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Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Green Left Weekly Activist Calendar - 2013-05-22 - Melbourne and regional Victoria

Green Left Weekly Activist CalendarMay 22, 2013

Book launch
Latin America's Turbulent Transitions
Tuesday, June 18, 6:30pm (meal from 6pm). Resistance Centre, Level 5, 407 Swanston St, City (opposite RMIT). Guest speaker: Federico Fuentes, co-author and socialist activist. A new work by Roger Burbach, Michael Fox and Federico Fuentes. Latin America was the first region targeted by the neoliberal phase of capitalism, and it suffered some of its worst consequences. But it is in Latin America that neoliberalism has been most contested in recent years by new social movements of landless peasants, indigenous communities and urban unemployed.
In a number of countries, this powerful democratic ferment has led to the election of anti-neoliberal, anti-imperialist governments, a process that started with the initial electoral victory of Hugo Chávez Frias in the late 1990s. The untimely death of the outstanding Venezuelan leader on March 5 prompted many to reflect on his government’s important achievements and the still unresolved challenges facing not only Venezuela but the whole of Latin America. What is the nature of these new governments of the so-called 'pink tide'? And what are the prospects for building a continental movement toward a libertarian mass-based democratic socialism of the 21st century, the goal that Chávez embraced and advocated in the international arena? Presented by Green Left Weekly & Socialist Alliance. For more info ph 9639 8622.

3CR Radiothon '13
Make your donation political
Monday, June 3-Sunday, June 16. In this federal election year, Radio 3CR is asking you to make a political donation that matters. As the two major political parties slug it out, the choice is clear: a donation to 3CR is a vote for progressive alternative coverage of social, cultural and political issues. We need your support during our June 3-16 Radiothon. To donate or info visit3CR or ph 9419 8377.

glw logo
This is the regular Melbourne activist calendar compiled by Green Left Weekly. Emailed to subscribers each Wednesday fortnight, it is a one-stop listing of the main left and progressive events in Melbourne and Geelong.
Since it began in early 1991, Green Left Weekly has offered an indispensable alternative to the lies of the big-business media and has helped build the various movements for social change. To subscribe to Green Left Weekly, visit our secure online website for rates and payment at Green Left Weekly or call our national hotline on 1800 634 206.
You can also contact us at the Resistance Centre, 5th floor, 407 Swanston St, City; ph 9639 8622. In Geelong we are at the Activist Centre, Trades Hall, 127 Myers St (opening hours: Mon 2-4.30pm, Fri 10am-4.30pm); ph 5222 6900.
New email address? Not already receiving this calendar regularly? Want to subscribe someone else? Let us know at Greenleft Melbourne.


Other coming events

Until Sunday, June 2
Exhibition: Protest! Archives from Melbourne University. An exhibition of posters, pamphlets, badges, etc. exploring Melbourne University's rich history of protest. 8:30am-5pm weekdays; 11am-5pm weekends. Leigh Scott Gallery, Level 1, Baillieu Library, University of Melbourne. For more info visit Melb University.
Until Thursday, May 30
Exhibition: Remembering Tamil genocide. A photographic installation exhibition by a Tamil Refugee currently in Australia. According to the UN Human Rights Commissioner, Navi Pillay, genocide was, and is, being repeated in Sri Lanka, and once again the world is averting its eyes. During the last days of the 28-year Sri Lankan civil war in 2009, the outside world was shut out when the remaining monitors from the UN left the war zone fearful for their own safety. The subsequent Sri Lankan military atrocities against the Tamil civilian population have been recorded, vividly and starkly, through the photographs and films taken by survivors, and smuggled out of the country. This exhibition, which documents the stark evidence of these war crimes and the on-going persecution of Tamils, shows exactly why Tamils have fled, and continue to flee, their homeland. (Warning: Some images may cause distress.) Collingwood Gallery, 292 Smith St, Collingwood. For more info ph exhibition curator Ron Guy on 0428 173 970.
Thursday, May 23
Moreland North-East ward residents meeting: Meet your local councillor, Sue Bolton. Councillor Sue Bolton would like to get the input of people living in the Moreland Northeast Ward about the problems you are concerned about. 6:30pm. Fawkner Community House, CB Smith Reserve, 79 Jukes Rd (at end of Leisure Centre carpark). For info contact Sue on 0417 583 664.
Saturday, May 25
Give a Gonski community rally. Gonski would deliver an additional $4 billion to Victorian schools. Help us send a strong message of community support for Gonski to the Premier. Come along for a family event with music, food, great speakers and plenty of activities for the kids, including a jumping castle, face painting, a petting zoo and balloons. 12:30pm. Treasury Gardens, Spring St, City.
Rally: March against Monsanto. Research studies have shown that Monsanto’s genetically-modified foods can lead to serious health conditions such as the development of cancer tumors, infertility and birth defects. In the United States, the FDA, the agency tasked with ensuring food safety for the population, is steered by ex-Monsanto executives, and we feel that's a conflict of interest and explains the lack of government-led research on the long-term effects of GMO products. For too long, Monsanto has been the benefactor of corporate subsidies and political favoritism. Organic and small farmers suffer losses while Monsanto continues to forge its monopoly over the world's food supply, including exclusive patenting rights over seeds and genetic makeup. 2pm. State Library, 328 Swanston St, City.
Fundraiser: Peña, celebrating Latin American struggles. A community gathering, with musicians, poets, traditional dance groups, live bands, to celebrate the struggles and resistance of Latin American grassroots movements demanding workers rights, land for Indigenous/first nations people, real democracy and real changes across human society. With The Conch, Divina Providencia, Clandestine Voice. 6:30pm. MUA Hall, 46-54 Ireland St, West Melbourne. Bookings essential, discounts for groups, no BYO, drinks and food available; to book a table ph Rodrigo 0414 970 418 or Lucho 0425 539 149. $15/$10. Organised by Latin American Solidarity Network.
Sunday, May 26
Public meeting: Campaign to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia's Constitution city event. On the 15th anniversary of Sorry Day, Recognise will launch an epic relay across the country. The 'Journey to Recognition' will be meeting communities and gathering support across our country to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our constitution. Following the launch, attendees will be invited to take the first steps of the journey along the river to Batman Park, where proceedings will wrap up with a community BBQ at approximately 11:30am (after which a smaller number of us will walk off towards South Australia!). 9:30am. Federation Square. Please RSVP to Claire.
Public meeting: National Sorry Day. MC: Bryan Andy. Guest Speakers: Kyle Vander-Kuyp; Ian Hamm; Zoe Upton; Alice Solomon. Performances by: Seven Sisters; Skin Choir; William Wandin-Dow. 12:45pm (for 1pm start). Bunjilaka-Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson St, Collingwood. Afternoon tea provided. For more info ph 8679 0777.
Public meeting: Campaign to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia's Constitution Footscray event. On the 15th anniversary of Sorry Day, Recognise will launch an epic relay across the country. 1:30pm (for 2pm arrival). Nicholson Street Mall, Northern end near Barkly St, Footscray. (The launch is at Federation Square, Melbourne 9:30-11:00am, Sunday, May 26. Their first stop is Footscray. The last stop is Nhulunbuy in the Northern Territory.)
Wednesday, May 29
Film screening: Ashamed to be Australian. Screening of Four Corners documentary on Nauru and Manus Island. In the Four Corners documentary No Advantage, Debbie Whitmont goes inside Australia's offshore refugee processing centres on Nauru and Manus Island. What you see will shock you. Protests, evidence of self-harm and testimony of suicide attempts. 4:15pm. Graham Cornish Rooms, Second Floor, Union House, Melbourne University.
Thursday, May 30
Rally: Protest education funding cuts. Australia remains the second lowest country to fund higher education in the OECD at just 0.8%; if the federal government is serious about a smarter Australia then it must commit further funding to tertiary education, not remove it. Repeal all funding cuts to higher education; Don't increase graduate debt; Hands off student support. 4pm. State Library, 328 Swanston St, City. Organised by Victorian Education Action Network and the National Union of Students to coincide with the prime minister's visit to Melbourne.
Public meeting: Mona El Farra discusses public health in Gaza. Dr Mona El Farra is a physician now working as a public health advocate in Gaza. Her particular focus is on women and children. 6pm. RMIT, Building 80, Swanston St, Level 2, Room 7. Sponsored by the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network & Australians for Palestine. For more info ph Michael Shaik 0431 573 368.
Friday, May 31
Public meeting: Health in Gaza today with Mona el Farra. MAPW will host a breakfast where Dr el Farra will address the health situation in Gaza. 8am. Travellers Bookstore, 294 Smith St, Collingwood (doors open from 7:45am). Please RSVP toMAPW.
Film screening: 5 Broken Cameras, A fundraiser for Students for Palestine. The first Palestinian film to be nominated for an Oscar, '5 Broken Cameras' is an extraordinary work of both cinematic and political activism. '5 Broken Cameras' highlights the type of atrocities that relationships like this contribute to and raises awareness about the struggles of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation, which is often omitted or falsified by the mainstream media. The documentary follows the life of Palestinian Emad Burnat, his family and his fellow Bil'in villagers. 6pm. Kaleide Theatre, RMIT University, Building 8, Level 2, 360 Swanston St, City. $30/$15/$8.
Friday Night Late Show with Dolly Diamond Feat. The fabulous Miss Dolly Diamond, debating the ins and outs of marriage equality with a panel of weird and wonderful guests, all of them extremely well-versed on the issue. 8:30pm. Eureka Hotel, 1 Church St, Richmond. $25 ($10 per person will be donated to Equal Love). We depend on you, our lovely supporters so come along, have a drink and a laugh and maybe even learn something. Organised by Equal Love Campaign.
Saturday, June 1
Rally: Original Nations Passport ceremony. Original Nation Passports will be issued by Robert Thorpe and Uncle Larry Walsh, West Papua visa stamps issued by Jacob Rumbiak, foreign affairs minister of the Federated Republic of West Papua, authorising participants on the Freedom Flotilla to West Papua to enter West Papuan lands. 10am. Trades Hall, cnr Lygon & Victoria sts, Carlton South. For more info visit Free West Papua.
Rally: National Day of Action for Bradley Manning. June 1 marks the beginning of whistleblower Private Bradley Manning's 4th year in prison and the beginning of his trial for revealing USA war crimes and abuses to the world via WikiLeaks. 2pm. Old GPO, cnr Bourke & Elizabeth Sts, City.
Fundraiser: Free West Papua Party. 9pm. Bar 303, 303 High St, Northcote.
Sunday, June 2
Concert: We sing for reconciliation. This event celebrates two of the most powerful and soulful voices of Australia. Bonded by a desire to effect change, Deline Briscoe and Liz Stringer will take to the stage and come together in true unity, reflecting the positive reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australia. 3pm. Wesley Anne, 250 High st, Northcote. $20. Organised by Songlines Aboriginal Music.
Monday, June 3-Sunday, June 16
3CR Radiothon '13: Make your donation political. In this federal election year, we're asking you to make a political donation that matters. As the two major political parties slug it out, the choice is clear: a donation to 3CR is a vote for progressive alternative coverage of social, cultural and political issues. We need your support during our June 3-16 Radiothon. To donate or info visit 3CR or ph 9419 8377.
Monday, June 3
Public meeting: Songlines & stockmen: A history of art in Central Australia. An historical presentation on the emergence of art in central Australia by two renowned experts, John Kean and Jason Gibson. 6:15pm. Williamstown Library, 104 Ferguson St, Williamstown. To book visit Library or ph 1300 462 542.
Wednesday, June 5
Public meeting: Report from global picketline workshop in the Philippines. Guest speaker: Jiselle Hanna has just returned from the Philippines where she participated in the KMU trade union centre 29th International Solidarity Affair. She also facilitated the Global Picketline workshop with PALEA members at Manila airport. Jiselle will be reporting on her experiences and on the reception given to the global picketline concept. All welcome. 6pm. Evatt Room, Trades Hall, cnr Lygon & Victoria Sts, Carlton South.
Thursday, June 6
Public meeting: What's driving planning and development in Coburg? Guest speaker: Michael Buxton (Professor Environment and Planning, School of Global Studies, Social Science and Planning, RMIT University). He has held senior positions in four Victorian planning and environmental agencies and has contributed extensively to national and state environmental and planning policy. Michael will speak at the beginning of the meeting and will inform the discussions that follow. We will then discuss and agree on motions that we as a residents group will put forward to councillors prior to their voting on planning amendment C123. 6:30pm. Coburg Library, cnr Louisa St & Victoria st mall, Coburg. Organised by Save Coburg. For more info ph Sally 0422 470 011 or Sue 0413 377 978.
Public meeting: Michael Green on bursting the carbon bubble. How does climate change threaten your savings? And how do your savings threaten climate change? Can you do anything about it? One of the world’s fastest-growing social movements calls for citizens and institutions to sell out of fossil fuels. But it's not only a matter of morality. Hard-headed analysts say there's a growing risk of a collapse in the value of fossil fuel investments. Taken together, these warnings present a new way to understand our climate crisis. 12:45-1:15pm. The Wheeler Centre, 176 Little Lonsdale St, City. This is a free event. Bookings are not required.
Saturday, June 8-Sunday, June 9
Sydney Conference: Organising for 21st Century Socialism. A two-day seminar with keynote speaker Paul LeBlanc, author ofLenin and the Revolutionary Party, one of the best scholarly studies of the Bolshevik Party during the Russian Revolution. LeBlanc's keynote presentation is titled 'Lessons from Lenin for 21st century socialism'. Federico Fuentes, one of the authors of a new book, Latin America's Turbulent Transitions: The Future of Twenty-First Century Socialism will also give a presentation on 'Revolutionary leadership in 21st century Latin America'. In addition, there will also be workshops and panel discussions on recent and past experiences of left party building in Australia and Europe. Sydney Resistance Centre, 22 Mountain St, Ultimo, NSW. For bookings or info visit 21st Century Socialism.
Saturday, June 8
Discussion: The Rugmaker of Mazar-e-Sharif. Robert Hillman and Najaf Mazari will talk about their book . The Rugmaker of Mazar-e-Sharif charts the life of Najaf Mazari, who flees Afghanistan after being tortured by the Taliban. After arriving in Australia as a refugee, Najaf establishes a new life using his trade as a rug-maker and carpet-seller. $12/$10. 4-5:30pm. Touring Hall, Melbourne Museum. Bookings essential. Book online.
Sunday, June 9
Comedy: Political Asylum Comedy Room. Political Asylum is a topical, political standup show, featuring some of the best political comedians in Australia. It takes place on the second Sunday of every month at The Brunswick Green in Melbourne. There are also irregular special shows during festivals such as the Melbourne Fringe Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. A core group of contributors deliver brand new topical standup every month, alongside stellar guest standup spots delivered by some of Australia's funniest people. Guidelines for performers are simple: Political Asylum is the place for intelligent, topical, political humour. 5:30pm. The Brunswick Green, 313 Sydney Rd, Brunswick. $10/5. For more info visit Political Asylum.
Tuesday, June 11
Rally: International day of action for Marie Mason & Eric McDavid. Mason was arrested in 2008 by US authorities for charges related to two acts of property destruction that occurred in 1999 and 2000: damaging an office connected to GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) research, and destroying a piece of logging equipment. No one was injured in either act. She received almost 22 years. McDavid was targeted by the state for his political beliefs, and his case is important for everyone who dares to stand up. This vigil will also highlight logging in Australia and internationally. 6:30pm. 1 Spring St, City. Bring banners candles. For more info email: NDA.
Thursday, June 13
Public meeting: The history & future of Leninism. Keynote speaker: Paul LeBlanc, US socialist and author of Lenin and the Revolutionary Party, one of the best scholarly studies of the Bolshevik Party during the Russian Revolution. 6:30pm. AMWU Vic conference room, 251 Queensberry St, Carlton (between Bouverie & Leicester sts). Entry by donation to cover tour costs. Jointly hosted by the Socialist Alliance and Socialist Alternative. For more info ph 9639 8622.
Friday, June 14
Public meeting: Stop the Creation of Another Stolen Generation: It's time to Step Up! for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children's rights. This event will explore different aspects behind the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the child protection system and what needs to happen to see real change through a dynamic conversation with Aboriginal and non-Indigenous leaders. 11am. The Edge, Federation Square, cnr Swanston & Flinders Sts, City. RSVP to Ashleyto give us an indication of numbers.
Sunday, June 16
Rally: World Refugee Day. Welcome refugees; close Manus island; close Nauru; end mandatory detention; stop deportations to danger; honour the Refugee Convention. 12pm. Exhibition Building, Nicholson St, Carlton (near Gertrude St, beside Carlton Gardens). Organised by Refugee Advocacy Network.
Meal & discussion: Resisting war to make peace. Professor Michael Hamel-Green will talk about his experiences as a war resister and concsientious objector. 1pm for a shared meal followed at 2pm by a discussion. Kildara, rear 39 Stanhope St, Malvern. Organised by Pax Christi. For more info ph 0424 950 852.
Tuesday, June 18
Book launch: Latin America's Turbulent Transitions, with author Federico Fuentes. A new work by Roger Burbach, Michael Fox and Federico Fuentes. Latin America was the first region targeted by the neoliberal phase of capitalism, and it suffered some of its worst consequences. But it is in Latin America that neoliberalism has been most contested in recent years by new social movements of landless peasants, indigenous communities and urban unemployed. In a number of countries, this powerful democratic ferment has led to the election of anti-neoliberal, anti-imperialist governments — a process that started with the initial electoral victory of Hugo Chávez Frias in the late 1990s. The untimely death of the outstanding Venezuelan leader on March 5 prompted many to reflect on his government’s important achievements and the still unresolved challenges facing not only Venezuela but the whole of Latin America. What is the nature of these new governments of the so-called “pink tide”? And what are the prospects for building a continental movement toward a libertarian mass-based democratic socialism of the 21st century, the goal that Chávez embraced and advocated in the international arena? 6:30pm. Resistance Centre, Level 5, 407 Swanston St, City (opposite RMIT). Presented by Green Left Weekly & Socialist Alliance. For more info ph 9639 8622.
Friday, June 21-Sunday, June 23
Sydney Conference: Australian Climate Action Summit. Join with climate activists to share our experiences and knowledge to help build an even stronger Climate Action Movement! Register by May 31 to get the earlybird rate. Special rates for students and unemployed to make it affordable to all. For bookings or info visit Climate Action Summit.
Saturday, June 22-Sunday, June 23
The annual New International Bookshop: Big Red Book Fair. As usual it’s going to be a huge event with a raffle, sausage sizzle and heaps of bargains on new and second-hand books. Trades Hall, cnr Lygon & Victoria Sts, Carlton South.
Saturday, June 29
PLEASE NOTE: This event has been cancelled due to the ill-health of Christine Assange. Green Left Weekly Solidarity Dinner: An evening with Christine Assange.
Fundraiser: Big Red Quiz Night. Laughs and prizes galore are guaranteed, so book your table (for 8 people) before they run out. $25/$15. Book online to receive a free $25 gift voucher to spend at the Big Red Book Fair! Federation of Education Unions, 120 Clarendon St, Southbank. To book email NIBS or ph 9662 3744.
Thursday, July 4
Public meeting: War: what is it good for? Iraq veteran speaks out Iraq Veterans Against the War spokesperson Vince Emanuele is returning to Australia to talk about the real and ongoing impact of the US- and Australian-based wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Vince is one of the protagonists in the new film On the Bridge, a powerful anti-war documentary interviewing veterans suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. 6:30pm. Trades Hall, cnr Lygon & Victoria Sts, Carlton South. Organised by Stop the War Coalition, Marrickville Peace Group, StandFast and Wikileaks Action Citizens Alliance.
Friday, July 5- Tuesday, July 9
Launcesto Conference: Students of Sustainability. A five-day camping conference for anyone interested in creating a more ecologically & socially sustainable world. University of Tasmania, Launceston Campus. For bookings or info visit SOS.
Friday, July 12
Rally: NAIDOC march. NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 10am. Victorian Aboriginal Health Service, 186 Nicholson St, Fitzroy.
Monday, July 15-Thursday, July 18
Conference: NOWSA (Network of Women Students Australia). NOWSA is an annual conference of women students across the country. The conference is an opportunity for networking and skill-sharing among women grassroots student activists. The conference is open to all students who identify as or experience oppression as a woman. Melbourne University. For bookings or info visit NOWSA.
Saturday, August 17
Rally: Equal Love 9th Anniversary Rally. Equal Love's next rally will mark the 9th anniversary since John Howard changed the marriage act to state that marriage shall be strictly 'an institution between a man and a woman to the exclusion of all others'. The August rally is 4 weeks before the federal election and is expected to  send a loud and passionate message to both major parties demanding equality. 1pm. State Library, cnr Swanston & La Trobe Sts, City.

Geelong & regional Victoria

Thursday, May 30
Public meeting: The campaign for refugee rights. 5:30pm. Downstairs, Geelong Trades Hall, 127 Myers St, Geelong. Organised by Geelong Trades Hall council. For more info ph 5222 6900.
Sunday, June 2
Geelong Reconciliation Group: Reconciliation Day in Johnstone Park. 'Reconciliation in the Park' is a community based initiative organised by the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative and The Geelong One Fire Reconciliation Group. This event is to raise awareness of reconciliation and Aboriginal culture through free family fun activities. Head along and make some damper, join in making and painting boomerangs, face painting, the storyteller game, dancing, jumping castle, basket weaving, emu egg carving, sausage sizzle and more. Learn about the achievements and contributions of the local Indigenous community and reflect on what recognition means. This is a wonderful day to join together to share and appreciate Aboriginal culture and history. 10am to 3pm. Johnstone Park, Geelong.
Monday, June 3
Rally: Student speakout. 12pm. Gordon TAFE, Fenwick St campus, Geelong. Organised by Socialist Alliance. For more info ph 0407 336 332.
Public meeting: Student action collective. All students are welcome to plan action around the continued cuts to public education. 4pm. Activist Centre, Geelong Trades Hall, 127 Myers St, Geelong. For more info ph 0407 336 332.

Campaign committees

Beyond Zero Emissions Melbourne branch meetings. BZE's monthly branch meetings are a way for current and prospective BZE volunteers to meet up, get to know each other and discuss upcoming events such as presentations, stalls, film nights and discussion groups. Meets on the third Monday of every month at Level 2, Kindness House, 288 Brunswick St, Fitzroy. Active and prospective volunteers welcome. For more info email Chitra Perez or ph 0401 087 085.
Friends of the Earth's Anti-Nuclear & Clean Energy (ACE) collective meetings. Wednesdays. FoE office, 312 Smith St, Collingwood. For meeting times & more info email Zin.
Indigenous Social Justice Association. The Indigenous Social Justice Association was established in January 2005 to organise a Melbourne rally and march as part of a National Day of Action to mark the first anniversary of the death of Kamilaroi teenager, TJ Hickey in Redfern, and to demand a fresh inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death. Those organising this held consultations with interested members of the Victorian Aboriginal community. Participants in these consultations enthusiastically supported the proposal for a Melbourne rally to demand justice for TJ but asked that this not be a one-off event but part of an ongoing effort to permanently stop Aboriginal deaths in custody. During 2013, ISJA will meet the first Thursday of every month. For more info visit ISJA.
Melbourne Feminist Action Group. We think it's time to put women's rights back on the public agenda. We've started an open organising group and everyone's invited, from already existing women's rights groups and activist organisations, to women and men who may never have been involved in feminist action in their lives but just want to do something. We want to get together to have that crucial discussion: what can we do, right now, that will give this movement a push? It's open to everyone; anyone who attends can have their say. If you can make it, bring your ideas about what you would like to see happen next. For more info ph 0438 869 790 or email MelbFemAction.
Quit Coal: No New Coal Power for Victoria. A Melbourne-based collective which campaigns against expansion of the coal industry in Victoria. We believe this is important because building new coal infrastructure locks in decades of dirty, old technology, when we should be moving towards clean, renewable energy. Quit Coal meets each Wednesday at 6pm, at FOE, 312 Smith St, Collingwood. For more info visit Quit Coal or email Quit Coal.
Refugee Action Collective (RAC). Established in 2000, RAC is a democratic, grassroots activist collective, representing a broad cross section of the community. It aims to mobilise opposition to Australia's inhuman refugee policies. For more info ph 0413 377 978 or visit RAC.
Victorian Climate Action Calendar. For a comprehensive list of climate action events in our state. The VCAC covers events in Victoria and major events elsewhere and is intended to inform, educate and inspire. To subscribe to the calendar email Monique Decortis. Weekly updates are e-mailed out and online updates are available at VCAC. To add an event to the calendar, please download the Event Template from the website. Feel free to forward the VCAC to other interested people.
Workers Solidarity Network. WSN believes that we, as workers, have the power to improve our working conditions and bring about positive social change. WSN believes that our country is not a real democracy unless we have democratic workplaces where workers have a say. WSN believes that the only way to bring about a fairer share of resources in our society in by forming active unions and community organisations to fight for it. For more info visit WSN.

Do one thing for Diversity and Inclusiveness - ‘World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development’

I got to know about Cultural Infusion 
during the Parliament of the World's Religions in Melbourne in 2009.
 Very creative people!

~~~~~

Cultural Infusion - building cultural harmony and wellbeing!

‘Do One Thing For Diversity and Inclusiveness’ 

Cultural Infusion develops winning slogan
for UNAOC campaign

Special Announcement: 21 May, 2013 for
‘World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development’
Cultural Infusion 
is the proud producer of the winning slogan for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAC) 2013 
Do One Thing for Diversity and Inclusion” campaign.

“Divided We Fall, 
United We Stand, Diversified We Grow” 

"The slogan builds on the well-known motto ‘United We Stand, Divided We Fall’, which has appeared throughout modern culture in songs and political campaigns across the world”, explains Peter Mousaferiadis, Cultural Infusion’s Creative Director and Founder.

“The concept behind it is to recognise that whilst we stand strong as a united people we have more to gain through a focus on inclusivity; drawing upon ourstrengths as a people made up of many culturally diverse backgrounds.”
Cultural Infusion is an Australian not-for-profit organisation that works in education, youth, communities and the arts to promote cultural harmony and wellbeing for a more cohesive and richer society. Its education program “Discovering Diversity” is delivered to an annual audience exceeding 200,000 students and they have produced cross-cultural experiences at major events including the Parliament of World’s Religions, the United Nations 63rd annual DPI/NGO Conference and the 25th International Baccalaureate Asia Pacific Annual Conference.

“One of our organisations core beliefs,” Peter explains, “is that as a diverse society living in a globalised world, the ability to move between and respect cultures other than our native one is an invaluable asset for personal and community development.”
This has been a thrilling six months for Cultural Infusion who have not only received a ‘Highly Commended Award’ for the ANZIA Internet Awards (2012) but were alsoone of the winners of the United Nations’ coveted international ‘Intercultural Innovation Award’ (2013) for their ongoing work with ‘Sound Infusion’ - a project which aims to expose schools to global cultures through a web and app based music program.
Peter has been invited to present his winning slogan in front of thousands of international guests including 50 ministers from around the globe at the ‘World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue’ in Baku (Azerbaijan) on May 29th.
Today is ‘World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development’!
In December 2002, the UN General Assembly declared May 21 to be the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.
The day provides us with an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity and to learn to live together better.
Their grassroots campaign ‘Do One Thing For Diversity and Inclusion’ encourages you to do one thing today to combat polarization and stereotypes to improve understanding and cooperation among people from different cultures.
EMAIL NOW
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube

Some of Cultural Infusion's programs have been awarded the Intercultural Innovation Award by the UNAOC & BMW Group, for outstanding programs that promote cultural harmony and wellbeing.
Copyright © 2013 Cultural Infusion, All rights reserved.

Bess Price expresses sadness about violence- and does a vent about those who don't agree with or like her.


Will Australians make demands on retailers using sweatshop/deathshop labour? Write now. Campaign now.

We have all heard about the Bangladesh factory fire of 24 April, 2013 which killed 400 people.  This is nothing new. Bangladesh (and those international retailers who commission goods from factories there) have form.  The picture above is from a 2012 fire which killed 112 people.  For information about the prosecution of the factory owner, please go here.

Kmart, Target, Big W and Cotton On have all not signed on to the global agreement and those companies have no excuse not to be part of this. This is an effective way of actually dealing with a huge tragedy.

It is clear that only consumer activism, complaints, and demands for retailers to supply clear labelling and listing of supply chains will change anything and keep our retailing corporations honest, active and responsive to human rights. I have linked below contact forms and pages for the three major retailers mentioned on The World Today by Michele O'Neil.
Kmart contact form
BigW contact page
Cotton On contact form

Bangladesh has the lowest minimum wage in the world at $38 month.  Cambodia has the second lowest minimum wage in the world at $66 a month, so reports CorpWatch.  And, Australian consumers, if you are tempted to say that costs of living are cheaper in both countries then that doesn't wash.  These are people whose incomes barely put food in their mouths.  Their incomes don't buy four bedroom houses with bathroom, ensuite and plasma TV.  

The fact is that Australian greed, First World greed, 
is exploiting Third World need.

Western consumers must take some responsibility 
for the Bangladesh factory deaths.

One thing you can do that is only a Like away:

I have written to-day to Kelvin Thomson, Parliamentary Secretary for Trade as follows:
Dear Kelvin Thomson,

I write to express my concerns about the recent Bangladesh factory fire which has horrified the world.


I write to ask you, as Minister for Trade, what the Australian Government - and in particular the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - is doing to assist in:
  1. Making Australian businesses compile supply chain details in relation to the products they sell and supply them on request to their customers.
  2. Advising Australian businesses in relation to their responsibilities in relation to human rights when sourcing goods and products from countries with low-wage, non-unionised sweatshops and deathshops.
  3. Keeping watch on countries with low-wage, non-unionised sweatshops and deathshops.
  4. Keeping watch on governments of countries with low-wage, non-unionised sweatshops and deathshops.
  5. Developing Australian Government responses to countries and governments which allow low-wage, non-unionised sweatshops and deathshops.
I plan to follow up to-day by writing to the following retailing organisations:


Below, more links are provided to expand your knowledge on this topic.
Firstly, previous posts on The Network on the 2013 Bangladesh factory fire at Rana Plaza:

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Monday, May 20, 2013

Lake Eyre Basin is a great water system in the heart of Australia. Please help to give it a sustainable future.

The next threatened great water system in Australia is the Lake Eyre Basin.
The sixth biennial
Lake Eyre Basin Conference
will be held in Port August, South Australia,
on 17-19 September 2013.
Please do your bit to give the LEB a sustainable future.

National Climate Adaptation Conference - Sydney - 25-27 June 2013

Climate Adaptation Conference 25 – 27 June 2013

The NCCARF Climate Adaptation 2013 knowledge+partnerships conference will bring together end users and researchers from across Australia to share experience in adaptation and showcase activities, strategies and research. We invite you to attend Climate Adaptation 2013 to be held at the Hilton Hotel, Sydney, from 25 – 27 June 2013.
The conference will be the nexus between the research community and the users of climate change adaptation information in Australia. Building on the success of the NCCARF-CSIRO Climate Adaptation in Action 2012 Conference, the successful delivery of $35 million in adaptation research and the building of formal research networks and informal adaptation partnerships, this will be Australia’s pre-eminent event focusing solely on climate change adaptation for 2013.

 View the Draft Program >>

Climate change and health - scoping impacts & adaptation options - Alice Springs - 3 June


Greenhouse 2013 - the science of climate change 8-11 October 2013 - Adelaide

Free trade comes first in Australian politics. Put people and right living first. No more sweatshop deaths.

If you haven't caught up with recent posts relating to the aftermath of the Bangladesh factory fire please go to the links below:

Will things really change or merely salve western middle-class consciences? Accord signed after Bangladesh factory deaths


As can be seen from the graphic below, American consumers are being asking to supervise their companies to ensure they act responsibly.  Yet, as you can see from the graphic below, before or after the fire doing the right thing by Bangladeshi factory workers was never-ever going to cost very much.  

The only thing that has driven these major corporations into the Bangladesh Factory Safety Accord has been self-interest in saving their corporate hides from a consumer backlash in their own consuming countries and the anger of Bangladeshi citizens in haranguing their own government for change.  Such a small cost for so many martyred employees!

So, Australians, please ride shotgun on your own corporate citizens. Question their supply chain. Question whether they have entered into a Factory Safety Accord in Bangladesh. Question whether they have learned from the Bangladesh experience sufficiently to translate to other sweatshop countries: China, Vietnam, India, Indonesia and so on.  

Surely, consumers in Australia are not so naive as to think the corporates will remain ethical of their own accord (pardon the questionable pun!).  Corporates in Austrealia will only act so long as there is an active, interested consumer voice encouraging them - and the parliaments of Australia - to make sure there are no more workplace martyrs anywhere in the world.

And a word to the Federal Government.  If you want to cut back the Australian Foreign Aid budget, how about making up for the lack of cash and substituting it with a ban on countries that allow breaches of human rights in the work place.  These breaches include 
  • Preventing and/or deterring workers from joining trade unions.
  • Preventing and/or deterring workers from seeking to have employers fulfil legal and necessary workplace health and safety conditions
  • Paying sweatshop wages instead of a living income.  
Free trade has come first far to often in Australian politics.
Let's put human beings and right living first.



Dale Hess's Calendar - 2013-05-20 : Mondragon and Co-operatives : William Dalrymple : Monsanto : Reconciliation and more

Tuesday, 21 May, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm: Film Screening - We the Owners, Employees Expanding the American Dream: Employee Ownership Australia and New Zealand. Interested in Mondragon and the employee-owner revolution in the US? We the Owners captures stories from the founders and employees from New Belgium Brewing, Namasté Solar, and DPR Construction, sharing the worker's perspectives on shared ownership structures, highly empowering corporate cultures, linked reward and risk incentives, and human-capital innovation models. The film follows as decisions are made on founding the company, expansion, succession, recruitment, and layoffs. Following the film will be apanel discussion featuring Loren Rodgers, CEOUS National Center for Employee Ownership. Venue: Elisabeth Murdoch Theatre A, Universityof MelbourneFree entry, but need to register need to register. 

Website: http://wetheownerseoaestw.eventbrite.com.au/  

Tuesday 21 May, 8.30 pm: William Dalrymple: The Return of the king: the battle for AfghanistanIn 1839 The British launched an invasion ofAfghanistan largely as a result of false intelligence. William Darymple has told the story of the first Anglo Afghan war and the subsequent "war of retribution" using Afghan sources. As well as being a great read the book draws parallels which shed light on the current situation. Venue: Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins StreetMelbourneCost: $20; $12 concession. Further information: Wheeler Centre



Saturday 25 May, 2 pm: March Against Monsanto. The movement for GM-free is now grass roots and global! Millions of people everywhere will demand the right to know and to choose GM-free crops and foods, when we March Against Monsanto on Sunday May 25. Marches and meetings are planned in 321 cities, so far. We March Against Monsanto because: most foods and ingredients made using GM techniques are unlabelled; some types of Monsanto's GM soy, corn and canola harm experimental animals, and maybe us; Monsanto's control of the world's seed and food supply using patents is 27% and growing. Venue: State Library of Victoria. Further information: website: http://on.fb.me/17FMbKS; email:marchagainstmonsantomelbourne@gmail.com.


Sunday 26 May, 9.30 am – 11 am: Walk with Reconciliation Victoria. Walk the first steps with Recognise and then join us for some Black Olive catering after the launch at Batman Park on the river, hosted by Reconciliation Victoria. The movement to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in our Constitution is taking to the road to build even more public support for this quest: http://goo.gl/IbeXR. Venue: Federation SquareMelbourne.

Thursday 30 May, 6 pm: Life in Gaza Today: A Humanitarian and Human Rights Perspective with Dr Mon El Farra, Health Chair and Vice President of the Red Crescent Society for the Gaza Strip. Dr El Farra is a physician who now works as a public health advocate. She works in developing community based programs that aim to improve health quality and link health services with cultural and recreational services all over the Gaza Strip. Her particular focus is on the rights of women and children. Venue: Building 80, Level 2, Room 7, RMIT University. Further information: Michael Shaik 0431 573 368.

Friday 31 May, 8 am: Meet Dr Mona El Farra. MAPW will host a breakfast where Dr El Farra will address the health situation in Gaza. The meeting will begin at the Travellers Bookstore, 294 Smith St, Collingwood, which will be open from 7.45 am. Please RSVP to mapw@mapw.org.au.

Saturday 1 June, 9 am -11.30 am: Breakfast conversation: What's being female got to do with sustainability? Come & listen to Jenni Goricanec, a facilitator at the OASES Graduate School, as she shares some fascinating insights on what it means to be female in a society trying to live more sustainably. Cost: $25/$15 including delicious buffet breakfast (with vegetarian options). For more info & to register, click here. You can also register by e-mail, or phone on 9819 3502. Venue: Oases Graduate School, Community Learning and Research Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.

Sunday 16 June, 12 noon: World Refugee Day Rally. Rally organised by the Refugee Advocacy Network. Venue: Exhibition BuildingNicholson Street,Carlton.







Sunday, 16 June, 1 pm Shared meal; 2 pm discussion: Resisting war to make peace. Pax Christi invites you to hear Professor Michael Hamel Green of Victoria University will introduce and conversation around his experiences as a war resister, conscientious objector and peacemaker. N.B. Many of you have experiences to share.  Please feel free it invite others. Venue: Kildara, rear 39 Stanhope Street, Malvern. Further info: 0424 950 852.



Saturday 6 July, 9 am -6 pm: Special Breakfast Conversation and Open Day. The history, spirit & place of OASES, 9 am -11.30 am. Presented byDr Jacques Boulet & Rev Paul Sanders. Founding Director, Jacques Boulet, and concept initiator Paul Sanders, come together for a rare glimpse into the beginnings of OASES, & to explore our evolving vision, programs & sense of place. Cost: $25/$15 including delicious buffet breakfast (with vegetarian options).All are warmly invited to OASES for this special occasion, following on from the Breakfast, when we gather to showcase & celebrate all that is OASES. It'll be an afternoon of food, music, presentations & workshops that offer an insight into our programs, spirit & vision. If you are interested in exploring our courses, events, volunteer opportunities, or just being inspired by a wonderful community of facilitators & supporters of OASES, join us this Open Day. Entry free: 12 pm – 6 pm. Venue: Oases Graduate School, Community Learning and Research Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.


Tuesday 16 July, 5 pm – 9 pm: An evening with Wes Howard-Brook and Sue Ferguson Johnson. Pax Christi invites you to hear Wes Howard Brook, who teaches biblical studies Seattle UniversityUSA, and Sue Ferguson Johnson, who is a spiritual director.  Together they run “Abide in Me Ministries”. They will speak on restoring one's sense of bonding around the earth itself, focussing on creation, to help everyone to come out of their identity with violence and empire and into a life of peace and love. The first session will be between 5 pm - 6.30 pm, then a shared meal between 6.30 pm -7.30 pm. Please bring food to share. The second session will be between 7.30 pm – 9 pm. Venue: Kildara, rear 39 Stanhope Street, Malvern. Further info: 0424 950 852.

10 August, 12 October, 10 & 11 November: Community Development. A 4-day short course from one of the world's leading community development practitioners. Working with Dr Jacques Boulet, students will explore concepts, strategies and practices associated with community development. This course looks at ways to empower community not just for survival but with the aim that they will thrive in a way that is sustainable and life enhancing. 
For more info & to register, click hereVenue: Oases Graduate School, Community Learning and Research Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.

11 August, 8 & 9 September, 13 October: Sustainable Relationships in a Technological Age. A 4-day short course at the heart of what it means to live well. How are your relationships with others and the rest of the living world being affected by this age of extraordinary technological progress? Under the guidance of one of Australia’s leading experts in social development, Dr Jacques Boulet, you will reflect on the last 600 years of human history and understand how to create better relationships and communities. For more info & to register, click hereVenue: Oases Graduate School, Community Learning and Research Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.


Sunday 18 August to Wednesday 21 August: JCMA’s 10th Winter Conference: Sorry is the Hardest Word: Forgiveness and Repentance. JCMA conferences are intended for anyone from one of the three Abrahamic faiths. Participants include men and women, academics, those working in support or welfare roles, tertiary students, and members and leaders of faith communities. Sunday Taster Opportunity:1 pm - 9.45 pm. Cost: $55. Sunday, the first day of the conference, will provide an overview of the main themes. People who unable to att­end for the whole conference are welcome to come to this Sunday taster. Applications closing date: Friday 19 July 2013. Conference Centre Pallotti College, Millgrove Melways 289 A2. An application form for registration is available from www.trybooking.com/CFGA.


Friday 23 August – Sunday 25 August: Pax Christi Australia National conference: Peacemaking, an Alternative Narrative! Venue: Edmund Rice Centre, Homebush, Sydney. More details soon.




Thursday 19 September (time & location TBA): Satish Kumar to visit OASES & present a talk in the evening. A former monk and long-term peace and environment activist, Satish Kumar has been quietly setting the Global Agenda for change for over 50 years. He was just nine when he left his family home to join the wandering Jains and 18 when he decided he could achieve more back in the world. Satish is Editor of Resurgence Magazine & a Visiting Fellow at the Schumacher College, a close affiliate of the OASES Graduate School. We hope you can join us for an evening with this warm, creative and highly respected man.





19 & 20 October, 16 & 17 November:  Creating Connections & Opening Up Creativity. A 4-day short course learning deeply about our inherent creativity. An aesthetic experience can spark an enlightening moment where things become clearer and make more sense. This course will guide participants to create your own bridges towards clarity. For more info & to register, click here. Venue: Oases Graduate School, Community Learning and Research Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.