GPJA: 383: Poverty protest Fri / Anti-Blair action Thurs July 28

GLOBAL PEACE AND JUSTICE AUCKLAND NEWSLETTER No. 383, July 20, 2011

Friday 22 July 5.30pm, Heritage Hotel, 35 Hobson St, Auckland
Auckland Action Against Poverty is organising a picket this week: The right wing Maxim Institute is hosting a dinner that night at 6pm at which UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith, will be the guest speaker. Mr Smith is a prime mover behind welfare reforms in the UK which are causing increasing destitution and even suicide among claimants, particularly people who are being pushed off the invalids benefit. He is also presiding over ever increasing privatisation of welfare and employment , including forced work for dole schemes in the private sector. His reforms are the model for much of our National Government’s Rebstock Report, currently under consideration by a high powered Ministerial group. AAAP is organising this picket because we: • Seek to stand in solidarity with welfare claimants in the UK who are suffering hugely as a result of what Mr Smith is inflicting on them there. • Want to draw attention to the links between the UK reforms and the National Government’s approach to welfare. It would be great if you and other members of your group could join us next Friday. If you are able to get this information out to other people in your organisation and any associated networks, that would be really helpful as well. For more information, please feel free to email me at bradford.sue73 or Karen at karendavis700. With thanks for any support you can give – best wishes, Sue Bradford, Auckland Action Against Poverty. See: Visiting UK Welfare Minister to Face Picket http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00131/visiting-uk-welfare-minister-to-face-picket.htm

PROTEST THE WAR CRIMINAL TONY BLAIR – THURSDAY, JULY 28, 11AM, EDEN PARK WALTERS AVE ENTRY, AUCKLAND
Protest the war criminal Tony Blair – "An audience with Tony Blair" has been organised as a fundraiser for Blair ($495 each or $1500 for a single VIP ticket – includes an individual photograph with Blair) and the corporate sector are getting in behind. Blair was a willing participant in the lies and deceit which accompanied the decision to invade Iraq 8 years ago. The protest will highlight this infamous role by a notorious war criminal who with George Bush is responsible for untold misery inflicted on the people of Iraq and the Middle East. Mr Blair is predicted to pocket more than $1 million from the five-date July tour covering New Zealand and Australia.

A statement said Mr Blair was to speak on the future global outlook, paying particular attention to the Middle East, emerging markets and global economy. Since leaving office in 2007, Mr Blair had amassed a personal fortune estimated at $60.9 million, helped by the lecture circuit and lucrative consultancies. See:
GPJA Organises Protect Action Against Tony Blair Visit http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00144/gpja-organises-protect-action-against-tony-blair-visit.htm
Tony Blair War Criminal http://www.tonyblairwarcriminal.com/
Tony Blair is a War Criminal. Blair is back: time for his "journey" to end in jail http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=22895
Tony Blair Must Be Prosecuted by John Pilger http://www.johnpilger.com/articles/tony-blair-must-be-prosecuted

SUPPORT SYRIA’S PROTESTERS: TWO EVENTS IN AUCKLAND, NZ
In Syria, since March 2011, 2,000 peaceful demonstrators have been killed, 6,000 injured, 8,000 are missing and 20,000 imprisoned. Support the freedom protestors of Syria. Meeting Sunday 24 July 2011 @ 6pm Wesley Community Centre, 740 Sandringham Road Extension, Mt Roskill, Auckland. March: Saturday 30 July 2011 @ 2pm, Assemble bottom of Queen Street, central Auckland. Organised by Syrian Solidarity New Zealand email: syrian.solidarity website: ,

NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS

“MIDNIGHT IN MOSCOW” – NEW BOOK OF PLAY BY DEAN PARKER
Midnight in Moscow had the shortest main-venue run of any play in New Zealand. On its second night the curtain came down, followed next afternoon by the ceiling. This was the play that had just opened at the Court Theatre in Christchurch when the great earthquake of February 22 hit, killing 185 people. Here is the full text, together with a major introduction by the author. The play is set in Moscow, 1947; the introduction is set in Moscow, too, in the Bolshevik revolution of 1917 and then at the demise of the Soviet Union in the 1980s. Along the way the introduction takes in Burgess and Philby, Napier in the early 1960s, hippie London, New Zealand politics and theatre in the ’70s, Christchurch and Mervyn Thompson and finally the present — the return of the mob. Dean Parker is a screenwriter, playwright, journalist and political commentator. Previous works include plays Baghdad, Baby, The Feds, and The Hollow Men (adapted from Nicky Hager’s book) and cowriting the screenplay of the film Came a Hot Friday from the novel by Ronald Hugh Morrieson. Play • 144 pages, A5, soft cover ISBN 978-1-877577-37-6 RRP 24.99 • Available July. Steele Roberts Publishers • ph. 04 499 0044 • f. 04 499 0056 • Box 9321 Wellington. www.steeleroberts.co.nz

SUPERFUND PETITION
“To the House of Representatives: We request that the New Zealand Parliament ask the Guardians of the NZ Superfund to disinvest the Fund from Elbit Systems, Caterpillar, G4S and 3 major Israeli banks: Bank Hapoalim , Bank Leumi and Israel Discount Bank, to ensure that New Zealanders are not profiteering from crimes against international humanitarian law.” For copies email Mandlgriffiths or write to: Lois Griffiths, 48 St Andrews Square, Christchurch, 03 355 4715 http://kiaoragaza.wordpress.com/2011/07/16/petition-nz-superfund-to-divest-from-israeli-occupation/

NOMINATIONS CALLED FOR ROGER AWARD
The Roger Award is for The Worst Transnational Corporation Operating in Aotearoa/New Zealand in 2011. Criteria: The criteria for judging are by assessing the transnational (a corporation which is 25% or more foreign-owned) that has the most negative impact in each or all of the following categories: Economic Dominance – Monopoly, profiteering, tax dodging, cultural imperialism People – Unemployment, impact on tangata whenua, impact on women, impact on children, abuse of workers/conditions, health and safety of workers and the public Environment – Environmental damage, abuse of animals Political interference – Interference in democratic processes, running an ideological crusade Judging: The judges for 2011 are: Joce Jesson, a Senior Lecturer in Critical Studies in Education, University of Auckland, and a community activist; Paul Corliss, from Christchurch, an organiser with the Tertiary Education Union and a life member of the Rail and Maritime Transport Union; Paul Maunder, cultural worker, curator of Blackball Museum of Working Class History and a founding member of Unite!; Sam Mahon, an artist, author and activist from North Canterbury; and Wayne Hope, Associate Professor, Communications Studies, Auckland University of Technology They will be given a shortlist of finalists. The winner(s) will be announced at a Christchurch event in early 2012. Nominations: You can nominate the same transnational as last year as long as the nomination is about their misdeeds in 2011. Please send as much detail as you can, including newspaper clippings and reports, but you do not have to do all the research. Just quote sources if you can. Accomplice Award: You may also nominate an organisation (not an individual) which has been the worst Accomplice in 2011 in aiding and abetting transnational corporations in New Zealand to behave as described in the criteria. The Accomplice’s award is in addition to the Worst Transnational Corporation award and will not necessarily be awarded every year. You may nominate for either or both awards. Nominations close on October 31, 2011. Send your nomination to: The Roger Award, Box 2258, Christchurch, e-mail cafca Please Join CAFCA’s Facebook Group & Follow Our Blog & On Twitter http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=117427631610589&ref=ts http://www.watchblogaotearoa.blogspot.com/ https://twitter.com/#!/NZN4S

VISIT CUBA THIS SUMMER
Cuba consistently makes the news: whether it is it’s health care system (see Salud or Sicko), its response to its oil crisis, its environmental programmes, or by remaining a political opponent of US imperialism for forty years. At the moment it is fundamentally revamping its economy and administration system, while remaining true to the spirit of socialism. It is also the home of salsa and its music is world renowned. Registrations are open for the 27th Southern Cross Brigade to Cuba. Members of the Brigade, which is made up of Australians and New Zealanders, spend approximately four weeks in Cuba, leaving 27th December and returning 24th January. The Brigade stays in the Julio Mella International Camp and the time there co-incides with visits by Brigades from the Nordic countries and South America, which gives an excellent opportunity for dialogue. The programme is varied and includes social occasions, dance lessons, cultural events, talks by community groups e.g. the Womens’ Federation, visits to schools, hospitals and trade unions, resorts and national parks, as well as free time in Havana. Some voluntary work is included in the programme. Brigade members with a special interest in an area can usually be provided for. The trip is suitable for people of any age group. Children are welcome and an 85 year old has coped well. While some knowledge of Spanish is useful, an interpreter is always on hand. As an initial introduction to Cuban society and Cuban people the Brigade is an excellent opportunity to quickly gain insight into this unique country and to express solidarity. The all up cost is $5500, including airfare, spending money and all accommodation and meals. Members of the Brigade often stay longer in Cuba as private travelers or move onto other countries in the region. For further enquiries and registration e- mail Ina at inashina or Paul at wkcultur; (03 732 4010).

PLEASE SIGN ONLINE PETITION AGAINST TRANS-PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT
This was originally going to close on July 4th, but it’s built up momentum, so it seemed a shame to stop it now. More and more of the disastrous implications of the TPPA are making themselves obvious. The new cutoff date (which won’t be extended again) is November 1st. So please sign it now (if you haven’t already done so). And if you’ve got a hard copy of it, please post it to New Zealand Not For Sale Campaign, Box 2258, Christchurch 8140. We urge you to circulate and publicise the petition, online and hard copy, through your organisations and networks. Murray Horton, Convenor, New Zealand Not For Sale Campaign, Box 2258, Christchurch 8140. nznot4sale www.nznotforsale.org
Petition:
We the undersigned citizens and permanent residents of New Zealand call upon the Government of New Zealand.
• to cease negotiations on the Transpacific Partnership agreement; and
• to not sign this agreement; and
• to cease work on any other in-progress or proposed international trade and investment treaties containing clauses which limit or abrogate New Zealand’s sovereign and democratic right to make and enforce laws and regulations and provide services which differ from those of other states or transnational organisations.
Sign the petition

WHAT’S ON

Wednesday, July 20. 7.30pm, St Columba Centre, 40 Vermont Street, Ponsonby, Auckland
Warm greetings reminding you of the upcoming Pacific Women’s Watch (NZ) Annual General Meeting. There is plenty of parking space behind the Centre. Our speaker at the AGM is PWW(NZ) Patron, Dr Marilyn Waring, Professor of Public Policy at Auckland University of Technology (AUT), speaking on Being RAMSI Gender and Governance Coordinator – challenges and celebrations. PWW(NZ) also calls for nominations to the Board for the coming year. The programme is stimulating and action focused. We look forward to your attendance on 20 July. Please make the AGM very widely known. Pacific Women’s Watch (NZ) www.pacificwomenswatch.org.nz Working for Gender Justice

Thursday, July 21, 6pm, WT1004, Level 10, AUT Tower, AUT University corner of Rutland and Wakefield Street, Auckland
Muslim women’s rights are human rights ( ummatrust

Friday 22 July 5.30pm, Heritage Hotel, 35 Hobson St, Auckland
Auckland Action Against Poverty is organising a picket this week: The right wing Maxim Institute is hosting a dinner that night at 6pm at which UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith, will be the guest speaker. Mr Smith is a prime mover behind welfare reforms in the UK which are causing increasing destitution and even suicide among claimants, particularly people who are being pushed off the invalids benefit. He is also presiding over ever increasing privatisation of welfare and employment , including forced work for dole schemes in the private sector. His reforms are the model for much of our National Government’s Rebstock Report, currently under consideration by a high powered Ministerial group. AAAP is organising this picket because we: • Seek to stand in solidarity with welfare claimants in the UK who are suffering hugely as a result of what Mr Smith is inflicting on them there. • Want to draw attention to the links between the UK reforms and the National Government’s approach to welfare. It would be great if you and other members of your group could join us next Friday. If you are able to get this information out to other people in your organisation and any associated networks, that would be really helpful as well. For more information, please feel free to email me at bradford.sue73 or Karen at karendavis700. With thanks for any support you can give – best wishes, Sue Bradford, Auckland Action Against Poverty.

Friday, July 22, 6pm, 2nd Floor, James Smith Building, cnr Cuba & Manners St, Wellington
Message from the Cuban Embassy: Please joins us to celebrate “el 26 de Julio” with us. Film Screening from 6:30 PM. We’ll make a toast to commemorate such an important date to the Cuban people. E-mail: secretaria

Saturday, July 23, 5.30pm-8.30pm, Mt. Albert War Memorial Hall, Auckland
The New Zealand Tamil Society is commemorating the Black July (Pogrom of 1983) on 23 July 2011 Saturday from 5.30 PM to 8.00 PM at the Mt. Albert War Memorial Hall. Please be kind enough to participate in the event. Any Human Rights activist is welcome.

Monday, July 25, 6pm, Trade Union Centre, 34 Harwood St, Hamilton
Storming the pitch in Hamilton: 30th Anniversary of the Springbok Tour. Speakers from the battle of Rugby Park: Ross and Karl Crook, Ian Grant, Michael Law, and John Minto. Also, from South Africa on speaking tour: Film- maker/activist, Mark Fredericks. Mark is a South African activist who has compiled a video documentary entitled "Injury Time", which focuses on the critical role played by sport in the struggle against apartheid. Initiated by Global Peace and Justice Auckland. For enquiries please contact Jared Phillips. Phone 0294949863 or email jared

Monday, July 25, 6.45pm, National Party Office 429 Gt North Rd, Henderson, Auckland
OUR HEALTH SYSTEM – KEEP IT OURS, NOT THEIRS! On Monday 26th July local National MPs will be holding a public meeting with the title “our Health System They speak with a forked tongue. When they say “ours” they mean the private sector investors eager to get their greedy hands on it. It is their interests and theirs alone that the National Party exists to serve. Join the picket and protest loudly!

Wednesday, July 27, 6.30pm, B15, Library, university of Auckland
The Arab Awakening: Populist challenge to long-standing dictatorships: An age of revolution in the minds of the people has hit the Middle East. The people are finally refusing to tolerate the long-standing dictatorships that have long plagued and corrupted the Middle East. Impoverished of political freedom, the Egyptians said “Game over, Mubarak!!” and succeeded in the removal of the 30-year dictator. But uncertainty surrounding the democratisation still remains: Where to from now? And what of the cases of Libya and Bahrain – are these rebellions or revolutions? Also the question of Palestine should not be far from our minds, could this ‘Arab Awakening’ spark up the Third Intifada? Students for Justice in Palestine and Amnesty on Campus invite you to explore, with a panel of speakers, these questions and many more, which are presented by the so-called Arab Awakening that has taken the Middle East by storm. There will be a question and answer session following the panel. Speakers confirmed so far: Mohsen al Attar on the Egyptian Revolution – "Coup d’etat or Revolution: Where to for the Egyptians from here?"; Zaeem Baksh on the Question of Palestine – "Revolution for the Liberation of Palestine and the Israeli Intrafada"; Speaker on the Syrian Revolution – "Syria: What’s taking so long?"

Thursday, July 28, 11am, Eden Park Walters Ave Entry, Auckland
Protest the war criminal Tony Blair – "An audience with Tony Blair" has been organised as a fundraiser for Blair ($495 each or $1500 for a single VIP ticket – includes an individual photograph with Blair) and the corporate sector are getting in behind. Blair was a willing participant in the lies and deceit which accompanied the decision to invade Iraq 8 years ago. The protest will highlight this infamous role by a notorious war criminal who with George Bush is responsible for untold misery inflicted on the people of Iraq and the Middle East.

Thursday, July 28, 7pm, WT1004, AUT Tower Building, 2 Rutland St, 10th floor seminar room, next door to the new Pacific Media Centre office
Papua New Guinea’s Tok Pisin language newspaper Wantok, founded in 1969, is one of the publishing icons of the South Pacific. Drawing on interviews with Fr Francis Mihalic and Bishop Leo Arkfeld made in the early 1990s, a manuscript history of the early days of the Wantok, written by Mihalic, and material drawn from the archives in the Society of the Divine Word’s mother house in Mt Hagen, Dr Philip Cass seeks to present a picture of a man who was at once a priest, a publisher, a propagandist, a linguist, a lecturer and often a cause of bewilderment to the very bishops whose work he was supposed to be doing. Dr Cass is head of postgraduate studies in the School of Communication Studies at Unitec. He is also a research associate of the Pacific Media Centre.

Friday, July 29, 5.30pm, WF8 lounge, level 8, AUT University Business school, 42 Wakefield St, Auckland city
BOOK LAUNCH – “UNIONS IN COMMON CAUSE”: Guest speaker: Carol Beaumont, Labour List MP & former secretary NZCTU. RSVP to nzwalmi before Friday 17 July for catering purposes. Published by Steele Roberts, Unions in Common Cause is the first detailed study of the history of the New Zealand Federation of Labour (1937-88). Based on a conference held in 2007, this books includes chapters by four leading labour historians (Erik Olssen, Peter Franks, Melanie Nolan & Ray Markey), contributions by past and present union activists, biographical & statistical information. The book is richly illustrated. The book will be on sale at the launch at a special price of $20 cash only. From the foreword by Margaret Wilson: ‘Without a strong trade union movement New Zealand will never achieve the economic prosperity that will benefit us all. It is the trade union movement that provides the balance between the economic and social conditions that enable us to move forward as a society based on fairness and equality for all citizens.’

Saturday, July 30, 10am – 12.30pm, Auckland Trades Hall Auditorium, 147 Great North Road, Grey Lynn
SEMINAR: WHAT’S LEFT? RETROSPECT & PROSPECT FOR THE NEW ZEALAND LABOUR MOVEMENT. Speakers: Erik Olssen, Emeritus Professor of History, University of Otago, & author of numerous publications in labour history; Peter Franks, author of numerous publications in labour history, & labour activist; Margaret Wilson, Professor of Law & Public Policy, Waikato University, formerly Speaker of Parliament, Minister for Labour & other portfolios, & president of the Labour Party. The New Zealand labour movement has been a progressive force in the industrial and political spheres since the 1840s, when the first trade society appeared and the 8 hour day was established in Dunedin. By the early 20th century New Zealand was seen internationally as a ‘social laboratory’, not least because of its industrial relations legislation, strong unions and entry of ‘workingmen’s representatives’ into national parliament. The first Labour government of 1935 introduced extensive social reforms that laid a foundation for one of the most egalitarian societies in the world. Labour has since held office for 35 out of 65 years, and until the 1990s New Zealand unions had one of the highest membership densities in the world. However, since the 1980s Labour governments have been influenced by neo-liberal policies for privatisation and market deregulation, and trade unions’ membership has declined dramatically. New Zealand is no longer an egalitarian society. These changes have occurred throughout the world. Industrially and politically, labour movements in the developed countries are weaker than they have been for almost a century, and ideologically they have struggled to develop alternatives for market liberalism as traditional concepts of state socialism have been substantially discredited. How does history help us to understand this situation and to answer the following questions? What is the future for the labour movement? What strategies and policies might the labour movement develop to arrest its decline? Will Labour remain confined to ‘market liberalism lite’, or can it generate a new social vision? Join us to discuss these questions & listen to the views of our speakers. Refreshments provided. Entry Fee: $10 members, $20 non members, $5 unwaged. RSVP: by 28 July to Gay Simpkin, pgsimpkin

Sunday, July 31, 1.30pm, WEA 9 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson, Auckland
FED UP and OUTRAGED at the Governments attacks on wages, benefits and social services? Fed up with price & GST hikes, cuts to health education and welfare services? Fed up with harassment by WINZ staff acting on government orders to put the screws on beneficiaries? Furious at the 90 Day Fire at will Act and the threatened destruction of the welfare system? Outraged at being made to pay for the bosses own economic crisis? Come along to these forums to share your experiences with others so affected, air your frustration and forge the bonds of solidarity that will defeat the National/Act/Maori Party coalition’s anti-working class agenda. Discuss which parliamentary party-if any-is worth supporting in the coming general election.. Plan non-parliamentary actions, such as the picket of Paula Bennett’s meeting.. Refreshments provided. Further forums planned for August 14th & 28th, Sept 11th & 25th. Hosted by Waitemata Branch of Unite! Union 836 9104 027 2800080 (Ring if you need a lift.) http://waitemataunite.blogspot.com

Saturday, August 6, 2pm, QEII Square, Customs Street and Queen St intersection, Outside Downtown Shopping Centre, Auckland
Rally for Justice and Peace in PALESTINE www.palestine.org.nz On the First Saturday of Every Month. Come support JUSTICE and PEACE based on: 1. Ending 44 years of Israeli Occupation of the West Bank & Gaza Strip (including East Jerusalem); 2. Ensuring the Right of Return for Palestinian refugees; 3. Sharing Jerusalem; 4. Vacating all settlement colonies in Israeli occupied Palestine; 5. Dismantling Israel’s annexation / apartheid wall in occupied Palestine.

Sunday, August 7, 5pm to 7pm, Auckland Domain Wintergarden
Hiroshima Day Commemoration: You are warmly invited to attend a very special Candle Floating Ceremony to remember those who died at Hiroshima and Nagasaki as a result of the atomic bombs dropped on their cities at the end of the Second World War. Each year we pause to commemorate this occasion and to continue our work for peace, which WILPF has been pursuing for the last 96 years. SPECIAL GUESTS : We are very pleased to host Peace Pals Alida Newman and George Shirtcliffe of One people One Planet. Alida and George are the Voice of the Children. They made compelling presentations as part of the deputation to the Auckland Council requesting that Auckland be declared a City for Peace. On this occasion Alida and George will share with us their vision of the future our youngest citizens work towards and want. They will be introduced by Vivienne Wright, Executive Trustee of One People One Planet, an Auckland based organisation which focuses on giving the children a voice and a platform to work towards a sustainably more peaceful world. There will also be an opportunity for others to speak and there will be crane-making and music. Candles will be supplied. Contacts : Ruth Coombes ph 445 1254 or Joan Macdonald ph 360 8001. WILPF Aotearoa is part of the international women’s organisation established in 1915 to bring together women of different political beliefs and philosophies who are united in their determination to study, make known and help abolish the causes and legitimisation of war.

Friday, August 26, 9am to 5pm, in Decima Glenn, Level 3, The University of Auckland Business School, 12 Grafton Rd, Auckland
ACC Forum: Co-hosted by The University of Auckland Retirement Policy and Research Centre and the ACC Group, the ACC Futures Coalition, and AUT’s Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Research . “The future of ACC – Is New Zealand in danger of losing both what is best about the ACC scheme, and our place as a world leader in accident compensation? What can be done.” Auckland University is presenting a one-day symposium on the National Government’s proposed changes to ACC. Speakers include representatives from the NZCTU, employers, ACC claimant advocates, political parties, economists, academics, unions and Government consultants. Registration required $30 (includes lunch). Contact Tressy Menezes: t.menezes Closing date for registration and payment: Wednesday 24 August 2011.
QUOTES OF THE WEEK
"Rise like Lions after slumber
In unvanquishable number–
Shake your chains to earth like dew
Which in sleep had fallen on you–
Ye are many — they are few."
Percy Bysshe Shelly: From “The Mask of Anarchy” penned in the aftermath of the Peterloo massacre in 1819, where the British government sent cavalry to scatter a massive demonstration demanding political reform

"Everybody’s worried about stopping terrorism. Well, there’s a really easy way: stop participating in it." – Noam Chomsky

"It is the function of the CIA to keep the world unstable, and to propagandize and teach the American people to hate, so we will let the Establishment spend any amount of money on arms."– John Stockwell, former CIA official and author

BEST ON THE WEB

NEW ZEALAND
Police and SIS must publish report on spying allegations http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1107/S00341/police-and-sis-must-publish-report-on-spying-allegations.htm

Visiting UK Welfare Minister to Face Picket http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00131/visiting-uk-welfare-minister-to-face-picket.htm

GPJA Organises Protect Action Against Tony Blair Visit http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00144/gpja-organises-protect-action-against-tony-blair-visit.htm

John Minto: Act scaremongering about Maori privilege a sick joke http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=10738030

CPAG: Reforms risk harming another generation of children http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00086/reforms-risk-harming-another-generation-of-children.htm

NZ’s Terror Listings: Impediment to Peace in the Philippines http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL1107/S00194/nzs-terror-listings-impediment-to-peace-in-the-philippines.htm

NZ Medical Journal calls for cheaper food http://unityaotearoa.blogspot.com/2011/07/nz-medical-journal-calls-for-cheaper.html

No crisis at ACC: A new report shows that the Government’s plan to privatise work coverage of ACC will undermine our world leading system and lead to more suffering for accident victims, said the Green Party today. http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1107/S00289/no-crisis-at-acc-hague.htm A copy of the report can be found at http://issues.co.nz/library_images/accfutures/acc_report_peter_harris_july11.pdf

Attempt to raise Maori flag on harbour bridge http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5300050/Attempt-to-raise-Maori-flag-on-harbour-bridge

Protestors arrested after Auckland Harbour Bridge stunt http://www.3news.co.nz/Protestors-arrested-after-Auckland-Harbour-Bridge-stunt/tabid/423/articleID/219159/Default.aspx

New Zealands Three Strikes Law was Pushed, Bought and Paid for by the US – Wikileaks http://www.zeropaid.com/news/93326/new-zealands-three-strikes-law-was-pushed-bought-and-paid-for-by-the-us-wikileaks/

CTU: Fiji and Trade Union Rights http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00203/fiji-and-trade-union-rights.htm

The rugby tour that split us into two nations http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10737275

On Don Brash’s race gambit (and Hugh Grant’s finest hour) http://gordoncampbell.scoop.co.nz/2011/07/12/gordon-campbell-on-don-brash%E2%80%99s-race-gambit-and-hugh-grant/

Families forced to sacrifice early childhood education to make ends meet http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00213/families-forced-to-sacrifice-early-childhood-education-nzei.htm

Practical solutions to reduce youth inequality http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1107/S00322/practical-solutions-to-reduce-youth-inequality.htm

Sooden Returning To NZ – Tahrir Will Sail Again http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/WO1107/S00247/sooden-returning-to-nz-tahrir-will-sail-again.htm Further information, along with an archive of media coverage, statements and releases is available in the ‘Media and updates’ section of the Canadian Boat to Gaza Aotearoa New Zealand page at http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/cb2g.htm

BDS Action – Sylvia Park, Auckland New Zealand 9 July 2011

Boycott, Divestment, Sanction [BDS] against the Israeli regime – Hela Rahman, spokesperson for Auckland University Students for Justice in Palestine http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00101/boycott-divestment-sanction-against-israel-regime.htm

Sue Bradford: Greed is good, as long as it’s green http://links.org.au/node/2401

Russell Brown: Angry and thrilled about Arie • Hard News • Public Address http://publicaddress.net/hardnews/angry-and-thrilled-about-arie/ See also http://tvnz.co.nz/sunday/s2011-e19-video-4292608?ref=facebook

TVNZ stands by autistic looter story http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10737782

Cops crack down on autistic looter http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10736925

60,000 sign petition against cuts to early childhood education http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00091/60000-sign-petition-against-cuts-to-early-childhood-ed.htm

CWS launches Horn of Africa Appeal http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1107/S00253/cws-launches-horn-of-africa-appeal.htm

Regular constable to Robocop – http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/5062309/Regular-constable-to-Robocop

Willie Jackson (NZH): National Radio a ‘disgrace’ over Maori issues

Controversal legal reforms moving forward http://msn.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10737846&ref=rss

Levy cuts show Government Up http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00113/levy-cuts-show-government-up.htm

Willie Jackson: National Radio a ‘disgrace’ over Maori issues http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10737615

CTU’s final submission on the ‘Options for Extending the Accredited Employers Programme and Introducing Choice in the ACC Work Account’ go to

http://union.org.nz/policy/options-extending-accredited-employers-programme-and-introducing-choice-acc-work-account

REFUGEES

Sri Lankans seek asylum in New Zealand http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/politics/5268290/Sri-Lankans-seek-asylum-in-New-Zealand

‘No evidence’ asylum seekers heading to NZ http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/5269065/Key-scaremongering-over-asylum-seekers-Amnesty

Tampa ‘boy’ says refugees not bad http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5271675/Tampa-boy-says-refugees-not-bad

Avoid Tampa disaster – refugee http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5287527/Avoid-Tampa-disaster-refugee

Govt has duty with refugees who are genuine http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10738112

PM accused of overstating refugee issue http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10738114

Fair Approach To Boat Refugees: Sri Lanka Forced Migrants’ Support Group http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00198/fair-approach-to-boat-refugees.htm

EARTHQUAKE

CERA pay rates disgusting and unjust http://beyondresistance.wordpress.com/2011/07/20/cera-pay-rates-disgusting-and-unjust/

MANA PARTY

Hone Harawira – Moving Forward With Mana speech http://www.3news.co.nz/Hone-Harawira—Moving-Forward-With-Mana-speech/tabid/419/articleID/218792/Default.aspx

Matt McCarten: Queen first, Treaty second? How absurd http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10738937

What if Hone had crossed his fingers? by Andrew Geddis http://www.pundit.co.nz/content/what-if-hone-had-crossed-his-fingers

Speaker refuses to swear Harawira in http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/5284635/Speaker-refuses-to-swear-Harawira-in

Ejected http://norightturn.blogspot.com/2011/07/ejected.html

Harawira ‘disappointed’ after swearing-in drama http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10738437

Hone Harawira: Someone has got to say something about ‘Redneck Brash’ http://www.voxy.co.nz/politics/hone-harawira-someone-has-got-say-something-about-redneck-brash/5/94611

Maori Party says ‘no deal’ to Harawira http://tvnz.co.nz/politics-news/maori-party-says-no-deal-harawira-4295425

Audrey Young (NZH):Maori, Mana hit back over Act adverts

Harawira’s olive branch ‘tossed in the dirt’ http://tvnz.co.nz/politics-news/harawira-s-olive-branch-tossed-in-dirt-4295425

Maori post election government preferences http://www.horizonpoll.co.nz/page/139/maori-post-e

NZ WORK RIGHTS

Wilkinson must go to progress mine safety http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA1107/S00331/wilkinson-must-go-to-progress-mine-safety.htm

Minimum Wage needs to rise immediately http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00211/minimum-wage-needs-to-rise-immediately-ctu.htm

$15 an hour too rich for Maccas http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/5275901/15-an-hour-too-rich-for-Maccas

Fewer Jobs, not Poor Attitude the Issue http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00220/fewer-jobs-not-poor-attitude-the-issue.htm

Disability workers deserve minimum wage http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/comment/5299247/Disability-workers-deserve-minimum-wage

Protesters rally against job losses http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/5261409/Protesters-rally-against-job-losses

Hillside message delivered to no avail http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/168192/hillside-message-delivered-no-avail

Transport Minister talks to Rail and Maritime Union protesters http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/transport-minister-talks-rail-and-maritime-union-protesters

Protestors tell government: keep jobs in New Zealand http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00094/protestors-tell-government-keep-jobs-in-new-zealand.htm

Save Hillside Rally http://www.flickr.com/photos/paulusthebrit/sets/72157627025812779/

Speakers ready to support Hillside http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/168440/speakers-ready-support-hillside

Hillside rally supported by engineer http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/168423/hillside-rally-supported-engineer

KiwiRail deliberating http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/168421/kiwirail-deliberating

NZNO Aged Care campaign – please circulate to your members and encourage them to sign up to the charter http://www.nzno.org.nz/home/campaigns/fair_share_for_aged_care/aged_care_charter

Fraud charges cold comfort to betrayed workers http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1107/S00448/fraud-charges-cold-comfort-to-betrayed-workers.htm

CTU Vote Fairness election website – http://union.org.nz/vote-fairness

NZ ECONOMY

Price rises hitting families hard http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00199/price-rises-hitting-families-hard.htm

Jane Kelsey: USNZ Council Gives False Comfort on Tobacco Controls & Investment Rules http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/HL1107/S00098/usnz-council-gives-false-comfort-on-tobacco-controls.htm

Jane Kelsey: Japan In No State To Join Trans-Pacific Partnership Talks apan In No State To Join Trans-Pacific Partnership Talks

Tapu Misa: Capital gains tax a no brainer for NZ http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10737616

Matt McCarten (NZH): Greed ain’t good, now it’s being understood http://www.nzherald.co.nz/politics/news/article.cfm?c_id=280&objectid=10737457

Housing on the state http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/opinion/5260027/Housing-on-the-state

Opinion: Bernard Hickey argues Labour should introduce a land tax as well as a capital gains tax to increase savings and shift investment. Your view?http://www.interest.co.nz/print/54271

Gordon Campbell: On Labour’s tax package (and Rupert Murdoch) http://gordoncampbell.scoop.co.nz/2011/07/15/gordon-campbell-on-labour%E2%80%99s-tax-package-and-rupert-murdoch/

CTU supports a fairer tax system http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00159/ctu-supports-a-fairer-tax-system.htm

CTU: For people looking for work, it still feels like recession http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00145/for-people-looking-for-work-it-still-feels-like-recession.htm

NDU: Cost of living increase reflects worker sentiment http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1107/S00548/cost-of-living-increase-reflects-worker-sentiment.htm

Tapu Misa: Goff’s tax plan a start to a fairer society http://www.nzherald.co.nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10739121&ref=mobile

CULTURAL DISSENT

Film Celebrates Young Serb Who Died Defying Hatred: A new movie about the legacy of Srdjan Aleksic, who lost his life saving his Bosnian Muslim friend in 1993, casts light on a little-known side of Bosnia’s brutal war. http://www.balkaninsight.com/en/article/film-celebrates-young-serb-who-died-defying-hatred

How Socialist Is the Chinese Party State? On Wang Hui’s vision of alternatives by AU Loong-Yu: Review of Wang Hui, The End of Revolution: China and the Limits of Modernity, London: Verso, 2010, 272 pp., $26.95. http://www.europe-solidaire.org/spip.php?article22182

Re-Assassination of Trotsky http://www.insidehighered.com/views/mclemee/mclemee_on_trotsky_in_ahr

Judas Priest – United.mp4

Review: ‘From Fatwa to Jihad: The Rushdie Affair and its Legacy’ http://links.org.au/node/2400

Injustice: Why Social Inequality Persists (updated edition) – The original edition of Injustice: Why Social Inequality Persists stands out as a masterpiece, not only in the production of razor-sharp arguments, but also in its collation of extensive supporting evidence. This updated edition is perhaps even more important today. http://tinyurl.com/66wpn85

Revolutionary Doctors – How Venezuela and Cuba Are Changing the World’s Conception of Health Care by Steve Brouwer http://monthlyreview.org/press/books/pb2396/

The Anti-Capitalistic Mentality

FEATURES

Gary Younge: On the West’s Moral Panic Over ‘Multiculturalism’ http://www.thenation.com/article/161858/wests-moral-panic-over-multiculturalism

Remembering the Paris Commune http://www.europe-solidaire.org/spip.php?article22240

Audio: Who was Rosa Luxemburg? http://links.org.au/node/2407

East Africa’s Drought: 11 Million Lives At Risk By Tristan McConnell http://www.countercurrents.org/mcconnel180711.htm

This Media is Corrupt – The Danger Corporate Power Presents to Democracy By George Monbiot – Our job is to hold power to account. Instead, most of the profession simply ventriloquises the concerns of the elite. http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article28559.htm

The Strange Silencing of Liberal America By John Pilger – Obama’s greatest achievement is having seduced, co-opted and silenced much of liberal opinion in the US. http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article28504.htm

Half Of World’s Refugees Are Running From U.S. Wars: Nearly one half of the world’s refugees are from Afghanistan and Iraq, 3.05 million and 1.68 million, respectively. But neither the United States nor much of the developed world bears the burden of the 10.55 million refugees. Instead, Pakistan, Iran, and Syria serve as the top host countries. http://bit.ly/jBwiY3

LAND, LABOUR AND THE ENVIROMENT

Are there too many people? or just too many Malthusians? http://www.theecosocialist.com/1/post/2011/07/are-there-too-many-people-or-just-too-many-malthusians.html

‘The Ecological Rift’: a radical response to capitalism’s war on the planet http://links.org.au/taxonomy/term/580

A Plan to Power 100 Percent of the Planet with Renewables – Wind, water and solar technologies can provide 100 percent of the world’s energy, eliminating all fossil fuels. Here’s how http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=a-path-to-sustainable-energy-by-2030&print=true

Food and climate change: the looming disaster? http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/48108

How Climate Change Became A ‘Liberal Hoax’ By Noam Chomsky and John Johnston

WORLD ECONOMIC CRISIS

Beware The Tobacco Bullies: Do Not Let Them Use Free Trade Agreements To Endanger Public Health http://www.citizen-news.org/2011/07/beware-tobacco-bullies-do-not-let-them.html

Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement: Did US Move Threaten Public Health? http://www.ip-watch.org/weblog/2011/07/12/trans-pacific-partnership-agreement-did-us-move-threaten-public-health/

The Ideological Crisis of Western Capitalism by Joseph E. Stiglitz http://www.truth-out.org/ideological-crisis-western-capitalism/1310127895

The “Jobless and Wageless” Recovery from the Great Recession of 2007-2009 http://www.clms.neu.edu/publication/documents/Revised_Corporate_Report_May_27th.pdf

It’s time to take the Tobin tax seriously http://www.guardian.co.uk/global-development/poverty-matters/2011/jun/14/time-for-tobin-tax

AFGHANISTAN

US surge slowly deflates http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/48037

AUSTRALIA

Carbon Price Mechanism: ‘The Greatest Corporate Windfall of our Time’ http://tinyurl.com/63phcqo

Gillard’s carbon price: not a serious response http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/48173

John Pilger: Australia invaded, not ‘settled’ http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/48073

$285,000 fine for state government over Ward prison van death http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2011/07/07/3263988.htm

Qantas pilots vote to take industrial action http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=10737809

Aust military trashes Geneva Convention http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/48103

CANADA

What Mission Accomplished? 10 Years Later, Canada’s Role in Afghanistan and Global War (Part III) http://tinyurl.com/67322to

CUBA

Towards an egalitarian society: an overview of the situation of black and mestizo Cubans BY Esteban Morales, Havana http://www.walterlippmann.com/docs3182.html

Historian’s party membership restored http://links.org.au/node/2395

Mariela Castro: “I believe in a democratic socialism, without dogmas or prejudice” http://www.walterlippmann.com/docs3162.html

Debate Forum dialogue with Alfredo Guevara in the Faculty of Chemistry, Havana University http://cubasocialistrenewal.blogspot.com/2011/07/translation-alfredo-guevara-students-1.html Part 2 http://tinyurl.com/3poclw4

EGYPT

A People’s History of the Egyptian Revolution by Rami El-Amine and Mostafa Henaway http://www.socialistproject.ca/bullet/525.php

Robert Fisk: In Tahrir Square the anger is growing again. Where is the revolution the crowds fought for? http://tinyurl.com/6xbhsqh

Key force in Tahrir Square: Egypt’s labor movement http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2011/0708/Key-force-in-Tahrir-Square-Egypt-s-labor-movement

GREECE

Struggle grows amid police violence, gov’t panic http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/48084

HONDURAS

Honduras resistance launches political party, as repression continues http://johnriddell.wordpress.com/2011/07/11/honduras-resistance-launches-political-party-as-repression-continues/

INDONESIA

Meet The Indonesian Workers Who Make Your Nikes: By Zaid Jilani – 50 Cent Hourly Wages, Beatings, And Humiliation. http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article28589.htm

IRELAND

Ireland: United Left Alliance confronts big challenges http://links.org.au/node/2411

LIBYA

NATO forces struggle to find an endgame in Libya http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/africa-mideast/nato-forces-struggle-to-find-an-endgame-in-libya/article2099492/

Libya City Torn by Tribal Feud – Ethnic Hatred Rooted in Battle for Misrata Underlines Challenges the Nation Faces After Gadhafi http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304887904576395143328336026.html

Reporter’s Notebook: Reading the Rebels in Western Libya, Part 1 http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/07/10/reporters-notebook-reading-the-rebels-in-western-libya-pt-i/?ref=world

Reporter’s Notebook: Reading the Rebels in Western Libya, Part II http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/07/15/reporters-notebook-reading-the-rebels-in-western-libya-part-ii/?ref=world

HRW: Opposition Forces Should Protect Civilians and Hospitals – Looting, Arson, and Some Beatings in Captured Western Towns http://www.hrw.org/en/news/2011/07/13/libya-opposition-forces-should-protect-civilians-and-hospitals

Libyan Rebels Accused of Pillage and Beatings http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/13/world/africa/13libya.html?_r=1&hp

JAPAN

Fukushima is Worse than Chernobyl – on Global Contamination http://www.zcommunications.org/fukushima-is-worse-than-chernobyl-on-global-contamination-by-chris-busby

JORDAN

Clashes erupt at pro-reform protest in Jordan: Several people injured as police use batons to break up anti-government demonstration in Amman.

http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/07/2011715131426955192.html

MALAYSIA

Malaysia’s pro-democracy Bersih 2.0: It’s 50k and a big success; Support in Australia http://links.org.au/node/2396

Malaysia braces for pro-democracy street protests in Kuala Lumpur http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/08/malaysia-democracy-street-protests

Dr Jeyakumar Deveraj, detained socialist MP: ‘Malaysian politics has become more dangerous http://links.org.au/node/2394

Free Jeyakumar Devaraj, activist doctor http://links.org.au/node/2406

PACIFIC

Coalition for Democracy in Fiji files a police complaint against Tevita Mara under the Crimes of Torture Act http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1107/S00218/police-complaint-against-tevita-mara-for-alleged-torture.htm

Indonesian workers end strike at biggest gold mine http://tinyurl.com/6ceahnn

Youtubes from the Freeport strike – It gives a bit of the flavour of the size and spirit of the action

PAKISTAN

Obama, Bin Laden and the Pakistani crisis http://www.internationalviewpoint.org/spip.php?article2207

Is Pakistan collapsing? by S Akbar Zaidi http://www.viewpointonline.net/is-pakistan-collapsing.html

US drone strikes in Pakistan claiming many civilian victims, says campaigner: One man in Waziristan is documenting casualties – and says destruction has been radicalising locals. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/17/us-drone-strikes-pakistan-waziristan

Arrest of ex-CIA lawyer sought over drone use : Human rights lawyers seek warrant against John Rizzo for approving drone strikes in Pakistan that killed hundreds. http://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia/2011/07/201171775436664633.html

PALESTINE

Gaza-bound boat boarded by Israeli forces http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/07/20117198633209707.html

Gaza-bound French boat sets sail from Greece http://kiaoragaza.wordpress.com/2011/07/17/gaza-bound-french-boat-sets-sail-from-greece/

Roger Waters endorses BDS and speaks against Israeli anti-boycott law http://pulsemedia.org/2011/07/17/roger-waters-endorses-bds-and-speaks-against-israeli-anti-boycott-law/

Mya Guarnieri: The blockade on Gaza began long before Hamas came to power http://972mag.com/the-blockade-on-gaza-began-long-before-hamas

Impose an immediate, comprehensive military embargo on Israel! http://www.bdsmovement.net/2011/military-embargo-call-7497

Is Palestine Next? By Adam Shatz: No one in the Arab world was watching the news more closely than the Palestinians during the revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt http://www.lrb.co.uk/v33/n14/adam-shatz/is-palestine-next

The Zionist Story: An independent film by Ronen Berelovich, is the story of ethnic cleansing, colonialism and apartheid to produce a demographically Jewish State.

PORTUGAL

Ten Years Ago Portugal Legalized All Drugs – What Happened Next? By Tony O’Neil: When the nation legalized all drugs within its borders, most critics predicted disaster. But a decade later, drug use has plunged dramatically. http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article28603.htm

SOMALIA

US extends drone strikes to Somalia http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jun/30/us-drone-strikes-somalia

SOUTH AFRICA

Victory for the Kennedy 12 http://www.abahlali.org/

Fighting the minerals-petroleum-coal complex’s wealth and woes in Durban http://links.org.au/node/2413

SPAIN

Dial-a-Crowd Confronts Debt-Laden Spanish Banks by Thwarting Foreclosures http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-07-13/dial-a-crowd-confronts-debt-laden-spanish-banks-by-thwarting-foreclosures.html

SYRIA

Syria at the Crossroads – Investigating the nature of the Assad regime which has been rocked by a wave of mass protests, this programme asks what is the future of the Syrian Revolution? http://tinyurl.com/5rlbg9g

UK

Murdoch’s News Corporation: crime, corruption and class rule http://links.org.au/node/2408

Matt Taibbi: How Rupert Murdoch Dragged Media Into the Swamp http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/taibblog/how-rupert-murdoch-dragged-media-into-the-swamp-20110719

USA

San Francisco Police shoot and kill a man who ran after not paying for his MUNI ticket http://kasamaproject.org/2011/07/16/sf-cops-kill-man-for-fare-beating/

Matt Taibbi: Greed, Excess and America’s Gaping Class Divide http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/taibblog/the-new-let-them-eat-cake-20110713

The new "Let them eat cake!": 10 shocking, illuminating moments that prove just how out of touch the powerful really are. http://www.salon.com/news/david_sirota/2011/07/13/great_recession_elitism_slideshow/slideshow.html

What Ford did to the Ramapough Mountain Indians http://louisproyect.wordpress.com/2011/07/18/what-ford-did-to-the-ramapough-mountain-indians/

America’s ‘detainee 001’ – the persecution of John Walker Lindh: Frank Lindh, father of ‘American Taliban’ John Walker Lindh, explains why his son is an innocent victim of America’s ‘war on terror’ http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/10/john-walker-lindh-american-taliban-father

The need for an insurgent labor movement http://socialistworker.org/print/blog/critical-reading/2011/07/07/need-insurgent-labor-movement

Angela Davis addresses U.S. Prison-Industiral-Complex http://www.amsterdamnews.com/news/national/article_bd2cead8-a7ff-11e0-b4f1-001cc4c03286.html

Reports from the Economic Front by Martin Hart-Landsberg – The Deficit Battle: The tension mounts as President Obama and Speaker of the House Boehner appear locked in a battle over how best to slash the federal deficit http://tinyurl.com/6bmm5qd

2000s: Stagnant Wages and Zero Net Jobs Created http://www.swifteconomics.com/2011/04/13/2000s-stagnant-wages-and-zero-net-jobs-created/#!wp-prettyPhoto[g8547]/0/

The Corrupt Corporate Incarceration Complex http://www.truth-out.org/public-private-incarceration-complex/1309275395

CA prisoners reject state offer as inmate hunger strike enters 3rd week http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/07/16/ca-prisoners-reject-state-offer-as-inmate-hunger-strike-enters-3rd-week/

A matter of life or death in CA prisons http://sfbayview.com/2011/a-matter-of-life-and-death/

Ten Lessons For Today’s Unions From Labor’s Militant History http://www.countercurrents.org/leumer190711.htm

VENEZUELA

Excerpt from ‘Revolutionary Doctors: How Venezuela and Cuba are Changing the World’s Conception of Health Care’ http://links.org.au/node/2412

YEMEN

Yemen protesters form council to run country: Coalition of anti-government protesters says presidential council to run affairs until Saleh’s government is toppled. http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/07/2011716134720701985.html

OLDER ANNOUNCEMENTS

ME RONGO 2011 PEACE CONGRESS INFORMATION, REGISTRATION AND INVITATION 7 TO 21 NOVEMBER 2011, REKOHU (CHATHAM ISLANDS)

This message is to let you know that information about the Me Rongo 2011 Peace Congress – ‘Peace, Sustainability and Respect for the Sacred’ – the registration form and draft programme are now available. Below is the welcome message from the Congress hosts, an outline of the purpose and vision of the Congress, and an invitation for peace to groups to present workshops at it. The document with more information, the registration details, draft programme and contact details for the organisers, is available as a pdf file at http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/merongo01.pdf and as a Word document at http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/merongo01.doc This message is available online at http://www.facebook.com/notes/peace-movement-aotearoa/me-rongo-2011-peace-congress-information-registration-and-invitation/195449993835711

THE 2011 ELECTION: A CRITICAL GUIDE
The 2011 Election: a critical guide is currently being printed. If you click on the link below, you will see the book on our publisher’s website. Also, there is a link to a sample interview, with Professor Jim Flynn on privatisation. We tried to cover a wide range of topics, and here is a summary of who was interviewed: Dr Bryce Edwards (Otago University) The Main Political Parties & MMP; Dr Sean Phelan (Massey University) The Media; Professor Klaus Bosselmann (Auckland University) The Environment; David Do (New Zealand University Students’ Association) Student Loans; Professor Jim Flynn (Otago University) Privatisation; Professor Paul Roth (Otago University) Employment Law; Mike Treen (UNITE union) Unionism; Dr Brian Roper (Otago University) Taxation; Ali Nissenbaum (Wellington Activists) Anarchism; Andrew Tait (Dunedin Activist) Marxism; Sue Bradford (Auckland Activist & former Green MP) Feminism & Unemployment. While it is important to keep in mind that the interviewees have different opinions from each other, three themes emerged: 1) A critique of neo-liberalism; 2) De-politicisation (nearly a quarter of the population did not vote in the 2008 Election); 3) Internationalism (nearly half of the interviewees are originally from overseas: Germany, Ireland, Israel, South Africa and the United States). Please also keep in mind that we are not endorsing any political party. The interviewees disagree with each other on many points. We believe that the interviewees voted in at least five different ways in 2008. We are planning to send all interviewees a free copy of the book, to show our appreciation.

Thank you for your help, R Wright http://aptitute.co.nz/site/products http://aptitute.co.nz/The_2011_Election-a_critical_guide_sample_chapter.pdf

AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE TO DISCUSS SOCIAL CHANGE TO STOP CLIMATE CHANGE SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 3

The event, which is sponsored by the Office of Environmental Programs at Melbourne University and organised by Green Left Weekly and the Socialist Alliance, will run from Friday, September 30 to Monday, October 3 at Melbourne University. The discussions at this conference will be enriched by the participation of one of the world’s foremost radical ecologists, John Bellamy Foster. A well-known economist from the United States, Foster is also an editor of Monthly Review and the author of The Ecological Rift (with Brett Clark and Richard York) The Ecological Revolution, The Great Financial Crisis (with Fred Magdoff) and Marx’s Ecology. Also leading the conference discussions will be Canadian ecosocialist writer and activist Ian Angus. Angus co-founded the Ecosocialist International Network and is the editor of Climateandcapitalism.com. He is the author of the forthcoming book Too Many People? Population, Immigration, and the Environmental Crisis (with Simon Butler) and has also authored Food Crisis: World Hunger, Agribusiness and the Food Sovereignty Alternative and edited The Global Fight for Climate Justice. http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/47144