Regional STW News: Covering South & South West, Wales & West Midlands: Oct 2006
Bristol Stop The War Coalition | 06.10.2006 19:28
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A Downloadable, Printer Friendly Version Is At The End Of This Newsletter.
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REGIONAL ST0P-THE-WAR NEWS : OCTOBER 2006
[Covering South & South West, Wales & West Midlands]
PURPOSE : This regional newsletter is sent out twice yearly to the South & South West, Wales & West Midlands. It’s purpose is to provide a snapshot of active groups & contacts across those regions, in the belief that making links between groups & individuals is vital for effective campaigning & action.
NOTE :Environmental Events Are Included In This Edition.
A Downloadable, Printer Friendly Version Is At The End Of This Newsletter.
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REGIONAL ST0P-THE-WAR NEWS : OCTOBER 2006
[Covering South & South West, Wales & West Midlands]
PURPOSE : This regional newsletter is sent out twice yearly to the South & South West, Wales & West Midlands. It’s purpose is to provide a snapshot of active groups & contacts across those regions, in the belief that making links between groups & individuals is vital for effective campaigning & action.
NOTE :Environmental Events Are Included In This Edition.
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NATIONAL BRIZE NORTON DEMO : 2nd DEC 2006
(See Section 4. Please Start Organising Coaches In Your Local Area Now.)
NATIONAL CLIMATE DEMO : 4th NOV 2006
(See Section 9k. Local Coaches: http://www.campaigncc.org/local.html)
LATE NEWS : Protestors Bring Anti-War ‘Coach Napping’ Case To House Of Lords. On 23-25 October 2006, the House of Lords will hear the case of anti-war protestors who were detained by police & prevented from attending a National Demonstration at RAF Fairford on 22 March 2003.
Read More: http://www.fairfordcoachaction.org.uk
Email all your international events to our open message board:
bristol-stop-the-war-coalition@yahoogroups.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bristol-stop-the-war-coalition
South West news can also be posted on Bristol Indymedia:
http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/
CONTENTS CODE : * New Section... ^ Updated Section...
~ Bristol / Regional Events... + National / International Events...
01) ^~+ Report: Fairford Trial Verdicts & Latest
02) ^~+ F365 - Make Nukes History Begins!
03) *~+ No More Fallujahs - Action Month: Oct
04) *~+ National Brize Norton Demo: 2nd Dec
05) *~+ Report: Manchester Demo 23rd Sept
06) *~ MORE Bristol & Bath Events
07) *~ MORE South & South West Events
08) *~ MORE Wales & West Midlands Events
09) *~+ MORE National / International Events
10) ~ Local Vigils & Planning Meetings
For A Downloadable, Printer Friendly Version, Visit:
http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25438
GROUP DESCRIPTION : Bristol STW Coalition produces this newsletter to publicise events & activities in opposition to the so-called 'war on terror'. We are composed of groups & individuals with a wide variety of political & religious views. We are politically non-aligned, but we are also committed to oppose any racist backlash. Bristol STW is not a 'membership' organisation. Any one or group opposed to the 'war on terror' can consider themselves part of Bristol STW, or can continue to be publicised by us while choosing to organise independently of the Coalition. We don't claim (or seek) a monopoly over anti-war sentiment & activity in the city & recognise that many groups & individuals have their own ways of opposing the 'war on terror'. We are also dependent on individual donations for our funding, so if you are able to make a donation please send a cheque or postal order, payable to: Bristol Stop The War Coalition. Post: BSTWC c/o 23 Monmouth Rd, Bristol BS7 8LF. Or you can email us privately : bristolstopwar@hotmail.com
EDITORIAL : A WIDER VIEW ACROSS THE REGIONS
Jeremy Clarke of Bristol-Stop-The-War writes: “It may be coincidental, but in a month when we publish our regional newsletter many of the key anti-war events have been happening & will be happening in the regions. In Manchester on 23rd September, an estimated 60,000 people from across the country delivered the ‘Time To Go’ message to Tony Blair & the Labour Party conference. Here in Bristol the trials of those accused in connection with direct action at the US airbase at Fairford in the run up to the invasion of Iraq in 2003 have started. There are reports on these elsewhere in this newsletter.
Also happening locally soon is the National Demonstration at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire. Again more details are elsewhere in the newsletter. This demonstration can make a real impact. It has the full support & backing of the National Stop The War Coalition & National CND. A similar demonstration was held last year when the response from the people of Carterton, the largely military town which lies next to the airbase, was very positive. Kate Hudson, national chair of CND, is reputed to have said that it was the best demonstration she had ever been on. Demonstrating there enables us to make important links between the occupations of Iraq & Afghanistan. Brize Norton is the base from which soldiers are sent to both countries & to which fatalities are returned. Senior military commanders are arguing for British troops to be withdrawn from the ‘unwinnable’ war in Iraq to be sent to the ‘winnable’ war in Afghanistan.
See: http://www.guardian.co.uk/Iraq/Story/0,,1883784,00.html
We have the opportunity to show that the occupation of Afghanistan is just as wrong, unwinnable & unpopular as the occupation of Iraq - only 31% of people in Britain support the occupation of Afghanistan.
See: http://www.angus-reid.com/polls/index.cfm/fuseaction/viewItem/itemID/13347
Brize Norton is only a short journey from many of the towns, cities & villages of southern England & Wales. Our aim should be to make sure that as many people as possible hear about the demonstration & are able to get there on the day. If you want some leaflets please email bristolstopwar@hotmail.com.
And lastly for 10 things Tony Blair didn’t say in his speech at Manchester, see:
http://www.stopwar.org.uk/_CURRENT/BlairSpeech.htm
01) REPORT : FAIRFORD TRIALS
Full Article: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25417
LATEST: Following the trial of Margaret Jones & Paul Milling - known as the 'Fairford Disarmers' - which ended with no clear verdict, now Phil Pritchard & Toby Olditch - known as the 'B52 Two' - face trial. The trial began Monday 2nd Oct at Bristol Crown Court, & is expected to last up to 2 weeks. There will be a presence outside court everyday. Please go down to show support. Bristol Crown Court is on Small Street, off Corn Street, in the Centre. Margaret Jones writes: They're charged with the same thing as Paul & me - conspiracy to commit criminal damage. They were trying to reach a B-52 bomber to disable it, when they were both arrested. Naturally Paul & I, while awaiting our re-trial, are watching how this 2nd trial may turn out. Paul & I had magnificent support, which I shall remember with deep gratitude all my life. We hope people will feel moved to come down & offer similar backing to Phil & Toby. Also to Josh Richards, when his trial comes up in Nov.
BACKGROUND: During March 2003, 14 U.S B52 bombers arrived at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. These were the very same bombers which had been used to carpet bomb Vietnam a generation earlier. Protests broke out in opposition, & escalated. Others broke in & attempted to prevent, or delay, their take off, & the bombing of Iraq which began on 20th March 2003. ‘Oxford peace activists Philip Pritchard & Toby Olditch entered RAF Fairford & attempted to disarm USAF B-52 bombers early on 18th March 2003. Their decision to take this peaceful direct action was a response to absolute frustration; that all previous international pressure and efforts to prevent the prosecution of an illegal and unjustified war had come to nothing.’
Read More On The ‘B52 Two’ Website: http://b52two.org
EXTRA BACKGROUND: The trial of Phil Pritchard & Toby Olditch are the 2nd of 3 trials, of 5 defendants, known as the 'Fairford 5'. Paul Milling & Margaret Jones, Josh Richards, Phillip Pritchard & Toby Olditch all tried to prevent or delay the take-off of U.S B-52 bombers from RAF Fairford. The pre-trial hearings lasted 3 years, as the defendants fought for the right to argue that the Iraq war is illegal recognised as part of their defence. In April 2006, this defence was denied by the House Of Lords. They said - the crime of attacking another nation is a crime in international law, but cannot be said to be part of British domestic law.
Read More: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=24830&search_text=fairford
02) MAKE NUKES HISTORY! F365 BEGINS!
Web: http://www.faslane365.org Faslane 365 kicked off on Sunday 1st October with a group of Women connected with Greenham Common & Aldermaston Womens Peace Campaign. This is combined with the 2nd group, Women in Black, to form one, 3 day block. Pictures of the initial blockades are on the website.
KEYNOTE: http://www.faslane365.org/BGs/map.php All local groups participating in the blockade can be found on the website. Groups require you to attend a one-day training session in direct action techniques before becoming further involved. NATIONAL STWC CONTINGENT: November 6th - 7th are the days Stop The War will be the blockading organisation. Any local STW groups or individuals who would like to join us, please contact the STWC office: 020 7278 6694; email: office@stopwar.org.uk
WHAT IS IT? October 1st 2006 saw the beginning of an audacious civil resistance initiative to apply pressure for the disarmament of Britain's nuclear weapons. The idea behind F365 is a simple but powerful one: invite a different group of several dozen people to blockade Faslane Scottish nuclear naval base every day, for a year.
WHY DO IT? Britain's Trident nuclear weapons are coming to the end of their shelf life. The British government is considering whether to replace Trident nukes with another lot of 'user-friendly' battlefield nuclear weapons. This raises the terrifying prospect of a nuclear weapon being used, for the first time since Hiroshima & Nagasaki. Then, 100,000 people were killed by a single blast. Many others died lingering deaths.
WHAT MAKES YOU THINK IT WILL WORK? This struggle to get rid of UK nukes, & free ourselves from depending on USA military policy into the bargain, is highly winnable. But it needs us all to do more than just write to our MP. Being prepared to get arrested for something you believe in, especially when thousands of others are doing it too, sends a strong message to those in power who would like to ignore us all.
WHAT WOULD A YEAR-LONG BLOCKADE ACHIEVE? The blockades at Faslane every year attract hundreds of people, & their arrests have clogged up the court system in Scotland. Now questions are being asked in the Scottish parliament. A year-long blockade will be something that even Parliament, & the public at large, are unable to ignore. There's loads of support for getting rid of nuclear weapons in Scotland.
HOW DO WE GET INVOLVED? Each group joining in F365 will be autonomous - responsible for making its own travel arrangements to & from Scotland, & for accommodation on arrival. Groups just need to contact a steering committee. The steering committee keep a calendar, & can tell which blockading days are taken, & which still available. The group or organisation then chooses its day.
03) ‘NO MORE FALLUJAHS’ : MONTH OF ACTION : OCTOBER
Full Events Listing & Backround: http://www.voices.netuxo.co.uk/nomorefallujahs.htm
BACKGROUND: On 8th Nov 2004 the US - with British assistance - launched a massive assault against the Iraqi city of Fallujah. Hundreds of civilians were killed, tens of thousands forced to flee their homes & white phosphorus - a substance that burns down to the bone - used as a weapon. This Oct, a month of activities - culminating in a weekend of nonviolent civil disobedience - will mark the anniversary of that attack. Fallujah was placed under a shoot-to-kill curfew, male refugees were prevented from leaving the combat zone & US aircraft attacked the city with more than 500 bombs & missiles. Over 700 bodies - including more than 500 women & children - were recovered from the rubble in just 9 of the cities 27 neighbourhoods. The US State Department estimated that 50% of Fallujah’s housing had been severely damaged or rendered uninhabitable.
AFTER FALLUJAH: The US has continued to attack other towns & cities in Iraq - eg. Qaim, Haditha, Karabila, Ramadi, Hit, Baghdadi, Haqlaniya, Barwana & Tal Afar - whilst Fallujah’s devastation has generated rage & hatred both inside & outside Iraq. The Dec 2004 prediction by Ali Fadhil - whose Channel 4 documentary won an award from Amnesty International - that ‘by completely destroying this Sunni city, with the help of a mostly Shia National Guard, the US military has fanned the seeds of a civil war that is definitely coming,’ has proven all too accurate. Ishraq Shakir Mohammadi (BBC 22/08/06). Today, as the Independent's Patrick Cockburn has observed, ‘[e]nding [the occupation] is essential if this war is to be brought to an end.’
LEGAL NOTE: October's "No More Fallujahs" month of action against war & occupation will culiminate in an ‘unauthorised’ 24-hour peace camp in Parliament Square. This is a potentially arrestable action. If you are thinking of taking part we strongly recommend that you attend one of the NVDA workshops & legal briefings.
A MONTH OF ACTION: http://www.voices.netuxo.co.uk/nomorefallujahs.htm Please see the website for additional London Events. The month of action began on 6th Oct with the book launch of ‘Don’t Shoot the Clowns’ by Jo Wilding, eyewitness to the April 2004 siege. (See Section 9b for more details of this book).
i) 7th OCT – 28th OCT : See http://www.j-n-v.org or Tel. 0845 458 9571 for more info. ‘THE WAR ON TERROR" AT HOME & ABROAD’ Anti-War Speaking Tour With Artist Emily Johns (recently returned from a peace delegation to Iran) & Activist Maya Evans (the first person convicted for taking part in an ‘unauthorised’ demonstration within 1km of Parliament). Events in: Stirling (9 Oct, 07951 987 422) - Sherwood (10 Oct, 6.30pm, Lower Hall, The Methodist Church on the corner of Devon Drive & Mansfield Rd, Sherwood) - Birmingham (11 Oct, 0121 414 3219) - Falmouth (12 Oct, 01326 378 587) - London (13 Oct, 7.30pm, Bertrand Russell Room, Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, WC1). Emily will also be speaking in Tunbridhe Wells (7 Oct) & Coventry (28 Oct, 2-5pm at the Coventry Peace House).
ii) SUN 8th OCT : NON-VIOLENT DIRECT ACTION WORKSHOP & LEGAL BRIEFING. 11am - 4pm, Sunrise Room, Diorama 2, 3-7 Euston Centre, London NW1 3JG (tube: Great Portland Street).
iii) MON 9th OCT : See http://www.sackparliament.org.uk SACK PARLIAMENT! Anti-war blockade of the Houses of Parliament on the day that MPs return from their summer recess. Meet 1pm, Houses of Parliament.
iv) SAT 28th OCT : PEACE WALK FROM THE UK'S MILITARY NERVE CENTRE IN NORTHWOOD. Meet 11am, Northwood tube station (Metropolitan line tube). Finish 4pm, central London.
v) SAT 28th OCT : NON-VIOLENT DIRECT ACTION WORKSHOP & LEGAL BRIEFING. 4.30pm - 7.30pm, Diorama 3, 3-7 Euston Centre, London NW1 3JG (tube: Warren Street).
vi) SAT 29th OCT : ‘UNAUTHORISED’ 24-HOUR PEACE CAMP IN PARLIAMENT SQUARE to demand an end to the occupation. Assemble 12 noon, Parliament Square. The camp will begin with Maya Evans & Milan Rai reading the names of Iraqis who have died as a result of US/UK military action in Iraq - one year after their arrest for doing this. They will also be joined by former UN Humanitarian Co-ordinator for Iraq Denis Halliday & Iraqi artist Haifa Zangana. Please note: this is a potentially arrestable action.
SPONSORS : Organised by Mass Action Group. Supported by CND; Iraq Occupation Focus; JNV; Radical Activist Network; Red Pepper; STWC; Voices UK; Act Together; Women's Action 4 Iraq; Birkenhead CND; Birmingham University Against War; Blackpool & Fylde CND; Bolton CND; Brent STWC; Bristol STWC; CND Cymru; Darlington 4 Peace & Justice; Falmouth Peace & Justice; Greater Manchester & District CND; Hastings Against War; Headingley & District CND; Highland Justice Not War; Huddersfield STWC; Hull STWC; Kingston Peace Council; Labour Against War; Leicester STWC; London Catholic Worker; London Federation Green Parties; London Region CND; Milton Keynes Gulf Crisis Group; Musicians Against Nuclear Arms; Norwich STWC; Nottingham STWC; Oswestry Coalition 4 Peace; Oxford 4 Justice & Peace; Peace Plan Group; Redbridge Against War; Sevenoaks CND; Sherwood 4 Global Justice & Peace; Smash EDO; South Tyneside STWC; Stevenage Coalition 4 Peace; Wallasey CND; Wandsworth STWC; Warwick & Leamington Green Party; West Midlands CND; Wrekin STWC; Wrexham Peace & Justice Forum; Yorkshire CND.
04) NATIONAL BRIZE NORTON DEMO : 2nd DECEMBER
For A National Flier : http://www.stopwar.org.uk/documents/-brizedoublesided.pdf
Also Contact: swindon_stopwar@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 07764563855. Bristol: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com
NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION AT RAF BRIZE NORTON (OXFORDSHIRE). Called by Oxford, Bristol & Swindon Stop The War Coalitions. Supported by Stop The War Coalition. Please start making arrangements in your local area to book coaches for this National Demonstration. This demo seeks to draw attention to the massive array of Military Bases encircling us, & the extent of the broader militarisation of the U.K, especially around South West, Wales & West Midlands, where population is less dense, and the military bases roam free.
ASSEMBLE : 12:00 noon in Carterton, Saturday 2nd December 2006.
BACKGROUND : RAF Brize Norton is the base from which all British troops are flown to Iraq & Afghanistan, & where they return to (alive & dead). This National Demonstration to the gates of the base is to demand immediate withdrawal of British troops. RAF Brize Norton is also being used to refuel American military flights transporting munitions between Kelly air force base in the USA to Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, taking bombs to be used by the Israeli Defense Force in the war in Lebanon. A big turn out at the gates of the base will send a clear message to the government, & is an act of solidarity with the service people & their families who want Britain to withdraw. More details will be circulated closer to the event.
OVERVIEW MAP OF CARTERTON:
http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=51.7598&lon=-1.5931&scale=200000&icon=x
CLOSE UP MAP OF CARTERTON:
http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=51.7598&lon=-1.5931&scale=25000&icon=x
05) REPORT : MANCHESTER DEMO : 23rd SEPTEMBER
To receive National reports you can subscribe on the National website: http://www.stopwar.org.uk
FULL BRISTOL REPORT: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25403
Bristol-Stop-The-War Coalition’s New Banner Can Be Viewed On The Above Link.
Lee Writes: “Saturday (23rd Sept) saw a large contingent of protesters representing a variety of causes make the trip from Bristol to the Labour Party conference in Manchester to remind Tony Blair & friends that they are not wanted. As usual the police gave a very low estimate for the number of protesters: their spokesperson put the figure at 20,000. A more realistic figure can be garnered from Stop The War Coalition & British Muslim Initiative, who put the figure at 100,000 & 50,000 respectively. Thus we can say around 70,000 protesters, this was the biggest ever lobby of a party conference & the biggest demonstration in Manchester for 150 years.
The Bristol contingent numbered 4 coaches & a large number of people who made their own way up. Simon Guy - UWE STWC - said he was ‘pleased with the turnout from UWE. It marked a good start for the university’. ‘Students came together about midway through & were the most lively part’, though Guy may not have heard the raucous Samba band that is often the life & soul of any demonstration. He added it was important students comprehend the ‘link between war & the lack of welfare spending, especially in education’
A spokesperson for Bristol Stop The War said the ‘point about the demo was not to build an illusion that getting rid of Blair would be the end of it’ but that ‘the bigger the movement is the harder it is for his successor to follow his policies.’ He added that the demonstration reflected people’s ‘growing anger at what Labour has not done for people. People are pissed off at the cuts in expenditure & the privatisation agenda & are beginning to realise that this is linked to the war’
06) MORE BRISTOL & BATH EVENTS
NORMAN KEMBER, Held Hostage In Iraq For 4 Months, Will Be In Bath On Sat 21st Oct.
a) ~ Action : In the Event Of An Attack On Iran : Bristol
b) *~ Project : Want To Sing In Bristol? : Bristol
c) *~ Project : Enviroinmental Film Maker : Bristol
d) *~ Launch : Bath Activist Network : Bath
e) *~ Project : Roots Of Change Group : Bristol
f) *~ 19th Oct : Bath & District U.N Meeting : Bristol
g) *~ 21st Oct : ‘A Hostage In Iraq’ Meeting : Bath
h) *~ 23rd Oct : ‘Current Global Issues’ Meeting : Bath
i) *~ 25-26 Oct : Mark Thomas @ Tobacco Theatre : Bristol
j) *~ 27-28 Oct : Solidarity Bristol Events : Bristol
k) *~ 28 Oct - 5 Nov : Bristol Radical History Week : Bristol
l) *~ 30th Oct : ‘Africa Up In Smoke’ Meeting : Bristol
m) *~ 4th Nov : Sponsored Walk For Palestine : Bristol
6a) ACTION : IN THE EVENT OF ATTACK ON IRAN
Contact: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com In the event of an attack being launched against Iran, Bristol Stop the War Coalition calls on all its supporters to join the Peace Vigil on the Centre, St. Augustines Parade, opposite the Hippodrome, on the day they hear of the attack. The Vigil is from 5.30pm-6.30pm on Mondays to Fridays and 3pm- 4pm on Saturdays. (Also see Section 10 of this newsletter for more regular Vigils)
6b) PROJECT : WANT TO SING IN BRISTOL?
Contact: rednoteschoir@yahoo.co.uk Web: http://www.rednoteschoir.org.uk “Red Notes socialist choir are having busy year & looking for members. We support local events, develop singing skills & enjoy ourselves. St Werburghs Community Centre, Horley Rd, St Werburghs, Bristol, BS2 9TJ, Wednesdays: 7:30 - 9:30pm.”
6c) PROJECT : ENVIRONMENTAL FILM MAKER
Contact: jonathan(dot)ward(at)bris(dot)ac(dot)uk Jonathan writes: “After watching the ‘Inconvenient Truth’, I felt it but missed a great deal. I want to write a short film which takes a typical day, for any of us. The tap left on whilst brushing the teeth, the imported orange juice at breakfast. The car or bus to work. The snacks we buy & the rubbish left behind. You get the picture. I’m in Bristol, but if people are further afield contact me too.”
Web: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25418
6d) LAUNCH : BATH ACTIVIST NETWORK
Contact: bathactivistnet@yahoo.co.uk Web: http:///www.myspace.com/bathactivistnetwork “Birth pangs of a new group. Connecting all radical ‘disciplines’, knowing that every problem in this world is interlinked. Campaigning on issues such as environmentalism, anti-globalisation, food issues, pro-peace, gender, compassion for animals. Meetings at the Green Park Tavern, 1st Thu of every month, 7.30-9pm. Meetings are in a non-hierarchic pattern. If you have any actions you want to report e-mail it to us and we'll put it up.”
6e) PROJECT : ROOTS OF CHANGE GROUP
Contact: jennawillcox(at)hotmail.co.uk Tel: 07762377399 Web: http://www.isec.org.uk/pages/roots.html “Roots of Change is a study programme run by the International Society for Ecology & Culture (ISEC). Aims: To encourage a broad analysis of the origins & workings of the global economy. - Discussion of the impact of globalisation on participants' communities. - Empower groups to take strategic local action informed by a global perspective. The group won't have any particular political leaning. It's important to include everyone.”
6f) BATH & DISTRICT U.N ASSOCIATION MEETING : 19th OCTOBER
Contact: unabath@spamex.com Web: http://www.unabath.org.uk “Thu 19th Oct. Richard K Bell of the US Embassy, speaking on ‘US Foreign Policy & the UN’. 6pm, Wills Memorial Building, Queens Rd, Bristol, organised by UNA East Glos Branch & the Wales & West Branch of the International Law Association.
6g) ‘A HOSTAGE IN IRAQ’ MEETING : 21st OCTOBER
Contact: jr_msbc@btconnect.com Tel: John Rackley: 01225 461600 “Norman Kember was held hostage in Iraq for four months over the 2005-06. He is visiting Bath on Sat 21st October. 5.30-7.00pm in the Coffee Lounge at Manvers St Baptist Church, & will be chaired by John Rackley, the Minister of the Church.
6h) ‘CURRENT GLOBAL ISSUES’ MEETING : 23rd OCTOBER
Web: http://www.unabath.org.uk “Mon 23rd Oct, 7.30pm, Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution (BRLSI), 16 Queens Sq, Bath BA1 2HN. Speaker: Dr James Copestake on ‘Well-being & Poverty in Peru’. The UNA AGM will be held at 7pm before the meeting. Refreshments available & a donation will be requested.
6i) MARK THOMAS @ TOBACCO THEATRE : 25 - 26 OCTOBER
Web: http://www.tobaccofactory.com “Wed 25 - Thurs 26 Oct 8pm £12 Mark Thomas has been on a journey of discovery in the company of arms dealers, torture victims, ex-SAS officers, spooks & geeks. Book on the website. Tobacco Factory Raleigh Road, Southville Bristol BS3 1TF.”
6j) SOLIDARITY BRISTOL EVENTS : 27th & 28th OCTOBER
Contact: solidaritybristol@solfed.org.uk Web: http://www.solfed.org.uk/ “A film & cafe night with Spanish Trade Unionists who have challenged oppresion. i) FRI 27th OCT : ‘Vivir la Utopia’ Documentary on the revolution. English subtitles. 8pm. Bristol Youth Hostel, Narrow Quay. ii) SAT 28th OCT : Talk with Spanish trade unionists & cafe. 8:30pm. Didier's, 3 Christmas Steps, Bristol. Both events Free/Donation.
6k) BRISTOL RADICAL HISTORY WEEK : 28th OCT - 5th NOV
Contact: brh@brh.org.uk Web: http://www.brh.org.uk “Bristol Radical History Week is a series of events aimed at opening up to public scrutiny some of the hidden & misrepresented history of Bristol. We will discover how the end of slavery, the rise of democracy, & independence of colonial lands were the results of collective actions by extraordinary 'ordinary'. See the website for the full programme.”
6l) CLIMATE CHANGE ‘AFRICA UP IN SMOKE’ : 30th OCTOBER
Source: http://www.digitalbristol.org/members/nsf/index.htm “Speakers: Dr James Bendle, Bristol University Research Scientist, Mike Mortimer, Dryland Researcher, Debate Climate Change on the Continent, Unitarian Chapel hall, 7.30 pm Brunswick Square, Bristol.”
6m) SPONSORED WALK FOR PALESTINE : 4th NOVEMBER
For Sponsorship Forms Email: nabataat@yahoo.co.uk Tel : 0117 94 66 885. “Sat 4th Nov. 10:30am start from College Green. 10 mile scenic walk. Coming back from Portishead by bus. Last year we raised over £1000 for an orphanage in Tulkarm. This year we're doing it jointly for Palestine Solidarity & Al-Awda Hospital, Gaza.”
07) MORE SOUTH & SOUTH WEST EVENTS
a) *~ News : Gloucestershire Council Says NO2ID!
b) *~ Project : Heaven And Earth Show : Slough
c) *~ 11th Oct : Palestine Film Night : Reading
d) *~ 12th Oct : Smash EDO Fundraiser : Brighton
e) *~ 12 Oct-22 Nov : Transition Town Events : Totnes
f) *~ 14th Oct : ‘Global Extravaganza’ : Reading
g) *~ 14th Oct : ‘Make Poverty History’ Event : Exeter
h) *~ 16th Oct : Climate Change Event : Reading
i) *~ 21st Oct : ‘Letter To The Prime Minister’ : Reading
j) *~ 25th Oct : EDO Palestine Protest : Brighton
k) *~ 28th Oct : Immigration Workshops : Brighton
l) *~ 28-29 Oct + 25-26 Nov : Aldermaston Camp : Reading
7a) NEWS : GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SAYS NO2ID!
Web: http://www.no2id.net/resources/motions/index.php “On Fri 22nd Sept Gloucestershire County Council passed a motion against the government's ID card scheme. The motion was only opposed by one member, Councillor Steve McHale - a member of Labour. Councillor Jeremy Hilton said it was important the council fought ‘this infringement on human rights’. Councils that have passed similar motions on the above link.”
7b) PROJECT : HEAVEN AND EARTH SHOW : SLOUGH
Contact: Ranjit Bilkhu: ranibilkhu@hotmail.com Tel: 0870 8505734 / 07958603541. “I have a contact at the BBC who I have persuaded to cover a story regarding Asians mistaken for Muslims being targeted by racists. Equally Hindus, Jains, Buddists and Christians from the Indian sub continent. Hate crimes that are recorded are not a true reflection of reality. Please contact me if anyone has been subjected to these sort of incidents.”
7c) PALESTINE FILM : READING : 11th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.visitpalestine.info/index.asp Wed 11 October, 8pm: Screening of Kate Barlow's much-acclaimed documentary about Irish peace activist Caiomhe Butterly's solidarity work in Palestine. Regal Cinema, Henley-upon-Thames, 2 Boroma Way, RG9 2BZ
7d) SMASH EDO FUNDRAISER : BRIGHTON : 12th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.smashedo.org.uk Brighton-based EDO MBM are a wholly owned subsidiary of EDO Corp, a US-based arms multinational. Fundraiser at the Cowley Club, 12 London Road, Brighton, 7.30pm. Bands playing will be the Inner Terrestrials, Babar Luck, The King Blues & Big Dance.
7e) TRANSITION TOWN EVENTS : TOTNES : 12th OCT – 22nd NOV
Web: http://transitionculture.org/?page_id=427 “We are delighted to announce the programme of events for the first 4 months of the Transition Town Totnes initiative. Designing a positive way down from the oil peak.”
i) THU 12th OCT : St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes. See website for times. ‘Less is a Four-Letter Word: Moving Towards a low Energy Society’. A talk by Paul Mobbs – author of ‘Energy Beyond Oil’.
ii) SAT 14th OCT : 10am – 4pm. Totnes Civic Hall. ‘Powering Totnes Beyond Cheap Oil’ – rethinking ones’s energy supply. An Open Space Day. Bring ideas and enthusiasm! All are Welcome. Free.
iii) WED 1st NOV : 8pm. St. John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes. Building Locally – the potential of natural building materials. How will we create new housing without energy intensive materials. £3.
iv) SAT 4th NOV : 10am-4pm. Totnes Civic Hall. Housing Totnes in an energy scarce future – an Open Space conversation exploring housing issues. Bring your ideas, passions and skills. All are welcome. Free.
v) WED 15th NOV :Wednesday November 15th. See website for times. St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes. ‘Lean Energy – A Practical Guide to Energy Descent’. David Fleming, author of the ‘The Lean Economy’.
vi) WED 22nd NOV : Link: http://www.museletter.com Totnes Civic Hall. 8pm. ‘Peak Oil: Local Solutions to a Global Challenge’ - a talk byRichard Heinberg , author of ‘The Party’s Over’ and ‘Powerdown’.
7f) ‘GLOBAL EXTRAVAGANZA’ : READING : 14th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.risc.org.uk RISC (Reading International Solidarity Centre) Campains on international issues & promoting action for Sustainable Development, & Social justice. Sat 14th Oct. Cabaret of top international artists to celebrate RISC's 25th Birthday. £15 / £12 concessions. Reading Old Town Hall Concert Hall.
7g) ‘MAKE POVERTY HISTORY’ EVENT : EXETER : 14th OCTOBER
Tel: 01392 438811. Devon Trade Justice Network Conference. Sat 14th October, 1-5pm at the Global Centre, Exeter Community Centre, 17 St David's Hill, Exeter. Guest Speaker: Director of WDM (World Development Movement). Workshops. How can we help to MAKE POVERTY HISTORY, in our lifetimes?
7h) CLIMATE CHANGE EVENT : READING : 16th OCTOBER
Contact: Rob White, Reading Green Party. Tel: 0118 950 4062. Email: rob@readinggreenparty.org.uk ‘Think global act local - tackling climate change in Reading’. Mon 16th October. 7:30-9:30pm. RISC (35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS). The aim of the meeting is to highlight opportunities to work together locally.”
7i) ‘LETTER TO THE PRIME MINISTER’ : READING : 21st OCTOBER
Web: http://www.jowilding.net/ Reading Public Meeting + Film Screeing Of ‘A Letter To The Prime Minister: Jo Wilding’s Diary From Iraq’.With Alice Hardy from Public Interest Lawyers and the film director, Julia Guest. Talk and refreshments from 6pm, followed by film at 7.45pm. Friends Meeting House, Church St.
7j) PALESTINE PROTEST : BRIGHTON : 25th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.smashedo.org.uk EDO MBM have admitted that they profit from selling equipment for the illegal occupation of Palestine and the bombing of Lebanon. Wednesday 25th October is a day to remember the Palestinian victims of EDO MBM. Wed 25 Oct, 4-6pm. Home Farm Road, Brighton.
7k) IMMIGRATION WORKSHOPS : BRIGHTON : 28th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.communitybase.org/ Contact: Gianpaolo Boldrini 01273 664021. ‘No Borders!' Brighton. Sat 28th Oct. 11.30am-4.30pm. Community Base, 113 Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XG. Workshops: Introduction to migration, Government policy & legal issues, Destitution, Migrant stories, Economic migrants, What is No Borders?, Detention centres & deportation issues + short films & cheap, wholesome vegan lunch.
7l) ALDERMASTON PEACE CAMP : READING : 28-29 OCT + 25-26 NOV
Web: http://www.aldermastonwatch.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk Tel: 0845 4588 368. You are invited to join a new monthly peace camp at the Atomic Weapons Establishment Aldermaston, to add further pressure to the campaign to halt development of the next generation of nuclear weapons. From noon on the last full weekend of each month; next camps 28-29 Oct, 25-26 Nov 2006. Bluebell Wood near AWE West Gate car park.
08) MORE WALES & WEST MIDLANDS EVENTS
a) *~ Project : Alternatives To Violence : Hereford
b) *~ 10th Oct : Palestine Educational : Oxford
c) *~ 12th Oct : Palestinian Falafel Event : Birmingham
d) *~ 12th Oct : Campaign Against Arms Trade : Penarth
e) *~ 12th Oct : Interfaith Alternatives Talk : Oxford
f) *~ 17th Oct : Global Climate Justice Talk: Cardiff
g) *~ 18th Oct : ‘Realising Hope’ Talk : Birmingham
h) *~ 19th Oct : Public Meeting Against G8 : Cardiff
i) *~ 21st Oct : Latin America Day : Birmingham
j) *~ 21st Oct : Cardiff Civil Rights Day : Cardiff
k) *~ 28th Oct : WDM Campaigner Convention : Cardiff
l) *~ 28th Oct : Faslane 365 Workshop : North Wales
m) *~ 29th Oct : President Musharraf Protest : Oxford
n) *~ 7th Nov : ‘Empire In Aftrica’ Film : Birmingham
8a) PROJECT : ALTERNATIVES TO VIOLENCE : HEREFORD
Web: http://www.avpbritain.org.uk Tel: 0845 345 7433 “Level 1 Alternatives to Violence Experiential Workshop. Exploring the roots of conflict and the practice of conflict resolution using exercises and group discussion. Full fee (incl. Food and possible housing) £60 with generous concessions.
8b) PALESTINE EDUCATIONAL : OXFORD : 10th OCTOBER
Contact: oxfordpsc@yahoo.com Web: http://www.oxfordpsc.info UK: http://www.palestinecampaign.org “Tue 10 October, 7:30pm: Palestine Educational: Palestinian, Manal Omar (Oxfam) will be speaking. Full details t.b.a. At: Oxford Town Hall, St Aldates. All welcome.”
8c) PALESTINIAN FALAFEL EVENING : BIRMINGHAM : 12th OCT
Contact: birminghamramallah@yahoo.co.uk Tel: Caroline 07855645199 or Kamel 07765892702 “6.30pm,Thu 12th Oct, Weoley Hill Church Hall, Green Meadow Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham. Cost £10. The evening is being held to raise funds to build a children's Library at a refugee camp in Ramallah.”
8d) CAMPAIGN AGAINST ARMS TRADE TALK : PENARTH : 12th OCT
Contact: 029 20711943. Web: http://www.caat.org.uk “Speaker: Alun Morinan, national co-ordinator of the CAAT Christian Network, Trinity Methodist Church, Penarth (near Cardiff) on “Why Should Christians Campaign against the Arms Trade?”. The event is being organised by the Penarth CAAT Christian Network.
8e) INTERFAITH ALTERNATIVES : OXFORD : 12th OCTOBER
Contact: oxfordpsc@yahoo.com Web: http://www.oxfordpsc.info UK: http://www.palestinecampaign.org
Thursday 12 October, 7:00pm: Well-known local author Marcus Braybrooke will be speaking on the subject of Interfaith Alternatives To Terror and the War Against Terror. At: Friends House, 43 St. Giles, Oxford.
8f) GLOBAL CLIMATE JUSTICE : CARDIFF : 17th OCTOBER
Contact: CardiffCCC@hotmail.co.uk Tel: Adam Johannes 07940 108 146 “Cardiff Campaign Against Climate Change. Speakers include: Jonathan Neale - Author of ‘They are G8: We are 6 Billion’. Tue 17th Oct, 7pm, Wallace Lecture Theatre, Main Building, Cardiff University, Park Place. Free. All welcome.
8g) ‘REALISING HOPE’ TALK : BIRMINGHAM : 18th OCTOBER
Contact: timleeski@aol.com ‘Realing Hope : Life Beyond Capitalism’ by Michael Albert. Hear the author talk about his new book on Wed 18 Oct, 7pm, Carrs Lane Church Centre, Carrs Lane, Birmingham. £2 on the door. "A thoughtful, profound meditation on what a good society can be like..." - Howard Zinn.
8h) PUBLIC MEETING AGAINST G8 : CARDIFF : 19th OCTOBER
Web: http://cardiff.revolt.org At the Model Inn on Quay St, Cardiff, Thu 19th Oct, 7.30pm. Reports from the G8 protest in Russia. Plans for the G8 protest in Germany 2007. Film of G8 protests from prevous years. Music from Cosmo - http://www.cosmoguitar.net A Free Vegan buffet! Organised by Cardiff Anarchist Network.
8i) LATIN AMERICA DAY : BIRMINGHAM : 21st OCTOBER
Contact: daveauger@unisonplus.net Web: http://www.wolvestuc.org.uk/news.php?id=174 Sat 21st Oct. Carrs Lane Church Rooms, Birmingham Centre. Speakers & Workshops On: Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba & Banana-link. 9.30am-4.30pm. Free Lunch. Organised by West Midlands region UNISON. All Welcome.
8j) CIVIL RIGHTS DAY : CARDIFF : 21ST OCTOBER
To register, email: jamesmaiden@wcia.org.uk To get involved, email Kelvin: kjm04@aber.ac.uk “One of the outcomes of the Social Forum Cymru gathering that took place over the May 1st bank holiday 10.30a.m - 6pm, with an evening benefit. Sat 21st Oct 2006 in the Temple of Peace, Cathays Park, Cardiff. A number of groups are involved. We still need help with with organising the event, so please get in touch to get involved.”
8k) WDM CAMPAIGNER CONVENTION : CARDIFF : 28th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.wdm.org.uk/news/events/convention/index.htm Tel: 0800 328 2153 “From climate change to water privatisation, from the basics of globalisation to hands-on tips on how to engage the public.” 28th Oct, Chapter Arts Centre, Market Rd, Canton, Cardiff. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free.
8l) FASLANE 365 WORKSHOP : NORTH WALES : 28th OCTOBER
Contact: phil_steele@btinternet.com Sat 28 Oct 9:30am-5pm Non-violent Direct Action workshop, to prepare for the Faslane blockade (See Section 2). Run by Anna Linnea Lundberg. Friends Meeting House, Dean St, Bangor. Bring food. Come to blockade Faslane on 14-15 Nov with the Gogledd Cymru / North Wales group.
8m) PRESIDENT MUSHARRAF PROTEST : OXFORD : 29th OCTOBER
Contact: kieran_oberman@hotmail.com Web: http://www.amnestyusa.org/countries/pakistan/news.do “President Musharraf, the dictator of Pakistan and an ally in the war against terror, is giving a speech at the Oxford Union on St Micheals St, Friday 29th at 1:30pm. Only card holders can get in (by queueing early) but if anyone wanted to make & hand out leaflets it might be a good idea.”
8n) ‘THE EMPIRE IN AFRICA’ FILM : BIRMINGHAM : 7th NOV
Contact Annette to book your place: brumoutreach@oxfam.org.uk “The Empire in Africa” @ The Drum, 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU, Tue 7 Nov. “Exposing hidden circumstances behind the tragic civil war in Sierra Leone. A shocking indictment of Western & United Nations involvement in African genocide.”
09) MORE NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
a) * + National Campaign : Free Babar Ahmad
b) * + Book Launch : ‘Don’t Shoot The Clowns’
c) * + 14th Oct : Barbed Wire Britain Conference : London
d) * + 13-15 Oct : Palestinian Literature Festival : Manchester
e) * + 14-15 Oct : Climate Camp Open Gathering : Manchester
f) * + 15-16 Oct : ‘Stand Up Against Poverty’ : International
g) * + 16th Oct : ‘Shut DESO’ Action Day : London
h) *~+ 17 Oct-18 Nov : ‘Ice & Fire’ Production : National Tour
i) * + 26 Oct-11 Nov : Autumn ‘Olive’ Tours To Palestine
j) * + 28-29 Oct : STAR National Conference : Liverpool
k) *~+ 4th Nov : National Climate March : London
l) * + 24-26 Nov : International Solidarity Conference : Beirut
m) * + 25th Nov : CAAT National Gathering : London
9a) NATIONAL CAMPAIGN : FREE BABAR AHMAD
Contact: info@freebabarahmad.com Web: http://www.freebabarahmad.com/ “Babar Ahmad is a British citizen who was born & brought up in South London. In Dec 2003 he was arrested by Anti-Terrorist Police. He was brutally assaulted in front of his wife. He sustained over 50 injuries, 2 life-threatening. After 6 days he was released without charge. Despite photographic evidence, medical reports & eye-witness statements, the Crown Prosecution Service decided there was ‘insufficient evidence’ to prosecute any of the officers. On 5th Aug 2004 Babar was re-arrested on an Extradition Warrant from the U.S. He is currently held as a British Political Prisoner at Woodhill Prison, awaiting Extradition proceedings. Under the Extradition Act 2003 Babar cannot challenge any of the ‘evidence’ against him in a British Court of Law. If he is extradited to the U.S, he will face the same Human & Civil Rights abuses that many experience at the hands of the U.S Government.”
9b) BOOK LAUNCH : ‘DON’T SHOOT THE CLOWNS’ : JO WILDING
Web: http://www.jowilding.net & http://www.newint.org “Don't Shoot the Clowns: Taking a Circus to the Children of Iraq” by Jo Wilding, published by New Internationalist. The book is in the shops on 5th Oct, or by mail order on the New Internationalist website. “The therapeutic value of Circus2Iraq is beyond question; & Jo's involvement with the situation, & her ability to illuminate it for the outside world, offer us priceless access. She goes further than most in introducing us to the people our taxes are killing. But, to be more positive, she also shows us the courage, resourcefulness & cheerfulness of which human beings are capable.”
9c) BARBED WIRED BRITAIN : NATIONAL CONFERENCE : LONDON 14th OCT
Contact: Leonard.baden@which.net Tel: 01993 703 994 Web: http://www.barbedwirebritain.org.uk
“A day conference focusing on establishing a clear coordinated strategy for the national campaign, bringing together current campaigners from across the country. The day will be split between a morning session in which everyone is together, & an afternoon session of workshops charged with devising an action plan around direct action, making an impact in the media, changing the law & building support. Sat 14th Oct, 10.30am-4.30pm. The Human Rights Action Centre (Amnesty UK), 17-25 New Inn Yard, London EC2A 3EA.”
9d) FESTIVAL OF PALESTINIAN LITERATURE : MANCHESTER : 13 - 15 OCT
Web: http://www.mfpl.co.uk or http://www.mlfestival.co.uk “Fri 13th - Sun 15th Oct. The UK´s first ever festival of Palestinian literature in English translation. The festival brings together a diverse range of poets, novelists & short story writers from Palestine, the diaspora & the English-speaking world. For the closing event on Sun 15th is a rare appearance by Manchester-born Palestinian singer Reem Kelani at Matt & Phred´s Jazz Club on Tib St. Special rate tickets from the Olive Co-op, http://www.olivecoop.com for £4/£3 for individual events or passes for all events at £30 (£20 concessions). All readings will be held at the Geoffrey Manton Building, Manchester Metropolitan University, Oxford Rd, Manchester (opposite the Aquatics Centre).”
9e) CLIMATE CAMP OPEN GATHERING : MANCHESTER : 14 - 15 OCTOBER
Web: http://www.climatecamp.org.uk ‘Climate change isn’t just going to disappear - and neither are we. The Camp for Climate Action was a turning point, but it was never going to be enough. Come & take the next steps forward at the upcoming UK-wide meeting in Manchester & be part of a newly-energised movement in the fight against climate chaos. Everybody is welcome. MERCi, Bridge-5 Mill, Ancoats, Manchester. See also: ‘Images from the Camp for Climate Action, The Basement, 24 Lever Street, off Piccadilly, Manchester
Camp reports: http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/actions/2006/climatecamp
9f) ‘STAND UP AGAINST POVERTY’ : INTERNATIONAL : 15 -16 OCTOBER
Web: http://www.millenniumcampaign.org To Register. “Launched by the Millennium Campaign, STAND UP is an innovative & exciting challenge to set an official Guinness World Record - the greatest number of people ever to STAND UP Against Poverty & for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The purpose is to publicly demonstrate to policy makers the global support for the achievement of the MDGs. The STAND UP challenge will take place between 10.00am (GMT) 15 Oct to 10.00am (GMT) 16 Oct. During this time thousands of people will be standing up all over the world. Either join one of these events or create your own.”
9g) ‘SHUT DESO’ ACTION DAY : LONDON : 16th OCTOBER
Contact: anna@caat.org.uk Tel: 020 7281 0297. Web: http://www.caat.org.uk/events/DESOactionday.php To register email or fill out the form on the webpage. “Now's the time to shut DESO - Action Day on 16th Oct. After 40 years, it’s time to shut DESO (Defence Export Services Organisation). The government's agency working on behalf of arms companies must be designated as what it is: a 'global danger zone' to world peace. Together with the Fellowship of Reconciliation & other groups, we will form a human chain around DESO in Central London. The day will include a rally, street polling & the chance to lobby your MP. Also, the CAAT Christian Network, along with the Fellowship of Reconciliation, Pax Christi & SPEAK, is meeting to pray before the rally at 10am on Bury Place, outside DESO's offices. We also need help before the day - can you hold a campaign day or do street polling in your area? If so, please email: beccie@caat.org.uk
9h) NEW ‘ICE & FIRE’ PRODUCTION : NATIONAL TOUR : 17 OCT - 18 NOV
Web: http://www.iceandfire.co.uk A resource pack & workshops will accompany the production. Tel: Sara Masters on 0207 377 5299. ‘CROCODILE SEEKING REFUGE’ by Sonja Linden. “5 individuals have sought asylum in the UK: from Africa to Iraq, Latin America to Iran. Linking them is asylum lawyer, Harriet.' ‘Crocodile Seeking Refuge’ delves into the heart of asylum in 21st century Britain.”
17th & 18th Oct Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells 01892 678 678
20th & 21st Oct Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea 01792 602 060
23rd & 24th Oct Croydon Clocktower, London 0208 253 1030
27th & 28th Oct Theatre Royal, Bath 01225 448844
31st Oct & 1st Nov Theatre Royal, Winchester 01962 840440
4th & 5th Nov The Drum, Birmingham 0121 333 2444
7th & 8th Nov Jackson's Lane Arts Centre, London 0208 341 4421
10th & 11th Nov Pegasus Theatre, Oxford 01865 722851
13th Nov Harrow Arts, London 0208 428 0124
15th Nov The Hawth, Crawley 01293 553636
16th, 17th & 18th Nov Royal Exchange, Manchester 0161 833 9833
9i) AUTUMN TOURS TO PALESTINE : 26 Oct - 11 NOV
Contact: leonie@olivecoop.com Tel: 0161 273 1970. Web: http://www.olivecoop.com “Autumn tours to Palestine with Olive Co-operative.The planned tours are: i) 28th OCT - 5th NOV : Community Education Tour. Visits to schools, universities & community education in Bethlehem, Hebron, Nablus & Tel Aviv. ii) 26th OCT - 4th NOV : Olive Picking Tour. In partnership with community organisations in the Bethlehem/Beit Sahour area. An affordable opportunity to stay with Palestinian families & join the olive harvest, while also witnessing the effects of the military occupation. iii) 4th NOV - 11th NOV : Agricultural Tour. Offers the opportunity to meet with agricultural producers & fair trade schemes, building links with organisations contributing to the rebuilding of the Palestinian economy under occupation. Includes visits to Jerusalem, Nablus, Ramallah & Jenin. ALSO : Olive Co-op is also offering the opportunity to learn Arabic in Bethlehem in small classes.”
9j) STAR NATIONAL CONFERENCE : LIVERPOOL : 28 - 29 OCT
Contact: anup.patel@hertford.ox.ac.uk Web: http://www.star-network.org.uk “STAR (Student Action for Refugees). Liverpool University Guild of Students. Open to all STAR student & youth members, plus anyone who is interested, is 16 - 25 & still feels young! A gathering to listen to amazing, motivational & informative speakers & workshop leaders from the refugee community & organisations such as UNHCR, The Poppy project, Refugee Action. Participate in interactive group activities, be moved by music & art, meet each other & have a brilliant weekend. £18 including all meals, party & Fri & Sat night crashpad accommodation.”
9k) NATIONAL CLIMATE MARCH : LONDON : 4th NOVEMBER
Web: http://www.campaigncc.org/ Local Coaches: http://www.campaigncc.org/local.html National Climate March : Rally at US Embassy, Grosvenor Square, London, 12noon, Sat 4th Nov. NOTE: Part of the International Demonstrations planned for the next round of UN Climate Talks in Nairobi. “Climate change is perhaps the gravest calamity our species has ever encountered. Its impact dwarfs any war, any plague, any famine we have confronted so far. It makes genocide & ethnic cleansing look like sideshows at the circus of human suffering.”Organized by a huge range of NGOs including: F.o.E, WWF, Greenpeace, RSPB, Oxfam, Cafod, Women's Institute, Airport Watch, BMS World Mission, Centre for Alternative Technology, Climate Outreach & Information Network, Ethical Consumer, Medact, Operation Noah, P&P, Practical Action, Road Block, Save our World, Surfers Against Sewage, Sustrans, Take Global Warming Seriously, Tearfund, The Wildlife Trusts, Transport 2000, Women's Environmental Network, Woodland Trust, WDM.
9l) INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY CONFERENCE : BEIRUT : 24 - 26 NOV
Contact: Stop The War Office: office@stopwar.org.uk Web: http://www.samidoun.org If you would like to go to contact the Stop The War Office. “An International Solidarity Conference has been called in Beirut on the 24 - 26 Nov. Kofi Annan's visit to Beirut in August provoked angry protests for UN failure to stop Israel's onslaught. The defeat of the Israeli attack on Lebanon has opened up new prospects for the anti-war movement internationally. Trade unionists, campaigners & anti-war activists now have a new chance to deepen their links, co-ordinate action & to redouble their efforts to end the imperialist policies of the US & its allies in the Arab region. Organised by: The Cairo Conference, anti-war activisits & the Samidoun relief organisation.
9m) CAAT NATIONAL GATHERING : LONDON : 25th NOVEMBER
To Register, email: anna@caat.org.uk Web: http://www.caat.org.uk/events/gathering.php “Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT). 10am-6pm, Mary Ward House, Tavistock Place, London. Russel Square. Our annual conference for everyone interested in ending arms exports. A day of talks, discussions & workshops to find out more about the issues, improve your campaigning skills & meet other CAAT supporters.”
10) LOCAL PEACE VIGILS & PLANNING GROUPS
a) ~ Daily Bristol Peace Vigil
b) ~ Friday Easton Peace Vigil
c) ~ Saturday Bath Peace Vigil
d) ~ Weekly Bristol STW Meeting
e) ~ Regular Bath STW Meeting
a) DAILY BRISTOL PEACE VIGIL: The Independent Bristol Peace Vigil is an open space for discussion, as well a crucial focus to Bristol's campaigns. We've kept vigil every night (except Sundays) since the bombing and invasion of Afghanistan in Oct 2001, & we'll keep Vigil onwards into the future, but we do need your support to keep our flame alive. If you can only make it for 15 minutes, or a couple of times a month, please still come. Everyone's welcome at the Bristol Peace Vigil. TIMES: MON-FRI 5:30-6:30pm & SAT 3:00-4:00pm. PLACE: City Centre.(Opposite The Hippodrome. St. Augustines Parade).
b) EASTON PEACE VIGIL: Every Friday. 5:00pm-6:00pm. Corner of Robertson Rd & Stapleton Rd.
c) BATH PEACE VIGIL: Every Saturday. 11.30am-12.30pm. Bath Abbey. (Off York St. From the Station walk up Manvers St). Please support this long-established & powerful witness to the futility of war.
d) BRISTOL-STOP-THE-WAR PLANNING GROUP: Everyone's welcome. We hold a Bristol-Stop-The-War meeting every week, as a forum for local groups to inform each other of their intentions, of finding people to work together on projects, & as a venue where large Bristol events (meetings, demos etc) are agreed & planned We don't vote at these meetings, as we're not here to force adherence to a consensus view. Venue: Easy T's Café, 20-21 Lower Park Row, BRISTOL, BS1 5BN. This is a few doors down from The Ship pub, towards Christmas Steps. Tea & coffee are served! As now, the meetings will start at 7pm and end around 8.30pm. All
welcome. For further information email: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com Map:
http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=51.4559&lon=-2.5981&scale=5000&icon=x
e) BATH-STOP-THE-WAR: Hold Regular Meetings. For Details Tel: 01225 315480
Email: postmaster@bathstopwar.org.uk Visit: http://www.bathstopwar.org.uk
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For general enquiries email: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com
For News Around Bristol Visit: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org
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"Even those of us who have tried to follow the war closely are not aware of a fraction of the horrors unleashed in Iraq." - Author Arundathi Roy at the World Tribunal on Iraq, Istanbul, 2005. http://www.worldtribunal.org/
... SAY YES 2 PEACE ... SAY YES 2 PEACE ... SAY YES 2 PEACE ...
NATIONAL BRIZE NORTON DEMO : 2nd DEC 2006
(See Section 4. Please Start Organising Coaches In Your Local Area Now.)
NATIONAL CLIMATE DEMO : 4th NOV 2006
(See Section 9k. Local Coaches: http://www.campaigncc.org/local.html)
LATE NEWS : Protestors Bring Anti-War ‘Coach Napping’ Case To House Of Lords. On 23-25 October 2006, the House of Lords will hear the case of anti-war protestors who were detained by police & prevented from attending a National Demonstration at RAF Fairford on 22 March 2003.
Read More: http://www.fairfordcoachaction.org.uk
Email all your international events to our open message board:
bristol-stop-the-war-coalition@yahoogroups.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bristol-stop-the-war-coalition
South West news can also be posted on Bristol Indymedia:
http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/
CONTENTS CODE : * New Section... ^ Updated Section...
~ Bristol / Regional Events... + National / International Events...
01) ^~+ Report: Fairford Trial Verdicts & Latest
02) ^~+ F365 - Make Nukes History Begins!
03) *~+ No More Fallujahs - Action Month: Oct
04) *~+ National Brize Norton Demo: 2nd Dec
05) *~+ Report: Manchester Demo 23rd Sept
06) *~ MORE Bristol & Bath Events
07) *~ MORE South & South West Events
08) *~ MORE Wales & West Midlands Events
09) *~+ MORE National / International Events
10) ~ Local Vigils & Planning Meetings
For A Downloadable, Printer Friendly Version, Visit:
http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25438
GROUP DESCRIPTION : Bristol STW Coalition produces this newsletter to publicise events & activities in opposition to the so-called 'war on terror'. We are composed of groups & individuals with a wide variety of political & religious views. We are politically non-aligned, but we are also committed to oppose any racist backlash. Bristol STW is not a 'membership' organisation. Any one or group opposed to the 'war on terror' can consider themselves part of Bristol STW, or can continue to be publicised by us while choosing to organise independently of the Coalition. We don't claim (or seek) a monopoly over anti-war sentiment & activity in the city & recognise that many groups & individuals have their own ways of opposing the 'war on terror'. We are also dependent on individual donations for our funding, so if you are able to make a donation please send a cheque or postal order, payable to: Bristol Stop The War Coalition. Post: BSTWC c/o 23 Monmouth Rd, Bristol BS7 8LF. Or you can email us privately : bristolstopwar@hotmail.com
EDITORIAL : A WIDER VIEW ACROSS THE REGIONS
Jeremy Clarke of Bristol-Stop-The-War writes: “It may be coincidental, but in a month when we publish our regional newsletter many of the key anti-war events have been happening & will be happening in the regions. In Manchester on 23rd September, an estimated 60,000 people from across the country delivered the ‘Time To Go’ message to Tony Blair & the Labour Party conference. Here in Bristol the trials of those accused in connection with direct action at the US airbase at Fairford in the run up to the invasion of Iraq in 2003 have started. There are reports on these elsewhere in this newsletter.
Also happening locally soon is the National Demonstration at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire. Again more details are elsewhere in the newsletter. This demonstration can make a real impact. It has the full support & backing of the National Stop The War Coalition & National CND. A similar demonstration was held last year when the response from the people of Carterton, the largely military town which lies next to the airbase, was very positive. Kate Hudson, national chair of CND, is reputed to have said that it was the best demonstration she had ever been on. Demonstrating there enables us to make important links between the occupations of Iraq & Afghanistan. Brize Norton is the base from which soldiers are sent to both countries & to which fatalities are returned. Senior military commanders are arguing for British troops to be withdrawn from the ‘unwinnable’ war in Iraq to be sent to the ‘winnable’ war in Afghanistan.
See: http://www.guardian.co.uk/Iraq/Story/0,,1883784,00.html
We have the opportunity to show that the occupation of Afghanistan is just as wrong, unwinnable & unpopular as the occupation of Iraq - only 31% of people in Britain support the occupation of Afghanistan.
See: http://www.angus-reid.com/polls/index.cfm/fuseaction/viewItem/itemID/13347
Brize Norton is only a short journey from many of the towns, cities & villages of southern England & Wales. Our aim should be to make sure that as many people as possible hear about the demonstration & are able to get there on the day. If you want some leaflets please email bristolstopwar@hotmail.com.
And lastly for 10 things Tony Blair didn’t say in his speech at Manchester, see:
http://www.stopwar.org.uk/_CURRENT/BlairSpeech.htm
01) REPORT : FAIRFORD TRIALS
Full Article: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25417
LATEST: Following the trial of Margaret Jones & Paul Milling - known as the 'Fairford Disarmers' - which ended with no clear verdict, now Phil Pritchard & Toby Olditch - known as the 'B52 Two' - face trial. The trial began Monday 2nd Oct at Bristol Crown Court, & is expected to last up to 2 weeks. There will be a presence outside court everyday. Please go down to show support. Bristol Crown Court is on Small Street, off Corn Street, in the Centre. Margaret Jones writes: They're charged with the same thing as Paul & me - conspiracy to commit criminal damage. They were trying to reach a B-52 bomber to disable it, when they were both arrested. Naturally Paul & I, while awaiting our re-trial, are watching how this 2nd trial may turn out. Paul & I had magnificent support, which I shall remember with deep gratitude all my life. We hope people will feel moved to come down & offer similar backing to Phil & Toby. Also to Josh Richards, when his trial comes up in Nov.
BACKGROUND: During March 2003, 14 U.S B52 bombers arrived at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire. These were the very same bombers which had been used to carpet bomb Vietnam a generation earlier. Protests broke out in opposition, & escalated. Others broke in & attempted to prevent, or delay, their take off, & the bombing of Iraq which began on 20th March 2003. ‘Oxford peace activists Philip Pritchard & Toby Olditch entered RAF Fairford & attempted to disarm USAF B-52 bombers early on 18th March 2003. Their decision to take this peaceful direct action was a response to absolute frustration; that all previous international pressure and efforts to prevent the prosecution of an illegal and unjustified war had come to nothing.’
Read More On The ‘B52 Two’ Website: http://b52two.org
EXTRA BACKGROUND: The trial of Phil Pritchard & Toby Olditch are the 2nd of 3 trials, of 5 defendants, known as the 'Fairford 5'. Paul Milling & Margaret Jones, Josh Richards, Phillip Pritchard & Toby Olditch all tried to prevent or delay the take-off of U.S B-52 bombers from RAF Fairford. The pre-trial hearings lasted 3 years, as the defendants fought for the right to argue that the Iraq war is illegal recognised as part of their defence. In April 2006, this defence was denied by the House Of Lords. They said - the crime of attacking another nation is a crime in international law, but cannot be said to be part of British domestic law.
Read More: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=24830&search_text=fairford
02) MAKE NUKES HISTORY! F365 BEGINS!
Web: http://www.faslane365.org Faslane 365 kicked off on Sunday 1st October with a group of Women connected with Greenham Common & Aldermaston Womens Peace Campaign. This is combined with the 2nd group, Women in Black, to form one, 3 day block. Pictures of the initial blockades are on the website.
KEYNOTE: http://www.faslane365.org/BGs/map.php All local groups participating in the blockade can be found on the website. Groups require you to attend a one-day training session in direct action techniques before becoming further involved. NATIONAL STWC CONTINGENT: November 6th - 7th are the days Stop The War will be the blockading organisation. Any local STW groups or individuals who would like to join us, please contact the STWC office: 020 7278 6694; email: office@stopwar.org.uk
WHAT IS IT? October 1st 2006 saw the beginning of an audacious civil resistance initiative to apply pressure for the disarmament of Britain's nuclear weapons. The idea behind F365 is a simple but powerful one: invite a different group of several dozen people to blockade Faslane Scottish nuclear naval base every day, for a year.
WHY DO IT? Britain's Trident nuclear weapons are coming to the end of their shelf life. The British government is considering whether to replace Trident nukes with another lot of 'user-friendly' battlefield nuclear weapons. This raises the terrifying prospect of a nuclear weapon being used, for the first time since Hiroshima & Nagasaki. Then, 100,000 people were killed by a single blast. Many others died lingering deaths.
WHAT MAKES YOU THINK IT WILL WORK? This struggle to get rid of UK nukes, & free ourselves from depending on USA military policy into the bargain, is highly winnable. But it needs us all to do more than just write to our MP. Being prepared to get arrested for something you believe in, especially when thousands of others are doing it too, sends a strong message to those in power who would like to ignore us all.
WHAT WOULD A YEAR-LONG BLOCKADE ACHIEVE? The blockades at Faslane every year attract hundreds of people, & their arrests have clogged up the court system in Scotland. Now questions are being asked in the Scottish parliament. A year-long blockade will be something that even Parliament, & the public at large, are unable to ignore. There's loads of support for getting rid of nuclear weapons in Scotland.
HOW DO WE GET INVOLVED? Each group joining in F365 will be autonomous - responsible for making its own travel arrangements to & from Scotland, & for accommodation on arrival. Groups just need to contact a steering committee. The steering committee keep a calendar, & can tell which blockading days are taken, & which still available. The group or organisation then chooses its day.
03) ‘NO MORE FALLUJAHS’ : MONTH OF ACTION : OCTOBER
Full Events Listing & Backround: http://www.voices.netuxo.co.uk/nomorefallujahs.htm
BACKGROUND: On 8th Nov 2004 the US - with British assistance - launched a massive assault against the Iraqi city of Fallujah. Hundreds of civilians were killed, tens of thousands forced to flee their homes & white phosphorus - a substance that burns down to the bone - used as a weapon. This Oct, a month of activities - culminating in a weekend of nonviolent civil disobedience - will mark the anniversary of that attack. Fallujah was placed under a shoot-to-kill curfew, male refugees were prevented from leaving the combat zone & US aircraft attacked the city with more than 500 bombs & missiles. Over 700 bodies - including more than 500 women & children - were recovered from the rubble in just 9 of the cities 27 neighbourhoods. The US State Department estimated that 50% of Fallujah’s housing had been severely damaged or rendered uninhabitable.
AFTER FALLUJAH: The US has continued to attack other towns & cities in Iraq - eg. Qaim, Haditha, Karabila, Ramadi, Hit, Baghdadi, Haqlaniya, Barwana & Tal Afar - whilst Fallujah’s devastation has generated rage & hatred both inside & outside Iraq. The Dec 2004 prediction by Ali Fadhil - whose Channel 4 documentary won an award from Amnesty International - that ‘by completely destroying this Sunni city, with the help of a mostly Shia National Guard, the US military has fanned the seeds of a civil war that is definitely coming,’ has proven all too accurate. Ishraq Shakir Mohammadi (BBC 22/08/06). Today, as the Independent's Patrick Cockburn has observed, ‘[e]nding [the occupation] is essential if this war is to be brought to an end.’
LEGAL NOTE: October's "No More Fallujahs" month of action against war & occupation will culiminate in an ‘unauthorised’ 24-hour peace camp in Parliament Square. This is a potentially arrestable action. If you are thinking of taking part we strongly recommend that you attend one of the NVDA workshops & legal briefings.
A MONTH OF ACTION: http://www.voices.netuxo.co.uk/nomorefallujahs.htm Please see the website for additional London Events. The month of action began on 6th Oct with the book launch of ‘Don’t Shoot the Clowns’ by Jo Wilding, eyewitness to the April 2004 siege. (See Section 9b for more details of this book).
i) 7th OCT – 28th OCT : See http://www.j-n-v.org or Tel. 0845 458 9571 for more info. ‘THE WAR ON TERROR" AT HOME & ABROAD’ Anti-War Speaking Tour With Artist Emily Johns (recently returned from a peace delegation to Iran) & Activist Maya Evans (the first person convicted for taking part in an ‘unauthorised’ demonstration within 1km of Parliament). Events in: Stirling (9 Oct, 07951 987 422) - Sherwood (10 Oct, 6.30pm, Lower Hall, The Methodist Church on the corner of Devon Drive & Mansfield Rd, Sherwood) - Birmingham (11 Oct, 0121 414 3219) - Falmouth (12 Oct, 01326 378 587) - London (13 Oct, 7.30pm, Bertrand Russell Room, Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, WC1). Emily will also be speaking in Tunbridhe Wells (7 Oct) & Coventry (28 Oct, 2-5pm at the Coventry Peace House).
ii) SUN 8th OCT : NON-VIOLENT DIRECT ACTION WORKSHOP & LEGAL BRIEFING. 11am - 4pm, Sunrise Room, Diorama 2, 3-7 Euston Centre, London NW1 3JG (tube: Great Portland Street).
iii) MON 9th OCT : See http://www.sackparliament.org.uk SACK PARLIAMENT! Anti-war blockade of the Houses of Parliament on the day that MPs return from their summer recess. Meet 1pm, Houses of Parliament.
iv) SAT 28th OCT : PEACE WALK FROM THE UK'S MILITARY NERVE CENTRE IN NORTHWOOD. Meet 11am, Northwood tube station (Metropolitan line tube). Finish 4pm, central London.
v) SAT 28th OCT : NON-VIOLENT DIRECT ACTION WORKSHOP & LEGAL BRIEFING. 4.30pm - 7.30pm, Diorama 3, 3-7 Euston Centre, London NW1 3JG (tube: Warren Street).
vi) SAT 29th OCT : ‘UNAUTHORISED’ 24-HOUR PEACE CAMP IN PARLIAMENT SQUARE to demand an end to the occupation. Assemble 12 noon, Parliament Square. The camp will begin with Maya Evans & Milan Rai reading the names of Iraqis who have died as a result of US/UK military action in Iraq - one year after their arrest for doing this. They will also be joined by former UN Humanitarian Co-ordinator for Iraq Denis Halliday & Iraqi artist Haifa Zangana. Please note: this is a potentially arrestable action.
SPONSORS : Organised by Mass Action Group. Supported by CND; Iraq Occupation Focus; JNV; Radical Activist Network; Red Pepper; STWC; Voices UK; Act Together; Women's Action 4 Iraq; Birkenhead CND; Birmingham University Against War; Blackpool & Fylde CND; Bolton CND; Brent STWC; Bristol STWC; CND Cymru; Darlington 4 Peace & Justice; Falmouth Peace & Justice; Greater Manchester & District CND; Hastings Against War; Headingley & District CND; Highland Justice Not War; Huddersfield STWC; Hull STWC; Kingston Peace Council; Labour Against War; Leicester STWC; London Catholic Worker; London Federation Green Parties; London Region CND; Milton Keynes Gulf Crisis Group; Musicians Against Nuclear Arms; Norwich STWC; Nottingham STWC; Oswestry Coalition 4 Peace; Oxford 4 Justice & Peace; Peace Plan Group; Redbridge Against War; Sevenoaks CND; Sherwood 4 Global Justice & Peace; Smash EDO; South Tyneside STWC; Stevenage Coalition 4 Peace; Wallasey CND; Wandsworth STWC; Warwick & Leamington Green Party; West Midlands CND; Wrekin STWC; Wrexham Peace & Justice Forum; Yorkshire CND.
04) NATIONAL BRIZE NORTON DEMO : 2nd DECEMBER
For A National Flier : http://www.stopwar.org.uk/documents/-brizedoublesided.pdf
Also Contact: swindon_stopwar@yahoo.co.uk Tel: 07764563855. Bristol: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com
NATIONAL DEMONSTRATION AT RAF BRIZE NORTON (OXFORDSHIRE). Called by Oxford, Bristol & Swindon Stop The War Coalitions. Supported by Stop The War Coalition. Please start making arrangements in your local area to book coaches for this National Demonstration. This demo seeks to draw attention to the massive array of Military Bases encircling us, & the extent of the broader militarisation of the U.K, especially around South West, Wales & West Midlands, where population is less dense, and the military bases roam free.
ASSEMBLE : 12:00 noon in Carterton, Saturday 2nd December 2006.
BACKGROUND : RAF Brize Norton is the base from which all British troops are flown to Iraq & Afghanistan, & where they return to (alive & dead). This National Demonstration to the gates of the base is to demand immediate withdrawal of British troops. RAF Brize Norton is also being used to refuel American military flights transporting munitions between Kelly air force base in the USA to Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, taking bombs to be used by the Israeli Defense Force in the war in Lebanon. A big turn out at the gates of the base will send a clear message to the government, & is an act of solidarity with the service people & their families who want Britain to withdraw. More details will be circulated closer to the event.
OVERVIEW MAP OF CARTERTON:
http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=51.7598&lon=-1.5931&scale=200000&icon=x
CLOSE UP MAP OF CARTERTON:
http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=51.7598&lon=-1.5931&scale=25000&icon=x
05) REPORT : MANCHESTER DEMO : 23rd SEPTEMBER
To receive National reports you can subscribe on the National website: http://www.stopwar.org.uk
FULL BRISTOL REPORT: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25403
Bristol-Stop-The-War Coalition’s New Banner Can Be Viewed On The Above Link.
Lee Writes: “Saturday (23rd Sept) saw a large contingent of protesters representing a variety of causes make the trip from Bristol to the Labour Party conference in Manchester to remind Tony Blair & friends that they are not wanted. As usual the police gave a very low estimate for the number of protesters: their spokesperson put the figure at 20,000. A more realistic figure can be garnered from Stop The War Coalition & British Muslim Initiative, who put the figure at 100,000 & 50,000 respectively. Thus we can say around 70,000 protesters, this was the biggest ever lobby of a party conference & the biggest demonstration in Manchester for 150 years.
The Bristol contingent numbered 4 coaches & a large number of people who made their own way up. Simon Guy - UWE STWC - said he was ‘pleased with the turnout from UWE. It marked a good start for the university’. ‘Students came together about midway through & were the most lively part’, though Guy may not have heard the raucous Samba band that is often the life & soul of any demonstration. He added it was important students comprehend the ‘link between war & the lack of welfare spending, especially in education’
A spokesperson for Bristol Stop The War said the ‘point about the demo was not to build an illusion that getting rid of Blair would be the end of it’ but that ‘the bigger the movement is the harder it is for his successor to follow his policies.’ He added that the demonstration reflected people’s ‘growing anger at what Labour has not done for people. People are pissed off at the cuts in expenditure & the privatisation agenda & are beginning to realise that this is linked to the war’
06) MORE BRISTOL & BATH EVENTS
NORMAN KEMBER, Held Hostage In Iraq For 4 Months, Will Be In Bath On Sat 21st Oct.
a) ~ Action : In the Event Of An Attack On Iran : Bristol
b) *~ Project : Want To Sing In Bristol? : Bristol
c) *~ Project : Enviroinmental Film Maker : Bristol
d) *~ Launch : Bath Activist Network : Bath
e) *~ Project : Roots Of Change Group : Bristol
f) *~ 19th Oct : Bath & District U.N Meeting : Bristol
g) *~ 21st Oct : ‘A Hostage In Iraq’ Meeting : Bath
h) *~ 23rd Oct : ‘Current Global Issues’ Meeting : Bath
i) *~ 25-26 Oct : Mark Thomas @ Tobacco Theatre : Bristol
j) *~ 27-28 Oct : Solidarity Bristol Events : Bristol
k) *~ 28 Oct - 5 Nov : Bristol Radical History Week : Bristol
l) *~ 30th Oct : ‘Africa Up In Smoke’ Meeting : Bristol
m) *~ 4th Nov : Sponsored Walk For Palestine : Bristol
6a) ACTION : IN THE EVENT OF ATTACK ON IRAN
Contact: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com In the event of an attack being launched against Iran, Bristol Stop the War Coalition calls on all its supporters to join the Peace Vigil on the Centre, St. Augustines Parade, opposite the Hippodrome, on the day they hear of the attack. The Vigil is from 5.30pm-6.30pm on Mondays to Fridays and 3pm- 4pm on Saturdays. (Also see Section 10 of this newsletter for more regular Vigils)
6b) PROJECT : WANT TO SING IN BRISTOL?
Contact: rednoteschoir@yahoo.co.uk Web: http://www.rednoteschoir.org.uk “Red Notes socialist choir are having busy year & looking for members. We support local events, develop singing skills & enjoy ourselves. St Werburghs Community Centre, Horley Rd, St Werburghs, Bristol, BS2 9TJ, Wednesdays: 7:30 - 9:30pm.”
6c) PROJECT : ENVIRONMENTAL FILM MAKER
Contact: jonathan(dot)ward(at)bris(dot)ac(dot)uk Jonathan writes: “After watching the ‘Inconvenient Truth’, I felt it but missed a great deal. I want to write a short film which takes a typical day, for any of us. The tap left on whilst brushing the teeth, the imported orange juice at breakfast. The car or bus to work. The snacks we buy & the rubbish left behind. You get the picture. I’m in Bristol, but if people are further afield contact me too.”
Web: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org/newswire.php?story_id=25418
6d) LAUNCH : BATH ACTIVIST NETWORK
Contact: bathactivistnet@yahoo.co.uk Web: http:///www.myspace.com/bathactivistnetwork “Birth pangs of a new group. Connecting all radical ‘disciplines’, knowing that every problem in this world is interlinked. Campaigning on issues such as environmentalism, anti-globalisation, food issues, pro-peace, gender, compassion for animals. Meetings at the Green Park Tavern, 1st Thu of every month, 7.30-9pm. Meetings are in a non-hierarchic pattern. If you have any actions you want to report e-mail it to us and we'll put it up.”
6e) PROJECT : ROOTS OF CHANGE GROUP
Contact: jennawillcox(at)hotmail.co.uk Tel: 07762377399 Web: http://www.isec.org.uk/pages/roots.html “Roots of Change is a study programme run by the International Society for Ecology & Culture (ISEC). Aims: To encourage a broad analysis of the origins & workings of the global economy. - Discussion of the impact of globalisation on participants' communities. - Empower groups to take strategic local action informed by a global perspective. The group won't have any particular political leaning. It's important to include everyone.”
6f) BATH & DISTRICT U.N ASSOCIATION MEETING : 19th OCTOBER
Contact: unabath@spamex.com Web: http://www.unabath.org.uk “Thu 19th Oct. Richard K Bell of the US Embassy, speaking on ‘US Foreign Policy & the UN’. 6pm, Wills Memorial Building, Queens Rd, Bristol, organised by UNA East Glos Branch & the Wales & West Branch of the International Law Association.
6g) ‘A HOSTAGE IN IRAQ’ MEETING : 21st OCTOBER
Contact: jr_msbc@btconnect.com Tel: John Rackley: 01225 461600 “Norman Kember was held hostage in Iraq for four months over the 2005-06. He is visiting Bath on Sat 21st October. 5.30-7.00pm in the Coffee Lounge at Manvers St Baptist Church, & will be chaired by John Rackley, the Minister of the Church.
6h) ‘CURRENT GLOBAL ISSUES’ MEETING : 23rd OCTOBER
Web: http://www.unabath.org.uk “Mon 23rd Oct, 7.30pm, Bath Royal Literary & Scientific Institution (BRLSI), 16 Queens Sq, Bath BA1 2HN. Speaker: Dr James Copestake on ‘Well-being & Poverty in Peru’. The UNA AGM will be held at 7pm before the meeting. Refreshments available & a donation will be requested.
6i) MARK THOMAS @ TOBACCO THEATRE : 25 - 26 OCTOBER
Web: http://www.tobaccofactory.com “Wed 25 - Thurs 26 Oct 8pm £12 Mark Thomas has been on a journey of discovery in the company of arms dealers, torture victims, ex-SAS officers, spooks & geeks. Book on the website. Tobacco Factory Raleigh Road, Southville Bristol BS3 1TF.”
6j) SOLIDARITY BRISTOL EVENTS : 27th & 28th OCTOBER
Contact: solidaritybristol@solfed.org.uk Web: http://www.solfed.org.uk/ “A film & cafe night with Spanish Trade Unionists who have challenged oppresion. i) FRI 27th OCT : ‘Vivir la Utopia’ Documentary on the revolution. English subtitles. 8pm. Bristol Youth Hostel, Narrow Quay. ii) SAT 28th OCT : Talk with Spanish trade unionists & cafe. 8:30pm. Didier's, 3 Christmas Steps, Bristol. Both events Free/Donation.
6k) BRISTOL RADICAL HISTORY WEEK : 28th OCT - 5th NOV
Contact: brh@brh.org.uk Web: http://www.brh.org.uk “Bristol Radical History Week is a series of events aimed at opening up to public scrutiny some of the hidden & misrepresented history of Bristol. We will discover how the end of slavery, the rise of democracy, & independence of colonial lands were the results of collective actions by extraordinary 'ordinary'. See the website for the full programme.”
6l) CLIMATE CHANGE ‘AFRICA UP IN SMOKE’ : 30th OCTOBER
Source: http://www.digitalbristol.org/members/nsf/index.htm “Speakers: Dr James Bendle, Bristol University Research Scientist, Mike Mortimer, Dryland Researcher, Debate Climate Change on the Continent, Unitarian Chapel hall, 7.30 pm Brunswick Square, Bristol.”
6m) SPONSORED WALK FOR PALESTINE : 4th NOVEMBER
For Sponsorship Forms Email: nabataat@yahoo.co.uk Tel : 0117 94 66 885. “Sat 4th Nov. 10:30am start from College Green. 10 mile scenic walk. Coming back from Portishead by bus. Last year we raised over £1000 for an orphanage in Tulkarm. This year we're doing it jointly for Palestine Solidarity & Al-Awda Hospital, Gaza.”
07) MORE SOUTH & SOUTH WEST EVENTS
a) *~ News : Gloucestershire Council Says NO2ID!
b) *~ Project : Heaven And Earth Show : Slough
c) *~ 11th Oct : Palestine Film Night : Reading
d) *~ 12th Oct : Smash EDO Fundraiser : Brighton
e) *~ 12 Oct-22 Nov : Transition Town Events : Totnes
f) *~ 14th Oct : ‘Global Extravaganza’ : Reading
g) *~ 14th Oct : ‘Make Poverty History’ Event : Exeter
h) *~ 16th Oct : Climate Change Event : Reading
i) *~ 21st Oct : ‘Letter To The Prime Minister’ : Reading
j) *~ 25th Oct : EDO Palestine Protest : Brighton
k) *~ 28th Oct : Immigration Workshops : Brighton
l) *~ 28-29 Oct + 25-26 Nov : Aldermaston Camp : Reading
7a) NEWS : GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SAYS NO2ID!
Web: http://www.no2id.net/resources/motions/index.php “On Fri 22nd Sept Gloucestershire County Council passed a motion against the government's ID card scheme. The motion was only opposed by one member, Councillor Steve McHale - a member of Labour. Councillor Jeremy Hilton said it was important the council fought ‘this infringement on human rights’. Councils that have passed similar motions on the above link.”
7b) PROJECT : HEAVEN AND EARTH SHOW : SLOUGH
Contact: Ranjit Bilkhu: ranibilkhu@hotmail.com Tel: 0870 8505734 / 07958603541. “I have a contact at the BBC who I have persuaded to cover a story regarding Asians mistaken for Muslims being targeted by racists. Equally Hindus, Jains, Buddists and Christians from the Indian sub continent. Hate crimes that are recorded are not a true reflection of reality. Please contact me if anyone has been subjected to these sort of incidents.”
7c) PALESTINE FILM : READING : 11th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.visitpalestine.info/index.asp Wed 11 October, 8pm: Screening of Kate Barlow's much-acclaimed documentary about Irish peace activist Caiomhe Butterly's solidarity work in Palestine. Regal Cinema, Henley-upon-Thames, 2 Boroma Way, RG9 2BZ
7d) SMASH EDO FUNDRAISER : BRIGHTON : 12th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.smashedo.org.uk Brighton-based EDO MBM are a wholly owned subsidiary of EDO Corp, a US-based arms multinational. Fundraiser at the Cowley Club, 12 London Road, Brighton, 7.30pm. Bands playing will be the Inner Terrestrials, Babar Luck, The King Blues & Big Dance.
7e) TRANSITION TOWN EVENTS : TOTNES : 12th OCT – 22nd NOV
Web: http://transitionculture.org/?page_id=427 “We are delighted to announce the programme of events for the first 4 months of the Transition Town Totnes initiative. Designing a positive way down from the oil peak.”
i) THU 12th OCT : St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes. See website for times. ‘Less is a Four-Letter Word: Moving Towards a low Energy Society’. A talk by Paul Mobbs – author of ‘Energy Beyond Oil’.
ii) SAT 14th OCT : 10am – 4pm. Totnes Civic Hall. ‘Powering Totnes Beyond Cheap Oil’ – rethinking ones’s energy supply. An Open Space Day. Bring ideas and enthusiasm! All are Welcome. Free.
iii) WED 1st NOV : 8pm. St. John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes. Building Locally – the potential of natural building materials. How will we create new housing without energy intensive materials. £3.
iv) SAT 4th NOV : 10am-4pm. Totnes Civic Hall. Housing Totnes in an energy scarce future – an Open Space conversation exploring housing issues. Bring your ideas, passions and skills. All are welcome. Free.
v) WED 15th NOV :Wednesday November 15th. See website for times. St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes. ‘Lean Energy – A Practical Guide to Energy Descent’. David Fleming, author of the ‘The Lean Economy’.
vi) WED 22nd NOV : Link: http://www.museletter.com Totnes Civic Hall. 8pm. ‘Peak Oil: Local Solutions to a Global Challenge’ - a talk byRichard Heinberg , author of ‘The Party’s Over’ and ‘Powerdown’.
7f) ‘GLOBAL EXTRAVAGANZA’ : READING : 14th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.risc.org.uk RISC (Reading International Solidarity Centre) Campains on international issues & promoting action for Sustainable Development, & Social justice. Sat 14th Oct. Cabaret of top international artists to celebrate RISC's 25th Birthday. £15 / £12 concessions. Reading Old Town Hall Concert Hall.
7g) ‘MAKE POVERTY HISTORY’ EVENT : EXETER : 14th OCTOBER
Tel: 01392 438811. Devon Trade Justice Network Conference. Sat 14th October, 1-5pm at the Global Centre, Exeter Community Centre, 17 St David's Hill, Exeter. Guest Speaker: Director of WDM (World Development Movement). Workshops. How can we help to MAKE POVERTY HISTORY, in our lifetimes?
7h) CLIMATE CHANGE EVENT : READING : 16th OCTOBER
Contact: Rob White, Reading Green Party. Tel: 0118 950 4062. Email: rob@readinggreenparty.org.uk ‘Think global act local - tackling climate change in Reading’. Mon 16th October. 7:30-9:30pm. RISC (35-39 London Street, Reading, RG1 4PS). The aim of the meeting is to highlight opportunities to work together locally.”
7i) ‘LETTER TO THE PRIME MINISTER’ : READING : 21st OCTOBER
Web: http://www.jowilding.net/ Reading Public Meeting + Film Screeing Of ‘A Letter To The Prime Minister: Jo Wilding’s Diary From Iraq’.With Alice Hardy from Public Interest Lawyers and the film director, Julia Guest. Talk and refreshments from 6pm, followed by film at 7.45pm. Friends Meeting House, Church St.
7j) PALESTINE PROTEST : BRIGHTON : 25th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.smashedo.org.uk EDO MBM have admitted that they profit from selling equipment for the illegal occupation of Palestine and the bombing of Lebanon. Wednesday 25th October is a day to remember the Palestinian victims of EDO MBM. Wed 25 Oct, 4-6pm. Home Farm Road, Brighton.
7k) IMMIGRATION WORKSHOPS : BRIGHTON : 28th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.communitybase.org/ Contact: Gianpaolo Boldrini 01273 664021. ‘No Borders!' Brighton. Sat 28th Oct. 11.30am-4.30pm. Community Base, 113 Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XG. Workshops: Introduction to migration, Government policy & legal issues, Destitution, Migrant stories, Economic migrants, What is No Borders?, Detention centres & deportation issues + short films & cheap, wholesome vegan lunch.
7l) ALDERMASTON PEACE CAMP : READING : 28-29 OCT + 25-26 NOV
Web: http://www.aldermastonwatch.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk Tel: 0845 4588 368. You are invited to join a new monthly peace camp at the Atomic Weapons Establishment Aldermaston, to add further pressure to the campaign to halt development of the next generation of nuclear weapons. From noon on the last full weekend of each month; next camps 28-29 Oct, 25-26 Nov 2006. Bluebell Wood near AWE West Gate car park.
08) MORE WALES & WEST MIDLANDS EVENTS
a) *~ Project : Alternatives To Violence : Hereford
b) *~ 10th Oct : Palestine Educational : Oxford
c) *~ 12th Oct : Palestinian Falafel Event : Birmingham
d) *~ 12th Oct : Campaign Against Arms Trade : Penarth
e) *~ 12th Oct : Interfaith Alternatives Talk : Oxford
f) *~ 17th Oct : Global Climate Justice Talk: Cardiff
g) *~ 18th Oct : ‘Realising Hope’ Talk : Birmingham
h) *~ 19th Oct : Public Meeting Against G8 : Cardiff
i) *~ 21st Oct : Latin America Day : Birmingham
j) *~ 21st Oct : Cardiff Civil Rights Day : Cardiff
k) *~ 28th Oct : WDM Campaigner Convention : Cardiff
l) *~ 28th Oct : Faslane 365 Workshop : North Wales
m) *~ 29th Oct : President Musharraf Protest : Oxford
n) *~ 7th Nov : ‘Empire In Aftrica’ Film : Birmingham
8a) PROJECT : ALTERNATIVES TO VIOLENCE : HEREFORD
Web: http://www.avpbritain.org.uk Tel: 0845 345 7433 “Level 1 Alternatives to Violence Experiential Workshop. Exploring the roots of conflict and the practice of conflict resolution using exercises and group discussion. Full fee (incl. Food and possible housing) £60 with generous concessions.
8b) PALESTINE EDUCATIONAL : OXFORD : 10th OCTOBER
Contact: oxfordpsc@yahoo.com Web: http://www.oxfordpsc.info UK: http://www.palestinecampaign.org “Tue 10 October, 7:30pm: Palestine Educational: Palestinian, Manal Omar (Oxfam) will be speaking. Full details t.b.a. At: Oxford Town Hall, St Aldates. All welcome.”
8c) PALESTINIAN FALAFEL EVENING : BIRMINGHAM : 12th OCT
Contact: birminghamramallah@yahoo.co.uk Tel: Caroline 07855645199 or Kamel 07765892702 “6.30pm,Thu 12th Oct, Weoley Hill Church Hall, Green Meadow Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham. Cost £10. The evening is being held to raise funds to build a children's Library at a refugee camp in Ramallah.”
8d) CAMPAIGN AGAINST ARMS TRADE TALK : PENARTH : 12th OCT
Contact: 029 20711943. Web: http://www.caat.org.uk “Speaker: Alun Morinan, national co-ordinator of the CAAT Christian Network, Trinity Methodist Church, Penarth (near Cardiff) on “Why Should Christians Campaign against the Arms Trade?”. The event is being organised by the Penarth CAAT Christian Network.
8e) INTERFAITH ALTERNATIVES : OXFORD : 12th OCTOBER
Contact: oxfordpsc@yahoo.com Web: http://www.oxfordpsc.info UK: http://www.palestinecampaign.org
Thursday 12 October, 7:00pm: Well-known local author Marcus Braybrooke will be speaking on the subject of Interfaith Alternatives To Terror and the War Against Terror. At: Friends House, 43 St. Giles, Oxford.
8f) GLOBAL CLIMATE JUSTICE : CARDIFF : 17th OCTOBER
Contact: CardiffCCC@hotmail.co.uk Tel: Adam Johannes 07940 108 146 “Cardiff Campaign Against Climate Change. Speakers include: Jonathan Neale - Author of ‘They are G8: We are 6 Billion’. Tue 17th Oct, 7pm, Wallace Lecture Theatre, Main Building, Cardiff University, Park Place. Free. All welcome.
8g) ‘REALISING HOPE’ TALK : BIRMINGHAM : 18th OCTOBER
Contact: timleeski@aol.com ‘Realing Hope : Life Beyond Capitalism’ by Michael Albert. Hear the author talk about his new book on Wed 18 Oct, 7pm, Carrs Lane Church Centre, Carrs Lane, Birmingham. £2 on the door. "A thoughtful, profound meditation on what a good society can be like..." - Howard Zinn.
8h) PUBLIC MEETING AGAINST G8 : CARDIFF : 19th OCTOBER
Web: http://cardiff.revolt.org At the Model Inn on Quay St, Cardiff, Thu 19th Oct, 7.30pm. Reports from the G8 protest in Russia. Plans for the G8 protest in Germany 2007. Film of G8 protests from prevous years. Music from Cosmo - http://www.cosmoguitar.net A Free Vegan buffet! Organised by Cardiff Anarchist Network.
8i) LATIN AMERICA DAY : BIRMINGHAM : 21st OCTOBER
Contact: daveauger@unisonplus.net Web: http://www.wolvestuc.org.uk/news.php?id=174 Sat 21st Oct. Carrs Lane Church Rooms, Birmingham Centre. Speakers & Workshops On: Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Cuba & Banana-link. 9.30am-4.30pm. Free Lunch. Organised by West Midlands region UNISON. All Welcome.
8j) CIVIL RIGHTS DAY : CARDIFF : 21ST OCTOBER
To register, email: jamesmaiden@wcia.org.uk To get involved, email Kelvin: kjm04@aber.ac.uk “One of the outcomes of the Social Forum Cymru gathering that took place over the May 1st bank holiday 10.30a.m - 6pm, with an evening benefit. Sat 21st Oct 2006 in the Temple of Peace, Cathays Park, Cardiff. A number of groups are involved. We still need help with with organising the event, so please get in touch to get involved.”
8k) WDM CAMPAIGNER CONVENTION : CARDIFF : 28th OCTOBER
Web: http://www.wdm.org.uk/news/events/convention/index.htm Tel: 0800 328 2153 “From climate change to water privatisation, from the basics of globalisation to hands-on tips on how to engage the public.” 28th Oct, Chapter Arts Centre, Market Rd, Canton, Cardiff. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free.
8l) FASLANE 365 WORKSHOP : NORTH WALES : 28th OCTOBER
Contact: phil_steele@btinternet.com Sat 28 Oct 9:30am-5pm Non-violent Direct Action workshop, to prepare for the Faslane blockade (See Section 2). Run by Anna Linnea Lundberg. Friends Meeting House, Dean St, Bangor. Bring food. Come to blockade Faslane on 14-15 Nov with the Gogledd Cymru / North Wales group.
8m) PRESIDENT MUSHARRAF PROTEST : OXFORD : 29th OCTOBER
Contact: kieran_oberman@hotmail.com Web: http://www.amnestyusa.org/countries/pakistan/news.do “President Musharraf, the dictator of Pakistan and an ally in the war against terror, is giving a speech at the Oxford Union on St Micheals St, Friday 29th at 1:30pm. Only card holders can get in (by queueing early) but if anyone wanted to make & hand out leaflets it might be a good idea.”
8n) ‘THE EMPIRE IN AFRICA’ FILM : BIRMINGHAM : 7th NOV
Contact Annette to book your place: brumoutreach@oxfam.org.uk “The Empire in Africa” @ The Drum, 144 Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham B6 4UU, Tue 7 Nov. “Exposing hidden circumstances behind the tragic civil war in Sierra Leone. A shocking indictment of Western & United Nations involvement in African genocide.”
09) MORE NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
a) * + National Campaign : Free Babar Ahmad
b) * + Book Launch : ‘Don’t Shoot The Clowns’
c) * + 14th Oct : Barbed Wire Britain Conference : London
d) * + 13-15 Oct : Palestinian Literature Festival : Manchester
e) * + 14-15 Oct : Climate Camp Open Gathering : Manchester
f) * + 15-16 Oct : ‘Stand Up Against Poverty’ : International
g) * + 16th Oct : ‘Shut DESO’ Action Day : London
h) *~+ 17 Oct-18 Nov : ‘Ice & Fire’ Production : National Tour
i) * + 26 Oct-11 Nov : Autumn ‘Olive’ Tours To Palestine
j) * + 28-29 Oct : STAR National Conference : Liverpool
k) *~+ 4th Nov : National Climate March : London
l) * + 24-26 Nov : International Solidarity Conference : Beirut
m) * + 25th Nov : CAAT National Gathering : London
9a) NATIONAL CAMPAIGN : FREE BABAR AHMAD
Contact: info@freebabarahmad.com Web: http://www.freebabarahmad.com/ “Babar Ahmad is a British citizen who was born & brought up in South London. In Dec 2003 he was arrested by Anti-Terrorist Police. He was brutally assaulted in front of his wife. He sustained over 50 injuries, 2 life-threatening. After 6 days he was released without charge. Despite photographic evidence, medical reports & eye-witness statements, the Crown Prosecution Service decided there was ‘insufficient evidence’ to prosecute any of the officers. On 5th Aug 2004 Babar was re-arrested on an Extradition Warrant from the U.S. He is currently held as a British Political Prisoner at Woodhill Prison, awaiting Extradition proceedings. Under the Extradition Act 2003 Babar cannot challenge any of the ‘evidence’ against him in a British Court of Law. If he is extradited to the U.S, he will face the same Human & Civil Rights abuses that many experience at the hands of the U.S Government.”
9b) BOOK LAUNCH : ‘DON’T SHOOT THE CLOWNS’ : JO WILDING
Web: http://www.jowilding.net & http://www.newint.org “Don't Shoot the Clowns: Taking a Circus to the Children of Iraq” by Jo Wilding, published by New Internationalist. The book is in the shops on 5th Oct, or by mail order on the New Internationalist website. “The therapeutic value of Circus2Iraq is beyond question; & Jo's involvement with the situation, & her ability to illuminate it for the outside world, offer us priceless access. She goes further than most in introducing us to the people our taxes are killing. But, to be more positive, she also shows us the courage, resourcefulness & cheerfulness of which human beings are capable.”
9c) BARBED WIRED BRITAIN : NATIONAL CONFERENCE : LONDON 14th OCT
Contact: Leonard.baden@which.net Tel: 01993 703 994 Web: http://www.barbedwirebritain.org.uk
“A day conference focusing on establishing a clear coordinated strategy for the national campaign, bringing together current campaigners from across the country. The day will be split between a morning session in which everyone is together, & an afternoon session of workshops charged with devising an action plan around direct action, making an impact in the media, changing the law & building support. Sat 14th Oct, 10.30am-4.30pm. The Human Rights Action Centre (Amnesty UK), 17-25 New Inn Yard, London EC2A 3EA.”
9d) FESTIVAL OF PALESTINIAN LITERATURE : MANCHESTER : 13 - 15 OCT
Web: http://www.mfpl.co.uk or http://www.mlfestival.co.uk “Fri 13th - Sun 15th Oct. The UK´s first ever festival of Palestinian literature in English translation. The festival brings together a diverse range of poets, novelists & short story writers from Palestine, the diaspora & the English-speaking world. For the closing event on Sun 15th is a rare appearance by Manchester-born Palestinian singer Reem Kelani at Matt & Phred´s Jazz Club on Tib St. Special rate tickets from the Olive Co-op, http://www.olivecoop.com for £4/£3 for individual events or passes for all events at £30 (£20 concessions). All readings will be held at the Geoffrey Manton Building, Manchester Metropolitan University, Oxford Rd, Manchester (opposite the Aquatics Centre).”
9e) CLIMATE CAMP OPEN GATHERING : MANCHESTER : 14 - 15 OCTOBER
Web: http://www.climatecamp.org.uk ‘Climate change isn’t just going to disappear - and neither are we. The Camp for Climate Action was a turning point, but it was never going to be enough. Come & take the next steps forward at the upcoming UK-wide meeting in Manchester & be part of a newly-energised movement in the fight against climate chaos. Everybody is welcome. MERCi, Bridge-5 Mill, Ancoats, Manchester. See also: ‘Images from the Camp for Climate Action, The Basement, 24 Lever Street, off Piccadilly, Manchester
Camp reports: http://www.indymedia.org.uk/en/actions/2006/climatecamp
9f) ‘STAND UP AGAINST POVERTY’ : INTERNATIONAL : 15 -16 OCTOBER
Web: http://www.millenniumcampaign.org To Register. “Launched by the Millennium Campaign, STAND UP is an innovative & exciting challenge to set an official Guinness World Record - the greatest number of people ever to STAND UP Against Poverty & for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The purpose is to publicly demonstrate to policy makers the global support for the achievement of the MDGs. The STAND UP challenge will take place between 10.00am (GMT) 15 Oct to 10.00am (GMT) 16 Oct. During this time thousands of people will be standing up all over the world. Either join one of these events or create your own.”
9g) ‘SHUT DESO’ ACTION DAY : LONDON : 16th OCTOBER
Contact: anna@caat.org.uk Tel: 020 7281 0297. Web: http://www.caat.org.uk/events/DESOactionday.php To register email or fill out the form on the webpage. “Now's the time to shut DESO - Action Day on 16th Oct. After 40 years, it’s time to shut DESO (Defence Export Services Organisation). The government's agency working on behalf of arms companies must be designated as what it is: a 'global danger zone' to world peace. Together with the Fellowship of Reconciliation & other groups, we will form a human chain around DESO in Central London. The day will include a rally, street polling & the chance to lobby your MP. Also, the CAAT Christian Network, along with the Fellowship of Reconciliation, Pax Christi & SPEAK, is meeting to pray before the rally at 10am on Bury Place, outside DESO's offices. We also need help before the day - can you hold a campaign day or do street polling in your area? If so, please email: beccie@caat.org.uk
9h) NEW ‘ICE & FIRE’ PRODUCTION : NATIONAL TOUR : 17 OCT - 18 NOV
Web: http://www.iceandfire.co.uk A resource pack & workshops will accompany the production. Tel: Sara Masters on 0207 377 5299. ‘CROCODILE SEEKING REFUGE’ by Sonja Linden. “5 individuals have sought asylum in the UK: from Africa to Iraq, Latin America to Iran. Linking them is asylum lawyer, Harriet.' ‘Crocodile Seeking Refuge’ delves into the heart of asylum in 21st century Britain.”
17th & 18th Oct Trinity Theatre, Tunbridge Wells 01892 678 678
20th & 21st Oct Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea 01792 602 060
23rd & 24th Oct Croydon Clocktower, London 0208 253 1030
27th & 28th Oct Theatre Royal, Bath 01225 448844
31st Oct & 1st Nov Theatre Royal, Winchester 01962 840440
4th & 5th Nov The Drum, Birmingham 0121 333 2444
7th & 8th Nov Jackson's Lane Arts Centre, London 0208 341 4421
10th & 11th Nov Pegasus Theatre, Oxford 01865 722851
13th Nov Harrow Arts, London 0208 428 0124
15th Nov The Hawth, Crawley 01293 553636
16th, 17th & 18th Nov Royal Exchange, Manchester 0161 833 9833
9i) AUTUMN TOURS TO PALESTINE : 26 Oct - 11 NOV
Contact: leonie@olivecoop.com Tel: 0161 273 1970. Web: http://www.olivecoop.com “Autumn tours to Palestine with Olive Co-operative.The planned tours are: i) 28th OCT - 5th NOV : Community Education Tour. Visits to schools, universities & community education in Bethlehem, Hebron, Nablus & Tel Aviv. ii) 26th OCT - 4th NOV : Olive Picking Tour. In partnership with community organisations in the Bethlehem/Beit Sahour area. An affordable opportunity to stay with Palestinian families & join the olive harvest, while also witnessing the effects of the military occupation. iii) 4th NOV - 11th NOV : Agricultural Tour. Offers the opportunity to meet with agricultural producers & fair trade schemes, building links with organisations contributing to the rebuilding of the Palestinian economy under occupation. Includes visits to Jerusalem, Nablus, Ramallah & Jenin. ALSO : Olive Co-op is also offering the opportunity to learn Arabic in Bethlehem in small classes.”
9j) STAR NATIONAL CONFERENCE : LIVERPOOL : 28 - 29 OCT
Contact: anup.patel@hertford.ox.ac.uk Web: http://www.star-network.org.uk “STAR (Student Action for Refugees). Liverpool University Guild of Students. Open to all STAR student & youth members, plus anyone who is interested, is 16 - 25 & still feels young! A gathering to listen to amazing, motivational & informative speakers & workshop leaders from the refugee community & organisations such as UNHCR, The Poppy project, Refugee Action. Participate in interactive group activities, be moved by music & art, meet each other & have a brilliant weekend. £18 including all meals, party & Fri & Sat night crashpad accommodation.”
9k) NATIONAL CLIMATE MARCH : LONDON : 4th NOVEMBER
Web: http://www.campaigncc.org/ Local Coaches: http://www.campaigncc.org/local.html National Climate March : Rally at US Embassy, Grosvenor Square, London, 12noon, Sat 4th Nov. NOTE: Part of the International Demonstrations planned for the next round of UN Climate Talks in Nairobi. “Climate change is perhaps the gravest calamity our species has ever encountered. Its impact dwarfs any war, any plague, any famine we have confronted so far. It makes genocide & ethnic cleansing look like sideshows at the circus of human suffering.”Organized by a huge range of NGOs including: F.o.E, WWF, Greenpeace, RSPB, Oxfam, Cafod, Women's Institute, Airport Watch, BMS World Mission, Centre for Alternative Technology, Climate Outreach & Information Network, Ethical Consumer, Medact, Operation Noah, P&P, Practical Action, Road Block, Save our World, Surfers Against Sewage, Sustrans, Take Global Warming Seriously, Tearfund, The Wildlife Trusts, Transport 2000, Women's Environmental Network, Woodland Trust, WDM.
9l) INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY CONFERENCE : BEIRUT : 24 - 26 NOV
Contact: Stop The War Office: office@stopwar.org.uk Web: http://www.samidoun.org If you would like to go to contact the Stop The War Office. “An International Solidarity Conference has been called in Beirut on the 24 - 26 Nov. Kofi Annan's visit to Beirut in August provoked angry protests for UN failure to stop Israel's onslaught. The defeat of the Israeli attack on Lebanon has opened up new prospects for the anti-war movement internationally. Trade unionists, campaigners & anti-war activists now have a new chance to deepen their links, co-ordinate action & to redouble their efforts to end the imperialist policies of the US & its allies in the Arab region. Organised by: The Cairo Conference, anti-war activisits & the Samidoun relief organisation.
9m) CAAT NATIONAL GATHERING : LONDON : 25th NOVEMBER
To Register, email: anna@caat.org.uk Web: http://www.caat.org.uk/events/gathering.php “Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT). 10am-6pm, Mary Ward House, Tavistock Place, London. Russel Square. Our annual conference for everyone interested in ending arms exports. A day of talks, discussions & workshops to find out more about the issues, improve your campaigning skills & meet other CAAT supporters.”
10) LOCAL PEACE VIGILS & PLANNING GROUPS
a) ~ Daily Bristol Peace Vigil
b) ~ Friday Easton Peace Vigil
c) ~ Saturday Bath Peace Vigil
d) ~ Weekly Bristol STW Meeting
e) ~ Regular Bath STW Meeting
a) DAILY BRISTOL PEACE VIGIL: The Independent Bristol Peace Vigil is an open space for discussion, as well a crucial focus to Bristol's campaigns. We've kept vigil every night (except Sundays) since the bombing and invasion of Afghanistan in Oct 2001, & we'll keep Vigil onwards into the future, but we do need your support to keep our flame alive. If you can only make it for 15 minutes, or a couple of times a month, please still come. Everyone's welcome at the Bristol Peace Vigil. TIMES: MON-FRI 5:30-6:30pm & SAT 3:00-4:00pm. PLACE: City Centre.(Opposite The Hippodrome. St. Augustines Parade).
b) EASTON PEACE VIGIL: Every Friday. 5:00pm-6:00pm. Corner of Robertson Rd & Stapleton Rd.
c) BATH PEACE VIGIL: Every Saturday. 11.30am-12.30pm. Bath Abbey. (Off York St. From the Station walk up Manvers St). Please support this long-established & powerful witness to the futility of war.
d) BRISTOL-STOP-THE-WAR PLANNING GROUP: Everyone's welcome. We hold a Bristol-Stop-The-War meeting every week, as a forum for local groups to inform each other of their intentions, of finding people to work together on projects, & as a venue where large Bristol events (meetings, demos etc) are agreed & planned We don't vote at these meetings, as we're not here to force adherence to a consensus view. Venue: Easy T's Café, 20-21 Lower Park Row, BRISTOL, BS1 5BN. This is a few doors down from The Ship pub, towards Christmas Steps. Tea & coffee are served! As now, the meetings will start at 7pm and end around 8.30pm. All
welcome. For further information email: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com Map:
http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=51.4559&lon=-2.5981&scale=5000&icon=x
e) BATH-STOP-THE-WAR: Hold Regular Meetings. For Details Tel: 01225 315480
Email: postmaster@bathstopwar.org.uk Visit: http://www.bathstopwar.org.uk
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For general enquiries email: bristolstopwar@hotmail.com
For News Around Bristol Visit: http://www.bristol.indymedia.org
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"Even those of us who have tried to follow the war closely are not aware of a fraction of the horrors unleashed in Iraq." - Author Arundathi Roy at the World Tribunal on Iraq, Istanbul, 2005. http://www.worldtribunal.org/
... SAY YES 2 PEACE ... SAY YES 2 PEACE ... SAY YES 2 PEACE ...
Bristol Stop The War Coalition
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abidjan
03.03.2007 09:22
I know this message will come to you as a surprise, compliment of the season, i have something special to discuss with you, it is nothing but to migrating to your country and investing my funds with you. Briefly, I am a Sierra Leonean National and the Daugther of late Dr Usman Camara. Until his death , my Father was the General overseer of the Diamond Mine in Kamena Sierra Leone . On October 26th 2005 the military forces royal to the Government of AHMED TIJAN KABBAH invaded the diamond mine and assassinated my Father, mistaking him for his brother MICHAEL CAMARA who is the deputy of the leader of the Revolutionary United Front ( RUF) FODAY SANKOH. When the news reached me,
I hurried and gathered some valuables in our family, and escaped for my dear life with my only Brother Daniel. Among the valuable items there was a file that contained details of a deposit, my father made in a security company in Abidjan Cote d棚voire Here. He deposited ($18.5 million US dollars) contained in a box in my name as the next of kin. Please it was deposited as family valuables, the company do not know that the content is money, he made from the sale of Gold and Diamonds during his time as the General overseer, now that we are in Abidjan and located where it was, please we need your assistance to move this funds out of Cote d棚voire for investment in your country as we cannot invest here due to its nearness to our country and the war going on there. We ask you to scout for a viable and lucrative business, so that we can invest wisely.
We have it in mind to give you 20% of the money, and 15% share in any investiment we will embark upon if you assist us. We will also set aside 10% of the funds for any expenses which you will make in course of this transaction.
Please we kindly wait to hear from you for the next step to follow.
.
Thanks,
Ajayim Usman.
ajayim_usman
e-mail: ajayim_usman10@yahoo.co.jp
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