Upcoming events in the Asheville area this week

UPCOMING EVENTS

06/04/12 ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE FOOD POLICY COUNCIL MEETING
The Asheville Buncombe Food Policy Council will convene a Meeting of the Whole on Monday, June 4, 2012 at UNC-Asheville’s Wilma Sherrill Center from 4-6pm. It’s been an amazingly productive few months, and we’ve seen incredible participation and results. We will convene to report on progress, prioritize goals, and assess our processes. As usual, this will be a highly interactive meeting with room at the table for everyone who cares about creating a food secure community.  See the latest newsletter for more information about what’s happening!

06/05/12 LOBBY DAY IN RALEIGH FOR CLEAN WATER IN NC
Clean Water for North Carolina and other groups are organizing a Lobby Day in Raleigh on Tuesday, June 5. Some WNC residents will carpool to participate. Plans are to meet at the Ingles near Biltmore Square Mall on Brevard Rd. at 5:30 AM; travel to Raleigh; receive a briefing on the 'Fracking' bill (S. 820) which would authorize fracking within two years, whether or not appropriate restrictions are in place; and then constituents will meet with their representatives, 11 AM - 2 PM. More info is at www.cwfnc.org or call Katie Hicks at 828-251-1291.

06/06/12 SIERRA CLUB MEEING
Sierra Club will present a program Wednesday, June 6, 7 pm. on Tree Protection.  Our trees have been under attack from both state & local levels.  A panel from the Tree Commission: vice-chair Mike Kenton, ecologist Bob Gale, arborist Mark Foster, Asheville Greenworks Director Susan Roderick, and Shannon Tuch of Asheville’s Planning and Development Dept. will discuss protection in terms of the Treasured Tree program, open tree mapping, alternatives to tree topping, and possible tree ordinances, along with the state law allowing clearcutting around billboards.  Time is 7 PM and location is Unitarian Universalist Church at Edwin & Charlotte, Asheville.  For more information, contact judymattox@sbcglobal.net or call 828-683-2176.

06/07/12 VETERANS FOR PEACE MEETING
Time is 6:30 PM and location is VFP HQ at the Phil Mechanic Studios: 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. VFP Chapter 099: http://vfpchapter099wnc.blogspot.com/

06/07/12 MINDFUL OCCUPATION
Rising up, without burning out.  This will be held at 6:30 Pm at Firestorm Café and Books at 48 Commerce Street, downtown Asheville.  Come meet-up, check in, say hi, share ideas.  Mindful Occupation Gathering/Discussion on the topic of Sustainable Activism, i.e. how we can use self-care, principles of conscientious perspective and mutual aid to support one another in our collective endeavors.  For more information: www.mindfuloccupation.org. Email faithrhyne@gmail.com or text 545-8321.

06/08/12 AWARD LUNCHEAN HONORING JOE EBLEN
Live o’Mike presents its first Michael T. Danforth Community Service Award to Joe Edlen.  Time is 1 to 2:30 PM at Friendship Hall at First Congregational Church at 14 Oak Street, Asheville.  Cost is $25 per person.

06/08/12 UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION ASHEVILLE
On June 8, our UUCA Social Justice film will be “How to Start a Revolution,” which is the “story of Nobel Peace prize nominee Gene Sharp, the world’s leading expert on nonviolent revolution.” One year beyond “the Arab Spring” but in a world still enmeshed in challenges international and domestic, director Ruaridh Arrow “reveals how Sharp’s work has given a new generation of pro-democracy leaders the nonviolent ‘weapons’ they need to overthrow dictators.” The film runs 52 minutes and a discussion will follow. For background, you may wish to read Sharp’s From Dictatorship to Democracy: A Conceptual Framework for Liberation, 4th ed. (93 pages), which is available free from the Albert Einstein Institution at: http://www.aeinstein.org/organizations/org/FDTD.pdf.  Time is 7 PM and location is UU Church on Charlotte Street, Asheville.  For more information, contact Bruce Larson at 683-5548.

06/08/12 BOOK READING AT MALAPROP’S
Osama Wazan, a Syrian cleric, the author of The Last Moderate Muslim and a grassroots catalyst for peace will talk about “The Arab Spring: New democracies, or cycles of provocations and retributions?”  at 7 PM on June 8th.  Syrians, once models for interfaith harmony, are migrating into denominational clusters.  Learn how Osama Wazan transformed his fifteen harrowing years in a combat zone into a body of knowledge, a novel: The Last Moderate Muslim. Understand approaches that can end religious violence. You will be equipped to see through the rhetoric, and begin to see civility through.

06/09/12 HARD TO RECYCLE DAY
Time is 10 AM to 2 PM and the location is Aaron’s (Park Terrace Center) at 1298 Patton Avenue in Asheville.  Go to http://www.ashevillegreenworks.org/hard-2-recycle-events/ to see list of items they will accept.  No early or late drop offs.

06/13/12 THE FOOD NETWORK MEETING
The Food Network provides support, publicity, and cross-pollination of ideas between the Asheville Food Policy Council and regional organizations/efforts for the creation of a healthy and resilient food supply in Asheville and Western North Carolina.  Upcoming plans include a film series, as well as free gardening and food-related classes.  Next Meeting: Tuesday, 6/13 at 7:00pm in West Asheville (contact Mary Lou for directions: marylou.kemph@yahoo.com).  For more information about the food group email Dylan: livingvision@yahoo.com

06/14/12 to 06/17/12 OCCUPY HENDERSONVILLE CAMP
This camp will run from 6-14-12 to 6-17-12.  Current Schedule for June camp-in/teach-in….. Thursday night after dark, screening the film "Why We Fight".  Friday 3PM Bill Fisk, discussion about nuclear energy and green alternatives.  Friday 5PM Harold Helickson, discussion about income inequality.  Friday night after dark, screening the film "Inside Job".  Saturday 11AM Chris Berg, discussion about corporate personhood.  Saturday Noon-2PM Picket.  Saturday 3PM Thomas Beckett, discussion about a sharing economy.  Saturday night after dark, screening the film "Pray the Devil Back to Hell".  Sunday, breakfast and break camp!

06/22/12 CULTURE OF RESISTANCE ROADSHOW
Deep Green Resistance, an environmental and social justice group, will be coming through Asheville on their Culture of Resistance Roadshow. This workshop/presentation is on Friday, June 22nd at The Firestorm Books and Café at 5 pm. The Roadshow workshop will cover the shortsightedness of many mainstream efforts to truly address the fundamental contradictions of our modern struggles, and present concrete steps to an equitable, thriving future. For more information, go to http://deepgreenresistance.org/action/resistanceroadshow/

06/23/12 to 06/24/12 CLIMATE ORGANIZING WORKSHOP
The Climate Organizing Workshop is organized by 350.org and they are offering these workshops around the world to grow a stronger climate movement and build the organizing skills of local leaders.  This will be on Saturday and Sunday, June 23rd and 24th (optional welcome event the evening of Friday, June 22nd) from 9 AM to 5 PM.  Location is First Congregational United Church of Christ in Asheville (Room 101-E).  Please RSVP by Tuesday, June 19th. Space is limited. If you wish to attend, go to this link to register:  https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dGZFYXQzWWxIaFl5Z1RwYTQtbUVHTlE6MQ

06/28/12 - 06/30/12 KNOW NUKES Y’ALL SUMMIT
This event will be held in Chattanooga, TN on the campus of UTC.  Summit talks will include the ongoing Fukushima Disaster in Japan, the US Nuclear Complex, and a Positive Energy Future!  This event will be a combination of SUMMIT for those who come for the whole event, and also an opportunity for those who want to attend the educational workshops on a one day basis.  Pre-Registration runs thru JUNE 7 at $40 for the SUMMIT – with a one-day rate of $20.  Summit Registration includes program + breakfast + lunch + reception Thursday evening; does not include lodging or dinners.  Registration is open now:  http://knownukesyallsummit.org/

08/08/12 - 08/12/12 VFP NATIONAL CONVENTION IN MIAMI FL

09/02/12 MARCH ON WALL STREET SOUTH – CHARLOTTE

09/03/12 DNC NATIONAL CONVENTION IN CHARLOTTE
This event goes until 09/08/12.   Already, organizations and Occupy movements across the country are making plans to mobilize to be in the streets of Charlotte during the DNC. For more information on the Coalition to Protest at the DNC and to find out how your organization can join, please visit http://protestdnc.org.

11/08/12 - 11/11/12 LAKE JUNALUSKA PEACE CONFERENCE
The fifth annual Lake Junaluska Peace Conference, "Love in Action: the Transformative Power of Nonviolence," will draw upon the lessons of nonviolent campaigns and their leaders who discovered a force that can change the world. Participants will explore the principles and learn the applications of nonviolence as taught by Gandhi, King, and many spiritual leaders who offered this alternative paradigm for resolving conflict, achieving justice, and building peace.  For more information visit us at www.lakejunaluska.com/peace.

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ONGOING EVENTS
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SUNDAY
Episcopal Peace Fellowship holds a weekly vigil from 5:30 to 6 PM at All Soul's Cathedral on the first and third Sundays.
Spirituality working group of Occupy Asheville will be at Pritchrd Park from 1-3 PM on Sundays for meditation training, and individual spiritual counseling for anyone who feels in the need. And on the 4th Sunday of every month at Pritchard Park, an event to promote the health of the planet.

TUESDAY
Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 5 PM at Pack Square, Vance Monument
Occupy Asheville Meet Talk Act Nonviolent Affinity Group meets at 4:30 PM at the Chocolate Lounge (second floor) at 10 South Lexington in Asheville. Contact earthsun2@gmail.com for more info.

WEDNESDAY
Haywood Peace Vigilers have a weekly vigil at 4 PM at Haywood Country Courthouse in Waynesville.
Asheville Cop Watch meeting at 5 PM at Firestorm Cafe.

THURSDAY
Asheville Homeless Network meeting at 2 PM at Firestorm Cafe.

FRIDAY
Women in Black have a vigil at 5 PM at Pack Square (Asheville) on the first Friday of the month.
Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville

SATURDAY
Transylvanians for Peace and WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility have a weekly vigil at noon in front of the courthouse in Brevard.

OCCUPY WALL STREET ASHEVILLE
Go to www.occupyasheville.org for more information, or call 888-378-0788. Information on Occupy Asheville late breaking events: http://www.occupyasheville.org/events/

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ACTIONS AND READINGS
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Consider signing petition for Obama to consider. It is to start a "Do Not Kill" list.

"The New York Times reports that President Obama has created an official “kill list” that he uses to personally order the assassination of American citizens. Considering that the government already has a “Do Not Call” list and a “No Fly” list, we hereby request that the White House create a “Do Not Kill” list in which American citizens can sign up to avoid being put on the president’s “kill list” and therefore avoid being executed without indictment, judge, jury, trial or due process of law."

https://wwws.whitehouse.gov/petitions#!/petition/create-do-not-kill-list/HwqFwRtG

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Climate Organizing Workshop in Asheville, June 23-24

As a climate and clean energy activist, you're invited to a free two-day Climate Organizing Workshop for select environmental leaders. 350.org is offering these workshops around the world to grow a stronger climate movement and build the organizing skills of local leaders.

DATES: Saturday and Sunday, June 23rd and 24th (optional welcome event the evening of Friday, June 22nd)
TIMES: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM on Saturday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM on Sunday
LOCATION: Asheville, NC, at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, Room 101-E (map)

Please RSVP by Tuesday, June 19th. Space is limited. If you wish to attend, please fill out this form and we will get back to you as soon as possible to confirm.
The workshop will focus on campaign planning and storytelling, including practical information on traditional and social media, engaging allies, and other critical organizing tools. We'll share lessons learned from our experience organizing local events and international campaigns, and you will come away with skills that can both bolster your local work and empower you to more effectively contribute to the broader climate movement.

The training is free, and all food and materials will be provided. Please consult with us about travel expenses and lodging if you will be travelling from out of town.

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ON “MOVE TO AMEND”

Reps. Keever, Fisher and Rapp support 'Move To Amend' in Raleigh

Legislators Susan Fisher, Patsy Keever, and Ray Rapp have lent their support to the nationwide move to amend, a call to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in the case of CItizen's United. A main result of that decision has declared that corporations are people under U.S. law. Activists claim this has tilted the political landscape much more towards corporate control of elections. As Rep. Ray Rapp of Madison County pointed out, "This should be a bi-partisan issue, as this takes the rights of candidates to decide how to run their campaigns."

The resolution is a call from the states to the U.S. Congress to set aside a U.S. Supreme Court decision in the only manner possible — a constitutional amendment which has happened successfully four times, the most recent of which was the Twenty-sixth Amendment (allowing 18-year olds to vote). Others were the 11th, 14th, and 16th amendments.

According to the Canary Coalition, which provided the video, Hawaii, New Mexico, and Vermont have already passed similar calls for the constitutional amendment. Wisconsin, Washington, Minnesota and Alaska, along with North Carolina, are actively considering it in their legislatures. (See below for the Coalition press release.)

The call on the U.S. Congress faces an uncertain future in the North Carolina General Assembly. In order to be voted on, it has to get out of the rules committee, that process should start in the next few weeks.

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U.S. Military Intervention in Syria is Not the Answer

Below is from FCNL, and they published this in April.  It is still true:

"We believe the means that are used to seek change in society either create or obstruct the desirable ends." -FCNL Statement 03/18/2011

The Friends Committee on National Legislation is gravely concerned by the Syrian regime's violence against civilians and crimes against humanity, in addition to the potential for a protracted civil war. We strongly oppose proposals that would further militarize the conflict, including direct armed intervention and Senator John McCain's (AZ) resolution, which calls for the U.S. to provide arms to opposition forces.

We are convinced that U.S. military intervention in Syria will only exacerbate the conflict and lead to even larger-scale bloodshed. Given Syria's strategic location in the Middle East, foreign military intervention could spark broader regional violence and proxy wars, as warned by the International Crisis Group and other Middle East experts. Beneath the horrific violence in Syria lie long-standing roots of conflict, including authoritarian government, sectarian divisions, inequitable power and wealth distribution, increasing pressures on natural resources, and a brutal legacy of colonial rule and foreign intervention.

War is the ultimate human rights violation, and U.S. military intervention would only increase the violence. It would undermine the possibility of finding a diplomatic solution to the crisis, halting the violence, providing accountability for the crimes against humanity, and encouraging Syrian self-determination.

The Syrian uprising was initiated through powerful demonstrations of nonviolence. The grassroots opposition network the Syrian Local Coordination Committees (LCC) has warned against military intervention, noting that "the method by which the regime is overthrown is an indication of what Syria will be like post-regime […] If an armed confrontation or international military intervention becomes a reality, it will be virtually impossible to establish a legitimate foundation for a proud future Syria."
Specifically, the U.S. can promote the protection of civilians and a resolution of the crisis by vigorously and persistently supporting:

• An immediate cessation of the violence and inclusive, comprehensive negotiations among Syrian political factions and Syria's neighboring countries;
• U.N. and Arab League diplomatic, non-military efforts, including the current initiative led by former Secretary-General Kofi Annan and backed by the U.N. Security Council;
• A range of diplomatic tools to press Russia, China, and Iran to use their influence with the Assad regime to halt the killing and commit to a political process to resolve the crisis;
• A comprehensive arms embargo through the U.N. Security Council, including sanctions against companies involved in providing weapons to the Syrian regime;
• Bilateral and multilateral talks with Iran, which would reduce the threat of further deadly conflict in the region;
• Investigations of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court;
• Generous humanitarian and development assistance to local and international aid and development agencies and support of post-conflict peacebuilding and reconciliation.
• Robust support and greater civilian capacities to help prevent mass atrocities before the killing begins, as envisioned by S. Con. Res. 71, PSD-10, and the creation of a new Atrocities Prevention Board in the National Security Council.

Intense international engagement will be critical in order for such a diplomatic and humanitarian approach to be successful. FCNL believes that these recommendations offer the best chance to stop the violence, limit the loss of life, and restore Syria's path toward peace, stability, and reconciliation.

The black bloc at the NO TO NATO march

 I took these photos on the march.  I found the black bloc to be scary - much more so than the police I ran into.  It was 90+ degrees and sunny, and they were wearing hoodies and face scarves.  I found that I could talk and joke with the police, but not with the black bloc.  Before the march, they had handed out black face scarves and vinegar and ear plugs, like they were totally anticipating clashes with the police.  So the police were walking in single file along side the march - on both sides - to stop the black bloc from breaking off and going down a side street, apparently.  I think that was a smart strategy, since the black bloc has a reputation for busting up windows and spray painting things and generally being destructive.

 Well, aren't they tough looking?  Anyway, I found myself getting caught between the black bloc and the police time and time again.  I tried to get rid of them, but I guess I walked too slow.  These so-called tough guys would turn away when I tried to take a picture. 

 Yeah, they have on scarves and hoodies when it is sweltering hot.  No very smart at all.  Since I was between the black bloc and the police, and THE BLACK BLOC WAS GIVING ME THE CREEPS, I decided to drop out.  No problem crossing the police lines to get out.  I sat down and watched the rest of the march go by.

I have ZERO respect for the black bloc after this march.  I came to a march that was billed as "family friendly" and "non-violent" and instead felt I was a "human shield" for whatever tactics this group of idiots decided to pursue.  And I heard later in the day, that the police told people to go west after the final rally was over, and the black bloc decided to go east against a huge group of riot police - with MANY UNKNOWING PEOPLE CAUGHT BETWEEN THE BLACK BLOC AND THE POLICE.  These black bloc folks reminds me of the Westboro Baptist Church protesters - they go to other people's events with their own tactics and goals and do not give a shit if they are welcome to do that or not.  They just do it.  In the case of the black bloc, they were using the people who came to the NO TO NATO march as human shields.  At least, that is what I felt like.  And frankly, the claim of the Occupy movement to respect a 'diversity of tactics' STOPS COMPLETELY when I am being put into a situation that I did not consent to ahead of time, particularly a situation that might result in violence.

I have no respect for the black bloc and their immature and selfish tactics.  They are oblivious to the protesters around them, and then have the nerve to complain when those protesters they used complain about them.  I really don't know what their overall strategy is, unless it is to rumble with the police and destroy property.

Here is what I posted on Firedoglake about the black bloc:


My experiences with the black bloc on May 20th were not positive at all. I found myself getting stuck, again and again, between the black bloc and the police. The CPD was walking single file on both sides of the march in the area of the black bloc. The CPD would talk and smile at me, and I teased them about forgetting their signs. I could not get anyone from the black bloc to do that, not even once. I guess they only have “solidarity” with other people dressed like they were…. black clothes, hoodies with the hood pulled up, and face scarves. And it was sunny and over 90 degrees on that march.

So, I dropped out of the march. I did not want to be a “human shield” for whatever they were planning. I felt totally disrespected to be put in this position. And in the future, if publicity and permits for the DNC does not state “no black bloc clothing or tactics will be allowed” for planned rallies and marches, I will stay home. (and I am only a couple of hours from Charlotte). I will not put myself in a position of being a “human shield” for some people who have not consulted with me ahead of time.

So, these black bloc tactics are not bring more people into the streets, at least not for me. And I don’t think people with young children, disabilities, or the elderly will want to be around when the black bloc is doing their thing. I have a friend here in Asheville who is in a scooter – she does not want to be around them. And families of police officers are not going to join a group with FUCK THE POLICE signs.
The march on the 20th was billed as “family friendly” and “non-violent” and it seemed to me that the black bloc at that march did not care one whit if that was the stated objective. They reminded me of the Westboro Baptist Church protesters – instead of holding their own event, they crashed someone else’s event and used it for their own purpose. On May 20th, the media went with the scuffle between the black bloc and the police instead of the veterans throwing back their medals. The black bloc did not care (as far as I could tell) that this was an anti-NATO and anti-war event and they turned it into something else.

And this, in my opinion, is total bullshit: “Any debates or criticisms will stay internal to the movement, avoiding any public or media denunciations of fellow activists and events.”

I believe in freedom of speech, not shutting it down. And I believe in whistle blowers. I believe in honesty and openness. If I see or hear something I do not agree with, I will debate or criticize who I want in the way I want. And I give others that right also. This telling people that they cannot criticize outside the movement strikes me as very dysfunctional. And it seems they are following exactly in the footsteps of how our current government functions. It is sick.

“The signs read red and black instead of “Reinstate Glass Steagall,” yes, but the critique of the broken capitalist system is there, whether or not it is explicitly stated. And why must it be?”

Answer: So that other people know what you are about, as opposed to just seeing a group of young people running around dressed in black with hoods and scarves on. So that other people know what you stand for, and what you want. I think of it as “communication”. I certainly could not tell that the black bloc on May 20th march was anti-war at all. Actually, they looked like they wanted a conflict to me, with their dress, lack of friendliness, lack of respect for other people, and having gas masks and vinegar. And in a video I saw of the end of the final rally, both the police and the black bloc were acting violently.
I do not see how we can get to a peaceful work by using violent tactics and showing disrespect. And having FUCK THE POLICE rallies or signs is certainly disrespectful.

“The powers that be consider a large group of people marching in the streets without their written permission to be a “riot” regardless of the behavior of those people.”

And if they are smashing up windows and burning up vehicles, they ARE A RIOT, PLAIN AND SIMPLE. And frankly, that is what the police are afraid of – and also those type of actions allow the black bloc to be infiltrated.

I have been to many protests and marches over the years, and I have seen several events where there were mass arrests. A protest for Bradley Manning in VA a couple of years back resulted in people sitting in the street in an act of civil disobedience. They were arrested. I was watching – and I did not feel in any danger from the police getting violent, and frankly, the people doing civil disobedience were safer because there were so many of us watching. And shortly after that rally, Manning was moved to a different facility and better conditions.

In short, I want to see respect and safety given high priority at all marches, rallies, events. I want us to challenge the system in a way that invites all people to join in, and where all can join safely. I do not want to see property damage or signs like FUCK THE POLICE at all. I want to see a new world created, not more of the same with different faces in power. And I believe the black bloc tactics will create more of the same.

More from the NATO FREE FUTURE summit

These photos came from the opening session of the summit.  There was a total of 300 people registered, many more showed up later in the day after they finished with their marches.

Feminist Criticism of NATO workshop

This workshop was done by Ingeborg Breines (Norway), Inge Hoger (member of parliament in Germany) and a couple of women whose names I did not catch (they were not listed in the program either).    They started with a discussion of the causes of war:  capitalism, chauvinism, racism, militarism, patriarchy (the dominance of males).  The values associated with this is power, hierarchies, rivalry, competition, deep individualism, and exploitation of nature.  No place for female values like concern, conciliation, solidarity, collective values.  Since women are the ones usually responsible for child rearing, they end up being invisible in our societies.

Structural power is socially created, strongly connected with capitalism, militarism, racism, and sexism.  NATO is a tool of war, which means militarization, which means only working under a patriarchal structure and and hierarchical structures. 

The presence of troops in a country means that rape, violence and sex workers go up.

UN Resolution 1325 was to promote interests and well being of women in conflict situations.  Implementation started in 2010. Resolution 1325 was passed to insure participation of women at the peace negotiations, to prevent violence against women. The aftereffects of passing this UN Resolution was various unintended consequences, since it was implemented by a patriarchal system. 


Alternatives would be the development of a culture of peace, including gender justice. 

The German member of parliament said that integration of females in the US military has increased acceptance of the military in US society.  She sees sports (like the Winter Olympics) as a public campaign for the armed forces.  In Germany, 20% of females in the military are victims of sexual assault.  In the USA, 33% of females in the military are victims of sexual assault.  Military service is not the route to female empowerment.

UN Resolution 1325 was used to incorporate women into a sick system, rather than alter a sick system to accomodate and empower women.  More information at www.nobelwomensinitiative.org. 

Photos of the panel on Afghanistan

The above photos came from the NATO FREE FUTURE summit, and were taken during the workshop on Afghanistan.  The three young women in the middle have parents who are Afghans, and they have relatives living in Afghanistan lately.  They talked about what it feels like to listen to news reports and wonder if it is your cousins or aunts or uncles who have been bombed and killed.  It was quite intense and quite emotional at times. 

The panel was on how to end the conflict in Afghanistan, and the agreement was that the US has to end it by leaving.  They also discussed possible reparations. 

Iran panel at the NATO FREE FUTURE

Photo: I took this of the panel that did this presentation.  Starting from the left, there is Kevin Martin, Andrew Lichterman, Phyllis Bennis, audience member, Peter Lems, Michael Veiluva.

Iran Panel

Friday, May 18, 2012

I attended a panel on “Iran’s nuclear program, dialogue and the imperative of moving beyond threats at the NATO FREE FUTURE summit.  Here are my notes.

Mike Veiluva spoke about how opposition in Iran is not invisible, and that Iran is part of IAEA.  In 2005, Iran started enrichment again, mainly due to US sanctions.  Enrichment of 5% or less is for nuclear power, enrichment of over 20% is done for research (small amount) and no evidence of enrichment for nuclear weapons program.  IAEA does not inspect the five original nuclear powers and Israel, India and Pakistan.  In Israel, the nuclear weapons program is ignored by everyone.  Iran is being discriminated against.  The UN told Iran not to enrich, but they are any way, and now being sanctioned for this enrichment.  Press reports are based on fear, not facts.

Phyllis Bennett talked about the role of Israel and the neo-con talk of war on Iran.  Israel also pushed for war on Iraq, and did US neo-cons, but the US neo-cons are not in power right now.  She discussed the question of why is Israel so concerned about Iran getting nuclear weapons – because it is a threat to Israel’s monopoly on nuclear weapons, but it is not an existential threat.  There are also political realities.  Israel is very far to the right, and they like to claim existential threats to keep up the occupation of Palestine going.  Israeli politicians prefer a Republican in the White House, per this speaker.  Israel and the US both have “red lines” concerning Iran, but they are not identical.  The US will not accept nuclear weaponized Iran, and Israel will not accept Iran being “capable” of producing nuclear weapons.  It is not really clear what “capable” really means in Israel.  Many US leaders have said that war on Iran would be a disaster. 

Peter Lems (AFSC) said that $2.2 million is spent every minute for the US military.  The behavior of the US has shifted more to the military since the terrorist attack on 9-11.  He said that he found economic sanctions to be a form of warfare from studying what the sanctions do to Iraq.  Iran has lifted subsidies on basic commodities; they are pushing Afghan refugees out of Iran, and they are curtailing education and health care.  India and Pakistan are not honoring the sanctions.  Peter said we need to have a connection to the opposition in Iran.  US policy is horrible and very militarized and needs to be removed.  US policies to Iran are full on “reduce their power” and the US is also trying to distort their relations to neighboring countries.  He feels our best approach is to control US military spending. 

Andrew Lichterman said we need long term movement to stop nuclear power everywhere.

Kevin Martin (Peace Action) said that sanctions have real consequences for Iran that causes more suffering.  The US is trying to change the government’s behavior by making the people suffer.  He said that nuclear weapons are for deterrence, this is true for all nuclear powers and Iran too.  Diplomacy is the answer, not war and not sanctions.  He commented on ad by Massachusetts Peace Action and passed around a picture of it.  Kevin said we need to push for a nuclear weapons free zone in the Middle East and removing US forces completely.  He also recommended citizen diplomacy. 

Further discussion said that sanctions have doubled the price of goods in Iran.  We asked how do we push for diplomacy, and how to make the US government to make good  on it’s commitments.  The US did not sign the NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) but the treaty said that the five powers who nuclear weapons (at the time of the treaty) had to get rid of them.  Iran is NOT violating the NPT.  We should support people’s struggle for democracy, and our primary task is to stop the US’s war making.  Sanctions are destabilizing and a form of war.  A nuclear war will cause a large famine, and a nuclear strike on Iran will kill 10 million people.  They recommended bird-dogging candidates and writing LTEs and calling talk shows.  They also recommended building issues in the Occupy Movement and holding workshops with Iranians. 

HAVAAR:  Iranian Initiative Against War, Sanctions and State Repression

www.havaar.org

Upcoming events in the Asheville area this week

UPCOMING EVENTS

05/29/12 STRONG HEART LAKOTA SOLIDARITY PROJECT PRESENTATION AND FUNDRAISER
The Strong Heart Lakota Solidarity Project is a unique human rights and social justice collaboration between the traditional Lakota Strong Heart Warrior Society and the Four Directions Solidarity Network to record and document human rights abuses committed by the United States Government, the puppet Oglala Sioux Tribe (OST) government, and others against the grassroots, traditional, and full-blood Lakota Oyate (people).  The solidarity documentary team of Thembi, Carolyn, and Naomi have been on Pine Ridge since April 29. They are working on the invitation of the elders, and working closely with members of the Strong Heart Warrior Society. The Strong Heart Warrior Society takes its direction from the elder women of the tribe, the traditional form of government of the Lakota. Time is 7 PM and location is Wall Street Coffee House.

05/31/12 TRANSITION ASHEVILLE PROGRAM
Thursday, May 31, 2012 - 6:30pm - 8:30pm at the West Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road.  A New Approach to Water: For a Water-Sustainable Asheville

05/31/12 SAFE ALTERNATIVES FOR FUTURE ENERGY CAROLINA MEETING
Our next SAFE Carolina meeting will be on May 31, Thursday at 6:30 PM at North Asheville Library on Merrimon Avenue.  Lou Zellar from BREDL (Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League) will discuss the upcoming SC Dept of Health and Environmental Control waste water hearing and how we may respond to Duke's application.  We are also looking forward to his direction in our general campaign to stop the Lee nuke plant.   At his suggestion we have obtained a copy of the application ( 3 binders worth) which he has reviewed and will explain to us.  I have been talking with the SCDHEC office who told me the hearing would concern 1) the amount of water withdrawn from the Broad River; 2) the temp of water returned to the river; 3) chemical content of water returned.  For more information, e-mail lsredoark@gmail.com or call 252-4536.

06/02/12 VETERANS FOR PEACE FILM SHOWING
The film "Hidden Battles" will be shown by WNC Veterans for Peace, Chapter 099 at the North Asheville Public Library.  This film deals with the psychological impact of killing on the lives of five soldiers of widely different nationalities and in very divergent conflict situations.  It is an hour long.  Free and open to the public. Time is 7 PM. You can see a trailer at www.hiddenbattles.com.

06/02/12 BURTON STREET COMMUNITY DAY
This is presented by GO!  Starts at 2 PM and goes until 8 PM at 134 Burton Street.  Activities include:  talent showcase, dance party, basketball tournament, break dancing workshop, games for kids.  This event is for the whole family and food is prepared by GO Kitchen-Ready.  Also, we’re raffling tickets between now and June 2. Visit online at http://greenopportunities.org/go-gear/raffle-ticket/ and enter the chance to win a stromer electric bike! Raffle tickets are $10.  Come ready to celebrate community and support an inclusive green economy. We’ll see you there!

06/02/12 to 06/06/12 END MOUNTAINTOP REMOVAL WEEK
The Alliance for Appalachia's "End Mountaintop Removal Week" will be in Washington DC this June 2-6th, 2012.  http://ilovemountains.org/wiw

06/02/12 GREEN PARTY MEETING

The Buncombe County GREEN Party's business meeting is free & open to the public. It will be held from 10 AM to noon, upstairs in the Fortune Building, 729 Haywood Rd., West Asheville. Contact Ronald @ 828-LUCK-180 or Larry @ 828-225-4347 for more information.

06/03/12 ASHEVILLE LISTENING PROJECT
This is a community conversation on public safety called “Do You Feel Safe in Your Community?” will feature Asheville Police Chief William Anderson and Buncombe County Sheriff Van Duncan, with respondents from the African-American, Latino, GLBTQ, and Neighborhood Watch communities.  The presentations and conversation among the panelists will be followed by facilitated small group conversation among all present, in the manner of the Listening Project.  The program will take place on Sunday evening, June 3rd, from 7-9 PM at Congregation Beth Israel, 229 Murdock Avenue, Asheville, 28804.  It is free and open to the public.

06/03/12 PUBLIC FORUM ON HEALTH CARE
Dr. Gray, Director of the NC State Medicaid Program and Dr. Paulus, CEO of Mission Healthcare, will speak and answer questions about the Affordable Care Act from 3 to 5 PM at New Hope Presbyterian Church at 3070 Sweeten Creek Road in Asheville.  Free and open to the public.  For more information, call 828-277-1083 or email patdeck@gmail.com.

06/04/12 ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE FOOD POLICY COUNCIL MEETING
The Asheville Buncombe Food Policy Council will convene a Meeting of the Whole on Monday, June 4, 2012 at UNC-Asheville’s Wilma Sherrill Center from 4-6pm. It’s been an amazingly productive few months, and we’ve seen incredible participation and results. We will convene to report on progress, prioritize goals, and assess our processes. As usual, this will be a highly interactive meeting with room at the table for everyone who cares about creating a food secure community.  See the latest newsletter for more information about what’s happening!

06/07/12 VETERANS FOR PEACE MEETING
Time is 6:30 PM and location is VFP HQ at the Phil Mechanic Studios: 109 Roberts Street in Asheville. VFP Chapter 099: http://vfpchapter099wnc.blogspot.com/

06/08/12 AWARD LUNCHEAN HONORING JOE EBLEN
Live o’Mike presents its first Michael T. Danforth Community Service Award to Joe Edlen.  Time is 1 to 2:30 PM at Friendship Hall at First Congregational Church at 14 Oak Street, Asheville.  Cost is $25 per person.

06/13/12 THE FOOD NETWORK MEETING
The Food Network provides support, publicity, and cross-pollination of ideas between the Asheville Food Policy Council and regional organizations/efforts for the creation of a healthy and resilient food supply in Asheville and Western North Carolina.  Upcoming plans include a film series, as well as free gardening and food-related classes.  Next Meeting: Tuesday, 6/13 at 7:00pm in West Asheville (contact Mary Lou for directions: marylou.kemph@yahoo.com).  For more information about the food group email Dylan: livingvision@yahoo.com

06/14/12 OCCUPY HENDERSONVILLE CAMP
This camp will run from 6-14-12 to 6-17-12.  More information from their Facebook group.

06/28/12 - 06/30/12 KNOW NUKES Y’ALL SUMMIT
This event will be held in Chattanooga, TN on the campus of UTC.  Summit talks will include the ongoing Fukushima Disaster in Japan, the US Nuclear Complex, and a Positive Energy Future!  This event will be a combination of SUMMIT for those who come for the whole event, and also an opportunity for those who want to attend the educational workshops on a one day basis.  Pre-Registration runs thru JUNE 7 at $40 for the SUMMIT – with a one-day rate of $20.  Summit Registration includes program + breakfast + lunch + reception Thursday evening; does not include lodging or dinners.  Registration is open now:  http://knownukesyallsummit.org/

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ONGOING EVENTS
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SUNDAY
Episcopal Peace Fellowship holds a weekly vigil from 5:30 to 6 PM at All Soul's Cathedral on the first and third Sundays.
Spirituality working group of Occupy Asheville will be at Pritcahrd Park from 1-3 PM on Sundays for meditation training, and individual spiritual counseling for anyone who feels in the need. And on the 4th Sunday of every month at Pritchard Park, they hold an event to promote the health of the planet.

TUESDAY
Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 5 PM at Pack Square, Vance Monument
Occupy Asheville Meet Talk Act Nonviolent Affinity Group meets at 4:30 PM at the Chocolate Lounge (second floor) at 10 South Lexington in Asheville. Contact earthsun2@gmail.com for more info.

WEDNESDAY
Haywood Peace Vigilers have a weekly vigil at 4 PM at Haywood Country Courthouse in Waynesville.
Asheville Cop Watch meeting at 5 PM at Firestorm Cafe.

THURSDAY
Asheville Homeless Network meeting at 2 PM at Firestorm Cafe.

FRIDAY
Women in Black have a vigil at 5 PM at Pack Square (Asheville) on the first Friday of the month.
Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville

SATURDAY
Transylvanians for Peace and WNC Physicians for Social Responsibility have a weekly vigil at noon in front of the courthouse in Brevard.

OCCUPY WALL STREET ASHEVILLE
Go to www.occupyasheville.org for more information, or call 888-378-0788. Information on Occupy Asheville late breaking events: http://www.occupyasheville.org/events/