ACFS Update: Cuban Five Case
Review Denied
June is marked in our calendars as a shameful month in the justice system of the United States, casting a shadow over the Obama administration that maintains justice as a hostage.
Over ten years ago, five Cuban men monitoring terrorist organisations inside the US were convicted, without access to a fair and impartial trial, of conspiracy to commit espionage when they delivered the intelligence to the FBI. Unjustly imprisoned for peacefully protecting their county against terrorist attacks organised on US soil, they applied to the Supreme Court to have their cases reviewed.
Ignoring the statement of the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention that declared the detentions arbitrary and illegal, the US Supreme Court announced on June 15 that it will not review the case.
The same justice system that denies the possibility of reviewing the case of the five Cuban patriots has granted a year postponement to the defence of the international self-confessed terrorist, Luis Posada Carriles, to better prepare his case. This is the same system that with total impunity has allowed dozens of criminal organisations based in Miami to operate freely.
With this decision the Court scoffs not only at the requests from the defence lawyers, but also at the International demand of 10 Nobel Prize winners, hundreds of Jurists, Members of Parliaments and organisations from all over the world that joined 12 Amicus Briefs asking the court to review the case.
June 15 2009 marked the beginning of a new International resistance that from this day forward will be felt all over the world until freedom is achieved for Gerardo, Ramon, Rene, Antonio and Fernando.
The ACFS WA Branch demands more than ever that President Obama puts an end to this colossal injustice and grant the immediate freedom to the Cuban Five.
For further information about this situation, please contact Branch President Vinnie Molina on 0419 812 872 or Branch Secretary Elizabeth Hulm on 0421 113 343 or email acfsperth@gmail.com
NAIDOC Week 2009
Opening Ceremony: Sunday 5 July, 11.30am - 4.15pm, Wellington Square, East Perth. Music, dancing, competitions and the launch of Noongar Radio 100.9FM.
Flag-Raising Ceremony: Monday 6 July, 12 – 12.15pm, City of Joondalup Administration Building, Boas Ave, Joondalup
NAIDOC Fun Day: Tuesday 7 July, 12pm – 4pm, City of Joondalup Leisure Centres - Craigie, Whitfords Ave, Craigie.
Language class, arts and crafts, bush tucker, tools & weapons, music, sports activities (Bookings required: 9400-4912)
Library Story Time: Wednesday 8 July, 1.30pm at Whitford Library and 3.30pm at Joondalup Library.
With Brenton Clinch and Lorna Little (Bookings required: 9400-4912)
Common Ground: Saturday 11 July, 11am, Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City.
Dance / music / story-telling.
For more information, please contact Fiona Symonds. Fiona Symonds' work phone number is 9400-4921 or email fiona.symonds@joondalup.wa.gov.au
Download the Program of Events
Blueprint for a Better World
Nine years ago, the world made a promise. A promise which, by 2015, will lift millions of people out of poverty. Here is your chance to be part of that promise. Caritas, in conjunction with AusAID, brings you 'The Millenium Development Goals and you', an interactive exhibition on tackling poverty in the world. The exhibition aims to strengthen support for the work of the Australian Government in their commitment to aid and overcoming global poverty, and increase awareness of the importance and unique contribution of Australian Non-government Organisations.
Designed to highlight the Millennium Development Goals and the promise of Governments throughout the world to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger by 2015, this exhibition gives a practical face to the eight goals, through video, photographs, visual installation as well as contributions from Caritas partner communities make up the installation.
Each of the eight MDG’s are presented as a blueprint for positive social change in our world emphasising how Caritas Australia and its community partners are engaged in the challenge of tackling poverty for the world’s poorest. This exhibition provides tangible options for individuals and communities to take action.
The exhibition focuses on case studies of development programs around the world and staff and volunteers from Caritas Australia will be on hand to personally guide you through the exhibition.
Where: Prindiville Hall, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle
When: 2 - 20 July, 10.00am – 4.00pm weekdays/weekends
Cost: Free
For more information go to: www.blueprintforabetterworld.org or contact Alana Scuglia at Caritas
on 1800 024 490 or email her at: alanas@caritas.org.au
Quiz Night
United Nations Association Australia (WA) invites you to join them for a quiz night, with all proceeds going to UNAA(WA) to assist with its initiatives. Get together a team of 8 and head down for a night of fun!
Where: Belmont Sports & Recreation Club
When: Tuesday 7 July, 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start
Cost: $15 ($10 concession)
Full bar facilities available with tea and coffee. BYO food platter and nibblies.
To book your table or find out more contact the UNAA(WA) events convenor on 0421 316 717 or email unaawa@tpg.com.au
NAIDOC Perth Ball
NAIDOC Perth Ball is the most anticipated night on Perth’s social calendar. This year will feature highlights from the Coolbaroo Club League, ballroom dancing, fine dining and wonderful entertainment through out the evening.
This social event is an opportunity for NAIDOC Perth to share with the whole
community our Elders and our history.
Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel, 99 Adelaide Terrace
When: Friday 10 July, 6.30pm to 12.30am
Cost: $90
Dress: Formal
TICKET PURCHASE
Gail on 9482 0000 / 0428 118 753 or email gjones@waaids.com or
Reg 0400 628 233 or email reg.yarran@commerce.wa.gov.au
Global Health Short Courses
Interhealth is a part of WAMSS (Western Australian Medical Students’ Society), and is composed of volunteer medical students from UWA in various years of their medical degree. WAMSS is starting a new initiative this year, the Global Health Short Course (GHSC). GHSC is an 8 week course beginning Monday 27 July; each week, a public lecture will be held at UWA. The course is supported by the UWA Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science and is open to all members of the public.
The topics for each week are as follows:
Week 1: “The way things are” (statistics and global health)
Week 2: “Making poverty history” (the causes and cures of global inequality)
Week 3: “Getting shot is bad for your health + No place to call home” (Conflict and health + The health of displaced persons)
Week 4: “Access to essential medicines” (Patent law and how this affects patients)
Week 5: “It’s getting hot in here + When disaster strikes” (Climate change and health + Emergency humanitarian relief)
Week 6: “Closing the gap” (Aboriginal health)
Week 7: “Mums and Bubs” (Women’s and children’s health)
Week 8: “AIDS” (The AIDS epidemic)
The lectures will be provided by a guest lecturer with a significant amount of experience in their respective field. At every lecture, there will be handouts for each attendee, specifying key points, further reading, and how they can get involved in a particular topic.
Where: Tattersall Lecture Theatre, UWA
When: Starting Monday 27 July, 5pm
Cost: Free
Further information is available at interhealth.org.au/ghsc.
Show your Support for Mr Ward's Family
WA State Coroner, Mr Alistair Hope, will be handing down the Inquest findings into the death in custody of Mr Ward at the Central Law Courts (Court 81) in Perth on Friday 12 June at 2.15pm.
Show your support to the family of Mr Ward and the Warburton Community at a public gathering outside the Central Law Courts, 30 St Georges Tce, Perth
Friday 12 June at 1pm
Bring placards, banners and your voices
World Refugee Day
The department of Immigration and Citizenship is celebrating the contributions of refugees during Refugee Week and the theme for 2009 is "Freedom from Fear". There will be a variety of information stalls, performances and displays from different cultures and the opportunity to participate in a number of activities including an art workshop where people can explore what "Freedom from Fear" means to them.
The highlight of the day will be "Stories from the Suitcase" written and produced by Yvette Wall from Frog Prince Productions. This short production reflects the experiences of people who, as refugees, have made Australia their home.
There will be woodworking activities for children, a sausage sizzle, and a variety of items available for purchase.
Where: Fremantle Town Hall
When: Saturday 20 June, 10am - 5pm
Cost: Free
For more information, email Jacquie on jacqui.satie@immi.gov.au
Be More - Workshop @ ERISJ
We live in a world of contrasts and conflicts. We also live in an era of unprecedented compassion. Many people want to do more than just donate money: they wish to be connected with the world and want to be part of the solution. The 'Be More' Challenge can provide you with the opportunity to harness this energy to tackle the structural nature of global poverty and secondly to promote the important role of living a life of faith and doing justice.
This workshop will be presented by Janeen Murphy; Janeen is the Global Education Advisor for Caritas Australia. She has worked in this position for 8 years, including working with Caritas partners in Uganda, Timor-Leste, Cambodia and India. Janeen runs education programs in schools and higher education institutions providing pathways to engage with justice issues.
Where: Edmund Rice Institute for Social Justice, Fremantle
When: Saturday 20 June, 10am - 5pm
Find out more
FROM SAND TO CELLULOID - WARWICK THORNTON SHORTS RETROSPECTIVE
To celebrate Warwick Thornton's Camera d'Or win at Cannes, Luna Leederville will be presenting a special Warwick Thornton retrospective. A powerful representative voice for Indigenous themes, Thornton's insightful camera reveals stories resilient with spirit. To celebrate this special filmmaker's highly praised directorial debut, Samson and Delilah, Luna Leederville will be hosting this award winning and revealing retrospective of Thornton's short films.
Buy a ticket to see Samson and Delilah at 9pm on Monday 15 June and receive a FREE screening session of Warwick Thornton's award winning retrospective shorts at 7.30pm that includes, in chronological order, Payback (1996), Mimi (2002), Green Bush (2005) and Nana (2007).
Tickets are $11 adult / $9.50 concession
More info
Peter Benenson Memorial Dinner
The West Australian Branch of Amnesty International would like to invite you to attend a panel discussion for this year's Peter Benenson Memorial Event. The topic of the panel discussion will be: A Human Rights Act for Australia?
Where: Perth Concert Hall, Wardell Room, 5 St Georges Terrace
When: Monday 8 June, the panel discussion starts at 7.30pm sharp
Entry: $10 waged / $5 unwaged
Coffee, Tea & biscuits will be served afterwards.
Please RSVP to amnestylegalgroupwa@gmail.com
Youth Tree TEDucation Night
You're invited to the second ever Youth Tree TEDucation Video Night to be held at SCITECH. Watch stuff (inspiring interesting and incredible videos), discuss stuff (conversations based around ideas brought up in the videos), eat stuff (everyone brings some food to share), learn stuff (by meeting like-minded Perthians and connecting with amazing ideas).
The purpose of these TEDucation video nights is to share with lots of people the amazing, diverse, inspiring and fascinating ideas that the speeches on TED.com bring to the world, and to bring people together in the real world at the same time. It was envisioned for all those who wished university was more of a melting pot of new ideas, inspiration and interdisciplinary cross-pollination. The topics of each video vary hugely; from replanting rainforests to education, from deep-sea exploration to music, from poverty statistics to solar-power. Every video will teach you something and/or inspire your face off. So instead of watching videos that explain in detail the extent to which the world is doomed, which can be quite depressing, we're sharing some of the most incredible and inspiring solutions to the world's problems.
Where: SCITECH DISCOVERY CENTRE, City West (go through the main City West entrance and up to the second floor)
When: Monday 8 June, 6.00pm
Bring: 1. Food to share (preferably pre-compost, edible foodstuffs)...
2. A USB stick so you can get your own copy of the videos we watch (and many others too)
3. Anyone else who you think would be interested in watching riveting talks from people sharing the world's most incredible ideas.
Where are we in the World?
Professional development for primary teachers or education students. Students have a natural curiosity about things around them in their local environment as well as the world and as teachers we can capitalise on this. Their interest in maps and map reading can be stimulated and built on so that reading and understanding maps becomes part of their currency of communication. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how maps and globes can be used to develop students’ perceptions of their world, experience practical mapping and globe activities that can be used in the classroom, explore where mapping fits into the Curriculum Framework, and receive a copy of the book 'Where are we in the World?'
Where: One World Centre, 5 King William St, Bayswater
When: Thursday 11 June, 4.00 – 6.00pm
Cost: $30 for OWC members and students, $40 for non-members
Registration is essential. Please contact the One World Centre on 9371 9133 or education@oneworldcentre.org.au for more info or to register.
FANGraiser
FANG (Freo Anti-Nuclear Group) are hosting a film night at Fremantle's Film and Television Institute. The movie showing will be “Uranium – is it a country?”, filmed by a group of young, German filmmakers on a visit to Australia in 2008. They came to Australia to discover where the uranium that is used for Power around Europe comes from. The film focuses on the reality of BHP Billiton's Olympic Dam (Roxby) uranium mine in South Australia. This is the world's largest uranium deposit. The filmmakers reveal the truth about the local pollution, the unsustainable use of water, and the reality of radioactive mine tailings.
Where: Film & Television Institute, Fremantle
When: Wednesday 17 June, 6.30pm
Cost: entry by donation
Deaths in Custody Watch Committee Rally
Don't let Mr Ward's death be in vain, join the public rally for justice and human rights. Protest Mr Ward's death. Demand that people will be safe in custody. Demand the State government takes immediate action to reduce indigenous imprisonment rates in WA. Demand the State government does something real and substantial NOW to tackle racism in the WA justice system. No More Deaths in Custody!!
Where: Forrest Place, Perth
When: Saturday 20 June, 12.00 – 2.00pm
For more information, contact the DICWC: 9444 1930 or dicwc@iinet.net.au
- Of the 339 Recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody delivered in 1991, the majority remains unimplemented
- Funding for Aboriginal legal aid services have been cut
- Indigenous people accounted for 22% of prisoners in Australian prisons in 2005 despite being only 2.4% of Australia's population
- In 2009 Indigenous people account for 43% of prisoners in West Australian prisons
- Indigenous Australians accounted for 30% of all deaths in custody in 2006
The Deaths in Custody Watch Committee (WA) Inc. are running a multi faceted campaign in response to the death of an Aboriginal Elder whilst in custody. The Ward Campaign for Justice seeks to redress the silence and apathy of the community towards the cruel and inhumane death of Mr Ward.
The aims of the campaign are:
- for the State government of WA to take immediate steps to prevent further deaths in custody
- a review of the Bail terms to avoid unnecessary detention
- a review of the privatisation of custodial services
- ensure accountability and duty of care to detainees by:
a) ensuring health checks are carried out by medical practitioners
b) immediate vehicle upgrades and regular checks, and
c) replacement of road transport of people detained in rural and remote areas with air transport or video conferencing
- compensation for the family of Mr Ward.
Show your support, join the campaign to bring about real change to how people are treated when they are under the care of the custodial and correctional services in WA. To get involved or to simply stay in touch with developments, visit the website - www.deathsincustody.org.au
Take Action:
- join the campaign
- make a donation
- become a member
- write or email your local MP voicing your disgust
- print the rally flyer and post it at your work
- e-mail the flyer to your friends
- come to a campaign meeting every Wed night
- come to the public rally on June 20!
Campaigning for Change Workshop
What does it take to win change for social, economic and environmental justice? How can campaigns for change effectively utilise people power? How can campaigns be planned to create achievable steps along the way to winnable goals? Find out in this two day workshop presented by the Change Agency.
The workshop includes: the elements of campaign strategy and planning frameworks; theories of how social change happens, and the role of people power; practical strategy and mobilising tools and techniques to practice and apply to real campaign situations, including critical path analysis, stakeholder analysis, tactics analysis for strategic consistency and political impact, and practice sessions on tactics such as interacting with powerholders, speaking to the media, door knocking, and phone canvassing.
The Campaigning for Change workshop is open to a broad range of activists, and will include opportunities to network and learn with each other. This workshop will benefit community workers, union organisers, grassroots activists, professional campaigners, and many others.
Where: Piney Lakes Environmental Education Centre
When: Wednesday 24 - Thursday 25 June, 9.30am – 5.00pm
Cost: $80-$220 depending on your means. Resource kit, lunch and refreshments included
Register with the Conservation Council on 9429 7266 or conswa@conservationwa.asn.au
Seeking Asylum in Australia: What happens to rejected asylum seekers?
Public lecture by Phil Glendenning, Director of the Edmund Rice Centre in Sydney. Phil is co-author of 'Deported to Danger' and 'Deported to Danger II', research reports which documented the fate of asylum seekers rejected by the Australian government and deported back to countries deemed to be 'safe'. These reports formed the basis of the documentary 'A Well Founded Fear' shown on SBS in November 2008, and graphically showed the tragic results of some of these deportation decisions.
But what has happened since then, and has the new federal Labor government's policy and approach to asylum seekers changed anything? What is wrong with Australia's assessment and screening process of asylum seekers and how should Australia approach the issue of providing safe haven to people fleeing terrible situations in their homelands? What role can ordinary citizens play in influencing the national 'attitude' to asylum seekers and refugees?
Phil Glendenning will address these and other questions in a thought-provoking and timely presentation marking the 2009 UN International Day in Support of Survivors of Torture.
Where: Curtin University, Bank West Lecture Theatre
When: Thursday 25 June, 7pm. Come early to see the display of AseTTS' services and SBS documentary 'A Well Founded Fear' from 5pm – 7pm.
Cost: gold coin donation
Community Climate Change Dialogue
The Conservation Council of WA, in partnership with Murdoch University's ISTP, is hosting a major community-based event to engage Western Australians in a discussion on climate change issues and challenges. The Dialogue will have a strong focus on facilitating and building community-based participation in solving the climate change crisis. This FREE event is your chance to have your say on climate change and is not to be missed.
As a participant you will hear from experts on the latest climate science, policy settings, issues and consequences across the themes of climate safe sustainable communities, sustainable energy policy, citizen-led climate science and citizen centred climate actions. You will have the opportunity to put forward your questions and engage in deliberations across these themes. Politicians from all major parties have been invited to hear the outcomes of these deliberations at the final dialogue plenary.
This event will take place in the period leading up to the crucial international climate negotiations in Copenhagen in December 2009 and as the State Government is in the process of developing Western Australia’s long awaited climate change mitigation and adaptation strategy.
Speakers include:
•Dr Bryson Bates, Theme Leader ,CSIRO’s Climate Adaptation Flagship & Chief Research Scientist Div. Marine & Atmospheric Research
•Dr Linda Chambers, Senior Scientist, Centre for Australian Weather & Climate Research (Bureau of Meteorology) Climate Change Group
•Dr Paul Wilkes, Vice President, Sustainable Energy Now
•Mr Peter Robertson, State Coordinator, The Wilderness Society
•Mr Piers Verstegen, Director, Conservation Council of WA
•Dr Nic Dunlop, Citizen Science Program Coordinator, Conservation Council of WA
•Dr Brad Pettitt , Dean, Institute of Sustainability and Technology Policy (ISTP) Murdoch University
•Ms Nicole Hodgson, Lecturer Sustainable Development, ISTP Murdoch University
Where: Murdoch University
When: Sunday 28 June, 8.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: Free if you register before 12 June. Lunch will be available if preordered and prepaid ($15)
Further information: Conference Convenor: Carolyn Hofmeester, Registrations: Ariane Cances
Phone: (08) 9420 7266 Email: conswa@conservationwa.asn.au
National Climate Emergency Rally
SWB is supporting the National Climate Emergency Rally on Saturday 13 June. Join the rally in support of:
100% RENEWABLES BY 2020
NEW GREEN JOBS - a fair transition for workers and communities
SCRAP THE CPRS - Rudd's Emissions Trading Scheme won't work
PROTECT AUSTRALIA'S FORESTS - destroying forests releases carbon
NO URANIUM - nuclear is no solution
Saturday 13 June @ 12.30pm
Forrest Place, Perth
Junkadelic will be performing at the event. Hedge Bandits Junkadelic are one of Perth's most creative acts, combining self-made 'junk' percussions, horms, vocals and anything else they can find to make music from.
You can play a part in the event by:
- helping to spread the word with posters, leaflets, emailing your friends, etc.
- offering practical help if you can (eg. banner painting)
- putting a link to safeclimate.org.au on your blog
- changing your status on facebook to "Coming to the climate rally June 13 www.safeclimate.org.au"
- donating to the Safe Climate appeal
- coming along to the rally and bringing your friends and family!
Flyer
Stickers available from the safeclimate website or from the Social Justice Centre on Bush Court
For more information, visit www.safeclimate.org.au or www.climaterally.org
United We Could Save the Forest
The Australian Orangutan Project (AOP) will hold its first ever protest this Saturday, 30 May, in Perth city. AOP supporters will conduct a peaceful rally to protest a proposal for the clearing and destruction of high conservation value rainforest that has recently been put forward by Asia Pulp & Paper/Sinar Mas Group. This globally important ecosystem provides a safe haven for many species which are threatened by extinction including the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan, tiger and elephant.
The peaceful protest will start at noon at the corner of Barrack St and Murray St Mall and will run until mid afternoon.
AOP supporters will invite people to sign a petition against the proposal. Almost 3000 people have already signed the petition which started on Friday 22 May.
More than 100 orangutans have been released to date via the Bukit Tigapuluh Sumatran Orangutan Reintroduction Project - the only reintroduction site for this critically endangered species. Scientists spent decades discovering how to successfully reintroduce critically endangered orangutans from captivity into the wild and it could take Asia Pulp & Paper/Sinar Mas Group just months to destroy an important part of their new habitat.
Between 1985 and 2007, Sumatra island lost 12 million hectares of natural forest, a 48 percent loss in 22 years. By 2007, the island had only 30% natural forest cover (around 13 million hectares). The Indonesian Minsteries of Forestry, Environment, Public Works and Interior, as well as the governors of all 10 Sumatran provinces, last year announced their collective commitment to protecting the areas of the island with "high conservation values". The natural forest slated for destruction by Asia Pulp & Paper/Sinar Mas Group - Bukit Tigapuluh - is a prime example of the high conservation value areas that the governors promised to protect.
If you have any enquiries, please contact AOP Project Coordinator, Kylie Bullo, at projects@orangutan.org.au
A Climate for Change
A Climate for Change is a news and social networking website (like Facebook & MySpace), except with a climate twist to it. It's a fun, active community providing a place for you to share and network with other like minded souls.
- Create your own profile and share anything and everything about climate change: your beliefs, goals, ideas and actions.
- News & Opinions - the latest climate change news from around the web including news and opinion from some of the world's leading community organisations.
- Blog - if you read a great article, hear an interview, see an interesting documentary (good or bad), and have an opinion about it, this is the place for you to share it.
There are also discussion forums, groups you can join, an events calendar, you can upload photos and videos, and learn how to become a climate activist.
To celebrate the launch of A Climate for Change, there are some great green prizes to be won. First prize is valued at over $250 and includes a solar charger for your MP3 player/phone. Prizes donated by Going Solar.
Sign up
Become a climate change e-monitor
2009 is an important year for the world to avoid catastrophic climate change. World leaders must agree to reduce carbon emissions and help poor countries adapt to the impacts of climate change. A global deal must be reached by December. A series of UN meetings will take place before a global agreement will be made. We need Australia to take a leading role in these meetings to make a positive impact for climate change.
Make Poverty History are searching for e-monitors who will keep a close eye on the Australian government's role in the negotiations and communicate directly with negotiators during the key UN meetings.
What e-monitors will do
You will receive regular email updates from Make Poverty History during each round of climate negotiations. These updates will come from climate change experts at the negotiations and will provide you with the latest inside information. At key times during the UN meetings you will be asked to send off urgent emails to the Australian government negotiators. This will let them know that we are keeping a close eye on what's happening and encourage them to play a leading role.
Find out more
Kimberley whale survey trip 2009 - the opportunity of a lifetime!
The Kimberley coast is one of the most intact in the world; scientists are only just beginning to document the outstanding natural values of the region. Beautiful and extensive fringing coral reefs, vast seagrass beds, mangrove forests and spectacular sponge gardens support an incredible array of marine life in one of the highest tidal range coasts in the world. Everything from dugong, sawfish and turtles to Australia's unique dolphin - the snubfin dolphin - all rely on this incredible healthy ecosystem.
The Wilderness Society is very concerned about proposals for polluting coastal industry that would irreversible impact on this world-class marine environment. This year, the Wilderness Society would like to organise a whale survey trip along the Kimberley coast in a luxury cruise ship. This trip is for Wilderness Society members and friends. The trip would likely be held in September and would depart from Broome.
More info
Update:
IRC
In villages across Sierra Leone and Rwanda, the IRC's Child Survival Program has reduced the number of children losing their lives to common diseases by up to 48%. The IRC has recently been awarded $750,000 from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), to bring lifesaving treatment to the children in Southern Sudan.
Humanitarian organisations have been expelled from Darfur, North and East Sudan by the Sudanese government, but the IRC's work in Southern Sudan continues. Below is an update from the IRC's Senior Health Director, Emmanuel D'Harcourt:
"After 20 years of civil war, people here are struggling to rebuild their lives. There are no paved roads to speak of, and health care is woefully inadequate. Health clinics are few and far between, and government health agencies lack the resources to build more. To reach sick children who desperately need our help, the IRC developed a "community-based" treatment model.
Today, my colleages and I train local health workers who are community members themselves. We provide medical supplies and support to these villagers who volunteer to serve their community. Our locally trained health workers have the ability to identify and treat common diseases and as community members, they share a bond with families that might not occur at a faraway health clinic".
One of the volunteers the IRC has trained is Santino Malong, who cares for children in the village of Mathiang in the state of Northern Bahr el Ghazal:
"Our nearest health centre is a long way away in Malualbal. That's too far to go for treatment. Instead, mothers bring their children to me both night and day. I was chosen by the local community to do this, so they trust me and they know that I attended a training by the IRC. The last child I treated was a baby girl with malaria. I gave her medicine and I checked up on her afterwards. She is well. I am happy to be able to save lives and to serve in my community".
The IRC has launched the Child Survival Challenge through which they are attempting to raise $250,000, enabling them to dedicate $1 million to helping children in Southern Sudan.
Every dollar counts:
A bed net to protect sleeping infants against malaria costs just $7
A child with malaria can be treated with a combination of drugs costing as little as $1
$1 is all it takes to provide zinc supplements and oral rehydration salts to a child suffering from severe diarrhea dehydration
A full course of treatment for pneumonia is least expensive of all - just 50c
For more information, or to donate, visit the IRC's website: www.theirc.org
Volunteers needed for radio station - 100.9 FM
Noongar Media Enterprises Radio are seeking volunteers to help with their radio shows, as presenters, producers and behind the scenes workers.
Do you have a passion for radio, music and talkback? Do you have an idea for a specialist radio program? Would you like to get experience working in the media?
Applications close Monday 8 June.
Application form
BUMP Launch Party
The Anti-Nuclear Alliance of WA (ANAWA) are an active community group who educate the public about the nuclear fuel chain and create events to let the public know that they exist in order to build a growing movement to not only stop uranium mining, but also to promote the renewable energy sector, set in context with climate change and peak oil and the economic recession. They are strongly focused on the uranium mining issue, and work alongside other groups promoting policies for a liveable future. They campaign for nuclear disarmament and various peace initiatives, for renewable energy, for protection of our fragile environment, and for less consumerist lifestyles, all of which contribute towards creating more harmonious communities.
ANAWA have created a new campaign - Ban Uranium Mining Permanently (BUMP) - and they invite you to their launch on World Environment Day, Friday 5 June, at The Palms, Rokeby Rd, Subiaco (6-8pm).
More info
Palm Oil Action Group - letter writing
The Palm Oil Action Group invites you to a peaceful letter writing Action at Fremantle (near the famous Fremantle markets).
On the day their stall will be set up with petitions and letters for the public to sign along with information pamphlets on palm oil. If you want to find out more about palm oil then please come along and tell your friends, the more people spreading the word about palm oil the better.
Where: Fremantle (the laneway in between the Sail & Anchor Pub & Fremantle Markets) - just look for the orangutan and balloons!
When: Sunday 7 June 2009
Time: 10am - 3pm
Australians unknowingly consume an average of 10kg of palm oil each year, and it has been estimated that 10% of all supermarket products contain it as a (usually hidden) ingredient. As the world's hunger for palm oil grows, mega monoculture plantations are fast replacign the last wilderness areas of Indonesia, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea, threatening species such as orangutans, Sumatran tigers, rhinos and Asian elephants with extinction. The latest estimates show that unless we act now orangutans in the wild may be extinct within 10 years.
We have already seen positive moves in Europe to phase out palm oil so come along and find out a little more about what is going on - consumer pressure through consumer awareness is the major factor that leads to change. Be part of the solution!
National Sorry Day 2009
Taking the next steps... Come along and join in this important event which commemorates the history of forcible removal of Aboriginal children and its effects on Aboriginal families and communities. It is also time for us all to commit to working together to ensure proper reconciliation in this country.
When: 12-2pm, Tuesday 26 May 2009
Where: Wellington Square, East Perth
What: Great music, interesting speakers and a free sausage sizzle
The Bringing Them Home Report was presented to Federal parliament on 26th May 1997, documenting the findings from the national enquiry into the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their familites and communities under government policy. 54 recommendations were made and tabled 12 years ago. The Bringing Them Home Committee WA believe that less than ten have ever been implemented.
It is important to acknowledge the struggles many are still overcoming as a result of past policies which separated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families from each other. And it's important as a community and a nation to take the next steps to healing, reconciliation and justice.
More info
Hilton Harvest Festival
Delicious food, live music and entertainment, kids' activities, stalls, talks, displays and triumphs of sustainable organic urban living...
This event is a fundraiser for the Hilton Harvest Community Garden Project.
Sunday 24 May 2009
9am - 1pm
Fremantle PCYC, Paget St, Hilton
More info
International Rescue Committee - Saving the lives of children
Dr Emmanuel d'Harcourt is the Senior Health Director at the International Rescue Committee. He directs the Child Survival Program, which was launched 9 years ago with the goal of reducing the number of avoidable deaths among children in war-ravaged countries like Sierra Leone, Rwanda and Sudan. Here is an update on the program written by Dr. d'Harcourt:
"It's heartbreaking when countless children succumb to preventable diseases like malaris, pneumonia, and diarrhea. It's an injustice we are working day and night to correct, and with your help we're succeeding - and saving children's lives.
You may remember hearing from me last year when the IRC launched a successful campaign to expand the Child Survival Program in Sierra Leone.
Today I want to report on our stunning progress. In the Sierra Leonean villages where we work, the death rate among children has been reduced by as much as 48%. We have given lifesaving treatment to more than 100,000 children, and the program is being extended nationally.
That's thousands and thosands of young children who are now living healthy lives thanks to the IRC's lifesaving work.
With your support, the IRC has developed a unique and extremely effective method of delivering medicine and health care directly to children and their parents. My colleagues and I train local health workers who are community members themselves. We provide medical supplies and support to these villagers who volunteer to serve their community.
Once trained, community-based IRC health workers have the ability to identify common diseases and provide treatment.
While the success is encouraging, we have a long road ahead. Our challenge now is to expand the field-tested and extremely successful child Survival Program to reach as many villages as possible in war-torn countries across Africa. It is our global responsibility to prevent the needless deaths of as many children as possible.
Visit the IRC wesite to learn more about the life-saving work they do.
The Oaktree Foundation is seeking a new CEO
Applications are now open for the position of Oaktree's Chief Executive Officer.
They are looking for a dynamic young leader to take Oaktree into its next exciting phase of development. Applications close 8 June 2009.
Positions for other key roles, such as Head of Shared Services, Head of People and Organisational Devleopment, and Head of Projects are also currently available - more details
Paid Parental Leave
The Treasurer has announced that this year's budget will include a paid parental scheme of 18 weeks. This is a huge step forward and means that Australia will no longer be one of only two developed countries without any form of paid parental leave.
Human Rights Act for Australia Panel Discussion
The WA Branch of Amnesty International Australia would like to invite you to attend a panel discussion for this year's Peter Benenson Memorial Event. The topic of the panel discussion will be: "A Human Rights Act for Australia?"
The panel discussion will start at 7.30pm sharp on Monday 8 June.
It will take place at the Perth Concert Hall in the Wardell Room, 5 St Georges Terrace.
Donation: $10 waged / $5 unwaged.
Coffee, tea and biscuits will be served afterwards
Please RSVP to amnestylegalgroupwa@gmail.com
Wilderness Society: WA Forest Alert
The WA Conservation Commission has just released a 'mid-term audit' of implementation of the current Forest Management Plan 2004-13 (FMP). There is a three-month public comment period and public submissions will be vital to ensure the final report contains strong recommendations about the future protection and management of WA's forests. Read more
Ian Ward Demonstration
On April 3, a public rally was held calling for justice for Mr Ward, following his death in the back of a police vehicle. Mr Ward was a respected Aboriginal elder who was arrested for drink driving. On January 27, he was transported 380km to Kalgoorlie in the back of a van. It was a 42 degree day and the air conditioning was not working in the vehicle. Mr Ward was given just one 600ml bottle of water and a pie for the entire journey. The officers transporting Mr Ward did not check on him during the journey, until they heard a thump. This thump was Mr Ward collapsing. He later died in Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital.
More images
Reconciliation Australia - Close the Gap Statement
SUPPORT FOR UN DECLARATION AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARDS CLOSING THE GAP
Reconciliation Australia Co-Chair Mark Leibler has welcomed today’s statement of support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples issued by the Australian Government.
Mr Leibler, a Melbourne-based senior lawyer, said the language in the statement demonstrated the Government’s recognition that Australia will not achieve better outcomes for its Indigenous citizens without building mutually respectful and trusting relationships.
“The Declaration provides a framework for countries with different histories and circumstances to reduce levels of disadvantage and discrimination,” said Mr Leibler. “It includes valuable guiding principles that, where followed, will undoubtedly help Indigenous and other Australians work together more respectfully and far more effectively than we have in the past.”
Mr Leibler paid tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians who had worked for many years alongside Indigenous peoples from across the globe to develop and promote the Declaration. “My fellow Co-Chair at Reconciliation Australia, Professor Mick Dodson, is one of those people. He was involved in the crafting of the text and I know that today, as an official representative of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, he is absolutely elated.
“There are critics of the role of human rights frameworks who claim they have no practical value in overturning disadvantage. But the reality is that the rights set out in the Declaration have meaningful application in closing the gap in Australia. Every one of them is directly or indirectly associated with getting improved outcomes for people in health, education, employment and every other area of disadvantage.”
Mr Leibler said the principles set out in the Declaration were based on evidence of approaches that have worked in promoting better results around the world. “They prioritise the dignity and aspirations of Indigenous people, and give them a leading role in working together with others to close the gaps.”
Reconciliation Australia’s simple fact sheet on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples can be found at www.reconciliation.org.au
Kulturejam - Highway to Human Rights Fundraiser
Come and enjoy a great night of live music and support a worthwhile cause at the same time! All proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Deaths in Custody Watch Committee WA Inc Campaign for Justice and Human Rights for Wongai Elder Mr Ward.
Live music from:
The Bartlett Brothers, Gang of Three, Old Flames Band, Candice Lorrae and Warangka Band!
All the artists performing on the night have graciously donated their time to supporting this campaign and fundraising event.
Friday 1 May @ Charles Hotel, North Perth
$20, doors open at 7pm
Enquiries: 9444 1930 or dicwa@iinet.net.au or info@kulturejam.com
Rally for the Kimberley
The Kimberley is under serious threat from the proposed industrial gas site on the pristine coastline, north of Broome. If you live in Perth, the Wilderness Society needs your support this Saturday. It is community action that will stop this outrageous plan, and with your help we can make Woodside, and the joint venture partners, rethink this proposal.
When: Saturday 2nd May @ 11am sharp
Where: Perth foreshore, Riverside Drive (near the Belltower and Ferris Wheel)
What: Be part of a human chain, which will spell out a giant message - 'No Kimberley Gas Hub'. An aerial photo will be taken from the ferris wheel, and used for media publicity of this campaign.
There's no cost involved, however, please wear a red t-shirt if you can, and bring something to lie on. You can let the Wilderness Society know you're coming by joining their event on Facebook, or emailing wa@wilderness.org.au
Visit the Facebook page
Fremantle By-Election Candidate Forum
Presented by the Fremantle Network, the Fremantle Society, the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce, Oxfam and Notre Dame University.
7.30pm Tuesday 5 May at the Notre Dame Drill Hall, Mouat St, Fremantle
ABC's political reporter Peter Kennedy will lead a live version of Q&A with the candidates in the Fremantle by-election on Tuesday 5 May. Peter Tagliaferri and Adele Carles have confirmed their attendance and other candidates have been invited.
There will be an opportunity for people to ask questions of the candidates from the floor, or to submit a question in advance by emailing freodebate@yahoo.com.au
Fair Trade Chocolate Fountain
The SWB Action Group is bringing a chocolate fountain onto campus!
Why? To raise awareness of child trafficking in the chocolate industry, at the same time as showing/reminding you just how yummy Fair Trade chocolate is!! We will be selling skewers of fruit and/marshmallows to dip into the chocolate fountain.
When? Thursday 7 May from 11am
Rob Riley Memorial Lecture
Celebration or Commiseration: Post Apology Blues presented by Jackie Huggins AM, Deputy Director of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Studies Unit at the University of Queensland and former Co-Chair of Reconciliation Australia.
Friday 8 May 2009, 6pm
Haydyn Williams Lecture Theatre
Building 405
Curtin University of Technology
Kent Street, Bentley
Refreshments will follow the lecture.
Please RSVP on 08 9266 2563 or email events@curtin.edu.au by Monday 4 May.
Fair Trade Fiesta
The Fair Trade Collective WA and City Farm invite you to make and beat a drum for fair trade. Come along and buy a fair trade present for Mother's Day or just enjoy the market stalls, entertainment, food, and kid's activities.
Saturday 9 May at City Farm, City Farm Place, East Perth
10am - 3pm
More info at www.fairtradeaustralia.com.au
Big Bang!! Beat Poverty, Beat Climate Change, Beat Financial Crisis, Beat a Drum, A Big Fair Trade Solution to Poverty
09 May 09 - A Big Day for the Planet
Survey respondents needed
TA PhD programme of study conducted in the Murdoch School of Psychology is investigating Gender Differences in Motivation and Exercise and is inviting any student 20 years of age and over, both males AND females, to participate in this brief online survey. Simply click on the link below, or copy and paste into your browser to go straight to the survey. All data is collected anonymously, and by doing the survey you can enter in a draw to win a prize!
You can have the chance to win one of several Coles/Myer vouchers valued up to $250 by taking part in this online research survey now!
They are looking for as many students as possible, no matter what shape, size or level of fitness, to do this study. Your participation would be greatly appreciated. Please help us Discover!
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=66AtDtGs_2fkYKPrcKdfmH9A_3d_3d
Participant entry closing date: 28 April 2009
Preliminary research results will be available on the School of Psychology website from August 2009
Prize draw winners announced August 2009.
For any queries, contact Susanne Bellesario - S.Bellesario@murdoch.edu.au
Volunteer with the United Nations
The United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) has a number of volunteer-based projects that students might like to work on. These are usually across 4 areas: environment, human rights, events (such as the UN International Day for Indigenous Peoples), and office support. Some are short-term (ie. tree planting on a specific site or helping with fundraising events) whilst others may require involvement over a few months.
They also have an internship program for office-based work and are currently looking for the help of business students to support their volunteers.
In addition, there is also the UN Youth Association, which runs its own conference and events. This might be of interest to a younger student group.
If you are interested you can contact the UNAA (WA) on 9221 9455.
Deaths in Custody Protest
On April 3, a public rally is being held calling for justice for Mr Ward, following his death in the back of a police vehicle. Mr Ward was a respected Aboriginal elder who was arrested for drink driving. On January 27, he was transported 380km to Kalgoorlie in the back of a van. It was a 42 degree day and the air conditioning was not working in the vehicle. Mr Ward was given just one 600ml bottle of water and a pie for the entire journey. The officers transporting Mr Ward did not check on him during the journey, until they heard a thump. This thump was Mr Ward collapsing. He later died in Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital. The inquest into Mr Ward's death has been postponed until May, but the family deserve to have the matter investigated now.
A list of demands will be presented to the Attorney General and Minister for Corrective Services. Join the call for:
- an end to deaths in custody
- the GSL Security guards to be stood down
- those responsible for Mr Ward's death the be charged
- compensation for the family of Mr Ward
- the use of air-conditioning or video conferencing instead of long journeys
- health checks for detainees by medical practitioners prior to transportation
- immediate upgrades to and regular checks of detainee transport vehicles
- a review of bail terms to avoid unnecessary detention
- an end to the privatisation of custodial services.
Friday 3 April, 12pm
Stirling Gardens
For more info, contact Marc Newhouse on 0415 074 602.
The Vagina Monologues
Until the Violence Stops
The Vagina Monologues is an international play that has become a phenomenon! It is a series of monologues performed by local Perth women at both Curtin University and UWA. The play helps to raise money for organisations who raise awareness and work to stop violence against women and girls.
Every monologue somehow relates to the vagina, be it through sex, love, rape, menstruation, mutilation, masturbation, birth, orgasm, the variety of names for the vagina, or simply as a physical aspect of the body. A recurring theme throughout the piece is the vagina as a tool of female empowerment, and the ultimate embodiment of individuality.
Come along and see an awesome performance and support a worthwhile cause.
Monday 20 April
Doors open 7.30pm
Elizabeth Jolly Lecture Theatre
Curtin University
Friday 24 April
Doors open 7.30pm
Social Science Lecture Theatre
University of Western Australia
Tickets are $10 each - on sale now, so get them quick. To reserve tickets or pick them up, please call Rhiahnon on 0404 163 288 or email rhiahnonkennedy@gmail.com.
The Rescue
For over two decades, war has been waged between the Ugandan government and the Lord's Resistance Army, a rebel group led by Joseph Kony. In 2006 the Juba Peace Talks began and when a ceasefire was agreed to, peace appeared within reach. The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for Kony, who is the first individual to be charged with crimes against humanity by the ICC. Kony refused to sign the final peace agreement and insisted that the arrest warrant must be dropped, however, Kony failed to attend the signing of the peace agreement and so his crimes continue.
Kony has used a strategy of abducting children from their homes and forcing them to become child soldiers in his army. This practice led to the nightly commutes that many families undertook for many years, walking through the night to the nearest town and returning home in the morning. The ICC has obtained evidence that Kony has resumed abducting children for his army.
At the beginning of this year, the Ugandan government and surrounding countries launched an unsuccessful military operation intended to defeat the LRA and capture the rebel leader. Thousands of civilians have been attacked in retaliation - more than 1000 have been killed and over 100,000 have been displaced. The civil war that was contained within Uganda's borders has now spread to encompass the Democratic Republic of Congo and surrounding countries.
Come to the Rescue
On April 25, the international community will unite to deliver the innocent from Kony's reign and ensure that he is brought to justice. Thousands of participants will gather in 100 cities across the globe to 'abduct' themselves and raise the banner of the child soldiers taken by Joseph Kony.
The 'abductees' will leave their homes and walk to an event location while carrying their supplies on their backs. At the event, participants will be invited to write letters, create art/photo projects and seek out media attention in an effort to petition the US, European, Canadian, Mexican, New Zealand and Australian governments to develop a strategy an support existing efforts to rescue Kony's child soldiers.
This event is being organised by Invisible Children. To find out more, or to register as an abductee, visit the website - http://therescue.invisiblechildren.com/en
Saturday 25 April, 3pm
Location TBC
Greenpeace: Anti-whaling Update
Current negotiations involving Australia and Japan will decide the fate of thousands of whales in Antarctic and Pacific waters. The closed door negotiations between 6 nations are aiming to find a solution to the problem of Japanese whaling. Japan refuses to end its "scientific" whaling program, although a compromise is being seeked. The next few months could prove critical to the future of the whales. Read more...
Students
Without Borders is helping to raise funds to send a Murdoch student to
a Canadian treatment centre to save her life from Anorexia Nervosa.
There are no centres of this type in Australia, and the
treatment
will help to address the underlying issues which led to the development
of this disorder.
Fundraising events are being organised and collection tins
Aid Convoy reaches Gaza!
This article was written by Sonja Karkar of Australians for Palestine (australiansforpalestine.com):
The news of the broken siege is the stuff of legends and for the people of Gaza, that legend will sustain them for the moment as the eyes of the world turn towards Gaza again, however briefly.
After much negotiation, the 200+ convoy of aid-filled trucks and ambulances were allowed through the Rafah crossing to be greeted with absolute jubilation from the Palestinians on the other side. This was a moment worth savouring, not only for the Palestinians whose contact with the outside world has been banned by Israel, but also for the 300 volunteers who had travelled so far and so long to provide a desperately-needed lifeline.
This is what the world needs to hear so that they can do something to keep that lifeline open.
Nobody knows really how close it was to the aid convoy being denied entry to Gaza, but those who had made the month-long journey were given little reason to hope yesterday after they’d spent a night in isolated compounds in the desert just out from Egypt’s town El-Arish under strict surveillance from some 1000 Egyptian soldiers and police. Not only that, but masked men attacked the convoy with bottles and stones and vandalised some of the trucks taking the aid intended for the Palestinians. Despite all the surrounding security forces, no one came to the aid of the volunteers.
Electricity had been cut to the compounds as well, so all was in darkness. After that,no one could sleep and so the volunteers took turns guarding the trucks so this did not happen again.
The experience left everyone shaken. In fact, one man had an asthma attack after being struck in the head and it was Kamahl and another man who then had to carry the ailing man 150 metres to an ambulance which had been forbidden from coming closer. The prospects of entering Gaza did not look good, but then orders came for the vehicles to be unloaded one by one and the aid re-loaded on to “official” vehicles for transportation through Rafah. The empty vehicles had to be driven to the Egyptian-Israel border for processing by Israeli security, but only after Palestinian drivers took over the driving of the vehicles.
While all of the trucks and ambulances were finally let through, the story is not a happy one for Kamahl and the two other drivers of the Viva Palestina mascot – the British fire truck. Kamahl told us this morning that they and the boat were refused entry into Gaza. Already, they are on the long drive back to Libya, understandably upset that they could not be part of the joyous celebrations in Gaza. It was for all of them the point which had kept them going over the most gruelling stretches of this epic trip, else why would they have done it. All they ever wanted was to give some hope to the Palestinians and to extend a helping hand of friendship and solidarity. It was not to be for Kamahl and those with whom he had shared the journey, but at least the aid was in Gaza and the Palestinians know that there are indeed some who have not forgotten them.
JET Scholarships
Are you a parent struggling to make ends meet whilst you study? Has your entitlement to JET come to an end? SWB volunteers held barbecues on Bush Court throughout 2007 & 2008 to raise money for scholarships.
We are now offering the first 2 x $250 scholarships to help you through the beginning of semester. To be eligible, you must meet the JET requirements, but have reached the end of your entitlement.
Applications close March 20 2009.
Please email Vicky - swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au - with a letter outlining your eligibility.
Relay for Life
The Cancer Council of WA is holding its annual Relay for Life on the weekend of March 28-29. Teams of 10-15 will compete in the 24 hour relay, held a Perry Lakes. If you would like to form an SWB team, let me know. Each team member must raise at least $100 before the event.
To register, contact Vicky on swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au. Please note that if you register, you MUST turn up.
United Nations UDHR Prize
No doubt you have seen one of the 2000 yellow and black fliers around campus, attempting to create an awareness of/engagement with social justice issues through a Human Rights Prize. You may also remember a larger display at the South Street and Rockingham libraries. There are currently two small displays in the South Street Library near the first Year Coordinator’s office.
But did you know that you could win the $1000 prize??
All you need to do is submit a piece of work that best captures the spirit of the UN Declaration of Human Rights. This could be an animation, a photo, a short video, an essay or even a piece of performance art. You can work individually or in groups for this prize, but you have to get it in by February 27 2009.
For more info, contact Martin on m.gwyn@murdoch.edu.au
Protect Chester Forest
Chester Forest Rescue Camp has been in formal operation for over 5 months. Two sites have been established to support the forest defense. The public face of the Chester Forest protest is on the side of Brockman highway (20kms out of Karridale) with a warm communal tent, open camping area, a tree platform and the Rescue camp’s kitchen. The ‘sharp end’ site has the ‘lock on’ 24/7 presence of the protesters who are blocking the forest entry point. This site is primed for action in anticipation of any action by the Forest Products Commission (FPC).
Camp spokesperson Simon Peterffy reports a strong, positive community reaction from locals, interstate and international visitors as well as passing traffic. “There have been hundreds of visitors and protesters to Chester, some staying from day one, others dropping in for a day visit”, says Simon. “This is a serious campaign, in true forest rescue tradition. We are here to save this pristine wilderness”.
Supporters are both welcome and vital to the Chester Forest Rescue Camp. Essential supplies of human energy, food staples and building supplies are needed to sustain the protest effort.
Drop-off points for equipment at this time are the Brockman Highway camp and in Margaret River. For Margaret River donations, contact Gerry on 0439 994 932. For ideas on what may be useful goods for donation, contact recent visitor to the camp, Maxine Drake on 0409 016 104 or Simon Peterffy.
“This forest belongs to everyone and everyone can help to save it, in whatever capacity they are able. People in Perth can send goods down through travellers, locals or the protest networks. It’s a practical way to show support for what we are doing”, says Simon Peterffy.
Simon can be contacted on 0422 535 328
Seed Watering and Maintenance
Where: Wildlife Corridor
When: 18 Feb, 8.30am
A helping hand is needed to get our native seedlings through this spell of hot weather. Volunteers are needed to water the seedlings planted in the campus wildlife corridor over the past two winters. Maintenance of tree guards and minor weed removal may also be conducted if enough helpers are on site, to give the plants the best chance of survival. Tools will be provided.
Bring your bucket or watering can, drinking water and gardening gloves (if available), wear closed-toe shoes (or steel cap boots if you have them) and dress appropriately for the weather.
Meet at the bottom of car park 8 by 8.30am.
Contact Neil Goldsborough if you need further information - neilgau@yahoo.com.au
Occupation 101
'Occupation 101' is a thought-provoking and powerful documentary on the current and historical causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The film covers a wide range of topics, including the wave of Jewish immigration from Europe in the 1880s, the 1920 tensions, the 1948 war, the 1968 war, the first intifada of 1987, the Oslo Peace Process, settlement expansion, the role of the United States' government, the second intifada of 2000, the separation barrier and the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. It also contains heart wrenching testimonials from from victims of this tragedy.
Thursday 26 February at 6pm
Alexander Lecture Theatre, UWA
For more info contact info@fopwa.org or vp@uwamsa.org
Globalise Me: An Introduction to Global Education
Professional Development for teachers.
Exlore the themes of global education in a fun, interactive workshop with activities and strategies that you can use in your classroom. Also, examine what being a global educator means for your classroom setup, teachign style and use of resources.
When: Tuesday 17 March, 4pm - 6pm
Where: One World Centre, 5 King William St, Bayswater
Who: Teachers of primary and secondary school students
Cost: $20 for OWC members & students, $30 for non-members
More info
Cuba, Venezuela and socialism in the 21st century: an eyewitness report
Public Community Action - Help Stop the Logging of Tiwi Islands Forests
TheTiwi
Islands Darwin
and
include two main islands, Melville and Bathurst
When: Thursday 19 February - 9.30am
Where: Parmelia Hilton Hotel,14
Mill Street , Perth
Already 30 000 hectares of forests and woodlands on theIslands
have been cleared and have been replaced by single species plantations
that
will be woodchipped and exported.
Worse still, another 70 000 hectares of these beautiful tropical forests are proposed to be cleared as part of a proposed, but not approved, Stage 2 of this ill considered project.
The Wilderness Society campaigned for Federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett, to impose tough new conditions for a range of serious breaches of environmental conditions related to its controversial clearing of 26 000 hectares of forests and woodlands on the Tiwi islands, north ofDarwin
We
now need to make sure shareholders are reminded that
Stage 2 of this project must not proceed!
for
more details about the
A Cry from the Wild
Leif Cox (Australian Orangutan Project President) and Hardi Baktiantoro (Centre for Orangutan Protection Campaigner) want to spread the caring. Come along and gain a rare insight from these dedicated men.
Tuesday 17 February, 7.30pm
Murdoch University Kim Beazley Lecture Theatre
Tickets $20, Students & Children under 15 $10
Hardi Baktiantoro is Indonesia's most experienced activist for Orangutan conservation. Since 2007 Hardi has been a vigorous campaigner for COP, the only fully Indonesian group dedicated to the conservation of Orangutans.
Leif Cox is the founder of AOP and has been president since its foundation. He is Perth Zoo's Curator of Exotic Mammals, Board Member of the Great Ape Survival Project (GRASP) Australia and has been working with Orangutans for 22 years.
Both Hardi and Leif will be touring Australia in February 2009 campaigning with energy and enthusiasm about the problems in Kalimantan and the crisis with the Orangutans in that region and how the AOP are involved.
As highlighted in the recent tv documentary "The Burning Season" (Hardi appeared in this) in less than 10 years over 70% of Indonesia's rainforest has been decimated. Brought on by our insatiable appetite for wood, minerals and palm oil the deforestation is having desperate consequences for the ecosystem. And it is having an equally deadly impact on the forest's inhabitants, particularly the Orangutans.
Extinction is close for the Orangutans with in excess of 1000 being slaughtered every year.
Enquiries or ticket sales to Bill Waterer:
08 9457 0291 or wa@orangutan.org.au
Action for Gaza
Despite the current ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, the people of Palestine are still suffering and need the International community to speak up for them. Friends of Palestine WA are organising several actions for January.
Weekly Vigils
Gatherings are being organised for Friday evenings from 5.30pm at Wesley Church in Perth CBD. You cmight like to bring candles in mourning for the people murdered in Gaza, silently hold placards, or choose to speak on a megaphone to let passersby know the reasons for the vigil.
Public Meeting
Israel’s assault on Gaza and the struggle for a free Palestine
Saturday 24 January, 3pm
Maritime Union Hall, 2-4 Kwong Alley, North Fremantle
Speakers:
Alex Whisson (Friends of Palestine WA)
Pat Branson (Assistant Secretary Australian Services Union & participant, APHEDA delegation to Palestine)
Nick Everett (Revolutionary Socialist Party & member, Friends of Palestine WA)
Since Israel launched Operation Cast Lead, on December 27, at least 1300 Palestinians have died in Gaza, a third of them children. Israel's air strikes come on the back of Israel's illegal and brutal two year siege of Gaza, which has denied the people of Gaza adequate fuel, food, electricity and medical supplies. While Israel has now declared it unilateral cease-fire, it's yet to give any commitment to withdraw its troops from occupied Gaza and remains opposed to lifting the siege. Avital Leibovich, an Israeli military spokesperson, told Al Jazeera on January 18: "The operation is not over. This is only a holding of fire."
To date the Australian government has blamed Hamas for the conflict and refuses to condemn Israel’s war crimes. The Australian government’s response stands in sharp contrast to that of the socialist government of Venezuela, led by Hugo Chavez, which has expelled the Israeli ambassador and committed to organising an airlift of humanitarian aid.
This forum will look at the history behind Palestine’s struggle for national liberation and the international response to the current crisis.
For more information, phone Nick on 0409 762 081 or email perth@directaction.org.au
Rally for the People of Gaza
LIFT THE SIEGE! STOP THE SLAUGHTER! ISRAEL OUT OF GAZA! AID FOR GAZA NOW!
Noon, Saturday 31 January - Forrest Place, Perth CBD
This action will go ahead despite the recently announced ceasefire.
For more info contact 0407 850 962
www.fopwa.org
Project Safecom News Bulletin
In this Bulletin:
It's easy to argue that 2008 did not end well. Of course we had a near-crash of worldwide financial markets, but the response by governments left a miriad of possibilities untouched as they propped up what is essential an unsustainable and failing system... read more
OXFAM - Gaza Update
As the crisis in Gaza and Israel intensifies, it is the innocent men, women and children who suffer the most. Even before the current fighting broke out, four out of five Gaza residents were dependent on food aid, and now they have little or no access to clean water, food or power. Oxfam's programs in Gaza have been affected by Israel's bombings and the aid workers are now sheltering until it is safe for them to continue their work.
Oxfam works with Palestinians to ensure that they have clean water supplies and can produce enough food for their families. In Israel, they work with organisations that highlight the link between increased Israeli poverty and the cost of the conflict with the Palestinians.
Oxfam is pressing for peace in the region and is calling on the International community to take action.
Read more
Israeli citizens call for sanctions against Israel
Despite the media in Israel shielding their viewers from the full horror of the crimes being committed in Gaza, a group of 540 Israeli's have called on the international community to take a stand against Israel to ensure the end to the brutal occupation of Gaza. Below is the article written and signed by the group (available at http://www.freegaza.org/en/home/658-a-call-from-within-signed-by-israeli-citizens):
A Call from Within - signed by Israeli citizens
Written by 540 Israeli citizens
In support of the Palestinian Human Rights Community Call for International Action
As if the occupation was not enough, the brutal ongoing repression of the Palestinian population, the construction of settlements and the siege of Gaza - now comes the bombardment of the civilian population: men, women, old folks and children. Hundreds of dead, hundreds of injured, overwhelmed hospitals, and the central medicine depot of Gaza bombed. The ship Dignity of the Free Gaza movement which brought emergency medical supplies and a number of physicians was also attacked. Israel has returned to openly committing war crimes, worse than what we have seen in a long time.
Israeli media do not expose their viewers to the horrors and to the voices of severe criticism of these crimes. The story told is uniform. Israeli dissidents are denounced as traitors. Public opinion including that of the Zionist left supports the Israeli policy uncritically and without reservation.
Israel 's destructive criminal policy will not cease without a massive intervention by the international community. However, except for some rather weak official condemnation, the international community is reluctant to intervene. The United States openly supports the Israeli violence and Europe , although voicing some condemnation, is unwilling to seriously consider withdrawing the “gift” it handed Israel by upgrading its relations with the European Union.
In the past the world knew how to fight criminal policies. The boycott on South Africa was effective, but Israel is handled with kid gloves: its trade relations are flourishing, academic and cultural cooperation continue and intensify with diplomatic support.
This international backing must stop. That is the only way to stop the insatiable Israeli violence.
We are calling on the world to stop Israeli violence and not allow the continuation of the brutal occupation. We call on the world to condemn and not become an accomplice in Israel ’s crimes.
In light of the above, we call on the world to implement the call by Palestinian human rights organizations which urges:
• The UN Security Council to call an emergency session and adopt concrete measures, including the imposition of sanctions, in order to ensure Israel ’s fulfilment of its obligations under international humanitarian law.
• The High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to fulfil their obligation under common Article 1 to ensure respect for the provisions of the Conventions, taking appropriate measures to compel Israel to abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular placing pivotal importance on the respect and protection of civilians from the effects of the hostilities.
• The High Contracting Parties to fulfil their legal obligation under Article 146 of the Fourth Geneva Convention to prosecute those responsible for grave breaches of the Convention.
• EU institutions and member states to make effective use of the European Union Guidelines on promoting compliance with international humanitarian law (2005/C 327/04) to ensure Israel complies with international humanitarian law under paragraph 16 (b), (c) and (d) of these guidelines, including the adoption of immediate restrictive measures and sanctions, as well as cessation of all upgrade dialogue with Israel.
(To see the list of signatories, visit http://www.freegaza.org/en/home/658-a-call-from-within-signed-by-israeli-citizens)
SWB Rockingham Launched
SWB has opened a new office at the Rockingham campus. This will provide greater opportunities for students studying at the Rockingham campus, as well as community members, to get involved with the projects and campaigns that SWB offers. The office will intially be manned one day per week, but will be accessible at all times to students who want to find out more.
To find out more about getting involved in campaigns and programs in Rockingham, or to find out about helping in the Rockingham office, please contact Vicky on 9360 6307 or swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au
Youth Tree
Youth Tree is a creative collaboration to grow and strengthen relationships between young people, and non-profit organisations that involve and empower young people. It is aimed at propelling people into volunteering of just about any kind through their participation in two incredible days.
Day 1 – Wednesday, January 14th, 10am-6pm, Moores Building, Fremantle. On Day 1, representatives from a broad range of non-profit organisations and a large cohort of 80 or more young people interested in volunteering will gather to share their inspiration and ideas.
Day 2 – Tuesday, January 20th, 9am til late, Murray Street Mall, Perth. Day 2 will promote volunteering by directly engaging the public in a creative and personal way.
These two days represent only the beginning of the Youth Tree initiative that will hopefully snowball into an ongoing process that builds a closer, friendlier more effective network of volunteers in WA. Youth Tree is a platform for getting young people into action by giving them the contacts, confidence, knowledge and inspiration to act on any issue they feel strongly about. If you want to know more about Youth Tree, want share an idea, or want to get involved, contact Tim on 0401 405 503 or shlagel@hotmail.com
More Info
Gaza Massacre
On Saturday 27 December 2008, the Israeli government launched Operation Cast Lead, a ‘military’ operation which appears designed to destroy the few remnants of social infrastructure that remain functional in the Gaza Strip. More than 200 men, women and children were killed in just 15 minutes on Saturday, and the overall death toll in Gaza now stands at more than 350 with over 1000 people injured. 75 of the dead are children.
The international media continues to assert that Israel is responding to Hamas rocket attacks and has the right to defend its territory, however, it has been reported that military planning began 6 months ago and authorisation was given by Prime Minister Olmert on November 19, well before the alleged breach of the ceasefire by Hamas.
The State of Israel was created after the Second World War to provide a home for the millions of displaced Jews. Prior to this the land was owned by the Palestinians. Israel has seized more and more land from them over the last 60 years and Palestinians are now restricted to the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. These areas are cut off from one another and travel is controlled by Israel.
Palestinians do not have a share of the same international human rights as most of their neighbours nor have they been allowed to live in line with the rest of our global community. They now live in the world's largest squatter camp, a compound fortified from the outside by Israel. 80% of their land has been subsumed or seized by Israel. Both States have the right to exist, but they must find a way to co-exist.
Each and every person, each and every State, should have the right to natural justice, the right to liberty, peace and security. For sixty years the Palestinian people have had their rights denied while the mainstream international media has distorted their rights and arguments with an almost fanatical prejudice. Fair and equitable mutually agreed territories with agreed international borders seem the only path to any real solution.
A rally was held in Perth on Sunday 4 January attracting about 500 people wanting to express their anger and sorrow at Israel's continuing assault on the citizens of Gaza. Demonstrators marched through the CBD before heading to Florence Hummerston Reserve to hear from speakers such as Dr Reem al-Freij, a Palestinian scientist and the founder of the Friends of Palestine in WA.
On Tuesday 6 January a picket will be held at the electorate office of Foreign Minister Stephen Smith. A letter will be delivered to the Minister, or one of his representatives, outlining a set of demands to be placed on his government. This FOPWA initiative comes in the wake of a series of statements by the Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Stephen Smith's departmental stand-ins that laid the blame for the war squarely at the feet of the Hamas government.
Stephen Smith's office is located at 953 Beaufort St Inglewood. At 8.00 am the FOPWA will attempt to deliver a letter and a petition signed by over 300 people detailing a set of demands to be placed on Foreign Minister Smith and his government. The demands will be placing on him and his government are as follows:-
We call on the Australian government to:
- condemn the Israeli slaughter of civilians and resistance fighters in Gaza by any and all means necessary; via Australia’s seat at the United Nations, the mass media, and various diplomatic channels
- demand the lifting of the siege of Gaza which has caused such utter devastation to the 1.5 million people living there
- sever all cultural, economic, diplomatic, political, and military ties with Israel immediately in response to the massacre taking place in Gaza and the ongoing siege and occupation of the people of Palestine
- organise immediately a massive airlift of vital medical aid, food aid and other necessary supplies to ameliorate the terrible suffering of the people of Gaza.
Another rally is being organised for Saturday 10 January:
RALLY & MARCH FOR THE PEOPLE OF GAZA
LIFT THE SIEGE, STOP THE MASSACRE, HUMANITARIAN AID NOW
SATURDAY 12.00PM JANUARY 10
THE ESPLANADE PARK, FREMANTLE
Read the letter to Stephen Smith
Read the Friends of Palestine WA's Statement on Gaza
Read about the January 4 rally
Below are links to websites that can provide you with truthful and useful information about the situation in Gaza:
http://electronicintifada.net/new.shtml
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/
http://www.zcommunications.org/znet
http://www.haaretz.com/
http://fromgaza.blogspot.com/
http://electronicintifada.net/v2/diaries.shtml
You can watch a live feed from Al Jazeera (in English) here:
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article21629.htm
For more information about the January 10 rally or to get involved with FOPWA, please visit the Australian Friends of Palestine website - www.friendsofpalestine.org.au - or email friendsofpalestinewa@gmail.com
If you would like to start an on-campus campaign about the situation in Gaza, please contact Vicky on 9360 6307 or swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au
June is marked in our calendars as a shameful month in the justice system of the United States, casting a shadow over the Obama administration that maintains justice as a hostage.
Over ten years ago, five Cuban men monitoring terrorist organisations inside the US were convicted, without access to a fair and impartial trial, of conspiracy to commit espionage when they delivered the intelligence to the FBI. Unjustly imprisoned for peacefully protecting their county against terrorist attacks organised on US soil, they applied to the Supreme Court to have their cases reviewed.
Ignoring the statement of the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention that declared the detentions arbitrary and illegal, the US Supreme Court announced on June 15 that it will not review the case.
The same justice system that denies the possibility of reviewing the case of the five Cuban patriots has granted a year postponement to the defence of the international self-confessed terrorist, Luis Posada Carriles, to better prepare his case. This is the same system that with total impunity has allowed dozens of criminal organisations based in Miami to operate freely.
With this decision the Court scoffs not only at the requests from the defence lawyers, but also at the International demand of 10 Nobel Prize winners, hundreds of Jurists, Members of Parliaments and organisations from all over the world that joined 12 Amicus Briefs asking the court to review the case.
June 15 2009 marked the beginning of a new International resistance that from this day forward will be felt all over the world until freedom is achieved for Gerardo, Ramon, Rene, Antonio and Fernando.
The ACFS WA Branch demands more than ever that President Obama puts an end to this colossal injustice and grant the immediate freedom to the Cuban Five.
For further information about this situation, please contact Branch President Vinnie Molina on 0419 812 872 or Branch Secretary Elizabeth Hulm on 0421 113 343 or email acfsperth@gmail.com
NAIDOC Week 2009
Opening Ceremony: Sunday 5 July, 11.30am - 4.15pm, Wellington Square, East Perth. Music, dancing, competitions and the launch of Noongar Radio 100.9FM.
Flag-Raising Ceremony: Monday 6 July, 12 – 12.15pm, City of Joondalup Administration Building, Boas Ave, Joondalup
NAIDOC Fun Day: Tuesday 7 July, 12pm – 4pm, City of Joondalup Leisure Centres - Craigie, Whitfords Ave, Craigie.
Language class, arts and crafts, bush tucker, tools & weapons, music, sports activities (Bookings required: 9400-4912)
Library Story Time: Wednesday 8 July, 1.30pm at Whitford Library and 3.30pm at Joondalup Library.
With Brenton Clinch and Lorna Little (Bookings required: 9400-4912)
Common Ground: Saturday 11 July, 11am, Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City.
Dance / music / story-telling.
For more information, please contact Fiona Symonds. Fiona Symonds' work phone number is 9400-4921 or email fiona.symonds@joondalup.wa.gov.au
Download the Program of Events
Blueprint for a Better World
Nine years ago, the world made a promise. A promise which, by 2015, will lift millions of people out of poverty. Here is your chance to be part of that promise. Caritas, in conjunction with AusAID, brings you 'The Millenium Development Goals and you', an interactive exhibition on tackling poverty in the world. The exhibition aims to strengthen support for the work of the Australian Government in their commitment to aid and overcoming global poverty, and increase awareness of the importance and unique contribution of Australian Non-government Organisations.
Designed to highlight the Millennium Development Goals and the promise of Governments throughout the world to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger by 2015, this exhibition gives a practical face to the eight goals, through video, photographs, visual installation as well as contributions from Caritas partner communities make up the installation.
Each of the eight MDG’s are presented as a blueprint for positive social change in our world emphasising how Caritas Australia and its community partners are engaged in the challenge of tackling poverty for the world’s poorest. This exhibition provides tangible options for individuals and communities to take action.
The exhibition focuses on case studies of development programs around the world and staff and volunteers from Caritas Australia will be on hand to personally guide you through the exhibition.
Where: Prindiville Hall, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle
When: 2 - 20 July, 10.00am – 4.00pm weekdays/weekends
Cost: Free
For more information go to: www.blueprintforabetterworld.org or contact Alana Scuglia at Caritas
on 1800 024 490 or email her at: alanas@caritas.org.au
Quiz Night
United Nations Association Australia (WA) invites you to join them for a quiz night, with all proceeds going to UNAA(WA) to assist with its initiatives. Get together a team of 8 and head down for a night of fun!
Where: Belmont Sports & Recreation Club
When: Tuesday 7 July, 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start
Cost: $15 ($10 concession)
Full bar facilities available with tea and coffee. BYO food platter and nibblies.
To book your table or find out more contact the UNAA(WA) events convenor on 0421 316 717 or email unaawa@tpg.com.au
NAIDOC Perth Ball
NAIDOC Perth Ball is the most anticipated night on Perth’s social calendar. This year will feature highlights from the Coolbaroo Club League, ballroom dancing, fine dining and wonderful entertainment through out the evening.
This social event is an opportunity for NAIDOC Perth to share with the whole
community our Elders and our history.
Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel, 99 Adelaide Terrace
When: Friday 10 July, 6.30pm to 12.30am
Cost: $90
Dress: Formal
TICKET PURCHASE
Gail on 9482 0000 / 0428 118 753 or email gjones@waaids.com or
Reg 0400 628 233 or email reg.yarran@commerce.wa.gov.au
Global Health Short Courses
Interhealth is a part of WAMSS (Western Australian Medical Students’ Society), and is composed of volunteer medical students from UWA in various years of their medical degree. WAMSS is starting a new initiative this year, the Global Health Short Course (GHSC). GHSC is an 8 week course beginning Monday 27 July; each week, a public lecture will be held at UWA. The course is supported by the UWA Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science and is open to all members of the public.
The topics for each week are as follows:
Week 1: “The way things are” (statistics and global health)
Week 2: “Making poverty history” (the causes and cures of global inequality)
Week 3: “Getting shot is bad for your health + No place to call home” (Conflict and health + The health of displaced persons)
Week 4: “Access to essential medicines” (Patent law and how this affects patients)
Week 5: “It’s getting hot in here + When disaster strikes” (Climate change and health + Emergency humanitarian relief)
Week 6: “Closing the gap” (Aboriginal health)
Week 7: “Mums and Bubs” (Women’s and children’s health)
Week 8: “AIDS” (The AIDS epidemic)
The lectures will be provided by a guest lecturer with a significant amount of experience in their respective field. At every lecture, there will be handouts for each attendee, specifying key points, further reading, and how they can get involved in a particular topic.
Where: Tattersall Lecture Theatre, UWA
When: Starting Monday 27 July, 5pm
Cost: Free
Further information is available at interhealth.org.au/ghsc.
Show your Support for Mr Ward's Family
WA State Coroner, Mr Alistair Hope, will be handing down the Inquest findings into the death in custody of Mr Ward at the Central Law Courts (Court 81) in Perth on Friday 12 June at 2.15pm.
Show your support to the family of Mr Ward and the Warburton Community at a public gathering outside the Central Law Courts, 30 St Georges Tce, Perth
Friday 12 June at 1pm
Bring placards, banners and your voices
World Refugee Day
The department of Immigration and Citizenship is celebrating the contributions of refugees during Refugee Week and the theme for 2009 is "Freedom from Fear". There will be a variety of information stalls, performances and displays from different cultures and the opportunity to participate in a number of activities including an art workshop where people can explore what "Freedom from Fear" means to them.
The highlight of the day will be "Stories from the Suitcase" written and produced by Yvette Wall from Frog Prince Productions. This short production reflects the experiences of people who, as refugees, have made Australia their home.
There will be woodworking activities for children, a sausage sizzle, and a variety of items available for purchase.
Where: Fremantle Town Hall
When: Saturday 20 June, 10am - 5pm
Cost: Free
For more information, email Jacquie on jacqui.satie@immi.gov.au
Be More - Workshop @ ERISJ
We live in a world of contrasts and conflicts. We also live in an era of unprecedented compassion. Many people want to do more than just donate money: they wish to be connected with the world and want to be part of the solution. The 'Be More' Challenge can provide you with the opportunity to harness this energy to tackle the structural nature of global poverty and secondly to promote the important role of living a life of faith and doing justice.
This workshop will be presented by Janeen Murphy; Janeen is the Global Education Advisor for Caritas Australia. She has worked in this position for 8 years, including working with Caritas partners in Uganda, Timor-Leste, Cambodia and India. Janeen runs education programs in schools and higher education institutions providing pathways to engage with justice issues.
Where: Edmund Rice Institute for Social Justice, Fremantle
When: Saturday 20 June, 10am - 5pm
Find out more
FROM SAND TO CELLULOID - WARWICK THORNTON SHORTS RETROSPECTIVE
To celebrate Warwick Thornton's Camera d'Or win at Cannes, Luna Leederville will be presenting a special Warwick Thornton retrospective. A powerful representative voice for Indigenous themes, Thornton's insightful camera reveals stories resilient with spirit. To celebrate this special filmmaker's highly praised directorial debut, Samson and Delilah, Luna Leederville will be hosting this award winning and revealing retrospective of Thornton's short films.
Buy a ticket to see Samson and Delilah at 9pm on Monday 15 June and receive a FREE screening session of Warwick Thornton's award winning retrospective shorts at 7.30pm that includes, in chronological order, Payback (1996), Mimi (2002), Green Bush (2005) and Nana (2007).
Tickets are $11 adult / $9.50 concession
More info
Peter Benenson Memorial Dinner
The West Australian Branch of Amnesty International would like to invite you to attend a panel discussion for this year's Peter Benenson Memorial Event. The topic of the panel discussion will be: A Human Rights Act for Australia?
Where: Perth Concert Hall, Wardell Room, 5 St Georges Terrace
When: Monday 8 June, the panel discussion starts at 7.30pm sharp
Entry: $10 waged / $5 unwaged
Coffee, Tea & biscuits will be served afterwards.
Please RSVP to amnestylegalgroupwa@gmail.com
Youth Tree TEDucation Night
You're invited to the second ever Youth Tree TEDucation Video Night to be held at SCITECH. Watch stuff (inspiring interesting and incredible videos), discuss stuff (conversations based around ideas brought up in the videos), eat stuff (everyone brings some food to share), learn stuff (by meeting like-minded Perthians and connecting with amazing ideas).
The purpose of these TEDucation video nights is to share with lots of people the amazing, diverse, inspiring and fascinating ideas that the speeches on TED.com bring to the world, and to bring people together in the real world at the same time. It was envisioned for all those who wished university was more of a melting pot of new ideas, inspiration and interdisciplinary cross-pollination. The topics of each video vary hugely; from replanting rainforests to education, from deep-sea exploration to music, from poverty statistics to solar-power. Every video will teach you something and/or inspire your face off. So instead of watching videos that explain in detail the extent to which the world is doomed, which can be quite depressing, we're sharing some of the most incredible and inspiring solutions to the world's problems.
Where: SCITECH DISCOVERY CENTRE, City West (go through the main City West entrance and up to the second floor)
When: Monday 8 June, 6.00pm
Bring: 1. Food to share (preferably pre-compost, edible foodstuffs)...
2. A USB stick so you can get your own copy of the videos we watch (and many others too)
3. Anyone else who you think would be interested in watching riveting talks from people sharing the world's most incredible ideas.
Where are we in the World?
Professional development for primary teachers or education students. Students have a natural curiosity about things around them in their local environment as well as the world and as teachers we can capitalise on this. Their interest in maps and map reading can be stimulated and built on so that reading and understanding maps becomes part of their currency of communication. Participants will gain a greater understanding of how maps and globes can be used to develop students’ perceptions of their world, experience practical mapping and globe activities that can be used in the classroom, explore where mapping fits into the Curriculum Framework, and receive a copy of the book 'Where are we in the World?'
Where: One World Centre, 5 King William St, Bayswater
When: Thursday 11 June, 4.00 – 6.00pm
Cost: $30 for OWC members and students, $40 for non-members
Registration is essential. Please contact the One World Centre on 9371 9133 or education@oneworldcentre.org.au for more info or to register.
FANGraiser
FANG (Freo Anti-Nuclear Group) are hosting a film night at Fremantle's Film and Television Institute. The movie showing will be “Uranium – is it a country?”, filmed by a group of young, German filmmakers on a visit to Australia in 2008. They came to Australia to discover where the uranium that is used for Power around Europe comes from. The film focuses on the reality of BHP Billiton's Olympic Dam (Roxby) uranium mine in South Australia. This is the world's largest uranium deposit. The filmmakers reveal the truth about the local pollution, the unsustainable use of water, and the reality of radioactive mine tailings.
Where: Film & Television Institute, Fremantle
When: Wednesday 17 June, 6.30pm
Cost: entry by donation
Deaths in Custody Watch Committee Rally
Don't let Mr Ward's death be in vain, join the public rally for justice and human rights. Protest Mr Ward's death. Demand that people will be safe in custody. Demand the State government takes immediate action to reduce indigenous imprisonment rates in WA. Demand the State government does something real and substantial NOW to tackle racism in the WA justice system. No More Deaths in Custody!!
Where: Forrest Place, Perth
When: Saturday 20 June, 12.00 – 2.00pm
For more information, contact the DICWC: 9444 1930 or dicwc@iinet.net.au
- Of the 339 Recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody delivered in 1991, the majority remains unimplemented
- Funding for Aboriginal legal aid services have been cut
- Indigenous people accounted for 22% of prisoners in Australian prisons in 2005 despite being only 2.4% of Australia's population
- In 2009 Indigenous people account for 43% of prisoners in West Australian prisons
- Indigenous Australians accounted for 30% of all deaths in custody in 2006
The Deaths in Custody Watch Committee (WA) Inc. are running a multi faceted campaign in response to the death of an Aboriginal Elder whilst in custody. The Ward Campaign for Justice seeks to redress the silence and apathy of the community towards the cruel and inhumane death of Mr Ward.
The aims of the campaign are:
- for the State government of WA to take immediate steps to prevent further deaths in custody
- a review of the Bail terms to avoid unnecessary detention
- a review of the privatisation of custodial services
- ensure accountability and duty of care to detainees by:
a) ensuring health checks are carried out by medical practitioners
b) immediate vehicle upgrades and regular checks, and
c) replacement of road transport of people detained in rural and remote areas with air transport or video conferencing
- compensation for the family of Mr Ward.
Show your support, join the campaign to bring about real change to how people are treated when they are under the care of the custodial and correctional services in WA. To get involved or to simply stay in touch with developments, visit the website - www.deathsincustody.org.au
Take Action:
- join the campaign
- make a donation
- become a member
- write or email your local MP voicing your disgust
- print the rally flyer and post it at your work
- e-mail the flyer to your friends
- come to a campaign meeting every Wed night
- come to the public rally on June 20!
Campaigning for Change Workshop
What does it take to win change for social, economic and environmental justice? How can campaigns for change effectively utilise people power? How can campaigns be planned to create achievable steps along the way to winnable goals? Find out in this two day workshop presented by the Change Agency.
The workshop includes: the elements of campaign strategy and planning frameworks; theories of how social change happens, and the role of people power; practical strategy and mobilising tools and techniques to practice and apply to real campaign situations, including critical path analysis, stakeholder analysis, tactics analysis for strategic consistency and political impact, and practice sessions on tactics such as interacting with powerholders, speaking to the media, door knocking, and phone canvassing.
The Campaigning for Change workshop is open to a broad range of activists, and will include opportunities to network and learn with each other. This workshop will benefit community workers, union organisers, grassroots activists, professional campaigners, and many others.
Where: Piney Lakes Environmental Education Centre
When: Wednesday 24 - Thursday 25 June, 9.30am – 5.00pm
Cost: $80-$220 depending on your means. Resource kit, lunch and refreshments included
Register with the Conservation Council on 9429 7266 or conswa@conservationwa.asn.au
Seeking Asylum in Australia: What happens to rejected asylum seekers?
Public lecture by Phil Glendenning, Director of the Edmund Rice Centre in Sydney. Phil is co-author of 'Deported to Danger' and 'Deported to Danger II', research reports which documented the fate of asylum seekers rejected by the Australian government and deported back to countries deemed to be 'safe'. These reports formed the basis of the documentary 'A Well Founded Fear' shown on SBS in November 2008, and graphically showed the tragic results of some of these deportation decisions.
But what has happened since then, and has the new federal Labor government's policy and approach to asylum seekers changed anything? What is wrong with Australia's assessment and screening process of asylum seekers and how should Australia approach the issue of providing safe haven to people fleeing terrible situations in their homelands? What role can ordinary citizens play in influencing the national 'attitude' to asylum seekers and refugees?
Phil Glendenning will address these and other questions in a thought-provoking and timely presentation marking the 2009 UN International Day in Support of Survivors of Torture.
Where: Curtin University, Bank West Lecture Theatre
When: Thursday 25 June, 7pm. Come early to see the display of AseTTS' services and SBS documentary 'A Well Founded Fear' from 5pm – 7pm.
Cost: gold coin donation
Community Climate Change Dialogue
The Conservation Council of WA, in partnership with Murdoch University's ISTP, is hosting a major community-based event to engage Western Australians in a discussion on climate change issues and challenges. The Dialogue will have a strong focus on facilitating and building community-based participation in solving the climate change crisis. This FREE event is your chance to have your say on climate change and is not to be missed.
As a participant you will hear from experts on the latest climate science, policy settings, issues and consequences across the themes of climate safe sustainable communities, sustainable energy policy, citizen-led climate science and citizen centred climate actions. You will have the opportunity to put forward your questions and engage in deliberations across these themes. Politicians from all major parties have been invited to hear the outcomes of these deliberations at the final dialogue plenary.
This event will take place in the period leading up to the crucial international climate negotiations in Copenhagen in December 2009 and as the State Government is in the process of developing Western Australia’s long awaited climate change mitigation and adaptation strategy.
Speakers include:
•Dr Bryson Bates, Theme Leader ,CSIRO’s Climate Adaptation Flagship & Chief Research Scientist Div. Marine & Atmospheric Research
•Dr Linda Chambers, Senior Scientist, Centre for Australian Weather & Climate Research (Bureau of Meteorology) Climate Change Group
•Dr Paul Wilkes, Vice President, Sustainable Energy Now
•Mr Peter Robertson, State Coordinator, The Wilderness Society
•Mr Piers Verstegen, Director, Conservation Council of WA
•Dr Nic Dunlop, Citizen Science Program Coordinator, Conservation Council of WA
•Dr Brad Pettitt , Dean, Institute of Sustainability and Technology Policy (ISTP) Murdoch University
•Ms Nicole Hodgson, Lecturer Sustainable Development, ISTP Murdoch University
Where: Murdoch University
When: Sunday 28 June, 8.30am - 4.30pm
Cost: Free if you register before 12 June. Lunch will be available if preordered and prepaid ($15)
Further information: Conference Convenor: Carolyn Hofmeester, Registrations: Ariane Cances
Phone: (08) 9420 7266 Email: conswa@conservationwa.asn.au
National Climate Emergency Rally
SWB is supporting the National Climate Emergency Rally on Saturday 13 June. Join the rally in support of:
100% RENEWABLES BY 2020
NEW GREEN JOBS - a fair transition for workers and communities
SCRAP THE CPRS - Rudd's Emissions Trading Scheme won't work
PROTECT AUSTRALIA'S FORESTS - destroying forests releases carbon
NO URANIUM - nuclear is no solution
Saturday 13 June @ 12.30pm
Forrest Place, Perth
Junkadelic will be performing at the event. Hedge Bandits Junkadelic are one of Perth's most creative acts, combining self-made 'junk' percussions, horms, vocals and anything else they can find to make music from.
You can play a part in the event by:
- helping to spread the word with posters, leaflets, emailing your friends, etc.
- offering practical help if you can (eg. banner painting)
- putting a link to safeclimate.org.au on your blog
- changing your status on facebook to "Coming to the climate rally June 13 www.safeclimate.org.au"
- donating to the Safe Climate appeal
- coming along to the rally and bringing your friends and family!
Flyer
Stickers available from the safeclimate website or from the Social Justice Centre on Bush Court
For more information, visit www.safeclimate.org.au or www.climaterally.org
United We Could Save the Forest
The Australian Orangutan Project (AOP) will hold its first ever protest this Saturday, 30 May, in Perth city. AOP supporters will conduct a peaceful rally to protest a proposal for the clearing and destruction of high conservation value rainforest that has recently been put forward by Asia Pulp & Paper/Sinar Mas Group. This globally important ecosystem provides a safe haven for many species which are threatened by extinction including the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan, tiger and elephant.
The peaceful protest will start at noon at the corner of Barrack St and Murray St Mall and will run until mid afternoon.
AOP supporters will invite people to sign a petition against the proposal. Almost 3000 people have already signed the petition which started on Friday 22 May.
More than 100 orangutans have been released to date via the Bukit Tigapuluh Sumatran Orangutan Reintroduction Project - the only reintroduction site for this critically endangered species. Scientists spent decades discovering how to successfully reintroduce critically endangered orangutans from captivity into the wild and it could take Asia Pulp & Paper/Sinar Mas Group just months to destroy an important part of their new habitat.
Between 1985 and 2007, Sumatra island lost 12 million hectares of natural forest, a 48 percent loss in 22 years. By 2007, the island had only 30% natural forest cover (around 13 million hectares). The Indonesian Minsteries of Forestry, Environment, Public Works and Interior, as well as the governors of all 10 Sumatran provinces, last year announced their collective commitment to protecting the areas of the island with "high conservation values". The natural forest slated for destruction by Asia Pulp & Paper/Sinar Mas Group - Bukit Tigapuluh - is a prime example of the high conservation value areas that the governors promised to protect.
If you have any enquiries, please contact AOP Project Coordinator, Kylie Bullo, at projects@orangutan.org.au
A Climate for Change
A Climate for Change is a news and social networking website (like Facebook & MySpace), except with a climate twist to it. It's a fun, active community providing a place for you to share and network with other like minded souls.
- Create your own profile and share anything and everything about climate change: your beliefs, goals, ideas and actions.
- News & Opinions - the latest climate change news from around the web including news and opinion from some of the world's leading community organisations.
- Blog - if you read a great article, hear an interview, see an interesting documentary (good or bad), and have an opinion about it, this is the place for you to share it.
There are also discussion forums, groups you can join, an events calendar, you can upload photos and videos, and learn how to become a climate activist.
To celebrate the launch of A Climate for Change, there are some great green prizes to be won. First prize is valued at over $250 and includes a solar charger for your MP3 player/phone. Prizes donated by Going Solar.
Sign up
2009 is an important year for the world to avoid catastrophic climate change. World leaders must agree to reduce carbon emissions and help poor countries adapt to the impacts of climate change. A global deal must be reached by December. A series of UN meetings will take place before a global agreement will be made. We need Australia to take a leading role in these meetings to make a positive impact for climate change.
Make Poverty History are searching for e-monitors who will keep a close eye on the Australian government's role in the negotiations and communicate directly with negotiators during the key UN meetings.
What e-monitors will do
You will receive regular email updates from Make Poverty History during each round of climate negotiations. These updates will come from climate change experts at the negotiations and will provide you with the latest inside information. At key times during the UN meetings you will be asked to send off urgent emails to the Australian government negotiators. This will let them know that we are keeping a close eye on what's happening and encourage them to play a leading role.
Find out more
Kimberley whale survey trip 2009 - the opportunity of a lifetime!
The Kimberley coast is one of the most intact in the world; scientists are only just beginning to document the outstanding natural values of the region. Beautiful and extensive fringing coral reefs, vast seagrass beds, mangrove forests and spectacular sponge gardens support an incredible array of marine life in one of the highest tidal range coasts in the world. Everything from dugong, sawfish and turtles to Australia's unique dolphin - the snubfin dolphin - all rely on this incredible healthy ecosystem.
The Wilderness Society is very concerned about proposals for polluting coastal industry that would irreversible impact on this world-class marine environment. This year, the Wilderness Society would like to organise a whale survey trip along the Kimberley coast in a luxury cruise ship. This trip is for Wilderness Society members and friends. The trip would likely be held in September and would depart from Broome.
More info
Update:
IRCIn villages across Sierra Leone and Rwanda, the IRC's Child Survival Program has reduced the number of children losing their lives to common diseases by up to 48%. The IRC has recently been awarded $750,000 from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), to bring lifesaving treatment to the children in Southern Sudan.
Humanitarian organisations have been expelled from Darfur, North and East Sudan by the Sudanese government, but the IRC's work in Southern Sudan continues. Below is an update from the IRC's Senior Health Director, Emmanuel D'Harcourt:
"After 20 years of civil war, people here are struggling to rebuild their lives. There are no paved roads to speak of, and health care is woefully inadequate. Health clinics are few and far between, and government health agencies lack the resources to build more. To reach sick children who desperately need our help, the IRC developed a "community-based" treatment model.
Today, my colleages and I train local health workers who are community members themselves. We provide medical supplies and support to these villagers who volunteer to serve their community. Our locally trained health workers have the ability to identify and treat common diseases and as community members, they share a bond with families that might not occur at a faraway health clinic".
One of the volunteers the IRC has trained is Santino Malong, who cares for children in the village of Mathiang in the state of Northern Bahr el Ghazal:
"Our nearest health centre is a long way away in Malualbal. That's too far to go for treatment. Instead, mothers bring their children to me both night and day. I was chosen by the local community to do this, so they trust me and they know that I attended a training by the IRC. The last child I treated was a baby girl with malaria. I gave her medicine and I checked up on her afterwards. She is well. I am happy to be able to save lives and to serve in my community".
The IRC has launched the Child Survival Challenge through which they are attempting to raise $250,000, enabling them to dedicate $1 million to helping children in Southern Sudan.
Every dollar counts:
A bed net to protect sleeping infants against malaria costs just $7
A child with malaria can be treated with a combination of drugs costing as little as $1
$1 is all it takes to provide zinc supplements and oral rehydration salts to a child suffering from severe diarrhea dehydration
A full course of treatment for pneumonia is least expensive of all - just 50c
For more information, or to donate, visit the IRC's website: www.theirc.org
Volunteers needed for radio station - 100.9 FM
Noongar Media Enterprises Radio are seeking volunteers to help with their radio shows, as presenters, producers and behind the scenes workers.
Do you have a passion for radio, music and talkback? Do you have an idea for a specialist radio program? Would you like to get experience working in the media?
Applications close Monday 8 June.
Application form
BUMP Launch Party
The Anti-Nuclear Alliance of WA (ANAWA) are an active community group who educate the public about the nuclear fuel chain and create events to let the public know that they exist in order to build a growing movement to not only stop uranium mining, but also to promote the renewable energy sector, set in context with climate change and peak oil and the economic recession. They are strongly focused on the uranium mining issue, and work alongside other groups promoting policies for a liveable future. They campaign for nuclear disarmament and various peace initiatives, for renewable energy, for protection of our fragile environment, and for less consumerist lifestyles, all of which contribute towards creating more harmonious communities.
ANAWA have created a new campaign - Ban Uranium Mining Permanently (BUMP) - and they invite you to their launch on World Environment Day, Friday 5 June, at The Palms, Rokeby Rd, Subiaco (6-8pm).
More info
Palm Oil Action Group - letter writing
The Palm Oil Action Group invites you to a peaceful letter writing Action at Fremantle (near the famous Fremantle markets).
On the day their stall will be set up with petitions and letters for the public to sign along with information pamphlets on palm oil. If you want to find out more about palm oil then please come along and tell your friends, the more people spreading the word about palm oil the better.
Where: Fremantle (the laneway in between the Sail & Anchor Pub & Fremantle Markets) - just look for the orangutan and balloons!
When: Sunday 7 June 2009
Time: 10am - 3pm
Australians unknowingly consume an average of 10kg of palm oil each year, and it has been estimated that 10% of all supermarket products contain it as a (usually hidden) ingredient. As the world's hunger for palm oil grows, mega monoculture plantations are fast replacign the last wilderness areas of Indonesia, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea, threatening species such as orangutans, Sumatran tigers, rhinos and Asian elephants with extinction. The latest estimates show that unless we act now orangutans in the wild may be extinct within 10 years.
We have already seen positive moves in Europe to phase out palm oil so come along and find out a little more about what is going on - consumer pressure through consumer awareness is the major factor that leads to change. Be part of the solution!
National Sorry Day 2009
Taking the next steps... Come along and join in this important event which commemorates the history of forcible removal of Aboriginal children and its effects on Aboriginal families and communities. It is also time for us all to commit to working together to ensure proper reconciliation in this country.
When: 12-2pm, Tuesday 26 May 2009
Where: Wellington Square, East Perth
What: Great music, interesting speakers and a free sausage sizzle
The Bringing Them Home Report was presented to Federal parliament on 26th May 1997, documenting the findings from the national enquiry into the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their familites and communities under government policy. 54 recommendations were made and tabled 12 years ago. The Bringing Them Home Committee WA believe that less than ten have ever been implemented.
It is important to acknowledge the struggles many are still overcoming as a result of past policies which separated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families from each other. And it's important as a community and a nation to take the next steps to healing, reconciliation and justice.
More info
Hilton Harvest Festival
Delicious food, live music and entertainment, kids' activities, stalls, talks, displays and triumphs of sustainable organic urban living...
This event is a fundraiser for the Hilton Harvest Community Garden Project.
Sunday 24 May 2009
9am - 1pm
Fremantle PCYC, Paget St, Hilton
More info
International Rescue Committee - Saving the lives of children
Dr Emmanuel d'Harcourt is the Senior Health Director at the International Rescue Committee. He directs the Child Survival Program, which was launched 9 years ago with the goal of reducing the number of avoidable deaths among children in war-ravaged countries like Sierra Leone, Rwanda and Sudan. Here is an update on the program written by Dr. d'Harcourt:
"It's heartbreaking when countless children succumb to preventable diseases like malaris, pneumonia, and diarrhea. It's an injustice we are working day and night to correct, and with your help we're succeeding - and saving children's lives.
You may remember hearing from me last year when the IRC launched a successful campaign to expand the Child Survival Program in Sierra Leone.
Today I want to report on our stunning progress. In the Sierra Leonean villages where we work, the death rate among children has been reduced by as much as 48%. We have given lifesaving treatment to more than 100,000 children, and the program is being extended nationally.
That's thousands and thosands of young children who are now living healthy lives thanks to the IRC's lifesaving work.
With your support, the IRC has developed a unique and extremely effective method of delivering medicine and health care directly to children and their parents. My colleagues and I train local health workers who are community members themselves. We provide medical supplies and support to these villagers who volunteer to serve their community.
Once trained, community-based IRC health workers have the ability to identify common diseases and provide treatment.
While the success is encouraging, we have a long road ahead. Our challenge now is to expand the field-tested and extremely successful child Survival Program to reach as many villages as possible in war-torn countries across Africa. It is our global responsibility to prevent the needless deaths of as many children as possible.
Visit the IRC wesite to learn more about the life-saving work they do.
The Oaktree Foundation is seeking a new CEO
Applications are now open for the position of Oaktree's Chief Executive Officer.
They are looking for a dynamic young leader to take Oaktree into its next exciting phase of development. Applications close 8 June 2009.
Positions for other key roles, such as Head of Shared Services, Head of People and Organisational Devleopment, and Head of Projects are also currently available - more details
Paid Parental Leave
The Treasurer has announced that this year's budget will include a paid parental scheme of 18 weeks. This is a huge step forward and means that Australia will no longer be one of only two developed countries without any form of paid parental leave.
Human Rights Act for Australia Panel Discussion
The WA Branch of Amnesty International Australia would like to invite you to attend a panel discussion for this year's Peter Benenson Memorial Event. The topic of the panel discussion will be: "A Human Rights Act for Australia?"
The panel discussion will start at 7.30pm sharp on Monday 8 June.
It will take place at the Perth Concert Hall in the Wardell Room, 5 St Georges Terrace.
Donation: $10 waged / $5 unwaged.
Coffee, tea and biscuits will be served afterwards
Please RSVP to amnestylegalgroupwa@gmail.com
Wilderness Society: WA Forest Alert
The WA Conservation Commission has just released a 'mid-term audit' of implementation of the current Forest Management Plan 2004-13 (FMP). There is a three-month public comment period and public submissions will be vital to ensure the final report contains strong recommendations about the future protection and management of WA's forests. Read more
Ian Ward Demonstration
On April 3, a public rally was held calling for justice for Mr Ward, following his death in the back of a police vehicle. Mr Ward was a respected Aboriginal elder who was arrested for drink driving. On January 27, he was transported 380km to Kalgoorlie in the back of a van. It was a 42 degree day and the air conditioning was not working in the vehicle. Mr Ward was given just one 600ml bottle of water and a pie for the entire journey. The officers transporting Mr Ward did not check on him during the journey, until they heard a thump. This thump was Mr Ward collapsing. He later died in Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital.
More images
Reconciliation Australia - Close the Gap Statement
SUPPORT FOR UN DECLARATION AN IMPORTANT STEP TOWARDS CLOSING THE GAP
Reconciliation Australia Co-Chair Mark Leibler has welcomed today’s statement of support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples issued by the Australian Government.
Mr Leibler, a Melbourne-based senior lawyer, said the language in the statement demonstrated the Government’s recognition that Australia will not achieve better outcomes for its Indigenous citizens without building mutually respectful and trusting relationships.
“The Declaration provides a framework for countries with different histories and circumstances to reduce levels of disadvantage and discrimination,” said Mr Leibler. “It includes valuable guiding principles that, where followed, will undoubtedly help Indigenous and other Australians work together more respectfully and far more effectively than we have in the past.”
Mr Leibler paid tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians who had worked for many years alongside Indigenous peoples from across the globe to develop and promote the Declaration. “My fellow Co-Chair at Reconciliation Australia, Professor Mick Dodson, is one of those people. He was involved in the crafting of the text and I know that today, as an official representative of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, he is absolutely elated.
“There are critics of the role of human rights frameworks who claim they have no practical value in overturning disadvantage. But the reality is that the rights set out in the Declaration have meaningful application in closing the gap in Australia. Every one of them is directly or indirectly associated with getting improved outcomes for people in health, education, employment and every other area of disadvantage.”
Mr Leibler said the principles set out in the Declaration were based on evidence of approaches that have worked in promoting better results around the world. “They prioritise the dignity and aspirations of Indigenous people, and give them a leading role in working together with others to close the gaps.”
Reconciliation Australia’s simple fact sheet on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples can be found at www.reconciliation.org.au
Kulturejam - Highway to Human Rights Fundraiser
Come and enjoy a great night of live music and support a worthwhile cause at the same time! All proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Deaths in Custody Watch Committee WA Inc Campaign for Justice and Human Rights for Wongai Elder Mr Ward.
Live music from:
The Bartlett Brothers, Gang of Three, Old Flames Band, Candice Lorrae and Warangka Band!
All the artists performing on the night have graciously donated their time to supporting this campaign and fundraising event.
Friday 1 May @ Charles Hotel, North Perth
$20, doors open at 7pm
Enquiries: 9444 1930 or dicwa@iinet.net.au or info@kulturejam.com
Rally for the Kimberley
The Kimberley is under serious threat from the proposed industrial gas site on the pristine coastline, north of Broome. If you live in Perth, the Wilderness Society needs your support this Saturday. It is community action that will stop this outrageous plan, and with your help we can make Woodside, and the joint venture partners, rethink this proposal.
When: Saturday 2nd May @ 11am sharp
Where: Perth foreshore, Riverside Drive (near the Belltower and Ferris Wheel)
What: Be part of a human chain, which will spell out a giant message - 'No Kimberley Gas Hub'. An aerial photo will be taken from the ferris wheel, and used for media publicity of this campaign.
There's no cost involved, however, please wear a red t-shirt if you can, and bring something to lie on. You can let the Wilderness Society know you're coming by joining their event on Facebook, or emailing wa@wilderness.org.au
Visit the Facebook page
Fremantle By-Election Candidate Forum
Presented by the Fremantle Network, the Fremantle Society, the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce, Oxfam and Notre Dame University.
7.30pm Tuesday 5 May at the Notre Dame Drill Hall, Mouat St, Fremantle
ABC's political reporter Peter Kennedy will lead a live version of Q&A with the candidates in the Fremantle by-election on Tuesday 5 May. Peter Tagliaferri and Adele Carles have confirmed their attendance and other candidates have been invited.
There will be an opportunity for people to ask questions of the candidates from the floor, or to submit a question in advance by emailing freodebate@yahoo.com.au
Fair Trade Chocolate Fountain
The SWB Action Group is bringing a chocolate fountain onto campus!
Why? To raise awareness of child trafficking in the chocolate industry, at the same time as showing/reminding you just how yummy Fair Trade chocolate is!! We will be selling skewers of fruit and/marshmallows to dip into the chocolate fountain.
When? Thursday 7 May from 11am
Rob Riley Memorial Lecture
Celebration or Commiseration: Post Apology Blues presented by Jackie Huggins AM, Deputy Director of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Studies Unit at the University of Queensland and former Co-Chair of Reconciliation Australia.
Friday 8 May 2009, 6pm
Haydyn Williams Lecture Theatre
Building 405
Curtin University of Technology
Kent Street, Bentley
Refreshments will follow the lecture.
Please RSVP on 08 9266 2563 or email events@curtin.edu.au by Monday 4 May.
Fair Trade Fiesta
The Fair Trade Collective WA and City Farm invite you to make and beat a drum for fair trade. Come along and buy a fair trade present for Mother's Day or just enjoy the market stalls, entertainment, food, and kid's activities.
Saturday 9 May at City Farm, City Farm Place, East Perth
10am - 3pm
More info at www.fairtradeaustralia.com.au
Big Bang!! Beat Poverty, Beat Climate Change, Beat Financial Crisis, Beat a Drum, A Big Fair Trade Solution to Poverty
09 May 09 - A Big Day for the Planet
Survey respondents needed
TA PhD programme of study conducted in the Murdoch School of Psychology is investigating Gender Differences in Motivation and Exercise and is inviting any student 20 years of age and over, both males AND females, to participate in this brief online survey. Simply click on the link below, or copy and paste into your browser to go straight to the survey. All data is collected anonymously, and by doing the survey you can enter in a draw to win a prize!
You can have the chance to win one of several Coles/Myer vouchers valued up to $250 by taking part in this online research survey now!
They are looking for as many students as possible, no matter what shape, size or level of fitness, to do this study. Your participation would be greatly appreciated. Please help us Discover!
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=66AtDtGs_2fkYKPrcKdfmH9A_3d_3d
Participant entry closing date: 28 April 2009
Preliminary research results will be available on the School of Psychology website from August 2009
Prize draw winners announced August 2009.
For any queries, contact Susanne Bellesario - S.Bellesario@murdoch.edu.au
Volunteer with the United Nations
The United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) has a number of volunteer-based projects that students might like to work on. These are usually across 4 areas: environment, human rights, events (such as the UN International Day for Indigenous Peoples), and office support. Some are short-term (ie. tree planting on a specific site or helping with fundraising events) whilst others may require involvement over a few months.
They also have an internship program for office-based work and are currently looking for the help of business students to support their volunteers.
In addition, there is also the UN Youth Association, which runs its own conference and events. This might be of interest to a younger student group.
If you are interested you can contact the UNAA (WA) on 9221 9455.
Deaths in Custody Protest
On April 3, a public rally is being held calling for justice for Mr Ward, following his death in the back of a police vehicle. Mr Ward was a respected Aboriginal elder who was arrested for drink driving. On January 27, he was transported 380km to Kalgoorlie in the back of a van. It was a 42 degree day and the air conditioning was not working in the vehicle. Mr Ward was given just one 600ml bottle of water and a pie for the entire journey. The officers transporting Mr Ward did not check on him during the journey, until they heard a thump. This thump was Mr Ward collapsing. He later died in Kalgoorlie Regional Hospital. The inquest into Mr Ward's death has been postponed until May, but the family deserve to have the matter investigated now.
A list of demands will be presented to the Attorney General and Minister for Corrective Services. Join the call for:
- an end to deaths in custody
- the GSL Security guards to be stood down
- those responsible for Mr Ward's death the be charged
- compensation for the family of Mr Ward
- the use of air-conditioning or video conferencing instead of long journeys
- health checks for detainees by medical practitioners prior to transportation
- immediate upgrades to and regular checks of detainee transport vehicles
- a review of bail terms to avoid unnecessary detention
- an end to the privatisation of custodial services.
Friday 3 April, 12pm
Stirling Gardens
For more info, contact Marc Newhouse on 0415 074 602.
The Vagina Monologues
Until the Violence Stops
The Vagina Monologues is an international play that has become a phenomenon! It is a series of monologues performed by local Perth women at both Curtin University and UWA. The play helps to raise money for organisations who raise awareness and work to stop violence against women and girls.
Every monologue somehow relates to the vagina, be it through sex, love, rape, menstruation, mutilation, masturbation, birth, orgasm, the variety of names for the vagina, or simply as a physical aspect of the body. A recurring theme throughout the piece is the vagina as a tool of female empowerment, and the ultimate embodiment of individuality.
Come along and see an awesome performance and support a worthwhile cause.
Monday 20 April
Doors open 7.30pm
Elizabeth Jolly Lecture Theatre
Curtin University
Friday 24 April
Doors open 7.30pm
Social Science Lecture Theatre
University of Western Australia
Tickets are $10 each - on sale now, so get them quick. To reserve tickets or pick them up, please call Rhiahnon on 0404 163 288 or email rhiahnonkennedy@gmail.com.
The Rescue
For over two decades, war has been waged between the Ugandan government and the Lord's Resistance Army, a rebel group led by Joseph Kony. In 2006 the Juba Peace Talks began and when a ceasefire was agreed to, peace appeared within reach. The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for Kony, who is the first individual to be charged with crimes against humanity by the ICC. Kony refused to sign the final peace agreement and insisted that the arrest warrant must be dropped, however, Kony failed to attend the signing of the peace agreement and so his crimes continue.
Kony has used a strategy of abducting children from their homes and forcing them to become child soldiers in his army. This practice led to the nightly commutes that many families undertook for many years, walking through the night to the nearest town and returning home in the morning. The ICC has obtained evidence that Kony has resumed abducting children for his army.
At the beginning of this year, the Ugandan government and surrounding countries launched an unsuccessful military operation intended to defeat the LRA and capture the rebel leader. Thousands of civilians have been attacked in retaliation - more than 1000 have been killed and over 100,000 have been displaced. The civil war that was contained within Uganda's borders has now spread to encompass the Democratic Republic of Congo and surrounding countries.
Come to the Rescue
On April 25, the international community will unite to deliver the innocent from Kony's reign and ensure that he is brought to justice. Thousands of participants will gather in 100 cities across the globe to 'abduct' themselves and raise the banner of the child soldiers taken by Joseph Kony.
The 'abductees' will leave their homes and walk to an event location while carrying their supplies on their backs. At the event, participants will be invited to write letters, create art/photo projects and seek out media attention in an effort to petition the US, European, Canadian, Mexican, New Zealand and Australian governments to develop a strategy an support existing efforts to rescue Kony's child soldiers.
This event is being organised by Invisible Children. To find out more, or to register as an abductee, visit the website - http://therescue.invisiblechildren.com/en
Saturday 25 April, 3pm
Location TBC
Greenpeace: Anti-whaling Update
Current negotiations involving Australia and Japan will decide the fate of thousands of whales in Antarctic and Pacific waters. The closed door negotiations between 6 nations are aiming to find a solution to the problem of Japanese whaling. Japan refuses to end its "scientific" whaling program, although a compromise is being seeked. The next few months could prove critical to the future of the whales. Read more...
Students
Without Borders is helping to raise funds to send a Murdoch student to
a Canadian treatment centre to save her life from Anorexia Nervosa.
There are no centres of this type in Australia, and the
treatment
will help to address the underlying issues which led to the development
of this disorder.Fundraising events are being organised and collection tins
Aid Convoy reaches Gaza!
This article was written by Sonja Karkar of Australians for Palestine (australiansforpalestine.com):
The news of the broken siege is the stuff of legends and for the people of Gaza, that legend will sustain them for the moment as the eyes of the world turn towards Gaza again, however briefly.
After much negotiation, the 200+ convoy of aid-filled trucks and ambulances were allowed through the Rafah crossing to be greeted with absolute jubilation from the Palestinians on the other side. This was a moment worth savouring, not only for the Palestinians whose contact with the outside world has been banned by Israel, but also for the 300 volunteers who had travelled so far and so long to provide a desperately-needed lifeline.
This is what the world needs to hear so that they can do something to keep that lifeline open.
Nobody knows really how close it was to the aid convoy being denied entry to Gaza, but those who had made the month-long journey were given little reason to hope yesterday after they’d spent a night in isolated compounds in the desert just out from Egypt’s town El-Arish under strict surveillance from some 1000 Egyptian soldiers and police. Not only that, but masked men attacked the convoy with bottles and stones and vandalised some of the trucks taking the aid intended for the Palestinians. Despite all the surrounding security forces, no one came to the aid of the volunteers.
Electricity had been cut to the compounds as well, so all was in darkness. After that,no one could sleep and so the volunteers took turns guarding the trucks so this did not happen again.
The experience left everyone shaken. In fact, one man had an asthma attack after being struck in the head and it was Kamahl and another man who then had to carry the ailing man 150 metres to an ambulance which had been forbidden from coming closer. The prospects of entering Gaza did not look good, but then orders came for the vehicles to be unloaded one by one and the aid re-loaded on to “official” vehicles for transportation through Rafah. The empty vehicles had to be driven to the Egyptian-Israel border for processing by Israeli security, but only after Palestinian drivers took over the driving of the vehicles.
While all of the trucks and ambulances were finally let through, the story is not a happy one for Kamahl and the two other drivers of the Viva Palestina mascot – the British fire truck. Kamahl told us this morning that they and the boat were refused entry into Gaza. Already, they are on the long drive back to Libya, understandably upset that they could not be part of the joyous celebrations in Gaza. It was for all of them the point which had kept them going over the most gruelling stretches of this epic trip, else why would they have done it. All they ever wanted was to give some hope to the Palestinians and to extend a helping hand of friendship and solidarity. It was not to be for Kamahl and those with whom he had shared the journey, but at least the aid was in Gaza and the Palestinians know that there are indeed some who have not forgotten them.
JET Scholarships
Are you a parent struggling to make ends meet whilst you study? Has your entitlement to JET come to an end? SWB volunteers held barbecues on Bush Court throughout 2007 & 2008 to raise money for scholarships.
We are now offering the first 2 x $250 scholarships to help you through the beginning of semester. To be eligible, you must meet the JET requirements, but have reached the end of your entitlement.
Applications close March 20 2009.
Please email Vicky - swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au - with a letter outlining your eligibility.
Relay for Life
The Cancer Council of WA is holding its annual Relay for Life on the weekend of March 28-29. Teams of 10-15 will compete in the 24 hour relay, held a Perry Lakes. If you would like to form an SWB team, let me know. Each team member must raise at least $100 before the event.
To register, contact Vicky on swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au. Please note that if you register, you MUST turn up.
United Nations UDHR Prize
No doubt you have seen one of the 2000 yellow and black fliers around campus, attempting to create an awareness of/engagement with social justice issues through a Human Rights Prize. You may also remember a larger display at the South Street and Rockingham libraries. There are currently two small displays in the South Street Library near the first Year Coordinator’s office.
But did you know that you could win the $1000 prize??
All you need to do is submit a piece of work that best captures the spirit of the UN Declaration of Human Rights. This could be an animation, a photo, a short video, an essay or even a piece of performance art. You can work individually or in groups for this prize, but you have to get it in by February 27 2009.
For more info, contact Martin on m.gwyn@murdoch.edu.au
Protect Chester Forest
Chester Forest Rescue Camp has been in formal operation for over 5 months. Two sites have been established to support the forest defense. The public face of the Chester Forest protest is on the side of Brockman highway (20kms out of Karridale) with a warm communal tent, open camping area, a tree platform and the Rescue camp’s kitchen. The ‘sharp end’ site has the ‘lock on’ 24/7 presence of the protesters who are blocking the forest entry point. This site is primed for action in anticipation of any action by the Forest Products Commission (FPC).
Camp spokesperson Simon Peterffy reports a strong, positive community reaction from locals, interstate and international visitors as well as passing traffic. “There have been hundreds of visitors and protesters to Chester, some staying from day one, others dropping in for a day visit”, says Simon. “This is a serious campaign, in true forest rescue tradition. We are here to save this pristine wilderness”.
Supporters are both welcome and vital to the Chester Forest Rescue Camp. Essential supplies of human energy, food staples and building supplies are needed to sustain the protest effort.
Drop-off points for equipment at this time are the Brockman Highway camp and in Margaret River. For Margaret River donations, contact Gerry on 0439 994 932. For ideas on what may be useful goods for donation, contact recent visitor to the camp, Maxine Drake on 0409 016 104 or Simon Peterffy.
“This forest belongs to everyone and everyone can help to save it, in whatever capacity they are able. People in Perth can send goods down through travellers, locals or the protest networks. It’s a practical way to show support for what we are doing”, says Simon Peterffy.
Simon can be contacted on 0422 535 328
Seed Watering and Maintenance
Where: Wildlife Corridor
When: 18 Feb, 8.30am
A helping hand is needed to get our native seedlings through this spell of hot weather. Volunteers are needed to water the seedlings planted in the campus wildlife corridor over the past two winters. Maintenance of tree guards and minor weed removal may also be conducted if enough helpers are on site, to give the plants the best chance of survival. Tools will be provided.
Bring your bucket or watering can, drinking water and gardening gloves (if available), wear closed-toe shoes (or steel cap boots if you have them) and dress appropriately for the weather.
Meet at the bottom of car park 8 by 8.30am.
Contact Neil Goldsborough if you need further information - neilgau@yahoo.com.au
Occupation 101
'Occupation 101' is a thought-provoking and powerful documentary on the current and historical causes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The film covers a wide range of topics, including the wave of Jewish immigration from Europe in the 1880s, the 1920 tensions, the 1948 war, the 1968 war, the first intifada of 1987, the Oslo Peace Process, settlement expansion, the role of the United States' government, the second intifada of 2000, the separation barrier and the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. It also contains heart wrenching testimonials from from victims of this tragedy.
Thursday 26 February at 6pm
Alexander Lecture Theatre, UWA
For more info contact info@fopwa.org or vp@uwamsa.org
Globalise Me: An Introduction to Global Education
Professional Development for teachers.
Exlore the themes of global education in a fun, interactive workshop with activities and strategies that you can use in your classroom. Also, examine what being a global educator means for your classroom setup, teachign style and use of resources.
When: Tuesday 17 March, 4pm - 6pm
Where: One World Centre, 5 King William St, Bayswater
Who: Teachers of primary and secondary school students
Cost: $20 for OWC members & students, $30 for non-members
More info
Cuba, Venezuela and socialism in the 21st century: an eyewitness report
2009 marks the
fiftieth anniversary of the overthrow of Cuba's US-backed Batista
dictatorship by the July 26th movement, led by Fidel Castro.
Over the last half century, socialist Cuba has achieved
social, political, economic and environmental achievements unequalled
by any other Third World country, and some unmatched by many First
World countries. In recent years, Venezuela has emerged as an
ally of socialist Cuba. Following the Venezuelen government
of Hugo Chavez taking control of the state oil company - PDVSA - in
January 2003, Venezuela has established missions to meet the needs of
working people in relation to health care, education, housing and many
other necessities. Communal councils have been established as
a first step towards a system of popular power.
Marce Cameron, national organiser of the Revolutionary Socialist Party, will provide a first hand account of the unfolding revolutions in Cuba and Venezuela following a visit to both countries.
Saturday February 21, 3pm at Citiplace Community Centre
Upper Level Walkway, Perth city station, cnr Barrack & William Sts, Perth
For more information, phone 0409 762 081 or email perth@directaction.org.au
Marce Cameron, national organiser of the Revolutionary Socialist Party, will provide a first hand account of the unfolding revolutions in Cuba and Venezuela following a visit to both countries.
Saturday February 21, 3pm at Citiplace Community Centre
Upper Level Walkway, Perth city station, cnr Barrack & William Sts, Perth
For more information, phone 0409 762 081 or email perth@directaction.org.au
Public Community Action - Help Stop the Logging of Tiwi Islands Forests
The
When: Thursday 19 February - 9.30am
Where: Parmelia Hilton Hotel,
Already 30 000 hectares of forests and woodlands on the
Worse still, another 70 000 hectares of these beautiful tropical forests are proposed to be cleared as part of a proposed, but not approved, Stage 2 of this ill considered project.
The Wilderness Society campaigned for Federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett, to impose tough new conditions for a range of serious breaches of environmental conditions related to its controversial clearing of 26 000 hectares of forests and woodlands on the Tiwi islands, north of
We
now need to make sure shareholders are reminded that
Stage 2 of this project must not proceed!
Visit
http://www.wilderness.org.au/articles/help-protect-the-tiwi-islands-from-land-clearing
for
more details about the Tiwi Islands
A Cry from the Wild
Leif Cox (Australian Orangutan Project President) and Hardi Baktiantoro (Centre for Orangutan Protection Campaigner) want to spread the caring. Come along and gain a rare insight from these dedicated men.
Tuesday 17 February, 7.30pm
Murdoch University Kim Beazley Lecture Theatre
Tickets $20, Students & Children under 15 $10
Hardi Baktiantoro is Indonesia's most experienced activist for Orangutan conservation. Since 2007 Hardi has been a vigorous campaigner for COP, the only fully Indonesian group dedicated to the conservation of Orangutans.
Leif Cox is the founder of AOP and has been president since its foundation. He is Perth Zoo's Curator of Exotic Mammals, Board Member of the Great Ape Survival Project (GRASP) Australia and has been working with Orangutans for 22 years.
Both Hardi and Leif will be touring Australia in February 2009 campaigning with energy and enthusiasm about the problems in Kalimantan and the crisis with the Orangutans in that region and how the AOP are involved.
As highlighted in the recent tv documentary "The Burning Season" (Hardi appeared in this) in less than 10 years over 70% of Indonesia's rainforest has been decimated. Brought on by our insatiable appetite for wood, minerals and palm oil the deforestation is having desperate consequences for the ecosystem. And it is having an equally deadly impact on the forest's inhabitants, particularly the Orangutans.
Extinction is close for the Orangutans with in excess of 1000 being slaughtered every year.
Enquiries or ticket sales to Bill Waterer:
08 9457 0291 or wa@orangutan.org.au
Action for Gaza
Despite the current ceasefire between Israel and Palestine, the people of Palestine are still suffering and need the International community to speak up for them. Friends of Palestine WA are organising several actions for January.
Weekly Vigils
Gatherings are being organised for Friday evenings from 5.30pm at Wesley Church in Perth CBD. You cmight like to bring candles in mourning for the people murdered in Gaza, silently hold placards, or choose to speak on a megaphone to let passersby know the reasons for the vigil.
Public Meeting
Israel’s assault on Gaza and the struggle for a free Palestine
Saturday 24 January, 3pm
Maritime Union Hall, 2-4 Kwong Alley, North Fremantle
Speakers:
Alex Whisson (Friends of Palestine WA)
Pat Branson (Assistant Secretary Australian Services Union & participant, APHEDA delegation to Palestine)
Nick Everett (Revolutionary Socialist Party & member, Friends of Palestine WA)
Since Israel launched Operation Cast Lead, on December 27, at least 1300 Palestinians have died in Gaza, a third of them children. Israel's air strikes come on the back of Israel's illegal and brutal two year siege of Gaza, which has denied the people of Gaza adequate fuel, food, electricity and medical supplies. While Israel has now declared it unilateral cease-fire, it's yet to give any commitment to withdraw its troops from occupied Gaza and remains opposed to lifting the siege. Avital Leibovich, an Israeli military spokesperson, told Al Jazeera on January 18: "The operation is not over. This is only a holding of fire."
To date the Australian government has blamed Hamas for the conflict and refuses to condemn Israel’s war crimes. The Australian government’s response stands in sharp contrast to that of the socialist government of Venezuela, led by Hugo Chavez, which has expelled the Israeli ambassador and committed to organising an airlift of humanitarian aid.
This forum will look at the history behind Palestine’s struggle for national liberation and the international response to the current crisis.
For more information, phone Nick on 0409 762 081 or email perth@directaction.org.au
Rally for the People of Gaza
LIFT THE SIEGE! STOP THE SLAUGHTER! ISRAEL OUT OF GAZA! AID FOR GAZA NOW!
Noon, Saturday 31 January - Forrest Place, Perth CBD
This action will go ahead despite the recently announced ceasefire.
For more info contact 0407 850 962
www.fopwa.org
Project Safecom News Bulletin
In this Bulletin:
- Grieving for Gaza
- Marking a new start
- Memberships: Get your free book
- Kevin Rudd's climate troubles
- Christmas Island's House of Horrors
- Global becomes local financial crisis
- The real migration crisis
It's easy to argue that 2008 did not end well. Of course we had a near-crash of worldwide financial markets, but the response by governments left a miriad of possibilities untouched as they propped up what is essential an unsustainable and failing system... read more
OXFAM - Gaza Update
As the crisis in Gaza and Israel intensifies, it is the innocent men, women and children who suffer the most. Even before the current fighting broke out, four out of five Gaza residents were dependent on food aid, and now they have little or no access to clean water, food or power. Oxfam's programs in Gaza have been affected by Israel's bombings and the aid workers are now sheltering until it is safe for them to continue their work.
Oxfam works with Palestinians to ensure that they have clean water supplies and can produce enough food for their families. In Israel, they work with organisations that highlight the link between increased Israeli poverty and the cost of the conflict with the Palestinians.
Oxfam is pressing for peace in the region and is calling on the International community to take action.
Read more
Israeli citizens call for sanctions against Israel
Despite the media in Israel shielding their viewers from the full horror of the crimes being committed in Gaza, a group of 540 Israeli's have called on the international community to take a stand against Israel to ensure the end to the brutal occupation of Gaza. Below is the article written and signed by the group (available at http://www.freegaza.org/en/home/658-a-call-from-within-signed-by-israeli-citizens):
A Call from Within - signed by Israeli citizens
Written by 540 Israeli citizens
In support of the Palestinian Human Rights Community Call for International Action
As if the occupation was not enough, the brutal ongoing repression of the Palestinian population, the construction of settlements and the siege of Gaza - now comes the bombardment of the civilian population: men, women, old folks and children. Hundreds of dead, hundreds of injured, overwhelmed hospitals, and the central medicine depot of Gaza bombed. The ship Dignity of the Free Gaza movement which brought emergency medical supplies and a number of physicians was also attacked. Israel has returned to openly committing war crimes, worse than what we have seen in a long time.
Israeli media do not expose their viewers to the horrors and to the voices of severe criticism of these crimes. The story told is uniform. Israeli dissidents are denounced as traitors. Public opinion including that of the Zionist left supports the Israeli policy uncritically and without reservation.
Israel 's destructive criminal policy will not cease without a massive intervention by the international community. However, except for some rather weak official condemnation, the international community is reluctant to intervene. The United States openly supports the Israeli violence and Europe , although voicing some condemnation, is unwilling to seriously consider withdrawing the “gift” it handed Israel by upgrading its relations with the European Union.
In the past the world knew how to fight criminal policies. The boycott on South Africa was effective, but Israel is handled with kid gloves: its trade relations are flourishing, academic and cultural cooperation continue and intensify with diplomatic support.
This international backing must stop. That is the only way to stop the insatiable Israeli violence.
We are calling on the world to stop Israeli violence and not allow the continuation of the brutal occupation. We call on the world to condemn and not become an accomplice in Israel ’s crimes.
In light of the above, we call on the world to implement the call by Palestinian human rights organizations which urges:
• The UN Security Council to call an emergency session and adopt concrete measures, including the imposition of sanctions, in order to ensure Israel ’s fulfilment of its obligations under international humanitarian law.
• The High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Conventions to fulfil their obligation under common Article 1 to ensure respect for the provisions of the Conventions, taking appropriate measures to compel Israel to abide by its obligations under international humanitarian law, in particular placing pivotal importance on the respect and protection of civilians from the effects of the hostilities.
• The High Contracting Parties to fulfil their legal obligation under Article 146 of the Fourth Geneva Convention to prosecute those responsible for grave breaches of the Convention.
• EU institutions and member states to make effective use of the European Union Guidelines on promoting compliance with international humanitarian law (2005/C 327/04) to ensure Israel complies with international humanitarian law under paragraph 16 (b), (c) and (d) of these guidelines, including the adoption of immediate restrictive measures and sanctions, as well as cessation of all upgrade dialogue with Israel.
(To see the list of signatories, visit http://www.freegaza.org/en/home/658-a-call-from-within-signed-by-israeli-citizens)
SWB Rockingham Launched
SWB has opened a new office at the Rockingham campus. This will provide greater opportunities for students studying at the Rockingham campus, as well as community members, to get involved with the projects and campaigns that SWB offers. The office will intially be manned one day per week, but will be accessible at all times to students who want to find out more.
To find out more about getting involved in campaigns and programs in Rockingham, or to find out about helping in the Rockingham office, please contact Vicky on 9360 6307 or swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au
Youth Tree
Youth Tree is a creative collaboration to grow and strengthen relationships between young people, and non-profit organisations that involve and empower young people. It is aimed at propelling people into volunteering of just about any kind through their participation in two incredible days.
Day 1 – Wednesday, January 14th, 10am-6pm, Moores Building, Fremantle. On Day 1, representatives from a broad range of non-profit organisations and a large cohort of 80 or more young people interested in volunteering will gather to share their inspiration and ideas.
Day 2 – Tuesday, January 20th, 9am til late, Murray Street Mall, Perth. Day 2 will promote volunteering by directly engaging the public in a creative and personal way.
These two days represent only the beginning of the Youth Tree initiative that will hopefully snowball into an ongoing process that builds a closer, friendlier more effective network of volunteers in WA. Youth Tree is a platform for getting young people into action by giving them the contacts, confidence, knowledge and inspiration to act on any issue they feel strongly about. If you want to know more about Youth Tree, want share an idea, or want to get involved, contact Tim on 0401 405 503 or shlagel@hotmail.com
More Info
Gaza Massacre
On Saturday 27 December 2008, the Israeli government launched Operation Cast Lead, a ‘military’ operation which appears designed to destroy the few remnants of social infrastructure that remain functional in the Gaza Strip. More than 200 men, women and children were killed in just 15 minutes on Saturday, and the overall death toll in Gaza now stands at more than 350 with over 1000 people injured. 75 of the dead are children.
The international media continues to assert that Israel is responding to Hamas rocket attacks and has the right to defend its territory, however, it has been reported that military planning began 6 months ago and authorisation was given by Prime Minister Olmert on November 19, well before the alleged breach of the ceasefire by Hamas.
The State of Israel was created after the Second World War to provide a home for the millions of displaced Jews. Prior to this the land was owned by the Palestinians. Israel has seized more and more land from them over the last 60 years and Palestinians are now restricted to the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. These areas are cut off from one another and travel is controlled by Israel.
Palestinians do not have a share of the same international human rights as most of their neighbours nor have they been allowed to live in line with the rest of our global community. They now live in the world's largest squatter camp, a compound fortified from the outside by Israel. 80% of their land has been subsumed or seized by Israel. Both States have the right to exist, but they must find a way to co-exist.
Each and every person, each and every State, should have the right to natural justice, the right to liberty, peace and security. For sixty years the Palestinian people have had their rights denied while the mainstream international media has distorted their rights and arguments with an almost fanatical prejudice. Fair and equitable mutually agreed territories with agreed international borders seem the only path to any real solution.
A rally was held in Perth on Sunday 4 January attracting about 500 people wanting to express their anger and sorrow at Israel's continuing assault on the citizens of Gaza. Demonstrators marched through the CBD before heading to Florence Hummerston Reserve to hear from speakers such as Dr Reem al-Freij, a Palestinian scientist and the founder of the Friends of Palestine in WA.
On Tuesday 6 January a picket will be held at the electorate office of Foreign Minister Stephen Smith. A letter will be delivered to the Minister, or one of his representatives, outlining a set of demands to be placed on his government. This FOPWA initiative comes in the wake of a series of statements by the Acting Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Stephen Smith's departmental stand-ins that laid the blame for the war squarely at the feet of the Hamas government.
Stephen Smith's office is located at 953 Beaufort St Inglewood. At 8.00 am the FOPWA will attempt to deliver a letter and a petition signed by over 300 people detailing a set of demands to be placed on Foreign Minister Smith and his government. The demands will be placing on him and his government are as follows:-
We call on the Australian government to:
- condemn the Israeli slaughter of civilians and resistance fighters in Gaza by any and all means necessary; via Australia’s seat at the United Nations, the mass media, and various diplomatic channels
- demand the lifting of the siege of Gaza which has caused such utter devastation to the 1.5 million people living there
- sever all cultural, economic, diplomatic, political, and military ties with Israel immediately in response to the massacre taking place in Gaza and the ongoing siege and occupation of the people of Palestine
- organise immediately a massive airlift of vital medical aid, food aid and other necessary supplies to ameliorate the terrible suffering of the people of Gaza.
Another rally is being organised for Saturday 10 January:
RALLY & MARCH FOR THE PEOPLE OF GAZA
LIFT THE SIEGE, STOP THE MASSACRE, HUMANITARIAN AID NOW
SATURDAY 12.00PM JANUARY 10
THE ESPLANADE PARK, FREMANTLE
Read the letter to Stephen Smith
Read the Friends of Palestine WA's Statement on Gaza
Read about the January 4 rally
Below are links to websites that can provide you with truthful and useful information about the situation in Gaza:
http://electronicintifada.net/new.shtml
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/
http://www.zcommunications.org/znet
http://www.haaretz.com/
http://fromgaza.blogspot.com/
http://electronicintifada.net/
You can watch a live feed from Al Jazeera (in English) here:
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article21629.htm
For more information about the January 10 rally or to get involved with FOPWA, please visit the Australian Friends of Palestine website - www.friendsofpalestine.org.au - or email friendsofpalestinewa@gmail.com
If you would like to start an on-campus campaign about the situation in Gaza, please contact Vicky on 9360 6307 or swb@guild.murdoch.edu.au