Tuesday 30 July 2013

Green Left Weekly Activist Calendar 2013-07-31

Green Left Weekly Activist CalendarJuly 31, 2013

Rally
Protest for refugee rights
Friday, August 2, 5:30pm. Flinders Street Station (under the clocks), cnr Flinders & Swanston Sts, City. We demand: Don't let Rudd dump refugees on PNG; welcome refugee boats: let them in, let them stay; increase refugee intake from Indonesia to save lives; no to deportations; no borders. Endorsed by Refugee Action Collective.

Geelong public meeting
Socialist Alliance federal election launch
Friday, August 2, 6:30pm. Downstairs, Trades Hall, 127 Myers St, Geelong. Join Sue Bull, Socialist Alliance candidate for Corio in launching our federal election campaign for the seat. Entry by donation; meal available. For more info ph 5222 6900 or 0404 390 127.

Rally
End the blame game! Rally for welfare rights
Saturday, August 3, 11:30am. Coburg mall, cnr Sydney Rd & Victoria St, Coburg. Join Margarita Windisch, Socialist Alliance candidate for Wills, and a range of other speakers to defend welfare rights. For more info ph 9639 8622 or 0400 320 602.

Public meeting
Socialist Alliance Federal election launch
Saturday, August 10, 7pm. Anatolian Cultural Centre, 195 Sydney Rd, Coburg (100m south of Reynard St). Join Margarita Windisch, Socialist Alliance candidate for the seat of Wills & other movement activists for a night of fun & radical politics. Music from Divina Providencia. 7pm. $10/$5. Cheap food & drinks. For more info ph 9639 8622 or 0438 869 790.

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 toGreen 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


Wednesday, July 31
NTEU stopwork: For a better collective bargain. 8:30-10:30am. RMIT City Campus.
EVENT POSTPONED DUE TO LEGAL ACTION. Community assembly: For the reinstatement of all sacked workers. Dock workers on Station Pier have been sacked for raising issues of OH&S, on a site that has seen the death of 3 fellow workers in the past 10 years. We demand the full reinstatement of all sacked workers and an adherence to OH&S standards. 11am. Station Pier, Port Melbourne.Community support is needed so come along and support our dock workers, bring your friends, together we will win!
Public meeting: Refugees are welcome! How to end Fortress Australia. Speakers: Sue Bolton (Refugee Action Collective); Sanmati Verma (refugee lawyer). 12:30pm. RUSU board room, Level 3, Building 8 (opposite gym). Organised by RMIT Resistance Club. For more info ph 9639 8622 or 0431 311 520.
Film screening: McLibel. 4:30pm. Bonsai Bali, Shop 5, 1527 Burwood Highway, Tecoma.
Thursday, August 1
Film screening: 99%: The Occupy Wall St collaborative film. In the late summer of 2011, a social uprising started in Zuccotti Park, near Wall St, New York. The Occupy movement spread like wildfire across hundreds of cities throughout the world. It was a direct response to the corporate greed and social inequality that purportedly led to the Global Financial Crisis. 99% is an expansive, unprecedented documentary that illustrates the motives and consequences of Occupy Wall Street while situating it within the context of resistance movements challenging top-down corporate and governmental hierarchies worldwide. 1:45pm. ACMI, City. To book visit MIFF.
Rally: Stop Abbott, welcome refugees. Action at Liberal Party fundraiser. 6pm. Crown Casino.
Public meeting: Making Moreland a bluestones city. Speakers: Jane Garrett, state MP for Brunswick will chair the meeting; Michael Beahan; Rob Thompson (Moreland councilor); questions and discussion based on alternative approaches and issues raised. 7pm. Sporting Club Hotel, 27 Weston St, Brunswick. Join in and ensure our historic and iconic laneways aren't cemented over! For more info ph 9380 8777.
Public meeting: Will Potter, author of 'Green Is The New Red', Melbourne speaking event. The author and journalist will be speaking for the first time in Australia this August. Will's work has brought the world's attention to the US government's post-911 repression of environmental and animal rights activists, also known as the Green Scare. Come and see him speak about these issues for the first time in Australia. 7pm. Kindness House, 288 Brunswick St, Fitzroy. Entry by donation. For more info visit Green is the new Red.
Film screening: Heritage fight. The inside story of the fight against one of the world's biggest mining developments. In 2008 a consortium of miners and politicians decided to build the world's second biggest natural gas plant in Broome, trampling over the concerns of residents, environmentalists and traditional owners alike. Yet in April this year, in a stunning victory for the resolute, peaceful community opposition, Woodside announced they were shelving the entire $45 billion project. Documentarian EugĂ©nie Dumont'sHeritage Fight tells the story of this battle from the trenches in which it was won. Matching glorious cinematography with candid on-the-ground footage and revealing interviews with the key players, Dumont offers an impassioned portrait of the Indigenous and environmental activists fighting to halt the development, and the power of a united community to take on the world. 9pm. Kino Cinema, City. To book visit MIFF.
Friday, August 2
Rally: Protest for refugee rights. We demand: Don't let Rudd dump refugees on PNG; welcome refugee boats: let them in, let them stay; increase refugee intake from Indonesia to save lives; no to deportations; no borders. 5:30pm. Flinders Street Station (under the clocks), cnr Flinders & Swanston Sts, City.
Fundraiser: 3CR Radiothon. 3Cr Community Radio is a unique resource which airs alternative media, providing a voice for the voiceless. 3CR's Doin Time show is a prison broadast airing every Monday from 4 till 5 pm. The show covers prison commentaries, Aboriginal deaths in custody, women in prison and more. The Doin Time show proudly presents: A Radiothon Fundraiser to keep the show on air. Performers: Marisa Sposaro (writer, prison abolition activist and radio broadaster of Doin Time); Penelope Swales (unique Australian singer songwriter and performer); Madeline Hudson (accomplished singer songwriter and multi-instrumentalist); Rose Turtle Ertler (talented performer with a focus on singing and ukulele). Doors open 7:30pm. The Barleycorn Hotel, 177 Johnston St, Collingwood. $8/$10 (solidarity). All proceeds go to the Doin Time show.
Saturday, August 3
Rally: End the blame game! Rally for welfare rights. Join Margarita Windisch, Socialist Alliance candidate for Wills, and a range of other speakers to defend welfare rights. 11:30am. Coburg mall, cnr Sydney Rd & Victoria St, Coburg. For more info ph 9639 8622 or 0400 320 602.
Rally: Don't deport Jessie, grant him permanent residency. Demand the right to permanent residency for all 457 workers! The use of temporary workers, or guest workers, by capitalists and governments has been increasing over the last decade. This trend is another aspect of the continued globalisation of the world economy. Employers like using guest workers because it makes them vulnerable, isolated and non-unionised. These things will make it much harder for workers to organise and fight for better wages and conditions. In these arrangements, the right of residency and employment is subject to the whim of the employer. This system keeps workers constantly afraid of being deported. Workers have a right to permanent residency and not to be deported for standing up for their rights. Join us for a rally to support Filipino worker Jessie Cayanan and stop him from being deported. 11am. Office of Workplace Relations Minister Bill Shorten, 12 Hall St, Moonee Ponds. Organised by Australia Asia Worker Links.
Fundraiser: For poet from Sudan, Abdel Moneim Mohamed Rahmatalla & his family. Abdel Moneim is a Sudanese poet, journalist, cultural and Human Rights activist, co-founder of the Sudanese Writers Union, co-founder of Ajras al-Hurriyya (Freedom Bells), a newspaper which was established to be the voice of the people that was shut down by the Sudanese government after considerable harassment and founder of Sudanna, a socio-cultural organisation some of the purposes of which are providing marginalised writers, artists and democratic activists with support. He was arrested by the Sudanese security forces in 2011 and was put through brutal physical and psychological torture. He spent more than a year in prison, being released after an international campaign. Even with his release, Abdel Moneim experienced semi-house arrest. He was not allowed to depart the country nor leave the capital city of Sudan, Khartoum. Moneim wants to come to Australia and settle. 6pm. Trades Hall, cnr Victoria & Lygon Sts, Carlton South. $50/$20. For more info ph Dave Kerin 0412 484 094.
Rally: Light the streets of St Kilda. This weekend we are acknowledging the brutal murder of an innocent human being. The fact that she was a working girl has allowed this case to go largely unrecognised by mainstream media, with the exception of a few compassionate articles by Jane Gilmore (Kings Tribune)and Wendy Squires (The Age). We invite you to join us in a silent candlelight walk to show that we all care abouteveryone in our community. Tracey Connelly: our St Kilda neighbour. Please join us for all or part of this walk. BYO candles. 5:45pm. Greeves St, opposite Gatehouse. Marching at 6pm (we will walk up to Inkerman; across Barkly; along Fawkner to the lane and through to the park; across Barkly; along Carlisle to Little Blessington; Blessington and then head up Acland ending at the O'Donnell gardens).
Sunday, August 4
Film screening: Pussy Riot. A punk prayer. In February 2012, five women wearing brightly coloured balaclavas rushed the altar of a Moscow Russian Orthodox Cathedral with microphones, speakers and a guitar and launched into a 'punk prayer' in protest against Vladimir Putin's 'excessive nationalism'. Parishioners fled as security staff dragged the women from the altar, and amateur video of the incident quickly went viral, making Pussy Riot household names around the world. This timely film follows the collective from their formation in 2011 through their globally condemned arrest, trial and imprisonment for 'hooliganism' at the cathedral, chronicling along the way how this seemingly mild act of defiance snowballed into an international story of politically motivated human-rights abuse. It offers unprecedented access to the women, whose convictions remain staunch in their incarceration, as well as an examination of a Russian society and culture notably altered by the group's actions. 11am. Greater Union, Russell St, City. To book visit MIFF.
Monday, August 5
Film screening: The spirit of '45. Focusing on the pivotal post-WWII era in British history, Ken Loach's first feature-length documentary since 1998's The Flickering Flame is a timely, unapologetically polemical call to arms for the collective spirit that engendered an unprecedented period of progressive politics in the UK, which endured until the rise of Margaret Thatcher. Exploring the great social and political transformations of the day (from the formation of the NHS to the nationalisation of transport, energy, housing and other areas of public life) through archival footage and impassioned present-day interviews, Loach ultimately leaves us to consider how British society has developed since Thatcher and whether today's policymakers should take another look at the socialism of yesteryear. 6:30pm. Greater Union Russel st, City. To book visit MIFF.
Film screening: Free Angela Davis & all political prisoners. This gripping feature documentary chronicles how Angela Davis, a young UCLA philosophy lecturer, became one of the world's legendary black radical activists. Pivoting around Davis' involvement in an infamous courthouse hostage case, director Shola Lynch combines extensive archival footage, period recreation and rare present-day access to Davis herself to produce a gripping and epic telling of the story. 9pm. Greater Union Russel st, City. To book visit MIFF.
Tuesday, August 6
Rally: Hiroshima day vigil. Every year MAPW, along with other peace organisations, holds a vigil to mark the dropping of an atomic weapon on Hiroshima at 8:15 am on August 6, 1945 and to remember those killed in the attack. 7:30-8:30am. Steps of St Pauls Cathedral, Swanston St, City.
Public meeting: The harms of prohibition. Illicit drug use and the governments' war-on-drugs policy has had a significant impact on many people and communities in Australia. With the federal election almost upon us, SSDP will be hosting a public forum where politicians and representatives from the community will discuss the harms associated with our current system of drug prohibition and suggest ways forward to combat these problems. 7pm. Room T114, Victoria University Footscray Park Campus, Ballarat Road, Footscray. Speakers: Richard Di Natale (Greens senator); Gavin Jennings (state Labour shadow minister ); Margarita Windisch (Socialist Alliance); Fiona Patten (Sex Party); Matt Riley (HEMP Party); Greg Chipp (Drug Law Reform Party); Greg Denham (Yarra Drug & Health Forum). There will be a Q & A at the end of the evening.
Public meeting: Cherchez la femme: Feminism & the election. As the election draws near, the question on most people's lips is "How the fuck have things gotten this bad and why can't we seem to fix them? Every corner turned seems to reveal some fresh horror, some devastating new disappointment on the political landscape, whether it's the escalating persecution of innocent people seeking asylum, the ongoing Intervention in the Northern Territory, or the failure to acknowledge the equal rights of same sex couples to marry. All of these affect women in different ways and are of deep concern to feminists and activists.Speakers: Sophie Black (former editor-in-chief of Crikey); Monica Dux (columnist for The Age & ABC broadcaster); Tanja Kovac (human rights lawyer, writer, National Co-Convenor of Emily's List); Celeste Liddle (trade unionist, writer for Daily Life and Guardian Australia). 6:30pm. The Gasometer Hotel, 484 Smith St (cnr Alexandra Pde), Collingwood. $10/$5.
Wednesday, August 7
Public meeting: The car industry & organising workers globally. 6pm. Evatt room, Trades Hall, Lygon St, Carlton South. Organised by Australia Asia worker links.
Public meeting: Prison abolition now. Join Kim Pate, Debbie Kilroy and Amanda George for discussion on the Prison Abolition Movement. Followed by book launch of Women Exiting Prison: Critical Essays in Gender, Post Release Support and Survival by Bree Carlton and Marie Segreve. 6:30pm. Trades Hall. $10/$2. Please RSVP by August 2 to admin@flatout.org.au.
Public meeting: What now for asylum seekers? Speakers: Caz Coleman (former contract manager on Nauru); Misha Coleman (Australian Churches Refugee Taskforce). 7:30pm. The Study Centre, Yarra Theological Union, 34 Bedford St, Box Hill. Light refreshments offered.
Thursday, August 8
Public meeting: Assange live video link; Truth-telling: criminalised by our government & suppressed by our media. Speakers: Julian Assange, with WikiLeaks Party candidate (TBA); Bill Deller, 3CR Radio Solidarity Breakfast show. 7pm. Fitzroy Town Hall, 201 Napier St, Fitzroy. $5 3CR subscribers / $10 conc / $20 full. Presented by WikiLeaks & 3CR Radio's Solidarity Breakfast Show. For more info ph 9419 8377.
Public meeting: Zero Carbon Australia Buildings Plan: Melbourne Launch. Our buildings research director Trent Hawkins will speak alongside leading environmental building experts. Be among the first to see this ground-breaking research launched. Australia's buildings were not designed to meet many of the challenges we face today.We can act now to halve the energy use of our buildings, provide energy freedom and transform the places in which we live and work.The Zero Carbon Australia Buildings Plan is the first comprehensive, nationwide retrofit plan for Australia's building sector. This plan demonstrates how all existing buildings can reach zero emissions within ten years. 6:30pm. The Spot Basement Theatre, Melbourne University. To book visit Beyond Zero Emissions.
Public meeting: The 2013 federal election & public transport in Melbourne's West. Public transport issues in Melbourne’s Western Suburbs. With a federal election imminent, residents are concerned about how transport policy will impact on access to jobs, education and services, as well as household transport stress. Speakers: Sophie Sturrup (University of Melbourne); Janet Rice (Greens); Lisel Thomas (Maribyrnong Truck Action Group). 6:30pm (doors open 6pm). Newport Bowls Club, 4 Market St, Newport. Food & drinks available from the bar. For more info ph Cait Jones 0412 549 589.
Friday, August 9
Film screening: Pussy Riot. A punk prayer. See entry above. 6:30pm. Greater Union Russell St, City. To book visit MIFF.
Fundraiser: Rock for refugees. With Sista Itations and Ee'da. Proceeds going to RISE and into future campaigns for refugee rights in Australia. $5. 8pm. Bar 303, 303 High St, Northcote.
Saturday, August 10
Rally: Rally to oppose east-west toll road. 12pm. Ross Straw Field, Manningham St, Parkville. For more info visit visit Friends of Royal Park.
Concert: Hiroshima & Nagasaki Memorial Concert 2013. The concert will commemorate the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and raise awareness of the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of the use of nuclear weapons. Speakers: Tim Costello (CEO World Vision); Tim Wright (International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons Australia). Performers: Hiroshima Junior Marimba Ensemble; Australian Percussion Academy; Orchestra 21; Wadaiko Rindo; Jenny Biddle; Bart Willoughby. 3-5pm. Deakin Edge Theatre, Federation Square. Money raised from this concert will go to World Vision and also the Tokyo-based NGO, Peace Boat, which gives ongoing support to the children of Fukushima. $20/$15. To book visitPeace Concert or ph Kaz 0413 849 984.
Book fair: Third Annual Melbourne Anarchist Bookfair. In previous years, the Melbourne Anarchist Bookfair was a great success. It attracted hundreds of people from around Australia to share ideas, attend workshops and strengthen networks. Last year we had skill shares and workshops looking at topics such as climate justice, current Greek situation, DIY, Sea Shepherd, introduction to anarchism, workplace struggles, permaculture, indigenous topics, feminism, education, creating community spaces, gender and refugee issues, and much more. 10am-6pm. Abbotsford Convent, St Heliers St, Abbotsford. For more info visitAnarchist Bookfair.
Public meeting: Socialist Alliance Federal election launch. Join Margarita Windisch, Socialist Alliance candidate for the seat of Wills & other movement activists for a night of fun & radical politics. Music from Divina Providencia. 7pm. Anatolian Cultural Centre, 195 Sydney Rd, Coburg (100m south of Reynard St). $10/$5. Cheap food & drinks. For more info ph 9639 8622 or 0438 869 790.
Fundraiser: Farewell South Melbourne Commons. Fundraiser spectacular for Friends of the Earth’s South Melbourne Commons. Please join us on Saturday 10th August for a Swing themed evening which includes delicious cocktail food, drinks, a welcome from Farther Bob Maguire, free Swing Dance lesson and music by Michael McQuaid's Red Hot Rhythmakers to dance you into the night. The South Melbourne Commons is being forced to shut down, but our vision of the Commons lives on. Come farewell the old address and help secure the new. Music by Michael McQuaid's Red Hot Rhythmakers 10 piece; beverage by Good Brew Co and Goodwill Wine; cocktail food by Little Piggy. 7pm. South Melbourne Commons, cnr Bank & Montague Sts, South Melbourne. Tickets are limited: $70 full; $50 for Friends of the Earth, Commons members & concession. All food and beverage included. To book visit FOE.
Monday, August 12
Rally: Rally for paramedics. David Davis refuses to value the work of Victorian paramedics. All members, their families, patients we have cared for and members of the public are invited to attend and support Victorian Paramedics. 8:30am. Department of Health, 50 Lonsdale St, City.
Public meeting: New International Bookshop Annual General Meeting. Esteemed comrade members, NIBS-lovers and devotees: join NIBS, and guest speaker Keelia Fitzpatrick (VTHC Youth Officer), for some drinks and nibbles and lively debate as we discuss plans and ideas for the future of Melbourne's last remaining bastion of progressive books and ideas. You might even get to vote on something! All welcome. 6pm. NIBS, Trades Hall.
Tuesday, August 13
Rally: Anniversary of the 'no advantage' policy. Protest for: right to work and welfare rights for asylum seekers, process refugee claims and family visas now, no offshore processing. Speakers: Misha Coleman (Australian Churches refugee taskforce); Trevor Grant (Tamil refugee council). 12:30pm. Department of Immigration, Casselden Place, cnr Lonsdale & Spring Sts, City. Organised by Refugee Action Collective.
Public meeting: End fortress Australia: Open the borders, let the refugees in. Speakers: Tim Gooden (Geelong Trades Hall Council). Siva Sivakumar (Melbourne Tamil Community). Sue Bolton (Refugee Action Collective). Chaired by Margarita Windisch (Socialist Alliance). 6:30pm (meal from 6pm). Resistance Centre, level 5, 407 Swanston St, City (opposite RMIT). Organised by Socialist Alliance. For more info ph 9639 8622.
Public meeting: 2013 Climate election forum. Scientists tell us emissions must peak this decade then fall sharply. Are our politicians and major parties up to the challenge? Speakers: Josh Frydenburg (Liberals); Anna Burke (ALP); Janet Rice (Greens); Graeme Pearman (scientist & international climate expert); Claire Maries (ACF climate change campaigner). 7pm (for 7:30 start). Our Holy Redeemer Hall, 311 Mont Albert Rd, Surrey Hills. Organised by Lighter Footprints. For more info ph 0411 115 186.
Thursday, August 15
Concert: MDC (Multi Death Corporation). MDC, aka Millions Of Dead Cops aka Multi Death Corporation aka Millions of Dead Children are credited as one of the most politically vocal American Hardcore Punk bands to come out of the early 1980s and will make their way to Australian shores for the first time ever this August. Over 30 years after their formation, MDC are still full of breakneck, old school punk rock energy and loaded on furious guitar riffs, singing their anthems for the anarchic, open-minded and disenfranchised. Doors 7:30pm. Northcote Social Club, 301 High St, Northcote. $44. To book visit NSC.
Friday, August 16
Rally: Climate activists for mine workers. Before all else comes solidarity! Locked-out mine workers and their families are coming to Melbourne for a joint protest with climate activists, for dignified, safe working conditions and a transition to renewable energy jobs. 11am. China Light & Power, 385 Bourke St, City.
Saturday, August 17
Rally: Equal Love 9th anniversary rally. Equal Love's 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 four 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.
Saturday, August 17-Sunday August 18
Public meeting: People's hearing into racism and policing. Have your voice heard! If you have experienced racial or religious profiling by police, or if your family, group, clients or community have been impacted by racially discriminatory policing this is your chance to tell your story. The People's Hearing is a safe and supportive opportunity to ensure all community voices are heard. It will identify the nature and extent of racial profiling by police and look for systemic long-term changes to prevent it. We will hear from impacted communities, witnesses, victims, advocates and community representatives. The People's Hearing will produce a public report to submit to government and the Victoria Police inquiry into racial profiling. This is a free and open event over 2 days. All welcome. If you are interested in sharing your story contact Chantelle Higgs 9376 4355. 10am-4pm. Melbourne Town Hall, cnr Swanston & Collins Sts, City. Register at: People's Hearing.
Sunday August 18
Rally: Farmers against fracking. A peaceful gathering showcasing what's at risk from the planned expansion of Victoria's coal and unconventional gas industries. We will be handing over our 10,000 strong petition to Greg Barber who will table it in parliament the following week. Come and show your support for farmers and communities who will be most affected by the expansion of coal, coal seam gas, tight gas and shale gas. MC: Comedian Rod Quantock; speakers include Drew Hutton, founder of Lock the Gate Alliance. 1pm. City Square, cnr Collins & Swanston Sts, City. March to State Library. Organised by Quit Coal & Coal and CSG Free Mirboo North. For more info visit Quit Coal.
Tuesday, August 20
Rally: National day of action against higher education cuts. (1) No cuts tofunding, staff or courses; (2) More funding; (3) Education for all: No caps on placements, raise student welfare, reinstate start-up scholarships, more Indigenous graduates, retention and completion, concession cards for international students. 2pm. State Library, cnr Swanston &amp La Trobe Sts, City.
Wednesday, August 21
Public meeting: How can we stop the race to the bottom on refugee policy? The 2013 election sees Abbott and Rudd competing over who can kick refugees the hardest. Abbott wants to 'stop the boats', risking lives by towing boats back to sea. Labor is budgeting $7.5 billion over the next 4 years to detain asylum seekers and implement the failed Howard era policy of offshore processing. Grill the candidates for the federal seat of Melbourne and join the Refugee Action Collective for a discussion on how we can win a genuinely humane policy towards refugees. Speakers: Adam Bandt (Greens); Margarita Windisch (Socialist Alliance); Anthony Maine (Socialist Party); Cath Bowtell (ALP); Chris Breen (Refugee Action Collective); a refugee speaker. 6:30pm. Multi-Cultural Hub, 506 Elizabeth St, City. Organised by Refugee Action Collective.
Friday, August 23
Comedy: Aamer Rahman, 'The Truth Hurts'. 6:30pm. State Library. Ticket details soon.
Public meeting: How can we stop the race to the bottom on refugee policy? Ray Jackson, president of the Indigenous Social Justice Association, is visiting from Sydney. Ray is a Wiradjuri man, Indigenous rights activist and all round fighter for the oppressed. He will share his experiences at a dinner hosted by the Freedom Socialist Party. 6:30 pm. Solidarity Salon. $30/$20/$10.
Saturday, August 24
Rally: Stop Rudd's PNG 'solution': let the refugees in. Take more refugees from Indonesia to save lives. Stop deportations to danger. 1pm. State Library, 328 Swanston St, City. Organised by Refugee Action Collective.
Film screening: Chilean documentary film festival. 40 Years of Struggles, resistance & new possibilities of change. 11am-7pm. Latrobe University City Campus, 215 Franklin St, City. Organised by LASNET.
Saturday, August 31
Rally: Slutwalk Melbourne 2013. Because it's never okay to blame the victim. In solidarity with international cities, SlutWalk Melbourne stands against victim-blaming and slut-shaming. 1pm. State Library.
Wednesday, December 4-Saturday, December 13
Venezuela Solidarity Brigade: Participatory democracy, solidarity & socialism. Witness a people's revolution in the making. The Australia-Venezuela Solidarity Network's 14th solidarity brigade to Venezuela this December is a very special opportunity to observe, learn about and be inspired by the Bolivarian revolution that is transforming Latin America and challenging the greed, exploitation and destructiveness of global capitalism by showing that a better world is possible. WHEN DO BOOKINGS CLOSE? For bookings or info visit AVSN.

Geelong & regional Victoria

Thursday, August 1-Monday, August 12
Castlemaine Film screening: Mary Meets Mohammed. Theatre Royal. Aug 1 1:30 & Filmmaker Q & A 7:30pm; Aug 2 6:20pm; Aug 3 7pm; Aug 4 1pm; Aug 5 4pm; Aug 7 8pm; Aug 8 8pm; Aug 9 4pm; Aug 10 2pm; Aug 11 1pm; final Aug 12 6pm. For more info visit Mary meets Mohammed.
Friday, August 2
Public meeting: Socialist Alliance Federal election launch. Fundraiser for our Federal election campaign in the seat of Corio. 6:30pm. Downstairs, Trades Hall, 127 Myers St, Geelong. Entry by donation. For more info ph 5222 6900 or 0404 390 127.
Saturday, August 3
Rally: Rally for refugees. No mandatory detention! No PNG solution! Seeking asylum is not illegal. 11am. The Mall, Little Malop St, Geelong. Organised by Combined Refugee Action Group. For more info ph 5222 6900 or 0404 390 137.
Thursday, August 8
Heyfield Public meeting: CSG information meeting. Speakers: Merryn Reddenbach (Doctors for the Environment); Felicity Millner (lawyer, Environment Defenders Office). 7pm. Heyfield RSL Hall. For more info email CSG Free.
Friday, August 9
Longford Public meeting: Gasfield free Seaspray information meeting. Speaker: Mark Ogge (Australia Institute). 6:30pm BBQ (for 7pm start). The Longford Hall, Longford. For more info email CSG Free.
Wednesday, August 21
Briagolong Public meeting: Briagolong CSG meeting. Speakers: Felicity Millner (lawyer, Environment Defenders Office); Doctors for the Environment speaker; and Seaspray local speaker. 7:30pm. Briagolong Hall, Briagolong. For more info email CSG Free.
Friday, August 30
Drouin Public meeting: Drouin CSG information meeting. Speakers: Dr Gavin Mudd (Groundwater Specialist); Felicity Millner (Environment Defenders Office); Merryn Reddenbach (Doctors for the Environment). 7pm. The Drouin South Hall, Drouin-Korumburra Road. For more info email CSG Free.

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. Meets every second Tuesday. 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 visitQuit 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.

Resources

Recent articles from Green Left Weekly

Check out Green Left TV: See Refugees: 100% of them are human beings.
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. Join us on Facebook. You can also contact us at the Resistance Centre, 5th floor, 407 Swanston St, City; ph 9639 8622. In Geelong: Activist Centre, Trades Hall, 127 Myers St (opening hours: Mon 2-4.30pm, Fri 10am-4.30pm); ph 5222 6900.

Broad, non-sectarian, activist
Socialist Alliance
Socialist Alliance is a proud supporter of the Green Left Weekly project and contributes a regular column. Socialist Alliance is a broad, non-sectarian socialist party, dedicated to bringing together all those who want to resist the capitalist assault on our planet and its people and fight for a socialist society that puts people's needs before business profits. Anyone who agrees with the general approach of our policies is welcome to join and organisations are invited to affiliate. For more information visit Socialist Alliance. Join us on Facebook. See our recent statements:

Get involved
Moreland Socialists
The group is open to anyone (even if you live outside the area) who wants to work constructively to support Socialist Alliance councillor Sue Bolton and use her position to build up a stronger activist left presence in Moreland. In general, we meet monthly and alternate between Coburg and Fawkner. If you want to get involved in the group, email us at Socialist Alliance or phone Sue on 9639 8622 or 0413 377 978. For news and opinion visit Sue's Moreland Report.
Contact Socialist Alliance. Join with other socialists in the struggle. Melbourne: Visit us at the Resistance Centre, 5th floor, 407 Swanston St, City; ph 9639 8622. In Melbourne, Socialist Alliance meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 6:30pm, at the Resistance Centre. Geelong: Activist Centre, Trades Hall, 127 Myers St (opening hours: Mon 2-4:30pm, Fri 10am-4:30pm); ph 5222 6900.

Links: 'socialism for the 21st century'
Links is an online journal which seeks to provide a forum for open and constructive dialogue between active socialists from different political traditions. It seeks to bring together those in the international left who are opposed to neoliberal economic and social policies, and reject the bureaucratic model of 'socialism' that arose in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe. Inspired by the unfolding socialist revolution in Venezuela, Links is a journal for 'Socialism of the 21st Century' and the discussions and debates flowing from that powerful example of socialist renewal.

You are invited - to National Aboriginal & Islander Children's Day on Sunday 4 August 2013 : Right here, Right now, Our Rights matter!

Invite to the launch of the 2013 National Aboriginal & Islander Children's Day in Melbourne

25 JULY 2013 | SNAICC NEWS
Dear SNAICC Friends and Supporters,
We are delighted to invite you to attend the national launch of the 2013 National Aboriginal and Islander Children's Day on the 4th August.
This is a significant day to raise awareness about the child rights concerns that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children still uniquely and disproportionately experience a round the country and stimulate reflection on how communities can ensure that all children live these rights every day.
It also provides an opportunity to come together and celebrate the wonderful strengths and achievements of our children.
We look forward to you joining us to ensure that this year’s National Aboriginal and Islander Children’s Day is the biggest and most successful yet!

A call for humanism instead of philanthropic colonialism and conscience laundering

Picture at left from here

Peter Buffett, son of wealth-making Warren,  has an article in The New York Times critical of the clustering of philanthropy and what it can mean - what he calls philanthropic colonialism.  He tells the tale well.

Philanthropy is great but I really don't understand what we see in Australia with all these personal foundations.  Yet another nail in the coffin provided by the Americanization of Australia ... another form of the colonialism that Peter Buffet critiques?

We have some marvellous, knowledgeable, well-established not-for-profits in this country.  Why can't they be funded by the rich?  If the rich think they have financial skills to offer, suggestions to make, I am sure they would be welcomed.  Or would the n-f-ps say, from their knowledge base, well that's not exactly where the need lies or, perhaps, we have tried what you suggest but found from experience that this is not the way to go.  And then the rich might not like to be told that they're new found ideas are wrong, up the creek.  Buffett discusses this in a way when he describes people wanting to transplant templates as if time, place and culture were identical or didn't matter.  There are none so ignorant as those who think they know it all.

I do hope Buffet and his article get good coverage.  It is worthy of consideration.  You might also hop on the link to his name at the beginning of the article and 'like' his Facebook page.  Most of all, please consider.

What Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates are doing is marvellous.  I suspect that they are self-aware individuals in the philanthropic stakes.  I particularly love the fact that the Gates Foundation has funded mosquito nets - Made in Africa mosquito nets.  This is not a big scientific and medical triumphant style of philanthropy.  This is taking the simple and necessary and making it work - even to the point of providing employment.

The Gates Foundation appears to have a focus on practicality.  This is also evidenced in their relationship with the University of Queensland in relation to a $4 million international collaboration to improve sorghum productivity under drought conditions.  So let's hear it for philanthropy - but not the sort that is filled with self-aggrandizement.  Let's see a philanthropy that is developed on the basis of thoughtfulness as well as human connection with country, environment, and people.  I hope that what we see with thoughtful investment is a burgeoning of ideas, applications, solutions which are so successful that the ideas and the impacts take off to the extent that the name/s of the donor/s become/s are but by-lines in small font.  This then is the sort of stuff that heaven is made of.


From A Just Austtralia: The PNG Agreement - What to do - Stuff to read - Contacts to make - Feedback encouraged

A Just Australia logo


27 July 2013


Cruelty has no place in refugee protection

We’ve heard so much from the major political parties about smashing the people smugglers’ business model.

But the policies they are taking to the election will only smash the hopes of highly vulnerable people seeking protection from persecution.

The Government’s agreement with Papua New Guinea denies asylum seekers travelling by boat any chance of resettling in Australia.

The Opposition’s answer is a military operation to repel asylum seekers from seeking refugee protection in Australia.

Both policy positions are inhumane and lack fairness or decency. They are likely to punish people who have no safe pathway to protection, no so-called orderly process to access.

Refugees and asylum seekers in these desperate circumstances have little option but to risk their lives on the seas.

Having escaped the persecution, they will be further punished – just for asking a Refugee Convention signatory for protection.

If our political leaders are serious about taking away the people-smuggler’s business model, they need to be in the business of constructive diplomacy and cooperation – working with other governments in the region to give asylum seekers prompt and safe access to a fair asylum process closer to their country of origin.

It’s time to ditch the toxic politics and implement the policies that bolster refugee protection in countries in Asia where asylum seekers lack legal status, the right to work, access to quality health and education and are at risk of arrest, arbitrary detention and abuse.

Australians expect leadership from the major parties, not the unedifying spectacle of bullying the vulnerable.

How you can help

  • Contact endorsed political candidates for the 2013 election from all parties
  • Let them know you will support policies that are consistent with Australia’s reputation of fairness, decency and respect for human rights conventions we have signed up to
  • Write letters to the editor outlining your concerns about the direction of asylum policy

Essential reading

RCOA statement on Australia-PNG agreement

RCOA statement on Operation Sovereign Borders

UNHCR criticisms on the Australia-PNG agreement

Salvation Army staff on conditions endured by asylum seekers on Nauru

Arguments to counter claims deterrence policies are about saving lives

Why the Australia-PNG arrangement is not regional cooperation

Where Australia ranks in refugee protection

How to contact candidates

Australian Labor Party

Liberal-National Coalition

The Greens

The ABC election guide also lists candidates and electorate profiles

Feedback is encouraged

Please share any responses you receive through your advocacy work. Send any feedback tomedia@refugeecouncil.org.au

Monday 29 July 2013

Dale Hess's Calendar 2013-07-29

Tuesday 30 July, 8 pm: Asylum Seekers – Fact v. Retoric! Genuine facts and figures from Prof. Andrew Markus, Monash University and
Faris Mallouhi, La Trobe University. ALL WELCOME! Venue: High Street Road Uniting Church. Enquiries: Jim 0400 789 543 or Dennis 0488 198 461
Sponsored by the Uniting Churches in Chadstone & Mount Waverley.


Tuesday 6 August, 7.30 am – 8.30 am:  Hiroshima Day Vigil. Every year MAPW, along with other peace organisations, holds a vigil to mark the dropping of an atomic weapon on Hiroshima at 8.15 am on 6 August 1945 and to remember those killed in the attack. Venue: Steps of St Pauls Cathedral,Swanston St.Melbourne.

Wednesday 7 August, 7:30 pm. What now for asylum seekers? Caz Coleman will review efforts by church and community groups to improve outcomes for refugees and asylum seekers in Australia, while recognising the difficult political constraints. Misha Coleman will speak on how local church and community groups can help shape humane policies, including by questioning candidates for the forthcoming federal government elections, and helping to bust the myths perpetrated in this debate, within congregations and with parishioners. She will identify successes so far and challenges everyone can help overcome. At the Study Centre, Yarra Theological Union, 34 Bedford Street, Box Hill (best entry via 34 Bedford Street). Tea/coffee and snacks provided afterwards. Your donations welcome.
For the flyer for this event, click HERE.

Thursday 8 August, 7 pm: Public Forum: Truth-Telling: Criminalised by Our Government and Suppressed by our Media. Hear Julian Assange via live video link from London. Speaking together with a candidate for the WikiLeaks Party (TBA) and Bill Deller, host of 3CR Radio’s Solidarity Breakfast Show. Fitzroy Town Hall201 Napier Street, Fitzroy. Entry: $10 conc / $20 full. SPECIAL $5 entry for 3CR subscribers http://www.3cr.org.au/subscribe. All proceeds go to 3CR Radio. Presented by WikiLeaks http://waca.net.au/
 & 3CR Radio’s Solidarity Breakfast Show http://www.3cr.org.au/. For more info contact Bill Deller: Phone: 0429 792 274

Saturday 10 August, 3 pm – 5 pm: Hiroshima and Nagasaki Peace Concert. This year Japanese for Peace will be holding their Peace Concert at Deakin Edge, Federation Square. It will feature Tim Costello, Hiroshima Junior Marimba Ensemble, Australian Percussion Academy, Jenny Biddle, Bart Willoughby, Orchestra 21, and Wadaiko Rindo. Bookings at Trybookings or at the door. Tickets: $20 (full), $15 (conc.). Website: www.jfp.org.au ...





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 GraduateSchool, Community Learning and Research Centre, 2 Minona Street, Hawthorn.

Saturday, 17 August, 9.30 am – 5 pm: Climate change: what next? Faith, powerlessness & movement building. Climate change is probably the most difficult issue confronting us, and especially young people. As people of faith we approach this challenge with humility and hope in God’s grace and love that we will be able to find solutions, large and small, to make our way forward. The program will include climate scientist Barrie Pittock as a keynote speaker, addressing themes including climate science; risks due to global warming; social responsibility; caring for nature and rights and welfare of people, particularly Aboriginal communities in remote areas of Australia; Quaker statement on climate change; worship and reflection with Sandy Yule;  Cath James from the Uniting Church on "Signs of environmental hope in the church"; a speaker from the Australian Youth Climate Coalition on "how a movement can change climate change"; Jacques Boulet from Borderlands on the changes to our lifestyles that are needed to address climate change; Don McArthur, postgraduate student, on climate communication when “the facts” are not enough; Pat Long from Earthsong on what is going on when we risk destroying the very system on which we depend for survival: what is shaping our perception and behaviour, why change can be so difficult and how new awareness can be empowering; reflection on climate change with Pat Long from Earthsong and Sandy Yule. Venue: Trinity CollegeMelbourne University. Cost: $20 student/ unwaged, $40 waged. Webpage: http://ascmblog.blogspot.com.au. Registering online: http://ascm-climate-change.eventbrite.com.au

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 TasterOpportunity: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 CentrePallotti College, Millgrove Melways 289 A2. An application form for registration is available fromwww.trybooking.com/CFGA.



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





Sunday 25 August, 11.30 am: Digging a Hole at The Melbourne Writers Festival.  Once Australia grew rich on the sheep’s back, now rocks and minerals carry the economy. It’s no secret that mining has a major impact on the Australian economy. On the flipside, industry expansion and its impacts on the environment are equally contentious. Political journalist David McKnight and activist Aidan Ricketts join Adele Ferguson to look beneath the surface and ask: is Australia digging itself into a hole? Venue: ACMI Cinema 1. Duration: 60 mins. http://www.mwf.com.au/2013/?name=Home-content

Tuesday 17 September, 7 pm refreshments, 7.30 pm start: International Day of Peace Community Program. To celebrate what is commonly known as 'Peace Day' around the world, the Boroondara Interfaith Network, in partnership with Burwood and District Inter-Church Council, invites you to a forum bringing together people of all faith backgrounds to discuss how we bring peace in today's society. The forum panellists are established and well known in their communities including a Director of the Islamic Museum. School Principal, Victoria police inspector a Multicultural Program coordinator at Wesley Mission and a University Law/Arts student who recently played Fraanz in ‘The Producers’. Venue: Church of Christ Hartwell, 246 Highfield Road (close to Toorak Road) Camberwell, (75Tram. Burwood station, MEL 60E5). This event is free, however bookings are essential. Phone 9278 4753 or register online: www.eventbrite/idp.com.au


 
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.



Saturday 12 October: March Against Monsanto. Please organise or join the next March Against Monsanto in your town. The movement for GM-free is now grass roots and global! Find the cities already participating at: http://bit.ly/ZTDsk8.





Saturday & Sunday 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.

Total Pageviews