the pressure on Washington DC to end its inhumane blockade -- the most vicious and relentless violation of human rights ever inflicted on one country by another. We will also launch the organising for the upcoming Australian tour of the Federation of Cuban Women for 26 July 2000, and invite all feminists to participate. A delicious Cuban buffet dinner will be served at 6.15 pm for a $5 donation. For more information, phone 9386 3230. LL.VC Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html Sponsored by Melbourne's New International Bookshop Subscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=subscribe%20leftlink Unsubscribe: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]?Body=unsubscribe%20leftlink
LL:DDV:Upcoming Radical Women Meeting (Melbourne)
Monday, 22 February 1999 7.00 pm Place: Solidarity Salon, 1 Appleby Crescent, West Brunswick Vic Ph (03) 9386 3230 Melbourne Radical Women Meeting: Understanding Society and Changing It! What may appear unchanging and permanent isn't. We're indoctrinated that class divisions and male supremacy have always existed. We're taught that this inequality is a natural part of life. But these are fictions invented to bolster private property. Racism and heterosexism are even more recent fabrications of capitalism. On the other hand, women and all exploited people can transform our oppression into its opposite and guarantee equality, security and freedom for everyone. A Marxist understanding of society is essential for achieving this transformation. Come along and hear Radical Women lift the veil on the illusion that change is impossible and why, as Marxist Feminists, we are optimistic about creating a socialist society. Everyone is welcome! Dinner is served for a $5 donation at 6.15 pm. LL.VB Leftlink - Australia's Broad Left Mailing List http://www.alexia.net.au/~www/mhutton/index.html The Year 2000 Bug - An Urgent Sustainability Issue http://www.peg.apc.org/~psutton/grin-y2k.htm
