Thursday, January 31, 2019

Baltimore Activist Alert -- January 31 -- March 28, 2019


51] Maryland Food Bank Benefit through Mar. 28
52] Donate Diapers through Feb. 10
53] Free Food Rescue – Jan. 31
54] Baltimore Greenway Trails Coalition meeting -- Jan. 31
55] Art Activism – Jan. 31
56] WIB peace vigils – Feb. 1
57] White House vigil – Feb. 1
58] Free Food Rescue – Feb. 1
59] Black Lives Matter -- Feb. 1
60] Best of the Fest 2019 – Feb. 1
61] Film THE DEATH OF STALIN -- Feb. 1
62] Film HARVEST OF EMPIRE – Feb. 1
63] COMMUNE MAGAZINE – Feb. 1
64] Long Long Way Film Weekend – Feb. 1 and 2
65] Challenging Mass Incarceration – Feb. 1
66] Ballroom Dancing – Feb. 1
67] Booklovers' Breakfast featuring James Forman, Jr. -- Feb. 2
68] See a play OFF -- Feb. 2
69] Take the Women Who Marched - Walking Tour – Feb. 2
70] Prayer Walk – Feb. 2
71] “Meet Me in the Middle” meeting -- Feb. 2
72] Our Revolution meeting -- Feb. 2
73] Peace Vigil – Feb. 2
74] CENTER CITY DEATH WALK/VIGIL -- Feb. 2
75] Youth Led Community Discussion – Feb. 2
76] Baltimore Peoples Climate Movement teach-in – Feb. 2
77] Do you want to join a peace caravan?
78] Emergency Demonstration against an attack on Venezuela or Iran  
79] Donate books, videos, DVDs and records  
80] Do you need any book shelves?
81] Join the Global Zero campaign
82] Peace Park Antinuclear Vigil
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51] – On Thurs., Jan. 31 through Sun., Mar. 31, 2019, there is a Maryland Food Bank Benefit, hosted by The Admirals Cup - Fells Point, Baltimore, 1647 Thames St., Baltimore 21231. Do we give so we shall receive, or give because it feels good?  Giving has never felt better or made a more significant impact than this unique opportunity. The Maryland Food Bank and Harbor Magic Hotels presents “HOLIDAY GIVEBACK.”   Experience the adventures of the Fells Point at one of the two beautiful Harbor Magic Hotels: The Admiral Fell Inn or the Inn at Henderson’s Wharf.  Gracefully awaken to the aromas and tastes of a fabulous breakfast and set sail on your day in one of the most amazing places in America. Harbor Magic is donating 10% of dollars generated from this promotion to benefit the Maryland Food Bank. BOOK NOW at https://www.admiralfell.com/en-us/packages/maryland-food-bank-holiday-giveback-special?page_id=4266673. Call (410) 534-5555. See https://www.facebook.com/events/349755175583179/.

52] – On Thurs., Jan. 31  through Sat., Feb. 10 at 10 AM, get involved with the ShareBaby Diaper Drive, hosted by FIT4MOM Baltimore City, Federal Hill, Canton, & Riverside, Baltimore 21230. DONATE TO CHILDREN IN NEED IN BALTIMORE! ShareBaby believes that every child deserves the proper supplies and equipment for the best start in life. ShareBaby collect diapers, clothing, and other basic goods and distributes them to community-based organizations that serve families in need. Please help with NEW & OPENED PACKS of diapers and pull-ups (all sizes) & NEW baby wipes, diaper cream, and baby toiletries.  Donated items may be dropped off at Charm City Run (McHenry Row), during store hours. Contact Rachel Wagner at rachelwagner@fit4mom.com. Visit www.sharebaby.org and https://www.facebook.com/events/2054972891250593/?event_time_id=2054972937917255.

53] – On Thurs., Jan. 31 from 4 to 5 PM, hosted by Food Rescue Baltimore, every Thursday until Feb. 7, 2019, come to the Dovecote Café, 2501 Madison Ave., Baltimore 21217.  Bring a bag, bring a friend, and take delicious, nutritious, free rescued food. Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/178973439543642/.

54] –  Join the Baltimore Greenway Trails Coalition for its next meeting on Thurs., Jan. 31 from 6 to 8 PM at Monument City Brewing Company, 1 North Haven St., Baltimore 21224. Celebrate the success of the past year and look ahead with some exciting design presentations of the southeast portions of the future trail network! A special thanks to the AIA Baltimore Chapter and the Urban Design Committee for partnering on this exciting project.  The Baltimore Greenway Trails Coalition is coalition of over 70 organizations and neighborhoods advocating for a 35 mile trail network connecting the city's trails, parks, neighborhoods, and popular destinations through healthy, green transportation to celebrate Baltimore's neighborhoods and landscapes! Check out https://www.facebook.com/events/382471078968470/.

55] – On Thurs., Jan. 31 at 7 PM, Aaron Maybin presents "Art Activism: The Workbook Edition" at Red Emma's Bookstore Coffeehouse, 1225 Cathedral St., Baltimore 21201. Call (443) 602 7611 or go to https://www.redemmas.org/. Historically, artists have inspired the change makers of every era - Aaron Maybin is such an artist. Coming of age in a city that was preparing to erupt as he found himself as a man, as a father, and as an artist - his environment helped to help him figure out how to define himself. He is a 30-year-old Art-Activist and former professional football player from Baltimore. Selected as the 11th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills as a former All-American defensive end at Penn State University. Aaron went on to play in the NFL for the New York Jets and the Cincinnati Bengals in a 5-year career before making the decision to walk away from football to pursue a career as a professional artist, activist, author, educator and community organizer. His transition from full-time NFL superstar to full-time artist and philanthropist has been extensively covered by ESPN, CBS, Fox 45, and garnered an HBO documentary warmly received by critics. See https://www.facebook.com/events/2051350544948893/.

56] – On Fri., Feb. 1 from noon to 1 PM, join a Women in Black peace vigil. A vigil will take place in McKeldin Square at the corner of Light and Pratt Sts.  STAY FOR LUNCH at Baba's Kitchen.  Warm-up, dry off, and enjoy a vegetarian chili lunch and lots of good conversation. Bring a side or topping for the chili.  There are still places at the table; invite a friend to come along with you.

Another vigil is at Roland Park Place, 830 W. 40th St, Baltimore. 21211. However, if weather is iffy, contact Anne at awyattbr@gmail.com.  Lunch will take place at 1 PM at the RPP Café, 830 W. 40th St., Baltimore 21211.

A third vigil will be in Chestertown, Kent County at Memorial Park at Cross Street and Park Row.  This vigil is looking for more peace bodies on the Eastern Shore.  Welcome to the network, Chestertown Women in Black.

Wear black. Dress for who knows what kind of weather.  Peace signs will be available. When there are others to stand with, you don't need to carry the burden alone. Do this to be in solidarity with others....when everything around us says “Be afraid of the stranger.” Carpool and parking available. Just send an email that you need a ride to: wibbaltimore@peacepath911.org.

57] – On Fri.,  Feb. 1 from noon to 1 PM, join the Dorothy Day Catholic Worker in a vigil urging the powers that be to abolish war and torture, to disarm all weapons, to end indefinite detention, to close Guantanamo, to establish justice for all and help create the Beloved Community! This vigil will take place at the White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Contract Art @ artlaffin@hotmail.com or at 202-360-6416.

58] – On Fri., Feb. 1 at noon, get over to Grace Baptist Church, 3201 The Alameda., Baltimore 21218, hosted by Food Rescue Baltimore. This occurs every Friday until Feb. 8, 2019.  For Friday Food Rescue, bring a bag, bring a friend, and take delicious, nutritious, free rescued food. See https://www.facebook.com/events/579834149018638/.

59] – There is usually a silent vigil on Fridays, from 5 to 6 PM, sponsored by Homewood Friends Meeting, outside the Homewood Friends Meetinghouse, 3107 N. Charles St.  The next scheduled vigil is on Feb. 1. Black Lives Matter.  

60] – On Fri., Feb. 1 from 6 to 9 PM, see the Best of the Fest 2019, hosted by the Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick 21701.  Look up weinbergcenter.org.  This year's event starts with a Flying Dog reception at 6 PM followed by the film “Enough White Teacups” (2018 Foreign Film Award winner) at 6:30 PM. The evening wraps up with “Wildlife & The Wall” (2018 Short Film Award winner) at 7:45 PM and “The Serengeti Rules” (2018 Green Fire Award winner) from 7:50 to 9:15 PM.  Go to https://www.facebook.com/events/1003790743150739/.

61] – On Fri., Feb. 1 at 7 PM, come to the Free First-Friday Film @ the Peace Center of Delaware County, 1001 Old Sproul Rd., Springfield, PA to see THE DEATH OF STALIN (2018. 107 min. Comedy, Satire}.  It is Moscow, 1953. This wild, farcical tale begins when Soviet tyrant Joseph Stalin unexpectedly drops dead and his parasitic cronies square off in a power struggle to be the next Soviet leader. Among the contenders are the dweeby Georgy Malenkov (Jeffrey Tambor), the wily Nikita Khrushchev (Steve Buscemi), and the sadistic secret police chief Lavrentiy Beria (Simon Russell Beale). This bitingly funny takedown of bureaucratic dysfunction is performed to the hilt by a sparkling ensemble cast that movie goers will easily recognize.  As our players bumble, brawl, and backstab their way to the top spot, you ask: Who’s really running things here?

The film is a wickedly irreverent satire from the genre’s current ace, Armando Iannucci, who gave us 2009’s Iraq war send-up “In the Loop” and HBO’s political series “Veep.” Check out https://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/movies/the-death-of-stalin-is-absurd-but-its-50-per-c ent-true-says armando-iannucci-20180314-h0xh4w.html.

   Following the film, people are invited to participate in a discussion. Doors open at 6:30 PM for light refreshments.  A group discussion about the film follows its screening. Go to www.brandywinepeace.com. The screening is co-sponsored by the Brandywine Peace Community. For directions to the Peace Center of Delaware County, visit www.delcopeacecenter.org or call 484-574-1148.

62] – On Fri., Feb. 1 from 7 to 9 PM, watch the film “Harvest of Empire,” a  documentary on political and social roots that have driven millions to migrate from Latin America to the United States.  It can be seen at First Unitarian Church, 730 Halstead Rd., Wilmington, DE. Visit https://firstuuwilm.org/.

63] – On Fri., Feb. 1 at 7 PM, join editors Chloe W, Addie Tinnell and Shyam Khanna from Commune for a discussion of political horizons and pushing beyond them, and how a radical magazine can best advance that process at Red Emma's Bookstore Coffeehouse, 1225 Cathedral St., Baltimore 21201. Call (443) 602 7611 or go to https://www.redemmas.org/.  For the Commune Magazine, this will be a Launch and Discussion.  This is a popular magazine for a new era of revolution. The old political orientations are dead: the center cannot hold. While others offer social democratic fantasy from a past that cannot return, we bring you instead the future, a magazine of politics and culture that knows what so many already intuitively recognize: capitalism can’t be made more tolerable, couldn’t be saved even if we wanted to, and won’t be voted away. The answers are in the streets.  See https://www.facebook.com/events/1053457631527754/.

64] – Get over to Long Long Way Film Weekend hosted on March on Washington Film Festival on Fri., Feb. 1 at 7 PM and on Sat., Feb. 2 at 6:30 PM at the Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW, WDC 20016.  Tickets are at tix.cathedral.org. Dr. Martin Luther King remarked that while the nation had come “a long, long way” in its quest for racial justice, it still had a long, long way to go. In 2019, how far have we come, and how much more do we have to go? Join the Austin Film Festival, Baylor University, the March on Washington Film Festival and Washington National Cathedral for a screening and discussion of film, race and policing through two legendary Spike Lee films, "Do the Right Thing" and "BlacKkKlansman."  This second annual weekend showcases the 30th anniversary of "Do the Right Thing on Friday night and BlacKkKlansman (2018) on Saturday night. Each film is followed by a panel discussion, moderated by Korva Coleman of NPR, and invites theologians, film critics, and historians to tackle the question of whether we have *actually* come a long long way.  In addition, a Saturday afternoon workshop explores race and policing through film analysis and contemporary events. Go to https://www.facebook.com/events/335004750664200/?event_time_id=335004753997533.

65] -- On Fri., Feb. 1 at 7:30 PM, hear a lecture Challenging Mass Incarceration by Dr. Nazgol Ghandnoosh, Ph.D., a senior research analyst with The Sentencing Project. She conducts and synthesizes research on criminal justice policies and has written about racial disparities in the justice system, public opinion about punishment, and the scope of reform efforts.  Her report, “Delaying a Second Chance: The Declining Prospects for Parole on Life Sentences,” examines how states and the federal government have increased prison terms for people with parole-eligible life sentences. She regularly presents to academic, practitioner, and general audiences and her work has been featured in outlets including the Washington Post, the New York Times, and WNYC’s On the Media. She also edits The Sentencing Project’s Race and Justice Newsletter. For more info about The Sentencing Project, see https://www.sentencingproject.org/contact/.

This event is free and open to the public on Fri., Feb 1 at 7:30 PM at 503 Rock Creek Church Rd. NW, WDC, 20010.  Contact the Dorothy Day Catholic Worker at 202-882-9649 or artlaffin@hotmail.com.

66] – There is an opportunity to participate in ballroom dancing, usually every Friday of the month, in the JHU ROTC Bldg. at 8 PM.  Turn south on San Martin Dr. from the intersection of Univ. Parkway and 39th St.  Drive on campus by taking the third left turn. The next dance will be on Feb. 1. Call Dave Greene at 301-570-3283; or email eneergdivad@gmail.com.

67] – On Sat., Feb. 2 from 8:30 AM to noon, attend the Booklovers' Breakfast featuring James Forman, Jr., hosted by the Enoch Pratt Free Library at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, 700 Aliceanna St., Baltimore 21202. Tickets are at prattlibrary.thankyou4caring.org.  A former public defender, Forman is a leading critic of mass incarceration and its disproportionate impact on people of color. Since 2011, Forman has taught constitutional law and a course called “Race, Class, and Punishment” at Yale Law School. A graduate of Brown University and Yale Law School, he worked as a law clerk for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. His book,”Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America,” was awarded the 2018 Pulitzer Prize in Nonfiction. Advanced registration is required.  Admission is $60 per person.  All seats are reserved in order of receipt of registration and payment. All sales are final. No refunds will be given. Call 410-396-5494. Purchase your ticket at https://prattlibrary.thankyou4caring.org/booklovers/booklovers-breakfast-2019.  Mahogany Books will have copies of James Forman, Jr.'s books for sale at a book signing following the program. See https://www.facebook.com/events/292751848264433/.

68] – On Sat., Feb. 2 at 9 AM, get over to the Freedom Forum for coffee and refreshments followed by OFF - a one-person play by Andre Jones, followed by a discussion.  It is happening at the Hanover Church, 1801 N. Jefferson St., Wilmington, DE. See http://www.hanoverchurch.org/.

69] – On Sat., Feb. 2 from 9:30 to 11 AM, take the Women Who Marched - Walking Tour, hosted by A Tour Of Her Own in Freedom Plaza, 14th St. NW & Pennsylvania Ave. NW, WDC 20004.  Tickets are at the www.atourofherown.com.  Washington, D.C. is no stranger to protests and rallies. These events of political expression have occurred continuously in the United States’ capital throughout the twentieth century. Women and gender politics have played a major role in the history of political marches on Washington.  Learn about the diverse women who have marched and the various political causes that they championed. From suffragettes with colorful sashes to modern feminists in pink hats, Washington has seen an evolution of women’s revolutions.

This tour will touch on different political movements that rallied in the nation’s capital to show the impact of women’s political engagement and the sometimes contradictory viewpoints with which women have had to grapple throughout history, revealing their strength, determination, and human complexities.  Join tour guide Sarah Rodriguez on a journey back in time learning about the passionate, persevering women who rallied, while walking in their own footsteps and seeing the sights that they would have seen. Learn more at https://www.atourofherown.com/rodriguez.  Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/212629736285501/.

70] – On Sat., Feb. 2 from 10 AM to noon, join the February Prayer Walk, hosted by Episcopal Diocese of Maryland at Saint Katherine Of Alexandria Episcopal Church, 2001 Division St., Baltimore 21217.  Join Canon Scott Slater and walk through Baltimore City to offer prayers for those who have died of gun violence along the route in the last twelve months. Begin at St. Katherine of Alexandria, 2001 Division St. Tune in to https://www.facebook.com/events/2050475258616582/.

71] – The next “Meet Me in the Middle” meeting hosted by Maryland Communities United is Sat., Feb. 2 from 11AM to 1 PM at St Vincent de Paul Church, 120 N. Front St.t. Email jane@communitiesunite.org. 

72] – Our Revolution Baltimore leadership will be holding office hours at Starbucks on Sat., Feb. 2. This is not a formal meeting; drop in any time between 11 AM and 1 PM to chat one-on-one over coffee with Our Revolution Baltimore City/County leadership about Legislative priorities at the state, city/county, and federal level, Baltimore City elections, Presidential election, Our Revolution Baltimore plans and organizing, Don't Shop on Tuesdays and any other issues or concerns.  The Starbucks is at 250 West Pratt St., Baltimore 21201, across the street from the Convention Center on the corner of West Pratt and Howard Sts. It's close to the light rail, and about 4 blocks from the subway. Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/265767430984408/.

73] – Each Saturday, 11 AM – 1 PM, Chester County Peace Movement holds a peace vigil in West Chester in front of the Chester County Courthouse, High & Market Sts. Go to www.ccpeace.org. Email ccpeacemovement@aol.com

74] – Join the CENTER CITY DEATH WALK/VIGIL on Sat., Feb. 2 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at 12th and Arch Sts., Philadelphia 18107.   The wars continue in Afghanistan, Syria, and Yemen…..and DRONES are being used for attacks you DON’T even hear about.  Please wear BLACK, as you will be given plain white masks. Call Marge Van Cleef at 203-804-3013. Hold signs opposing U.S. DRONE WARFARE and TERRORISM, which is the killing of civilians. This is a SILENT VIGIL representing the DEATHS of those killed by DRONES.  Contact Marge Van Cleef at 203-804-3013 (cell).

75] –  On Sat., Feb. 2 from 2 to 3:30 PM, come to a Youth Led Community Discussion, hosted by Baltimore Ceasefire 365 at the Walbrook Enoch Pratt Library, 3203 West North Ave. This event is open to all ages. Look at https://www.facebook.com/events/364623120758219/.

76] –On Sat., Feb. 2 from 2 to 4 PM, get an answer for Scary Headlines & Climate Science: What Does It Mean for Bmore?  This is hosted by Baltimore Peoples Climate Movement at the Zion Lutheran Church, 400 E. Lexington St., Baltimore 21202.  Are you worried about what climate change means for Baltimore? Join the Baltimore Peoples Climate Movement for a teach-in on the most recent report from the world’s leading climate scientists! You’ll learn the basics of climate change and how it impacts you, a general understanding of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s special report "Global Warming of 1.5 ºC," including what it means for Baltimore over the next 45 years and an overview of how we got to this moment and where we go from here.  Learn about the report together, and then break out into groups to discuss what we need to do locally to prevent further warming and how to prepare for and adapt to our changing climate here in Baltimore. Focus on the grassroots solutions that are already taking place and opportunities for local action.  Check out https://www.facebook.com/events/375677642999621/.

77] – Do you have any interest in challenging the Trump administration for reneging on the Iran Deal? If yes, would you be interested in joining a Peace Caravan to the Iranian embassy in Washington, D.C.? Contact Max at 410-323-1607 or mobuszewski2001 at Comcast dot net.  

78] – It is a violation of U.S. law for us to attack a country that has not attacked us, as only Congress can declare war. The Trump administration is nevertheless beating the war drums for war against Iran and Venezuela. The Mueller investigation is tightening the vise, and could cause Trump to attack those countries in order to divert attention from Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Such a military strike would demand an immediate and unequivocal response from us to show that we will not tolerate his abuse of power.

Let's mobilize to show that we the people will not tolerate another military adventure, which would be bound to have profound negative consequences. If a preemptive military strike against Iran or North Korea takes place, then meet outside the War Memorial, 101 N. Gay St., Baltimore, MD 21202. If the attack is before 2 PM local time, then events will begin at 5 PM, local time. If the attack occurs after 2 PM local time, then events will begin at noon, local time, the following day. Contact Max at 410-323-1607 or mobuszewski2001 at Comcast dot net.

79] -- If you would like to get rid of books, videos, DVDs, records, tarps and table cloths, contact Max at 410-323-1607 or mobuszewski2001 at comcast.net.

80] -- Can you use any book shelves? Contact Max at 410-323-1637 or mobuszewski2001 at comcast.net.

81] -- Join an extraordinary global campaign for the elimination of nuclear weapons: http://www.globalzero.org/sign-declaration. A growing group of leaders around the world is calling for the elimination of nuclear weapons and a majority of the global public agrees.  This is an historic window of opportunity.  With momentum already building in favor of Zero, a major show of support from people around the world could tip the balance. When it comes to nuclear weapons, one is one too many.

82] – A Peace Park Antinuclear Vigil takes place every day in Lafayette Park, 1601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 24 hours a day, since June 3, 1981. Go to http://prop1.org; call 202-682-4282.

Donations can be sent to the Baltimore Nonviolence Center, 325 E. 25th St., Baltimore, MD 21218.  Ph: 410-366-1637; Email: mobuszewski2001 [at] comcast.net. Go to http://baltimorenonviolencecenter.blogspot.com/.

“One is called to live nonviolently, even if the change one works for seems impossible. It may or may not be possible to turn the US around through nonviolent revolution. But one thing favors such an attempt: the total inability of violence to change anything for the better" - Daniel Berrigan

"We're Here to Help": ACLU Schools Marco Rubio on First Amendment Rights and His Anti-BDS Bill


Wednesday, January 30, 2019

"We're Here to Help": ACLU Schools Marco Rubio on First Amendment Rights and His Anti-BDS Bill
"We urge you and your colleagues to focus on protecting the First Amendment rights of Americans, rather than undermining them," ACLU tells Florida Republican



Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) seen here on February 23, 2016.
Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) seen here on February 23, 2016. (Photo: Gage Skidmore/flickr/cc)
The ACLU took to social media on Wednesday to refute Sen. Marco Rubio's (R-Fla.) assertion that the rights group's opposition to his anti-boycott legislation is "baseless," and offer him some guidance on understanding the First Amendment.
The bill, S.1, advanced on Tuesday with the help of 25 Democrats, and includes the Combating BDS Act of 2019, which allows state or local governments to punish entities using boycotts, divestments, or sanctions to protest the Israeli government's policies.
While Rubio and others have continued to support the bill, the ACLU argues the anti-BDS measure "violates the core principle" at the heart of the Constitution's free speech protections. "The government cannot," the group notes, "dictate to its citizens which causes they can and can't support."
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1060051136151990272/kmJHtKCM_normal.jpg

With all due respect, @MarcoRubio – it seems like you don't understand your own bill, or the First Amendment.

That's troubling, but we're here to help.
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1060051136151990272/kmJHtKCM_normal.jpg

The Combating BDS Act encourages states to pass unconstitutional laws punishing businesses AND individuals who participate in politically motivated boycotts against Israel. These laws have already violated the First Amendment rights of teachers, newspapers, and even students.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1060051136151990272/kmJHtKCM_normal.jpg

Was it just “commercial activity” when civil rights activists boycotted segregated restaurants? Was it just “commercial activity” when businesses and individuals boycotted apartheid South Africa?

NO. It was speech protected by the Constitution.
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1060051136151990272/kmJHtKCM_normal.jpg

Your bill violates the core principle of the First Amendment: The government cannot dictate to its citizens which causes they can and can’t support.

That’s not “baseless” – it’s grounded in the Constitution, our history, and two recent federal court decisions.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1060051136151990272/kmJHtKCM_normal.jpg

Your bill violates the core principle of the First Amendment: The government cannot dictate to its citizens which causes they can and can’t support.

That’s not “baseless” – it’s grounded in the Constitution, our history, and two recent federal court decisions.
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1060051136151990272/kmJHtKCM_normal.jpg

We urge you and your colleagues to focus on protecting the First Amendment rights of Americans, rather than undermining them, @MarcoRubio. That means reconsidering the Combating BDS Act.

Other advocacy groups have spoken out against S.1 as well, including Jewish Voice for Peace. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), meanwhile, is among the lawmakers who've opposed the measure. In a tweet this week, Sanders said, "we must defend every American's constitutional right to peacefully engage in political activity. It is clear to me that S.1 would violate Americans' First Amendment rights."

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 License
Donations can be sent to the Baltimore Nonviolence Center, 325 E. 25th St., Baltimore, MD 21218.  Ph: 410-323-1607; Email: mobuszewski2001 [at] comcast.net. Go to http://baltimorenonviolencecenter.blogspot.com/

"The master class has always declared the wars; the subject class has always fought the battles. The master class has had all to gain and nothing to lose, while the subject class has had nothing to gain and everything to lose--especially their lives." Eugene Victor Debs



Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Feminism Not Militarism


January 30, 2019

Feminism Not Militarism

  In 2017 members of the peace and justice movement were unsuccessful in convincing the leaders of the first Women’s March to include patriarchal militarism as an issue. Nevertheless, that year I did bring my anti-war banner (Stop the War Machine: Export Peace) to the March in Washington, D.C. and it received lots of thumbs-up support and conversation for its pro-peace message.

Finally, after two years of dialogue, the Women’s March organizers agreed that militarism would be included in the demands of the protest. On January 19, I brought my banner to the Women’s March in Freedom Square in Washington, D.C.  Again, other participants and even members of the foreign media expressed their enthusiastic support of this message of peace. Later, I was with CODEPINK Women for Peace protesting outside the Trump Hotel. A former female diplomat of many years joined us despite the freezing winds and said, “People need to understand how the military budget affects their lives.”

   More than 60% of the federal discretionary budget is war-related. Instead of these tax dollars being used for the needs of the people such as protecting the environment, or providing affordable housing, healthcare for all, outstanding public education, and a living wage, Congress allocates funding for some 800 bases around the world and the weapons to engage in some seven wars. These wars were never approved by Congress, and the weapons contractors make sure that members of Congress receive significant campaign contributions. The Pentagon is a large contributor to climate chaos, and twenty-two veterans commit suicide each day.

A hopeful event occurred on August 6,, 2018 when the Baltimore City Council, led by Mary Pat Clarke and Bill Henry, unanimously voted for a Back from the Brink resolution. This is a Call to Prevent Nuclear War. Baltimore was the first major city in the United States to pass such a resolution.

  The City Council’s resolution indicated that “…just in the past year, Baltimoreans averaged $175 per capita [person] for a ‘nuclear weapons war tax’ paying a collective ‘$107 million in federal taxes toward the cost of producing, deploying and maintaining nuclear weapons. Marylanders as a whole averaged $244 per capita, with the state collectively paying an estimated $1.45 billion in 2017 federal taxes toward our country’s cost of nuclear weapons…’”

  Over the next 30 years, the U.S. intends to waste $1.7 trillion of our tax dollars to refurbish the nuclear arsenal. These are tax dollars being wasted on weapons that can’t be used.

The issue of nuclear annihilation is an issue raised in the Plowshares movement, initiated by Philip and Dan Berrigan and others in 1980. More recently, seven Catholic activists entered Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base in St. Mary’s, Georgia on April 4, 2018, the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King. They went to make real the prophet Isaiah’s command to “beat swords into plowshares.”

One of the seven is Elizabeth McAlister, Philip’s wife and co-founder of Baltimore’s Jonah House. Elizabeth remains in jail in Georgia awaiting trial. On Thanksgiving Day 1983, she engaged in a Plowshares disarmament action at the Griffis Air Force Base in Rome, New York. To support her and the others, I’ll attend their trial.

Those of us who do nonviolent resistance are grateful that the leaders of the Women’s March made the choice for Feminism not Militarism, that more progressive women are in Congress, and that Elizabeth McAlister engaged in a nuclear disarmament action in Georgia. As the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom reminds us, listen to women for a change.

Janice Sevre-Duszynska can be reached at rhythmsofthedance1 AT gmail.com.  The author lives in Baltimore and is an activist priest.

Donations can be sent to the Baltimore Nonviolence Center, 325 E. 25th St., Baltimore, MD 21218.  Ph: 410-323-1607; Email: mobuszewski2001 [at] comcast.net. Go to http://baltimorenonviolencecenter.blogspot.com/

"The master class has always declared the wars; the subject class has always fought the battles. The master class has had all to gain and nothing to lose, while the subject class has had nothing to gain and everything to lose--especially their lives." Eugene Victor Debs



Baltimore Activist Alert -- January 30 - 31, 2019


41] A Realistic Path for Progress on Iran -- Jan. 30
42] Geopolitical Implications of a New Era on the Korean Peninsula -- Jan. 30
43] How colleges spend money – Jan. 30
44] Food Rescue – Jan. 30
45] School of Food and Food Rescue Baltimore – Jan. 30
46] Baltimore Clean Air Act Rally/Public Hearing – Jan. 30
47] Anti-Human Trafficking Pilot Training – Jan. 30
48] Consent Decree Discussion – Jan. 30
49] U.S. Iran Policy after the JCPOA Protest the Shutdown – Jan. 31
50] Betty's 80! Celebrate by Organizing – Jan. 31
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41] –  On Wed., Jan. 30 at 9:30 AM, be a part of A Realistic Path for Progress on Iran which will be discussed at the Center for a New American Security, 1152 15th St. NW, Suite 950, WDC 20005.  Hear from Eric Brewer, CNAS; Nicholas Heras, CNAS; Elizabeth Rosenberg, CNAS; and Ariane Tabatabai, RAND Corporation. Go to https://www.cnas.org/events/a-realistic-path-for-progress-on-iranCenter for a New American Security.  Call (202) 457-9400 or email info@cnas.org.

42] – On Wed., Jan. 30 from 10 AM to 4 PM, hear about the Geopolitical Implications of a New Era on the Korean Peninsula at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, WDC 20004.  Tickets are at www.wilsoncenter.org.   The Trump administration has gone through a remarkable shift in its approach to North Korea, culminating in an initial embrace of summit diplomacy. That shift, however, may have opened a Pandora’s Box that will have profound implications not just for the future of the Korean Peninsula, but for Japan, China, and Russia as well. What is certain is that engagement with Pyongyang has already impacted East Asia’s geopolitics and will continue to do so moving forward. This conference will address the broader geopolitical consequences of diplomatic success and failure of diplomacy with Pyongyang, and their impact on alliance relationships and the future of U.S. power in the region. See https://www.wilsoncenter.org/event/geopolitical-implications-new-era-the-korean-peninsula or https://www.facebook.com/events/1875402935902820/.

43] – On Wed., Jan. 30 from noon to 2 PM, get over to this talk, hosted by the American Council of Trustees and Alumni and Students for Free Expression American University at the National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW, 13th Floor, WDC 20004. ACTA is launching a groundbreaking initiative equipping #highered leaders to address runaway college spending and exploding student debt. Join us with top #HigherEd leaders for the public launch of HowCollegesSpendMoney.com at the National Press Club.  Lunch will be provided.  There will be several speakers including Tom McMillen, CEO, LEAD1 Athletic Directors Association; Regent of the University of Maryland (2007–2015); former U.S. Congressman (D-Maryland, 1987–1993).

In recent decades, college costs have surged exponentially; and student debt has climbed to an all-time high of over $1.5 trillion. The fiscal model for private and public higher education is unsustainable, yet many institutions operate in a business-as-usual mode, ramping up tuition and administrative spending year after year. Can higher ed leaders stem the tide?

Launching on Jan. 30, ACTA’s HowCollegesSpendMoney.com is an innovative public portal that provides easy access to information maintained in the U.S. Department of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Higher education leaders attest that there is nothing like it, and that it has the potential to be a game-changer in higher education finance. Helping them gain transparent access to data on college spending is paramount in confronting the national crisis.  Contact Doug Sprei at dsprei@goacta.org or call ACTA at (202) 467-6787. RSVP at https://www.facebook.com/events/2318187814927824/.

44] – On Wed., Jan. 30 at noon and every Wednesday until Feb. 6, 2019, get food at the Free Farm, 3510 Ash St., Baltimore 21211. This is hosted by Food Rescue Baltimore.  Bring a bag, bring a friend, and take delicious, nutritious, free rescued food. Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/327125147795282/.

45] – On Wed., Jan. 23 at 2 PM, and every Wednesday until July 24, 2019, School of Food and Food Rescue Baltimore will give out food at 1412 N. Wolfe St., Baltimore 21213. Bring a bag, bring a friend, and take delicious, nutritious, free rescued food. See https://www.facebook.com/events/2105994779640314/.

46] – On Wed., Jan. 30 from 4 to 7:30 PM, there is a Baltimore Clean Air Act Rally/Public Hearing, hosted by Clean Air Baltimore Coalition at Baltimore City Hall, 100 Holliday St., Baltimore 21202. Tell the Baltimore City Council that we stand for clean air, and we will fight for the passage of the Baltimore Clean Air Act! This law will make the Wheelabrator Baltimore trash incinerator - the city's largest air polluter - and Curtis Bay Energy - the nation's largest medical waste incinerator install real-time monitoring equipment for almost two dozen pollutants, share that pollution data in real-time on a public website, install up-to-date pollution controls and abide by stricter air standards than Maryland state law.  If these corporations don't want to pay to protect our air, they'll have to shut down! We can replace incinerators like Wheelabrator with cheaper, cleaner recycling and composting facilities - that means more jobs and more revenue for Baltimore City!  Rally until 5 PM, and then attend the Public Hearing.  See https://www.facebook.com/events/2253362094987797/.

47] – On Wed., Jan. 30 from 5 to 7:30 PM, SOAR for Educators Anti-Human Trafficking Pilot Training, hosted by President Lincoln's Cottage, 140 Rock Creek Church Road NW, WDC 20011. You’re invited to help pilot a training for professionals working in middle and high schools to equip educators with skills to identify, treat, and respond appropriately to individuals and their families who are vulnerable to human trafficking. Learn about factors associated with trafficking, get informed on how to spot and respond to signs of trafficking, and gain resources to support vulnerable students.

President Lincoln’s Cottage is proud to host this 1-hour session, conducted by the Office of Trafficking in Persons (OTIP) and the National Human Trafficking Training and Technical Assistance Center (NHTTAC). The training hopes to connect educators with staff developing training programs at NHTTAC. A debrief and discussion will follow the training—an opportunity for you and your fellow educators to share insights on challenges in working with youth impacted by human trafficking and their families. Your input will be used to develop future NHTTAC and OTIP trainings and resources.  Refreshments will be provided.

The trainer is Savannah Sanders, the founder of SexTraffickingPrevention.org and author of Sex Trafficking Prevention: A Trauma-Informed Approach for Parents and Professionals. Ms. Sanders has expertise in human trafficking, child abuse prevention, trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and intergenerational abuse and is a strong advocate for survivor leadership. See https://www.facebook.com/events/541400183024872/.

48] –On Wed., Jan. 30 from 6 to 8 PM, get over to a Police & Community - Consent Decree Discussion at Impact Hub Baltimore, 10 East North Ave., Baltimore 21202. This is a community conversation on the Baltimore Consent Decree--what it is, what led up to it, and what happens next.  StayUp News is working with Morgan State University to conduct a community survey to gauge residents' current satisfaction with the Baltimore Police Department. The event is an opportunity to discuss community relations, police accountability, and how to get involved with the survey process. At this event, folks will learn about how to become survey gatherers and get paid $15 per survey to collect community responses.

Interested in hosting an event of your own in 2019? Did you know that Impact Hub Baltimore is a community of entrepreneurs, activists, creatives, and professionals to take collaborative action and drive positive change in Baltimore and beyond! Want to become a member? Email Joe@baltimore.impacthub.net.  Look over the Impact Report: https://issuu.com/michellegeiss/docs/ihb-report-final.  Go to https://www.facebook.com/events/446491465882149/.

49] – On Thurs., Jan. 31 at noon, get with U.S. Iran Policy after the JCPOA at the Center for International and Security Studies, University of Maryland School of Public Policy, 1203 Van Munching Hall, College Park 20742. Hear from Bonnie Jenkins, Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security and Conflict Transformation. See http://cissm.umd.edu/events/cissm-global-forum-us-iran-policy-after-jcpoa.  Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins has extensive international affairs experience both in and out of government. She is currently the founding president of Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS), a nonprofit that provides leadership and career development opportunities for women of color working in international relations. She is also a Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Brookings Institution, where she has written on a number of nonproliferation and health security topics. From 2009 to 2017, Ambassador Jenkins was the Coordinator for Threat Reduction Programs at the Department of State. At the State Department, she organized inter-agency threat reduction programs in the Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation, led State's team at four Nuclear Security Summits, and worked with a variety of international organizations on threat reduction activities.

50] – On Thurs., Jan. 31 from 6:30 to 8:30 PM, Betty's 80! Celebrate by Organizing, hosted by SURJ Baltimore, 2640 Space, 2640 St. Paul St., Baltimore 21218. Join in celebrating a Baltimore SURJ Elder, Betty Garman Robinson!  This event is a fundraiser for the Black Lives Matter Week of Action in Schools - February 4th through February 8th. The funds will go to things like buying "BLM in Schools" T-Shirts for students, week of action events, transportation to planning meetings...   You will also be able to buy your very own Black Lives Matter in Schools shirt! Locally designed shirts are in the works right now!  Check out https://www.bmorecaucus.org/black-lives-matter-week-of-action-2 or https://blacklivesmatteratschool.com/.  Entrance on St. Paul has about 10 steps. Entrance on 27th Street has a ramp. Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1633493910083618/.

To be continued.

Donations can be sent to the Baltimore Nonviolence Center, 325 E. 25th St., Baltimore, MD 21218.  Ph: 410-323-1607; Email: mobuszewski2001 [at] comcast.net. Go to http://baltimorenonviolencecenter.blogspot.com/.

"The master class has always declared the wars; the subject class has always fought the battles. The master class has had all to gain and nothing to lose, while the subject class has had nothing to gain and everything to lose--especially their lives." Eugene Victor Debs