tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41034934431361848092024-03-14T00:52:33.098-07:00Puget Sound Nuclear Free ZoneNUCLEAR DISARMAMENT BEGINS AT HOMELeonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.comBlogger153125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-46008744870718213682017-02-06T15:18:00.001-08:002017-02-06T18:19:37.845-08:00Thirty Seconds To Midnight - The Final Wake Up Call<div style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For those of you in the Puget Sound Region, this is an invitation to host a screening of a groundbreaking documentary by independent filmmaker Regis Tremblay.</span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of you are familiar with Regis Tremblay's documentary, "Ghosts of Jeju." In this film Regis put the long struggle of the people of Jeju Island against the construction of a military base in the context of America’s global military imperial domination of the planet through unrestrained and overwhelming force. It is a powerful film about not only militarism, but the indomitable spirit of people, even in the face of overwhelming odds.</span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, Regis has done it once again! His newest documentary is <b><i>Thirty Seconds To Midnight - The Final Wake Up Call</i></b>. In his new film Regis states what few others dare to say. Humanity is on the brink of extinction! Nuclear power is not safe. 48 of America’s nuclear power plants are leaking and there is no way to get rid of nuclear waste. America’s reckless provocations of both Russia and China, two nuclear-armed countries, risk a nuclear holocaust from which few will survive (and those who do will wish they hadn't). Climate change and global warming, if not mitigated immediately, will end the human experiment on earth sooner rather than later.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><i>Thirty Seconds To Midnight</i></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> traces the origins of U.S. genocides, military interventions and wars from the 15th century when the white, colonial explorers first came to the Americas to the very present. American Exceptionalism, Manifest Destiny, and the right to claim the earth and its resources as their own are the beliefs that are the foundation of American foreign policy in the 21st Century that has humanity on the brink of extinction.</span></div>
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</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Dr. Helen Caldicot, Ray McGovern, Chris Hedges, Ann Wright, Peter Kusnick, Bill McKibben, David Vine and other activists, scholars, and authors explain and clarify the crisis and threats to life on the planet.</span><br />
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</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Regis makes the case that our only real hope lies in the result of the epic battle for humanity’s survival between two contrasting world views. On one side, the old paradigm based on white, colonial domination and empire. On the other, the shared vision of others who are working for a peaceful world based on justice, international law and the prosperity of all people. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">All this having been said, time is short - the clock is ticking as we approach midnight. We ignore this final wake-up call at humanity's peril.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">Read Regis' introduction to the film here: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://registremblay.com/thirty-seconds-midnight-film-everyone-must-see/&source=gmail&ust=1486508689157000&usg=AFQjCNFXsn6GD4ZzRFLtiJa50HZE6DlRpQ" href="http://registremblay.com/thirty-seconds-midnight-film-everyone-must-see/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://registremblay.com/<wbr></wbr>thirty-seconds-midnight-film-<wbr></wbr>everyone-must-see/</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Click here to watch the trailer: <a href="https://youtu.be/Wh6LDrQjXj4">https://youtu.be/Wh6LDrQjXj4</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">You can watch the full documentary here: <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://youtu.be/h0bsrFyLz6U&source=gmail&ust=1486508689157000&usg=AFQjCNGGlk4s65TMatk0gh2mfyRL1qvTCw" href="https://youtu.be/h0bsrFyLz6U" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/<wbr></wbr>h0bsrFyLz6U</a></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Here, also, is the link to Regis' blog: <a href="http://registremblay.com/">http://registremblay.com</a> </span><br />
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<b style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Regis would like to organize some screenings here around Puget Sound for the second half of April (after April 17th). If your organization is interested in hosting a screening please let me know as soon as possible. You can email me at subversivepeacemaking@gmail.com. You can also email Regis with questions about the documentary (<a href="mailto:tremregi@gmail.com" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">tremregi@gmail.com</a>).</span></b></div>
Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-43789946625435873882016-12-12T08:59:00.003-08:002016-12-12T09:01:33.348-08:00Puget Sound has KILOTONS of nuclear weapons!<b>By Martha Baskin*</b><br />
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The advertisement catches you by surprise. Plastered on the side of Seattle’s King County Metro bus, it hurls you momentarily back to a time when nuclear weapons were an imminent threat to our survival. Or did that era ever end? The ad—sponsored by local Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action—reads: “20 miles west of Seattle is the largest concentration of deployed nuclear weapons in the U.S.” Behind this text is a map, depicting the proximity of Seattle to Naval Base Kitsap, located on the eastern shore of Hood Canal, one of the four main basins in Washington state’s Puget Sound. The base is home port for 8 of the U.S. Navy’s 14 Trident ballistic missile submarines as well as an underground nuclear weapons storage complex. Together they’re believed to store more than 1,300 nuclear warheads, according to Hans Kristensen, Director of the Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground Zero's bus ad in motion on a Seattle Metro Transit bus</td></tr>
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<b>Arguably the biggest single concentration of nuclear warheads in the world</b></h3><br />
King County Metro was initially hesitant to run the ad, until Kristensen confirmed its accuracy. The combined explosive power contained in the base is equivalent to more than 14,000 Hiroshima bombs, he says. But the most surprising thing to him about the underground nuclear weapons storage complex—known as the Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific (SWF-PAC), and completed in 2012—is the extent to which a $294 million bunker has largely escaped public debate, except for a few industry-related articles.<br />
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The small non-profit behind the ad shares a land border with the naval base. It launched when Robert Aldridge, an engineer for Lockheed Martin in California—the arms manufacturer has a facility at the base to ensure that Trident D5 ballistic missiles are ready for deployment on the subs—quit his job directing missile design when he saw they could be used in a preemptive first strike against the Soviet Union.<br />
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According to Ground Zero’s Glen Milner, Aldridge then contacted two peace activists—Catholic theologian Jim Douglass and his wife Shelley—and the Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action was formed. For a time Ground Zero was successful in engaging the public. When the first Trident warship arrived in Hood Canal in 1982, several thousand protesters gathered on shore and a small flotilla of boats went out to meet it. The U.S. Coast Guard kept them at bay by severing outboard gas lines and threatening to use firehoses. When nuclear warheads began to arrive at Naval Base Kitsap on rail cars from the Pantex assembly plant in north Texas, momentum in the anti-nuclear movement began to build. The rail cars were initially white, says Milner. As a result, the “white trains” became a focal point, not only for anti-nuclear weapons protesters in Washington, but around the country. The trains were met by protesters on their way to Bangor. After that, the Department of Energy stopped shipping warheads by train and began moving them via unmarked trucks and trailers.<br />
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In Seattle’s Backyard</b></h3><br />
The enormous amount of nuclear weaponry in Seattle’s backyard is no secret to industry analysts, military contractors, and public officials. But the general public is less informed, say those who initiated the Ground Zero’s bus campaign. They describe the goals of the advertisements as two-fold: to lift the veil of secrecy surrounding the naval base, and to re-ignite public debate about nuclear weapons in the U.S. arsenal. “This is a wake up call,” says Ground Zero’s Leonard Eiger. “Why do these nuclear weapons exist 70 years after Hiroshima and Nagasaki? Why do we continue to not only deploy them, but why are we maintaining them and planning for a new fleet that could run over $100 billion? What are the economic, political, and social costs?” The Washington Military Alliance—a group formally established in 2014 by Governor Jay Inslee, which advocates for military investment in the state—claims that Naval Base Kitsap is a driving economic force in the region. The U.S. Navy has presented a plan to spend more than a trillion dollars during the next 30 years upgrading and maintaining the entire triad of U.S. based nuclear weapons, according to Martin Fleck of Physicians for Social Responsibility, a group that advocates for nuclear disarmament. This includes over $100 billion to replace the base’s nuclear submarines. The plan was approved by Obama in 2010.<br />
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“We and our allies,” says Fleck, “are arguing for sanity with nuclear weapons given that we have enough already to end the world several times over. Why on earth would we invest another trillion dollars in them at this late date?” Nuclear weapons contractors in the United States brought in $334 billion in government contracts between 2012 and 2014, according to research conducted by Physicians for Social Responsibility.<br />
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The ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, Representative Adam Smith, (D-WA), has questioned the nuclear spending currently being proposed. Smith joined 159 other members of the House of Representatives to support an amendment to the House Defense Appropriations bill which would have slashed funding for a nuclear cruise missile. Both Lockheed Martin and Boeing Corporation weighed in to oppose the amendment, and it was defeated along partisan lines. But the vote, says PSR’s Fleck, proved that Congress is far from united over the government’s massive WMD spending plan. Smith later penned an op-ed for Foreign Policy magazine, titled “America Already Has More Than Enough Nuclear Missiles.”<br />
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Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists disputes whether a new nuclear arms race is underway, but admits there’s been a resurgence in the adversarial relationship between the United States and Russia. As a result, “nuclear weapons are gradually becoming more explicit. For now, this is fueling modernization of arsenals and adjustments of operations and strategies.” Nine nations, including China and North Korea, are engaged in building or modernizing their nuclear arsenal. In the face of this, those behind Ground Zero’s bus advertisement say it’s time to “demilitarize diplomacy.”<br />
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“It’s time to step back from building another generation of nuclear weapons,” says Eiger. “The doctrine came out of the Cold War but it still exists. It’s a dangerous road to travel.”<br />
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<b><i>*Martha Baskin is a Seattle-based journalist and environmental reporter. She was one of the founding reporters for Pacifica's Free Speech Radio News and has been a contributor to the National Radio Project's Making Contact.. This article was originally published at Crosscut.com on July1 26, 2016. </i></b><i><b>Original article source URL: </b></i><a href="http://crosscut.com/2016/07/reminder-puget-sound-nuclear-weapons-naval-base-bangor-kitsap-ground-zero/">http://crosscut.com/2016/07/reminder-puget-sound-nuclear-weapons-naval-base-bangor-kitsap-ground-zero/</a>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-5621548952169831622016-11-28T10:16:00.000-08:002016-11-28T14:31:12.020-08:00Praying and Fasting for Standing Rock in SeattleDear Friends,<br />
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<b>Brother Senji Kanaeda (of the Bainbridge Island Nipponzan Miyohoji Buddhist Temple) will fast and pray for the water and earth protectors of Standing Rock. All are welcome to join Senji during this time of fasting and prayer. </b><br />
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<b>Where: </b><a href="https://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/victor-steinbrueck-park" target="_blank">Victor Steinbruck (Indian) Park,</a> 2001 Western Ave Seattle <br />
<b>When:</b> 9:00 am to 4:00 pm on Thursday, December 1st, Friday, December 2nd, and Saturday, December 3rd.<br />
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<b>Note:</b> If there is a problem with this location, he will move to Seattle Center near the John T. Williams memorial totem pole.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbh0AamMPBlGA4ABQUvQJfXkE3RxRTvqTJR4PJnCehbiVphJVJPet4VZXxqwp2nj2XFamQM3sZAflrGx6-5ZMVisOBGknyUHDI4rN1ov2pIxDQnKTS1cacGx0qImKdwq3l6IOCVqDViM/s1600/eBrSenji2013-5577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbh0AamMPBlGA4ABQUvQJfXkE3RxRTvqTJR4PJnCehbiVphJVJPet4VZXxqwp2nj2XFamQM3sZAflrGx6-5ZMVisOBGknyUHDI4rN1ov2pIxDQnKTS1cacGx0qImKdwq3l6IOCVqDViM/s320/eBrSenji2013-5577.jpg" width="217" /></a>Senji will also fast and pray in Suquamish near the casino on Dec 5 and 6 from 9am to 4pm each day.<br />
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The Rohachi (prayers and fasting) is a Zen practice that begins December 1st and runs through December 7th. The final day is December 8th, which is the Buddha's enlightenment. In fasting, one concentrates the mind on the present moment, and our intentions have greater clarity.<br />
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The Nipponzan Myohoji order Rohachi practice of fasting and prayers has been focused on abolishing of Nuclear weapons, nuclear plants and ending disasters like Chernobyl and Fukushima. Founder monk Nichidatsu Fujii requested in the early 1960s that monks and nuns support the Indigenous American and Afro-American peoples.<br />
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Again, all are welcome to join Senji. You are not required to fast - that is a matter of personal discernment). You may simply come and sit with him in peace and in solidarity with Standing Rock.<br />
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<b>Note: If there are any changes (location, etc.), I will provide that information in this post.</b><br />
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In Peace and Solidarity with Standing Rock and with our Mother Earth,<br />
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LeonardLeonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-82506672899010183872015-08-02T19:40:00.001-07:002015-08-02T19:40:50.303-07:00August Greetings from Ground Zero Center<div>
<strong>Greetings Friends of Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action,</strong></div>
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It's Summer time at Ground Zero Center, and the resistance is easy. OK, so it's not that easy, but sometimes it seems that way as we become so immersed in the spirit and practice of nonviolence that it flows like a river, albeit a slow meandering one. </div>
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The historic deal with Iran is held in the balance even as very powerful interests seek to crush it before it has a chance. Fortunately the UN Security Council voted unanimously for it, and most of the world is behind it. That being said, there are some - and you know who - that just don't like it. John Oliver gave a brilliant analysis of the situation.</div>
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<em>Under our agreement, Iran will not be able to produce even the minute amount of material necessary to strap onto a suicide hamster, which could then be placed in a mailbox. To a man, Republicans stridently complain, and maintain that there must be a ‘better deal’ out there! A ‘better deal’ than what? Of the 90 pertinent pages of the deal, they have read exactly – none". Lindsey Graham deserves some points for honesty. After complaining about the Iran deal on an interview program, Graham was asked if he’d read the deal, and admitted he had not. John Boehner too, skipped straight to complaining and nay saying without reading a single word. Thery're like a four-year-old who claims he doesn’t like broccoli. He hasn’t tasted it, he just knows he isn’t going to like it. Maybe we should call it The US-IRAN Broccoli Deal?</em></div>
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So now you know! Ironically, Iran <em>is</em> a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and Israel is<em> not</em>. And who, in the Middle East, already has nuclear weapons??? The future of the Middle East and that of non-proliferation efforts lie in the balance.</div>
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Meanwhile, we continue to work toward a vision of a nonviolent world without nuclear weapons. The Peace Fleet once again sailed into Seattle's Elliott Bay for the annual parade of warships during Seafair. This year Peace Fleet made a fine showing with 13 Peace Fleet sailors in six kayaks, a 32-foot sailboat, and a 16-foot open boat. About 25 Peace Fleet supporters met on Piers 62/63. Thanks to Veterans for Peace for their strong presence for peace on the shore. The Interfaith Peace Walk is currently on the road, having started this year's walk in Salem Oregon, home of the largest presence of Marshall Islanders outside of the Marshall Islands. And of course GZ people are working hard to create a warm welcome to all for our annual Hiroshima/Nagasaki weekend of remembrance and action. <strong>So what can we all do this August to help move humanity toward a nuclear weapons free future? Read on and see; there is, quite literally, something for everyone!</strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">THINGS TO DO THIS AUGUST</span></strong></div>
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<strong>*Join an event/action near you. </strong>If you are in the Puget Sound Region <strong>join Ground Zero Center from <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_983333920" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">August 7th through the 10th</span></span></span></strong> for our annual Hiroshima/Nagasaki weekend of remembrance and action. <a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here</span></a> for the full schedule and more. If your are not from these parts find an event going on near you by <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.psr.org/news-events/events/hiroshima-day-events-2015.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">clicking here</span></a>. <span style="color: black;">You can still join the <strong>Pacific Northwest</strong> <strong>Interfaith Peace Walk</strong>, even for a day. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzRG1crlv8YMdWtQNGRoY2VWUGNXS2lBTk9LZUhUWU9wZ3Jj/view" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to find the latest detailed schedule</span></a> and contact information for the walk. More actions by other organizations further on in this email.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #222222;"><strong>*Pass out leaflets with some very interesting facts on the bombings of HIroshima and Nagasaki. </strong>The leaflet was prepared by Ground Zero Leafleteers, and also invites people to join us for our annual event. </span><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B7YHEj6AuWUIQzRCWFJWOVZQUjktSkFkOGZibVpMU25GOGxN/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to download the leaflet</span></a><span style="color: #222222;">. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>*Write a Letter to the Editor</strong>. <a href="http://www.psr.org/take-action/security/70th-anniversaries-of-hiroshima-nagasaki.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here</span></a> for some ideas from Physicians for Social Responsibility. <a href="http://www.theopedproject.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=47&Itemid=54" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here</span></a> for submission guidelines for a host of newspapers around the country.</div>
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<strong>*<a href="http://www.peace-action.org/issues/nuclear-disarmament" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Send a message to President Obama to keep his promise!</span></a> </strong>It was President Obama who created the expectation that our country would lead a global effort to rid the world of nuclear weapons. In his Prague speech in April, 20009 he committed the U.S. to this goal: “I state clearly and with conviction America's commitment to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons.” </div>
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*<strong>Join the International Fast commemorating the atomic bombings</strong>. <a href="http://tridentploughshares.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/FastBrochure-2015Final.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here for all the details</span></a> and contacts for more information. </div>
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<strong>*Join in the 70th anniversary "Thunderclap!"</strong> PSR has partnered with Nuclear Threat Initiative and other sister organizations in a massive social media campaign to raise awareness about nuclear weapons. <a href="https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/29509-hiroshima-anniversary-message" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Check it out</span></a> if your a TWITTER user.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;">OTHER EVENTS AROUND THE SOUND</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">"Little Boy (folded)" at Seattle Asian Art Museum</span>.</strong></span> <strong>On <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_983333921" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">Wednesday, August 5th</span></span></span> </strong>In honor of the 70<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> anniversary of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility is facilitating the exhibition of a powerful sculpture on the front steps of the Seattle Asian Art Museum. It will be on display all day on Wednesday, August 5<sup><span style="font-size: xx-small;">th</span></sup>, 9:00AM to 6:00PM, and the artist (whose grandfather was a Nagasaki survivor) will be on hand to speak with visitors. Please <a href="http://www.psr.org/chapters/washington/press-release-for-saam-event.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">read the press release</span></a> to fully understand this exhibit. There is a Facebook page for the event. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/813325002119564/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">https://www.facebook.com/<wbr></wbr></span>events/813325002119564/</a><br /><div>
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<strong>Hiroshima to Hope lantern ceremony at Seattle's Green Lake,</strong> <strong>August 6, starting at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_983333924" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">6:00PM</span></span></span></strong>. Many from Ground Zero and the Peace Walk will participate. <a href="http://fromhiroshimatohope.org/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #0a00b7;">Click here</span></strong></a> to learn more at their website. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromHiroshimaToHope?fref=ts" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #0a00b7;">Click here</span></strong></a> for their Facebook page. </div>
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<strong>Bike Around the Bomb on Sunday, August 9th</strong> <strong>at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_983333926" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ"><span style="color: #222222;">2:00 PM</span></span></span></strong> at the International Fountain, Seattle Center, Seattle. Join Global Zero on the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Japan as we cycle what would be the edge of a “small” nuclear blast in Seattle and call on President Obama to keep his promise to “seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons.” The event will be one of many corresponding events around the world, serving as a powerful reminder that nuclear weapons were designed to wipe cities like ours off the map. <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/13xFxBkdsT_wEFpMOll4DDtY526XHH23v1DV3YrnlJ0w/viewform?c=0&w=1" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0a00b7;">Click here to RSVP</span></a> for the event. </div>
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The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lynnegreenwald?ref=hl" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action Facebook page</span></strong></a> is the place to be to keep up with everything we're up to and lots more. We also have a Facebook page dedicated to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/notonewtrident?ref=hl" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">NO To NEW TRIDENT campaign</span></strong></a>, and the campaign has its own website as well at <a href="http://notnt.org/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">NOTNT.ORG</span></strong></a>. And for now, until the Ground Zero website is rebuilt you can get all the details on events at the Puget Sound Nuclear Free Zone blog's "<a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Local Events Calendar</span></strong></a>." Send your questions or suggestions to either <a href="mailto:info@gzcenter.org" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">info@gzcenter.org</span></a> or <a href="mailto:gznonviolencenews@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">gznonviolencenews@gmail.com</span></a>. We look forward to hearing from you.</div>
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Toward the "peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons,"</div>
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Leonard (for everyone at Ground Zero Center)</div>
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Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-84261486966633811022015-07-28T13:11:00.000-07:002015-07-28T13:17:32.425-07:00This Day in History - Transform Now Plowshares<strong>On July 28, 2012, Sr. Megan Rice, SHCJ, 84yrs, Michael Walli, 64yrs, and Greg Boertje-Obed, 59yrs hiked a ridge and cut through four fences to reach the new U.S. storehouse for Highly Enriched Uranium, which is needed for the production of thermonuclear weapons. These weapons, used to threaten other nations, are in violation of the U.S. Principles of Nuremberg (U.S. Law), in which citizens are directed to resist illegal acts by their government. The refurbishing of the weapons is in violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, in which the U.S. pledges complete nuclear disarmament.</strong><br />
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<em><strong>July 28, 2012</strong> – The alleged airtight security of the U.S. nuclear weapons complex, promulgated over the decades by numerous U.S. government representatives from the Oval Office, the nuclear weapons laboratories, to include the Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory Commission, that unauthorized access to and theft of U.S. nuclear weapons was virtually impossible suffered yet another blow when a small group of Christian pacifists belonging to the anti-nuclear Ploughshares movement (an organization involved in dozens of protests over the years at the Nevada Test Site and other components of the U.S. nuclear complex) breached the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. On this Saturday evening, Sister Megan Rice, 82 years old, Michael Walli, 63, and Gregory Boertje-Obed, 57, cut through the barbed-wire fences at the Oak Ridge complex, which holds enough highly-enriched uranium to make thousands of nuclear warheads, and proceeded to splash human blood on the windowless uranium processing building’s walls, spray-paint peace symbols, and drape the access doors with crime-scene tape. After being convicted in May 2013, Sister Rice and the two men spent two years in prison before a May 8, 2015 appellate court ruling held that the U.S. government had overreached in charging them with sabotage and ordered them released. Comments: Sister Rice follows in the footsteps of a long line of other nonviolent anti-nuclear activists, both religious and secular, who feel that the U.S. and other Nuclear Club members are violating global disarmament pledges and unwittingly threatening the world with nuclear disaster. “It’s making countries feel compelled to have weapons. If you have them, we have to have them. We don’t want to end the (nuclear) industry. We want to transition it into something that’s useful. What could be better than making something that’s life-enhancing rather than life-destroying?” </em>(Source: Nuclear Age Peace Foundation, <a href="http://www.wagingpeace.org/july-this-month-in-nuclear-threat-history-2/">http://www.wagingpeace.org/july-this-month-in-nuclear-threat-history-2/</a> Original source: William J. Broad. “Sister Megan Rice, Freed From Prison, Looks Ahead to More Anti-Nuclear Activism.” <em>New York Times</em>. May 26, 2015. <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/science/sister-megan-rice-anti-nuclear-weapons-activist-freed">http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/science/sister-megan-rice-anti-nuclear-weapons-activist-freed</a> )Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-55227923717085530292015-07-08T19:23:00.000-07:002015-07-08T19:26:07.021-07:00July Ground Zero Newsletter just released!<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxsyl5pVVufdC9TAWUqGpMDUpAqRGOR5vzYs_3kI5r3iEkEX2eccvar9kM7AEHpsOaowNjxqPfJJrYQgYn3fTyn_LdUk-R9RCxGSq6_TdvpEJZdCGdKvstLA8Ih3so2XfZeByY_IW2w8/s1600/July+2015+newsletter+front+page.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxsyl5pVVufdC9TAWUqGpMDUpAqRGOR5vzYs_3kI5r3iEkEX2eccvar9kM7AEHpsOaowNjxqPfJJrYQgYn3fTyn_LdUk-R9RCxGSq6_TdvpEJZdCGdKvstLA8Ih3so2XfZeByY_IW2w8/s320/July+2015+newsletter+front+page.jpg" width="247" /></a>Hello again from Ground Zero Center,<br />
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The Fireworks are over, and now it's time to declare our independence from (and speak out against) every injustice, including war and nuclear weapons! </div>
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Besides a couple of items I forgot in the last email newsletter, our Editor in Chief, Alice Zillah,<strong> just released the mid-Summer issue of the <em>Ground Zero Newsletter</em></strong>. <strong>Don't miss it - a great way to stay connected with our work. </strong><a href="http://www.gzcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/July-2015-for-website1.pdf" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to read the July 2015 issue</span></strong></a><strong>! </strong><br />
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<strong>Ground Zero resister Brenda McMillan is scheduled to appear in Kitsap County District Court on Wednesday, July 22nd</strong> for a mitigation hearing resulting from her blocking the entrance road to the Bangor Trident nuclear submarine base during Ground Zero Center's Mothers Day weekend nonviolent direct action. Brenda is scheduled to appear on Wednesday, July 22nd at 1:15 PM. If you are in the area, please help us pack the courtroom to witness Brenda telling the Judge her reasons for her action. The courthouse is located at 614 Division Street in Port Orchard. <a href="http://www.kitsapgov.com/dc/campus%20parking.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here</span></a> for a campus map with parking information. The courthouse is also served by public transportation.</div>
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We have a <strong>poster for the upcoming August weekend Hiroshima/Nagasaki weekend of remembrance</strong> (and action). Thanks to Ed Digilio for creating this year's poster. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzRG1crlv8YMN09WY09ZVUx4RFppZl9SQmRrTkc0NXRaOEtV/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to view or download</span></strong></a><strong> the PDF version of the poster.</strong> Please print and post them wherever you think they will generate interest (AND participation) in the event.</div>
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<strong>If you've finished reading all the articles I referenced in my last email, I have some hot new ones for you. </strong><a href="http://www.thestreetspirit.org/" target="_blank"><em><span style="color: #1155cc;">Street Spirit</span></em></a> is a publication of the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) San Francisco that reports extensively on a wide variety of important issues. <strong>The June 8th issue contains three extensive historical articles on Ground Zero, including an interview with Jim Douglass. Click here to read </strong><a href="http://www.thestreetspirit.org/life-at-ground-zero-of-the-nuclear-arms-race/" target="_blank"><em><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Life at Ground Zero of the Nuclear Arms Race</span></strong></em></a>. There are links for the other two articles at the end.</div>
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And don't forget to <strong>join one of the upcoming events on this the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki</strong>. Besides the <a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">events around Puget Sound</span></strong></a>, there will be many other events around the nation and around the world. Physicians for Social Responsibility has a listing of events in many cities around the country. <strong><a href="http://www.psr.org/news-events/events/hiroshima-day-events.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to find one near you</span></a></strong>.<br />
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<strong>The Tacoma Catholic Worker's "Retirement Party for Nuclear Weapons"</strong> got it right! It is high time to retire nuclear weapons after 70 years. Based on the U.S. government's current modernization efforts, it's not looking like the President, Pentagon or Congress got the news. Of course, recent headlines don't help - "New Pacific Russian Nuclear Missile Submarine Facility Could Open by October" was the recent headline in the US Naval Institute News. As I said when I posted it to the NO To NEW TRIDENT Facebook page, that headline likely has the Pentagon and Congress screaming "The Russians Are Coming!" But let's not lose perspective. One paragraph in this article reminds us of the real reason behind the Russian ballistic missile submarine resurgence:<br />
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"At the height of the Cold War, the Russian Navy based more than a dozen SSBNs at the Kamchatka Rybachiy Nuclear Submarine Base but that number dwindled following the collapse of the Soviet Union." Of course, the U.S. nuclear ballistic missile submarine fleet never "dwindled" after the Berlin Wall fell. In fact, Trident patrols continued at near Cold War levels and still do. Is it really such a mystery why the Soviets are rebuilding their fleet?<br />
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We certainly don't need another "foolish and wasteful arms race that dominated the Cold War period," to quote Walter Pincus in a recent Washington Post article. And Trident (particularly New Trident) is front and center in this new and rapidly developing arms race. We must keep Trident, and particularly New Trident, front and center in the debate about nuclear weapons.<br />
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I've never been a fan of forced retirement, although in the case of Trident and all nuclear weapons I will make an exception. Scrap Trident for humanity's sake! </div>
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Peace,</div>
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Leonard<br />
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Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-56615061031689252282015-07-01T17:53:00.000-07:002015-07-01T18:07:23.768-07:00Mid-Summer Online Newsletter from Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action<div>
<strong>Warm Summer Greetings from Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action,</strong></div>
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The days are long and bright this time of year... and yet, we live in dark times. The madness of fear, hatred, bigotry, militarism (and more) fuel a maelstrom that - thanks to what Fr. Richard McSorley once called the "taproot of violence" (nuclear weapons) - threatens to suck humanity into its deadly vortex. I am therefore so thankful for the light of nonviolence that burns brightly for all (who have open hearts) to see. And yet, that beautiful and powerful light does not burn by itself; it is NOT self-sustaining. It requires a sustained and faithful effort on all our parts to reach out to the world with love, strength and persistence in what Walter Wink referred to as Jesus' Third Way. And so we continue the work of active nonviolence...</div>
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Members of Ground Zero Center have been active this Summer on many fronts. <strong>You can </strong><a href="https://youtu.be/p8lCJBFoXDA" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">watch Mary Hanson and Bernie Meyer discuss the posturing of nuclear war with Russia</span></strong></a><strong> over the Ukraine on Olympia Fellowship of Reconciliation Television.</strong> <strong><a href="http://www.olympiafor.org/Program%20Description%20--%20July%202015%20formatted.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to read a thorough program description</span></a> </strong>by Glen Anderson, producer and host of this TV series.</div>
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<strong>Glen Milner wrote an OP-ED: <em>The Real Problem with Defense Spending</em>, and David Hall wrote <em>A Brief Case for Abolishing Nuclear Weapons</em></strong>. <a href="http://nuclearabolitionist.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to read both these compelling pieces.</span></a></div>
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Over this past week we have seen two extensive newspaper articles on the military's reach/footprint here in the Pacific Northwest, much of it related to the Navy <em>AND</em> the nuclear ballistic missile submarine force based here. These are really eye openers and the kind of investigative reporting we need to see more of in the corporate press. Read <a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2015/06/30/3886236_navy-enjoys-northwest-building.html?rh=1" target="_blank"><strong><em><span style="color: #1155cc;">Navy enjoys Northwest building spree but faces lawsuits and other challenges</span></em></strong></a> in the Tacoma News Tribune. <em><strong><a href="http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/navy-stealthily-targets-hood-canal-development-2/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Navy stealthily targets Hood Canal development</span></a> </strong></em>is from last Sunday's Seattle Times. Perhaps it will move you to write a letter to the editor on the subject.</div>
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Of course, Summer isn't just a time to sit in the shade reading and watching documentaries (although we can learn much from them). There is also much to do, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Here's what we have in store for you:</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">2015 Pacific Northwest Interfaith Peace Walk</span></strong><br />
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<strong>Join the 2015 Pacific Northwest Interfaith Peace Walk July 26 to August 10</strong> as it travels from Salem, Oregon to Portland, Hanford, Olympia, Seattle, Ground Zero Center, and many other cities. The walk will finish at Ground Zero Center in time for the weekend event ther. You are welcome to join any portion (or all) of the walk. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzRG1crlv8YMZkRBWnR3NjBMYnN2ZXlDQmRlM05YZE80RUo0/view" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here for the schedule</span></a> and everything you need to know, including contacts.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">14th Annual PEACE FLEET</span></strong><br />
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<strong></strong> <strong>Join the Peace Fleet on Wednesday, July 29,</strong> as it sails into Seattle's Elliott Bay confronting the the US Navy and saying No to Militarism! For the fourteenth year, peace activists will address the public display of warships and warplanes in our community. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzRG1crlv8YMcXVFSm1GVFZlZFNPV0laUUItcXpHZWt6VUw4/view" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here</span></strong></a><strong> for more information</strong>, including a Fact Sheet.</div>
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<strong>What:</strong> Peace activists at Seafair. This is the fourteenth year for this demonstration.<br />
<strong>When</strong>: Wednesday, July 29, noon, Peace Fleet in Elliott Bay. Demonstration on land at Piers 62/63 at 1 PM.<br />
<strong>Where: </strong>Elliott Bay, near Pier 66. Demonstration on land at Piers 62/63.<br />
<strong>Contacts:</strong> Glen Milner <a href="tel:%28206%29%20365-7865" target="_blank" value="+12063657865"><span style="color: #1155cc;">(206) 365-7865</span></a>, Mary Gleysteen <a href="tel:%28360%29%20265-1589" target="_blank" value="+13602651589"><span style="color: #1155cc;">(360) 265-1589</span></a>, or on the day of the event <a href="tel:%28206%29%20979-8319" target="_blank" value="+12069798319"><span style="color: #1155cc;">(206) 979-8319</span></a>. You can also email questions to <a href="mailto:info@gzcenter.org" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">info@gzcenter.org</span></a>.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Affirm Life/Abolish Nukes! A weekend commemorating the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima & Nagasaki: Never Again!</span></strong><br />
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<strong>Join us for our weekend of events commemorating the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki from Friday through Monday, August 7-10</strong>. It will be a full weekend of fellowship, fun and creative, active nonviolence. You are welcome to join us for any or all of the weekend. There are great camping spots around the beautiful GZ Center grounds. Put together a carpool and help pack the house. <a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here to view the entire weekend schedule</span></strong></a><strong>. </strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;">But wait; that's not all. There is even more going on around Puget Sound this Summer.</span> </span></strong><br />
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<strong>Fellowship Of Reconciliation's 57th Annual Northwest Regional Conference is coming to Seabeck, Washington July 2-5</strong>. This year's theme is “Peace, Justice and Sustainability: Strengthening the Links.” Jacqueline Patterson, Director of the NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Program, and Rev. Osagyefo Sekou who has been working on the ground in St Louis since mid August on behalf of the Fellowship of Reconciliation will be the keynote speakers. I recently heard Rev. Sekou speak in New York at the Peace and Planet Conference; he is an extraordinarily powerful speaker! <strong><a href="http://www.wwfor.org/seabeck-conference-2015/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here for all the details.</span></a></strong></div>
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<strong>The folks at the Tacoma Catholic Worker are throwing a Retirement Party for Nuclear Weapons on July 18th from 4 - 9 PM</strong> "to really celebrate the 'work' that nuclear weapons has done." It will be full of satire, celebration, art and music. This is a retirement party you don't want to miss. <strong><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzRG1crlv8YMeE15OUVucGN4MWluZU9xWVJLamRxUlZvUmNB/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here for more detail</span></a></strong>s <strong>and to download the event flier.</strong></div>
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<strong>The annual Hiroshima to Hope Lantern Ceremony is happening at Seattle's Green Lake on Thursday, August 6th beginning at 6:00PM.</strong> <a href="http://fromhiroshimatohope.org/the-event/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Click here</span></a> for the event website. They also have a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FromHiroshimaToHope/info?tab=page_info" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Facebook page</span></a>.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">What's New with NO To NEW TRIDENT</span></strong></div>
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And now, on to what's new with Trident. Everyone knows (or should by now) that the Navy is moving ahead with plans to build a new generation of ballistic missile submarines to replace the aging Trident fleet (why not just go for mandatory retirement?). At an estimated construction cost of $100 billion, it's caused some concern around the Pentagon about just how the Navy will be able to afford to build any other ships (you know, the one's it really needs). Well, have no fear; leading the funding charge are Rep. Joe Courtney (D-General Dynamics Electric Boat) and Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Newport News Shipyards)*, who introduced the novel idea of creating a slush fund to keep New Trident funding out of harm's way (or at least traditional budgetary funding methods). Who says bipartisanship is dead. The National Sea Based Deterence Fund is just that; an end run around the accepted Congressional budget process. Talk about fiscal irresponsibility!</div>
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Some in Congress tried to get rid of the fund, but weren't able to get enough votes. Yet for all the talk in Congress about how to fund New Trident, there has been no debate about why Congress should fund this archaic, Cold War nuclear weapons system at all. It is simply being pushed forward because of those other pesky nuclear weapons nations that are "modernizing" their arsenals and, of course, building ballistic missile submarines. Well, what should we expect when we have deployed Trident at near Cold War levels since the fall of the Berlin Wall and have upgraded the W76 warhead that is deployed on the Trident II D-5 missiles (in addition to all the other modernization of our nation's nuclear weapons infrastructure). That, in combination with our pressure on Russia (via NATO and more), has pushed Russian Bear up against the wall (not a wise move).</div>
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Unless the US and Russia come together in serious good faith negotiations to get the disarmament ball rolling, global nuclear weapons proliferation will be all but guaranteed to go through the roof! And then the US nuclear modernization merry-go-round will become a perpetual motion machine that will be virtually unstoppable. We must prevail!</div>
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Back to the subject of letters to the editor - these letters have an impact. Even though newspapers publish only a fraction of our letters (and they do occasionally publish them), they have multiple impacts. When published, they reach the intended audience. When newspapers receive enough letters on a particular subject - New Trident for instance - they are more likely to pay attention to the topic and be prodded into publishing one or more articles (or even op-eds). If you like to write, send in your letters and send us a copy so we know what people are writing about.</div>
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<strong>Keep up with the continuing New Trident saga and stay involved in our efforts to stop it at our </strong><a href="http://www.notnt.org/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">NO To NEW TRIDENT</span></strong></a><strong> campaign website - </strong><a href="http://notnt.org/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">NOTNT.ORG</span></strong></a><strong>! NO To NEW TRIDENT is </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/notonewtrident?ref=hl" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">also on Facebook</span></strong></a><strong>, as is </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/lynnegreenwald" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action</span></strong></a><strong>. </strong><br />
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<strong>Please note (and our sincere apologies for this) that the Ground Zero website is still just a shell of its former self (after the unfortunate hack job). Again, we're a bunch of volunteers; please bear with us while we try to get it back up and running full speed. For now I am maintaining the full GZ events calendar at <a href="http://psnukefree.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">psnukefree.org</span></a>. Just click on the "<a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Local Events Calendar</span></a>." </strong><br />
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<strong>Questions? Email us at </strong><a href="mailto:info@gzcenter.org" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">info@gzcenter.org</span></strong></a><strong> or </strong><a href="mailto:gznonviolencenews@gmail.com" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: #1155cc;">gznonviolencenews@gmail.com</span></strong></a><strong>. You can also email me directly at <a href="mailto:subversivepeacemaking@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">subversivepeacemaking@gmail.<wbr></wbr></span>com</a><span style="color: #555555;"> with questions, concerns and suggestions (or to update your email or unsubscribe to these pesky newsletters).</span></strong></div>
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<strong>Thanks to all who support our work. This is truly a labor of love, and it's NOT our day job. I am honored to work with such a dedicated bunch of abolitionists. Keep spreading the word and invite new people to check out our work. Share and "Like" us on Facebook; DON'T underestimate the power of social media! </strong><br />
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<strong>From all of us at Ground Zero Center - Keep that light burning.</strong></div>
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<strong>In Peace,</strong> </div>
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<strong><em>Leonard</em></strong></div>
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<strong>* Note: In the original email message I incorrectly referred to Rep. Randy Forbes as representing Electric Boat, which is in Connecticut. Forbes is from Virginia.</strong></div>
Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-16926220018997738132015-06-26T19:48:00.002-07:002015-07-24T14:22:16.290-07:00Remembering William "Bix" Bichsel<strong><span style="font-size: small;"></span></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbiToyh7zAA4uSCHqlOszZaQwRSskgJ0v1cZ82BY5sE4Le6qmUvJtaMBPTzsAH_iK67fqkRRu0jUPMF_JXEmCOHNnzB_JjUvxFzoss3AyRzmLrReIkOEFVxz9xz8TzkKpU8VemwiHCj8/s1600/GZ+2011-8+Weekend+(60).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbiToyh7zAA4uSCHqlOszZaQwRSskgJ0v1cZ82BY5sE4Le6qmUvJtaMBPTzsAH_iK67fqkRRu0jUPMF_JXEmCOHNnzB_JjUvxFzoss3AyRzmLrReIkOEFVxz9xz8TzkKpU8VemwiHCj8/s1600/GZ+2011-8+Weekend+(60).JPG" width="400" /></span></strong></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong><br />
<strong>The celebrations are over, and we continue to process through the loss of our dear friend William "Bix" Bichsel, SJ. I've put together the following references for those who haven't seen Bix's obituary or many of the other relevant documents.</strong><br />
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<strong>On a side note, Bix and Tom Shea were my co-conspirators in creating the Puget Sound Nuclear Weapon Free Zone. The photo at the top of this blog is of the sign outside Jean's House of Prayer in Tacoma where Bix conducted peace operations.</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"></span></strong></span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Please note that there is a</strong> </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/rememberingBix?fref=ts" target="_blank"><strong><span style="font-size: small;">"Memories of Bix" Facebook page</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: small;">, <strong>where we can share stories and post pictures -- remembering and celebrating the life and love of our dear Bix.</strong></span></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><strong>References and More (in random order):</strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/2015/03/eulogy-for-fr-william-jerome-bix.html" target="_blank">Eulogy For Fr. William Jerome "Bix" Bichsel S.J</a></b>. (by Dotti Krist-Sterbick)</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2015/03/14/3689239/friends-fellow-activists-gather.html" target="_blank"><strong><i>Friends, fellow activists gather at memorial service for Tacoma priest Bill Bichsel</i></strong></a><strong> </strong>- article in The News Tribune</span><br />
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</span> <strong><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2015/02/28/3663425/the-rev-bill-bichsel-longtime.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The News Tribune Obituary</span></a></strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong><a href="http://ncronline.org//news/peace-justice/longtime-peace-activist-jesuit-fr-bill-bichsel-dies-age-86" target="_blank">National Catholic Reporter Online Obituary</a></strong> </span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong><a href="http://youtu.be/q8-z01t905A" target="_blank"><i>Dancing with Dorothy Day</i></a></strong> A music video made a week before Bix died - Bix is part of this dance!!!</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://youtu.be/ftIUQgBeBGk" target="_blank"><strong><i>Music for Bix</i></strong></a><strong> -</strong> a video taken the night Bix came home to Jean's House to begin hospice care, surrounded by his loving community and music.</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><a href="http://www.gzcenter.org/2015/03/13/lethal-force-and-the-road-to-conversion/" target="_blank"><i>Lethal Force, and the Road to Conversion</i></a> - </b>on the Eucharist at Bangor honoring Bix, featuring his essay "Lethal Force."</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><a href="http://www.counterpunch.org/2015/03/03/a-silenced-voice-of-resistance-compassion-and-peace/" target="_blank">The Passing of Bix: A Silenced Voice of Resistance, Compassion and Peace</a></i></b>, by David Price, in CounterPunch</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2015/03/02/3665736_bill-bichsel-talks-about-his-life.html?rh=1" target="_blank"><i>Bill Bichsel talks about his life, protests days before his death</i></a></strong> - video in The News Tribune</span></div><div style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span> </div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.thenewstribune.com/2015/03/06/3673654_remembering-father-bix-son-of.html?rh=1" target="_blank"><b><i>Remembering Father Bix, son of Tacoma</i></b></a> - a reflection on Bix by UW Tacoma professor Michael Honey</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><a href="https://seattlecatholicworker.wordpress.com/2015/03/20/love-is-the-most-powerful-force-in-the-world-remembering-fr-bix/" target="_blank">Love is the Most Powerful Force in the World: Remembering Fr. Bix</a></i></b> - another reflection from Peter Gallagher, Seattle Catholic Worker</span><br />
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<strong><em><a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/2015/03/old-vs-navy-revisited.html" target="_blank">Old vs. Navy</a></em></strong> - A satirical video on the Disarm Now Plowshares action of November 2009, by Mark Rahner of the Seattle Times. Bix is interviewed throughout the video. It's great stuff!!!<br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/03/09/break-in-at-y-12" target="_blank"><b><i>Break-In at Y-12</i></b></a> - Eric Schlosser writes about Dorothy Day, Catholic Worker, Plowshares (with a focus on the Transform Now Plowshares), and of course Bix and Disarm Now Plowshares.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Bix and others travelled to Jeju Island</strong> in the Fall of 2014. Jeju and the struggle of its people was very near to Bix's heart. You can read a number of posts and see video from various members of the Pacific Northwest Peace Delegation at the Puget Sound Nuclear Weapon Free Zone blog at <a href="http://psnukefree.org/">psnukefree.org</a>.</span><br />
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</div></div>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-73943701541127340312015-05-15T21:00:00.000-07:002015-07-08T16:53:37.865-07:00Sixth circuit orders immediate release of Transform Now PlowsharesIn an amazing turn of events, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals this evening ordered the immediate release of Megan Rice, Michael Walli and Greg Boertje-Obed, the Transform Now Plowshares activists who were serving time in federal prison for their action at the Y12 Nuclear Weapons Complex in Oak Ridge, TN to protest plans for a new multibillion dollar nuclear bomb plant there.<br />
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Things unfolded rapidly this afternoon.<br />
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At 4:00pm word came from Bill Quigley, attorney for MGM, that the government had filed a notice that it would not oppose the release of Greg, Michael and Megan pending resentencing. The government’s notice was interesting—it included notice to the court that, when resentencing did happen, the government would not be seeking terms of imprisonment greater than the time already served. But, the prosecutor said, the court could not release the defendants unless it determined their were “extraordinary circumstances.” The government’s brief went on to note the issues cited by the defendants did not constitute ordinary circumstances. There was a way, though, the government pointed out, under a different statute, and then noted that another court had ruled keeping a defendant unjustly incarcerated beyond the time they would be expected to serve would be an extraordinary circumstance. “We defer to the Sixth Circuit” said the government.<br />
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Then, just after 7:00pm this evening, the Sixth Circuit ordered the immediate release of Megan, Greg and Michael on their own recognizance. The order is not available at this time, but the word from Quigley is reliable. In a delightful serendipity, Monday is Greg Boertje-Obed’s birthday—with any luck, he will be home to celebrate it with his family!Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-18458558460451856312015-03-20T12:31:00.000-07:002015-03-20T12:31:59.896-07:00Eulogy For Fr. William Jerome "Bix" Bichsel S.J. (by Dotti Krist-Sterbick)<b>Editor's Introduction: Those who attended the funeral Mass for Bill "Bix" Bichsel on Saturday, March 14, 2015 experienced one of the most extraordinary and uplifting eulogies that I can remember. Dotti Krist-Sturbick, friend of Bix's and member of the St. Leo's and Tacoma Catholic Worker communities, wrote and presented the eulogy. Afterwards, my wife said that </b><b>it [the eulogy] needed to be shared widely, as it represents a guide of sorts for us - to help us be in the world in some small way as Bix lived. May you find something here for the journey. In Peace, Leonard </b><br />
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<b>For Fr. William Jerome "Bix" Bichsel S.J.</b><br />
<b>with Love for his Beloved Family and Community:</b><br />
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<b>A Eulogy by Dotti Krist-Sterbick</b><br />
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I would like to invite you to say Presente after I name a person or a group of people who were among the many who were a part of his life and work. He would never tell stories without mentioning people who had been significant to him. <br />
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Let's practice…<br />
For those who wish fullness of life for everyone…Presente<br />
For those who long for peace…Presente<br />
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Before his death, Bix said he wasn’t sure what would happen afterwards but that he hoped he would join a Cloud of Witnesses. Perhaps we refer to this reality as Our Ancestors or the Communion of Saints. <br />
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Cloud of Witnesses….Presente<br />
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We are one community today of people from various religions, non-religions and history, some of us have known Bix all our lives, call him uncle, great uncle, brother, Godfather and friend the who was always there for us, but a little late. And some of us went to school with him, watched the strapping young man play football, called him Fr. "what a waste" when he entered the Jesuits right after high school; some of us are Jesuits who have shared with him the life of the Society of Jesus, brotherhood, priesthood, its particular vows, challenges, sorrows and graces. Some of us have gone to prison with him, engaged in Buddhist drumming while praying people over the line, shared ancestral prayers and smudging with him. Some of us have studied theology and German with him, washed dishes, argued, cussed, drank, got sober, laughed, and sung with him. And we heard last night, some have planted trees with him, and some(actually perhaps one) have wrestled with him over the tree several times, thereby killing the tree planted in honor of his Godson. Some have lived in the same G street community and Catholic Worker House with him. Many here have been baptized by Bix or celebrated their marriage with him. With some he has journeyed during a loved one's death and funeral. Outcast by society because of ability, ethnicity, addiction, mental health or orientation, some of us found an ally who, on our behalf, would not back down. Some of us built houses, programs and community with him. Some of us have had our lives radically changed through Bix's help or just by his simple presence. Some of us have never met him, but he has somehow touched or intrigued us, inspired our imagination. We are here because Bix’s heart was full of love and yeses. He lived a fullness of life that included all of us.<br />
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We can look to his mother and father and see the rich soil in which they gave him to grow. His father was a a union organizer. His mother would feed working poor during the depression.. A strong Catholic family, the Bichsels followed the precepts at that time which included abstaining from meat on Fridays. Men would come up from the train tracks and have breakfast on the porch of the Bichsel home. His mother would always fix the same meal everyday--fried potatoes, bacon, and eggs, homemade bread. Even on Fridays. And young Bill would tell his mother not to feed them meat on Fridays because it was a sin. And young Bill would try to convince her that she was wrong. She assured him that this was OK with God and they didn’t have to worry about, quote, “that kind of a thing”. He also would tell you of stories of rock throwing wars in the neighborhood, boys forming gangs, anger and revenge. I think Bix wanted to be sure no one mistook him for a saint. He also loved his family very much.<br />
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Let us recognize some of his family from the Cloud of Witnesses.<br />
Sarah “Sadie” Bichsel…presente<br />
George Bichsel…presente<br />
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Siblings<br />
Mary Theresa Twohy…presente<br />
Dick Bichsel…presente<br />
Bob Bichsel…presente<br />
Jim Bichsel…presente<br />
Tom Bichsel…presente<br />
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We can look to his life in the Society of Jesus to see bits of the Bix we know today. As Bix moved into adulthood, into his priesthood, his discipleship, he began reflecting on fullness of life. What is fullness of life? In his Gospel studies he encountered Jesus who promises the Kingdom of God, a Kingdom we can encounter now. Bix often referred to this as the Kingdom of Peace. But how to attain it? Jesus seems to be clearer on how not to attain it--do not seek power/control, wealth/possession, esteem by your peers. One needs to be free to love, free of attachments—free to receive the unconditional love of God. Free to love one another as God loves us—to love our neighbor as ourselves. Bix studied that we must will the one thing We must attach ourselves to the one desire--to love as God loves us. Any other attachments make the task much more difficult and ultimately unsuccessful.<br />
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This is a difficult task, to embrace this unconditional love. Regardless of our spiritual beliefs and to search for this kind of love takes practice. Takes lots of practice that one takes up every day. And one soon discovers that it takes a letting go of one's very self. (Grain of wheat.) Bix seemed to think this was a very important part of his own discipleship, priesthood.<br />
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In 1988 Bix wrote a poem honoring a friend, a Jesuit priest working in Alaska, Bob Corrigal SJ who died young. He is saying in it basically, may I be a priest like you. And eerily we can notice that Bix actually is describing himself. <br />
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"Your spirit call<br />
led you to those<br />
who were broken,<br />
rejected, and without hope<br />
or future.<br />
In obedience to your call<br />
you were fashioned into a Servant and let fall away<br />
any clerical structure<br />
or stricture<br />
that gave you<br />
rank and privilege<br />
and divided you<br />
from your people."<br />
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Let us recognize some of the priests Bix loved who went before him. <br />
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Fr. Bob Corrigal … Presente<br />
Fr. Robert “Rock Reckofki… Presente<br />
Fr. Jimmy Boyle… Presente<br />
Fr. Bill Houseman… Presente <br />
Fr. Dick Mercy… Presente <br />
Fr. Gerry Morin… Presente<br />
Fr. Jack Morris… Presente<br />
Fr. Pat Hurley… Presente<br />
Archbishop Oscar Romero… Presente<br />
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During the turbulence of the 60's and 70's Bix becomes especially present to those who are being denied fullness of life. He marches for Civil Rights in the south and works here for African Americans; he works against the Vietnam war which is wiping out people and the land, he experiences his first arrest of 46; he reaches out to the mentally ill, with others he builds The G Street Community, the Martin Luther King Center, the Hospitality Kitchen, the Neighborhood Clinic. He is willful and tireless. By the late 80’s he cofounds the Tacoma Catholic Worker and has his first heart surgery…and throughout he has been struggling with his own demons.<br />
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Let us recognize some of those from during those times who are now a part of the cloud of witnesses.<br />
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Sr. Anne Flagge… Presente<br />
Alberta Canada…Presente<br />
Jean Sheoshimee Mura… Presente<br />
Mary Jo Blenkush… Presente<br />
Fina Chouinard… Presente<br />
Mary Russo… Presente<br />
Lewis Jones… Presente<br />
Eva Hill… Presente<br />
Irma Gary…Presente<br />
Bob Galluci…Presente<br />
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. … Presente<br />
Dorothy Day…Presente<br />
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We know what it is like to struggle with our own demons. What human doesn’t? WE know too well our anger, fear, resentments, greed, competition, our desire for security, our apathy. These create an unhappiness in us that can fill us, spilling out to those around us. We no longer experience fullness of life, nor do those around us. Through the years, Bix became ever more honest with himself; he knew this was important to cultivating peace within himself and around him. <br />
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A well-educated Jesuit and an observer of society, Bix also noticed that when these human desires and unhappiness become part of our institutions, it is the vulnerable who pay the price. Someone without power becomes the victim or is to blame. Systems are created that exclude, judge and separate people. As a culture we do not allow fullness of life for everybody. Bix would underscore all the time the need to work for justice so that all would have fullness of life which includes health care, education, employment, housing and a place in community.<br />
Bix would word it this way in a reflection for the St. Leo bulletin:<br />
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"Well, on this September day I said goodbye to Paper Man, Red and George and headed down the sidewalk. What will become of them? In the ordinary course of life in our cities and towns I know they will never receive the resources needed for a full human life. They will not be recipients of health care, education, employment, or housing. Nor will they become respected members of an established community. They will drift and die--unknown and unhonored."<br />
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For Bix, the ultimate symbol of institutional injustice, of humans creating a system that works against fullness of life is the Atomic Bomb. The Atomic Bomb represents our country’s whole military industrial complex and its ultimate priority.<br />
<br />
He came to know the government’s military priority as he watched officials train foreign governments to kill their own people. He saw the resources that go to our military spending that could go to who he called "the vulnerable ones." He saw the horror of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, how ultimate and final these bombs were in robbing people, animals, plants, trees, all of creation of fullness of life, let alone life itself. And yet, we say these bombs make us more secure. We barter away our own fullness of life in the name of security, in the name of preserving "our way of life."<br />
<br />
Bix wrote: "These thoughts led me to an inner feeling of futility; thoughts of how deeply embedded American people are in this culture of death when we allow our vulnerable to disappear and consent to the use of nuclear weapons which will bring global death to millions."<br />
<br />
The feeling of futility would come and go for Bix. Many of you here who have faced prison, or dedicated your life to justice and helping the vulnerable ones probably know this feeling intimately. The question haunts, what can one person do in the face of such principalities and powers?<br />
<br />
During a particularly difficult time Bix was also not getting good news about his health. His heart was not predicted to last very long, he was going to die.<br />
<br />
How did he not give up? <br />
<br />
Bix ultimately received consolation at the gravesite of Chief Joseph in Nespelem, Washington. He encountered a feeling he called "Resurrection". He felt the earth beat in concert with his own heart beat; he felt tremendous peace.<br />
<br />
Speaking of this experience and of Chief Joseph he wrote: "His spirit speaks quietly and strongly to my soul. I wanted to spend some days there on retreat living in the Jesuit parish church next to the graveyard. Much of my time was spent being quiet next to his grave. The spirit of the chief who quit his heroic struggle with the US cavalry in order to save his people rises out of the earth. With his words, "From where the sun now sets, I will fight no more forever." He stopped the violence of the US cavalry and the violence that comes out of battle. His compassion, humility, and strength lighted his path of nonviolence."<br />
<br />
From the cloud of witnesses:<br />
<br />
Chief Joseph…Presente<br />
<br />
Later, during his Plowshare action when he and four others cut through a fence at Bangor, sprinkled sunflower seeds and got incredibly close to the nuclear weapons, he wrote "We all experienced a great joy after being arrested, cuffed, hooded, and forced flat onto the cold earth. It came to me that beyond my furthest hopes, we were witnessing to the power of the Resurrection. Even in this place of fear, death, and hopelessness, the power of life, hope and love can rise."<br />
<br />
Let also recognize the Plowshare and other peace activists who have recently gone before him:<br />
Sr. Jackie Hudson…Presente<br />
Sr. Anne Montgomery…Presente<br />
Lynne Greenwald…Presente<br />
Philip Berrigan…Presente<br />
<br />
Bix believed strongly that love is stronger than hatred. Love is always looking to infuse new life even in our darkest hours. He told the National Catholic Reporter: "I know it sounds idealistic, but I do feel very strongly in the Resurrection and how we can act together…I believe strongly in my heart in the power of God and the power of creation and the Resurrection. They are much stronger than the powers of death,"<br />
<br />
As Bix entered his last week of life it was no less full of this powerful love. Community like today, gathered around his bed at Jean's House, told jokes, stories, sang songs, held silence, held the love for Bix that he had so freely given. All of you who couldn't be there were there in spirit. And the cloud of witnesses was also there. The community found it hard to let go of him, so the vigil continued as he fell more deeply into a coma. But, ultimately the community had to let go of the physical Bix, so Bix could do his own letting go. He did not want to leave his community. He did not want to leave his family. But ultimately he let go with great peace. <br />
<br />
And so here we are, together again, the beloved community joined with the Cloud of Witnesses. And Bix is alive in our hearts. And we get to sing love songs to him. We get to claim for him the words and poems he meant for another.<br />
<br />
"In a world cold and frozen<br />
you hugged warmth<br />
into our brittle bodies<br />
until suppleness returned,<br />
you breathed hope<br />
into our sagging<br />
and desperate spirits, and<br />
you reflected our worth<br />
in your moon-lit face.<br />
You bid us to sell<br />
the pearl of great price<br />
to use so that<br />
no one stand in need.<br />
You taught us<br />
not to hinder<br />
the work of the spirit<br />
in any life, and<br />
that we can learn<br />
to take wing<br />
and soar together."<br />
<br />
In the Cloud of Witnesses:<br />
<br />
Fr. William Jerome ”Bix” Bichsel…Presente.Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-58670026453833682052015-03-11T18:27:00.000-07:002015-03-11T18:30:57.482-07:00Old vs. Navy revisitedSee William "Bix" Bichsel interviewed by Mark Rahner of the Seattle Times in this video - Old vs. Navy! It's a satirical look at the Disarm Now Plowshares action that took place on November 2, 2009 (All Souls Day).<br />
<br />
This is really, really funny, even as it poses serious questions. Bix's responses are right on!!!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/63B_PaQatco" width="480"></iframe><br />Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-53320906304226310832015-03-03T14:41:00.000-08:002015-03-05T18:38:00.192-08:00TWELVE NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT ACTIVISTS ARRESTED AT LOCKHEED MARTIN IN CALIFORNIATo conclude the 2015 gathering of the Pacific Life Community, 80 activists held a colorful and lively demonstration on Monday, March 2 at Lockheed Martin in Sunnyvale, California, protesting nuclear weapons work and other weapons for war.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(photos courtesy of Gilberto Perez)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After sharing poetry, litany, dancing and songs, twelve of the protesters spread across the entrance roadway with a 50 foot banner that read “Lockheed Weapons Terrorize the World” to stop traffic going into the weapons plant.<br />
<br />
They carried a letter with them that read: <br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"To All of Us Who Pay Taxes or Work at Lockheed Martin,<br />
<br />
"Lockheed Martin is the world’s largest weapons producer. The nuclear missiles that Lockheed Martin designs and builds are a threat to all life on earth. We ask you to evaluate the morality of profit from world-wide death and suffering. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"This is the time to transform Lockheed Martin’s reliance on weapons production into new technologies that help the earth and benefit the common good."</blockquote>
The group was arrested and charged with blocking traffic. Four of the protesters were released that afternoon, and one later that evening. Seven who refused to sign papers for their release are in jail until they can be seen by a judge.<br />
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<br />
Those arrested are: Peggy Coleman, Betsy Lamb, Ann Havill, Fr. Jerry Zawada, OFM, John Yevtich, Katie Kelso, Susan Crane, Fr. Steve Kelly, SJ, Larry Purcell, Elizabeth Murray, Ed Ehmke and Mary Jane Parrine.<br />
<br />
Many of the activists wore a photo of Fr. Bill “Bix” Bichsel, in remembrance of the long-time nuclear resister, Jesuit priest, Catholic Worker and member of the Pacific Life Community (PLC) from Tacoma, Washington who died at home on February 28.<br />
<br />
The Pacific Life Community is a network of spiritually motivated U.S. activists from the Pacific Coast and other western states committed to nonviolent action for a nuclear-free future.<br />
Lockheed Martin is the world’s largest military contractor. They make the Trident D-5 nuclear missile, a first strike weapon.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3j2yw76Xt-M" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Since last summer’s Israeli devastation of the Gaza Strip, California PLC activists have also been educating themselves and the public about Lockheed Martin’s role in supplying Hellfire missiles, Apache Longbow helicopter parts and F-16 jets to Israel, all of which have caused immense civilian casualties and war crimes against the Palestinian people, according to numerous international and Israeli organizations (including the United Nations and B’Tselem).<br />
<br />
For more information, visit the Pacific Life Community blog at <a href="https://pacificlifecommunity.wordpress.com/">https://pacificlifecommunity.wordpress.com/</a><br />
<br />
This report is posted here: <a href="http://www.nukeresister.org/2015/03/03/twelve-nuclear-disarmament-activists-arrested-at-lockheed-martin-in-california/">http://www.nukeresister.org/2015/03/03/twelve-nuclear-disarmament-activists-arrested-at-lockheed-martin-in-california/</a><br />
<br />
Photos will be added later to The Nuclear Resister and Pacific Life Community Facebook pages.Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-53159590758131242382015-02-14T12:19:00.001-08:002015-02-14T12:25:15.300-08:00Across GenerationsDear Friends,<br />
<br />
The creative and compassionate juices keep flowing for Rodney Herold as he continues to produce weekly videos following his participation in the Pacific Northwest Peace Delegation to Jeju Island in the Fall of 2014.<br />
<br />
In this video, titled "Across Generations", Rodney looks at the connections between generations and our obligation to care for the world we leave behind for future generations. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/snkMPJmzViw" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
From Jeju Island, to the Keystone XL pipeline, to scrapping the Trident nuclear weapon system - these are all ultimately questions of youth - what we do to create a sustainable, peaceful and just world for the younger generations; how we engage with young people; and ultimately, how young people take on the challenges we all face together.<br />
<br />
Here's to the future!<br />
<br />
LeonardLeonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-11769147047306615512015-01-27T18:51:00.002-08:002015-01-27T18:54:50.804-08:00Bruce Gagnon Speaks Out on US Militarism<b>Bruce Gagnon, Co-founder and Coordinator of the Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space,</b> traveled to Washington State in January to participate in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Walk led by the Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Monks. He joined Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action for its weekend event honoring Martin Luther King, Jr., and was also interviewed by Mike McCormick on KEXP Radio. You can watch the videos of Bruce's talk at Ground Zero and the interview below.<br />
<br />
<b>Be sure to check out the <a href="http://www.space4peace.org/" target="_blank">Global Network website</a>. Bruce also writes an extremely relevant and incisive blog called <a href="http://space4peace.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Organizing Notes</a>.</b><br />
<br />
Bruce Gagnon speaks to the gathering at Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action on Saturday, January 17, 2015. Thanks to Rodney Herold for providing this video.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/X-u7pcCUXuo" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
Mike McCormick, KEXP Radio, Seattle, interviews Bruce Gagnon, Founder and Coordinator of the Global Network Against Weapons and Nuclear Power in Space recorded January 18, 2015.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/_LiANhfZNe8" width="480"></iframe>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-87211419226836642192015-01-16T08:53:00.000-08:002015-01-16T08:53:36.754-08:00From Gangjeong to Bangor: Building the World HouseThe [Peace] <a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank">Walk for M.L.King Jr’s Dream 2015</a> has been on road since its departure from Olympia on January 12th. With participants stretching from Korea to Maine, the walk has been a wonderful opportunity for all people to walk and learn together in a nonviolent, spiritually-motivated action to ensure a better future sharing with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s dream.<br />
<br />
The following video conveys a sense of the walk and what it represents. It weaves video from the recent visit to Jeju Island with different aspects of the current Peace Walk. Walk participants chose to engage in solidarity with this week's protest in Tacoma against the Keystone XL Pipeline.<br />
<br />
The Peace Walk will arrive today, January 16th, at Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action in time for tomorrow's <a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/p/events.html" target="_blank">all-day event honoring Dr. King</a>. The day will include a vigil and nonviolent direct action (in the spirit of Dr. King's legacy) at the Bangor Trident nuclear submarine base.<br />
<br />
The tentacles of the Empire stretch around the globe, strangling justice and peace in its wake. We, as citizens of Dr. King's "<a href="http://www.thinkoutword.org/wp-content/uploads/world-house-MLK.pdf" target="_blank">World House</a>" must link arms together from Gangjeong to Bangor, and beyond, to break the grip of this monster in order to create a world with peace and justice for ALL.<br />
<br />
To do this we must (in Dr. King's words) "recapture the revolutionary spirit and go out into a sometimes hostile world declaring eternal hostility to poverty, racism, and militarism."<br />
<br />
May we make it so.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6TLowoC2xRQ" width="480"></iframe>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-11946371678936025602015-01-09T14:17:00.001-08:002015-01-09T14:17:27.700-08:00Jeju Island: Bows -- Against the TideDear Friends,<br />
<br />
The people of Jeju Island continue their ceaseless struggle against the Naval base being constructed on their "Island of World Peace." The tragic history of Jeju Island, together with it having been called "<a href="http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/3829:the-threat-of-warships-on-an-island-of-world-peace" target="_blank">the most idyllic place on the planet</a>", should have been enough to preclude any consideration of building a military base (that will host U.S. Navy warships central to the Asia-Pacific Pivot) there.<br />
<br />
Many people from around the world have traveled to Jeju Island to learn about and participate in the struggle of the people of Jeju against the onslaught of militarism that is destroying their island and lives. Recently, a group from the Pacific Northwest traveled to Jeju Island and spent two weeks there immersed in the life and struggle of the people.<br />
<br />
Videographer Rodney Herold was part of the group, and he chronicled the group's time on Jeju. This video is the first of a series that Rodney is publishing in which he hopes to tell the story... convey a sense of the struggle... stimulate interest by those not yet in touch with the struggle.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/311vn1IKXRk" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
This first video could well be titled "Bows Against the Empire," for it IS the Empire that threatens to swallow up this tiny island and put it at the center of the Empire's continuing quest for power and global domination. After you watch this first video, I recommend reading the article by Elizabeth Murray in Consortium News. Elizabeth was also a member of the Pacific Northwest Peace Delegation, and her article titled <b><i><a href="https://consortiumnews.com/2015/01/08/resisting-a-navy-base-on-chinas-periphery/#.VK8fQdL9NRc.aolmail" target="_blank">Resisting a Naval Base on China's Periphery</a></i></b> is an excellent introduction to the Jeju struggle.<br />
<br />
Elizabeth is a former Deputy National Intelligence Officer for the Near East in the National Intelligence Council, and is now member of Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity (VIPS). Both Elizabeth and Rodney are involved in the work of <a href="http://www.gzcenter.org/" target="_blank">Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action</a>.<br />
<br />
Watch for upcoming installments in Rodney's series on Jeju Island, coming soon to the <a href="http://psnukefree.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Puget Sound Nuclear Weapon Free Zone Blog</a>.<br />
<br />
In Peace,<br />
<br />
<i>Leonard</i><br />
Coordinator, Puget Sound Nuclear Weapon Free ZoneLeonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-83517721439320775942014-12-07T13:10:00.000-08:002014-12-07T13:10:45.514-08:00Resisting Empire on Jeju Island: Homily by Gilberto Perez<b>Editor's Note:</b> We previously shared one of the Homilys given by Elizabeth Murray, a member of the Pacific Northwest Peace Delegation (aka: Jeju 10) to Jeju Island. These homilys were given at the Masses at the daily vigils at the entrance gate to the naval base in construction on Jeju Island. Here is another homily by Br. Gilberto Perez. Gilberto is a monk from the Bainbridge Island Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple. Gilberto traveled to Jeju previously with Fr. Bichsel.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gilberto bowing to the Peace Center in construction in Gangjeong Village <br />(photo courtesy of Mira Leslie)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">"Resisting Empire on Jeju Island"</span></b></div>
<br />
My name is Gilberto Zamora Perez. I was born on a Caribbean Island similar in beauty to Jeju Island€”and raised in the slums of the American Empire.<br />
<br />
To my brothers and sisters of Gangjeong Village and Jeju Island: I arrived at Gangjeong eight days ago, having always lived as a stranger in the strange American Empire. I have now come home to my family of peacemakers, and to love of Lord Jesus, in Gangjeoung Village.<br />
<br />
The American Empire is a merchant of death selling weapons of murder to divide people and nations of color, truly the policemen of the world. It is the greatest military industrial complex of power and racism.<br />
<br />
The American Empire claims to bring peace and security to Korea, yet only 60 years ago, 3 million Koreans sacrificed their lives, and still Korea is still divided into North and South. Starting on April 3, 1948, American lead military and South Korean forces murdered some 30,000 villagers of Jeju; this still burns in my heart. Yet what kind of peace and security is it when after 36 years of Japanese occupation, another empire raises its flag of domination and murder?<br />
<br />
The Islands of the Caribbean have become a resort destination for the rich of the world. The original Island peoples are all gone, and African slave descendants cater to the rich foreigners. Beautiful Gangjeong Village and Jeju Island may become a play land for wealthy foreigners as well. Our mothers, daughters, and children will be disrespected and treated like trash.<br />
<br />
Just observe what has happened in the Philippines, Guam, and Japan, which between them have 45 military bases!!! Since the U.S. military occupation began in Okinawa, Japan, there have been two rapes a month by US personnel and in one case, a 13 year old was raped by three marines...and many more who will not speak of horrors for fear of bringing shame to their families. And all the while, the generals and high officials of the U.S. military have great housing on the best beaches, and play golf.<br />
<br />
It is the same destruction the Native Americans experienced, their most beautiful lands stolen. And they brought Africans slaves over, now with four hundreds years of suffering to slave over resources for the rich.<br />
<br />
The empire and the Korean government say the navy base will bring peace, security and employment to Jeju Island. A big lie! All governments lie, and the corporate leaders and he rich will never go to jail!<br />
<br />
In Gangjeong village as well as the United States, many have been imprisoned as peace makers, and continue to struggle for the poor, because we are not afraid of the empire's power and injustices. Gangjeong Village will be not be a slave, or be forced into serfdom for the empire.<br />
<br />
Yet still many peoples of the the world are blind and stupid by materialism and fear of poverty. But not on Jeju. The peace makers of Gangjeong Village know of the Lord's Kingdom. It is alive with the presence of Lord Jesus.<br />
<br />
A story from India: There once lived a little parrot in the forest. One night, the friction of strong winds caused bamboos to ignite into a great fire. All the animals in the forest were frightened and ran in confusion with great fear. The little parrot knew that his friends were in danger. The little parrot flew to the nearest pond and soaked his feathers and flew over the great fire with a few drops.<br />
<br />
He did this over and over again, and his feathers were burned by the heat of the fire. A heavenly god noticed the little parrot and asked, "What can you do with a few drops of water on such a great fire?" The little parrot answered "These are my sisters and brothers of the forest and I<br />
will do it again and again in this life and the next."<br />
<br />
The heavenly god was impressed by the little parrot's courage and helped put out the fire.<br />
<br />
May the grace of God be with Gangjeong Village. Thank you.Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-9722973448481650382014-11-22T10:25:00.000-08:002014-11-22T10:25:28.743-08:00Homily at the gates of the Empire (Jeju Naval Base)<i><b>Editor's Note:</b> During the daily vigils at the entrance gate to the naval base in construction on Jeju Island the people celebrate Mass. Elizabeth Murray, a member of the recent Pacific Northwest Peace Delegation to Jeju, was privileged to be invited to deliver a homily during one of these daily Masses, and we share it with you here.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>With special thanks to Bishop Kang and all of the Korean priests and nuns who have demonstrated the best of the church as they translate their deep faith into action. </i><br />
<br />
*****************<br />
<br />
My dear brothers and sisters of Gangjeong Village,<br />
<br />
I am blessed and honored to have this opportunity to say a few words to you today. For the past week I have been inspired by the courage and conviction of your resistance in the face of a vicious Empire and military-industrial complex that respects no laws and will stop at nothing to satisfy its insatiable greed for power and resources.<br />
<br />
Of special significance is the special role of the Catholic Church -- specifically your own Bishop Kang, Father Kim, and other Korean priests and nuns -- in confronting the construction of an illegal naval base which will serve the interests of the Empire, and not the interests of the people of South Korea or Jeju island. <br />
<br />
These courageous men and women of faith have joined together with the people of Gangjeong village in carrying out Prayer in Action -- embodying the life that Jesus Christ lived -- who, by his example of speaking truth to power, has shown us the kind of life that we all ought to live.<br />
<br />
Was not the life and message of Jesus Christ a direct challenge to Empire (in those days the Roman Empire) and those who collaborated with the Roman occupation? Isn't this the reason why the religious and civil authorities conspired to torture Jesus and sentence him to a painful death on the cross?<br />
<br />
Had Jesus Christ simply gone along with and accepted the Empire and its well paid lackeys -- had he chosen to separate his vision of peace and justice from the prevailing politics of those times -- he could have easily led a comfortable life and died peacefully in his bed.<br />
<br />
We could all easily do the same. All we would need to do is convince ourselves that Jesus did not really mean to say what he said; that he did not really mean to do what he did in challenging the authorities of the day and exposing the evils of Empire. We could all leave the entrance of this Naval Base right now, and go back to the comfort and safety of our homes and families.<br />
<br />
But instead, we stand here together -- including a group of 10 Americans led by Father Bill Bichsel. We have traveled a great distance to be here in solidarity with our sisters and brothers in resistance -- risking arrest, injury and even possible deportation.<br />
<br />
As Americans, we believe we have a special duty and obligation to be as one with the people of Gangjeong village in resistance to Empire. For there exists a great gap between our feelings of kindness, compassion, and caring toward your community, and the ruthless way in which American Empire is being experienced, directly and indirectly, by your village. We are here to confront the evil of Empire shoulder to shoulder with you, and to bear witness to the fact that the oppressive American Empire does not represent the will of its people.<br />
<br />
Although many of us here profess the Catholic faith, there are also many who do not. Good people do not have to be of any particular religious denomination to stand against the violence of militarism, the destruction of capitalism, or the soullessness of materialism.<br />
<br />
At the same time, it does seem appropriate that we Catholics and other Christians who claim to follow a courageous dissident activist (Jesus Christ) -- who was tortured to death for challenging an oppressive system -- have a special incentive to do all we can to confront evil and prevent others from being subjected to injustice and oppression. <br />
<br />
May God grant us the peace, courage and strength to continue confronting evil in this world, and may we always love and care for one another - friend and enemy alike - as we struggle together in these troubled times. Amen.Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-33232718745169979672014-11-21T15:18:00.004-08:002014-11-21T15:23:38.501-08:00"We shall overcome" (reflection from Mira Leslie)Dear Friends,<br />
<br />
I am home and feeling overwhelmed emotionally. Gratitude, outrage, solidarity, humanity, pain, sadness, celebration, beauty, resilience, change, military and corporate power, faith, truth......<br />
<br />
I woke last night with Gang Jeong overflowing my head and heart. Physically one circle away-- connected by spirit. What resonates loudly is the powerful ritual, of art, music, dance, faith, the struggle of indigenous people to protect heritage, life and place.<br />
<br />
A large chunk of sacred shoreline has been taken -- a tall white fence with barbed wire separates the naval base from the village and its people. On the west sea side there is a river estuary and a rock jetty. It is a beautiful spot- heron, egrets feeding in the river, gentle fresh water flowing into the sea, Tiger island arising from the sea close by..... a group of stored kayaks-- a peace fleet. The west side of the naval base dissects the scene. There are protest flags and paintings all along the river path from the sea...and an encampment supporting the struggle.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the fence and barbed wire </td></tr>
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Walking north along the riverside fenceline arrive at the bridge, the main road into town. It is another site of significance, heavily decorated with antibase flags and flowers. A few hundred feet up the road from the bridge is a shrine and large permanent peace tent, one side set up for Mass, all decorated with logs carved with prayers.. The other side of the road the base fenceline is adorned with illustrations, peace poetry , flags, murals up to the new main gate.<br />
<br />
Six days a week mats are placed on half of the main gate road at 7am with activists and sisters bowing with peaceful intentions spoken over a loudspeaker "as I hold in my heart....I make my 1st, ..30th..88th.. 100th bow. Later, at 11am a full mass with communion and rosary is celebrated both in the tent with villagers and extended along the road over a loudspeaker to preist and activists in chairs blocking the gate- stopping construction trucks. Police interrupt every 10-15 minutes to remove and contain resisters to the side for 10 minutes of truck flow... After mass is a human chain, and 3-4 dances in the street.<br />
<br />
From the gate walk on a path decorated with murals and flags on the fence side depicting Gureombi rock, the imprisoned activists, and lined with several greenhouses. Arrive at the communal kitchen, the residence for sisters, and several living/storage containers abutting the north side of the fence. Resume walking along the continuously protested fenceline to the road.where the fence turns south toward the sea along the road to the marina. The unfenced side of the road has a large 24 hour peace encampment and campfire blocking the proposed naval housing construction.. The last of the fields on this eastern side of the naval base were still being bulldozed and fence erected during our visit.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in front of flag of imprisoned activists</td></tr>
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The walk ends just past the marina --a large crucifix where Father Moon was pushed off the rock by police at the end of a high cement dyke facing west toward the base--an evocative shrine.<br />
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Every centimeter of land that was taken is a passionate colorful tragic place of resistance -- a cry for peace...<br />
<br />
<i>Mira Leslie</i>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-90832470953033867152014-11-19T09:45:00.002-08:002014-11-19T09:45:58.680-08:00Jeju: Damaged Environment... Damaged Hearts (from Mira Leslie)In less than 24 hours we will depart Gangjeong village. Jean left this morning. The goodbyes started yesterday. There is tremendous gratitude to us for coming here. In some ways I don't understand that-- hosting and feeding ten people for 10 days is a tremendous task. We have had 'special meal' almost everyday-- and the regular food at the communal kitchen is delicious -- but not too varied. Kim chee varieties, rice and soup- yum. We have been taken to tourist spots including the amazing Buddhist temple grounds and there have been several meetings with key leaders of the movement-- each imparting intense information.<br />
<br />
The community of resistance receives support from visitors-- it helps them to have people doing 100 bows and blocking the gate during mass- Eucharistic resistance. The sister nuns are a steady presence - rotating through here from diocese throughout Korea. Foreign visitors are embraced warmly. The community is tired, but still very together (from an outsider perspective). For me, this time will be impossible to forget-- and I am sure I'll ruminate on it after leaving.<br />
<br />
How can we to bring this back to our communities -- and honor all we have learned? <br />
<br />
The town is decorated with natural images-- of peace. Peace Zone, dreamcatchers, sea creatures, Gureombi rock. WE learned yesterday at the stone museum and grounds "the very deep meaning of stone here'-- much of it volcanic. It is building material, fencing, tools, food prep, sinks, toys and games, water vessel, art, music....<br />
<br />
Last night we sat at the peace center with the activists, priests, and a few townspeople. Father Bix and I described some of our peace work in the US and then they asked questions to all of us. They had 2-3 sentence bios of each of us that had been translated and printed. At one moment an activist said - everyone sees the damage done to the environment here- but no one can see the deep anger and damage in our hearts. She asked Sonya who works with trauma teams internationally for advice. You could see the reactions--- it wasn't expected- Korean people don't talk too much about their feelings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLRTZ4J3-3qGyfP5nSkLu78jn416CQcAinJlzGBmuvbKbn4uQ1_z3FPoSF6RSDy97VotznXA2wpXO0rrB_9tx8G1zgT5fij-tYj5rIshZU1UBE9UFKdcVNJ9Q5fmZBj-RvK8leog00MA/s1600/Jeju+Nov.+19+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLLRTZ4J3-3qGyfP5nSkLu78jn416CQcAinJlzGBmuvbKbn4uQ1_z3FPoSF6RSDy97VotznXA2wpXO0rrB_9tx8G1zgT5fij-tYj5rIshZU1UBE9UFKdcVNJ9Q5fmZBj-RvK8leog00MA/s1600/Jeju+Nov.+19+(3).jpg" height="217" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">November 19th gathering (photo courtesy of Emily Wang)</td></tr>
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The village produces lillies for Japan, a sister told me as we walked to the gate today-- but many of the lilly greenhouses were destroyed when they started the base. There is still fishing-- but it is diminishing as the sea is being altered with destruction of the fragile soft coral reefs, damage from concrete, blasting, construction toxins/waste and later with ship pollution-- oil, fuel, human waste.<br />
<br />
We were gifted t-shirts today by the international team. The image is of Jeju island with an open mouthed shark on one end -- the shark is in US stars and stripes with the Korean script word 'Imperialism'.<br />
<br />
<i>Mira Leslie</i>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-59119819346724259802014-11-18T09:41:00.000-08:002014-11-18T09:41:22.713-08:00Jeju: Tuesday's Tourists (from Larry Kerschner)A group of Jeju Island supporters including a vice-Mayor from Gangjeong held a press conference today in Seoul. They asked the ROK National Assembly to cut off the funding for the base on Jeju as part of their 2015 budget negotiations. Doing our bit as tourists, we drove along the west side of Jeju to the Jeju Stone Park. Another wonderful park and museum dedicated to the geology of Jeju. This evening we met with over 40 local activists to share stories and ideas for the future of resistance on Jeju.<br />
<br />
<i>Larry Kerschner</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEE6o2Smr99K0zUn4u5s_W8eBfPoMxXcJ6mT70EkjUdqpUhQJLYWPcqTRczUAqS7qq_p09_Npy8MnvU42RqNogyvjT7RDfg4ksYo4ucC92Xro4AhVtIRP1xLm4HmrmJ_Do5_mGeG17G0/s1600/rock+sculptures+from+the+wind+and+water+at+Jeju+Stone,+L+Kerschner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEE6o2Smr99K0zUn4u5s_W8eBfPoMxXcJ6mT70EkjUdqpUhQJLYWPcqTRczUAqS7qq_p09_Npy8MnvU42RqNogyvjT7RDfg4ksYo4ucC92Xro4AhVtIRP1xLm4HmrmJ_Do5_mGeG17G0/s1600/rock+sculptures+from+the+wind+and+water+at+Jeju+Stone,+L+Kerschner.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock sculpture from the wind and water at Jeju Stone Park</td></tr>
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<i><br /></i>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-7318421529401375462014-11-17T09:43:00.000-08:002014-11-17T09:46:18.932-08:00Jeju: Monday - High and Low (reflection from Larry Kerschner)Villagers cheered this morning when they heard the results of the governors election in Okinawa. The newly elected governor of Okinawa has stated that he will veto any permit for a new US military base in Okinawa. There is a growing solidarity among nations of north east Asia concerning the opposition to US military bases.<br />
<br />
Several of us were offered the opportunity to present the homily at mass today. This was my homily: Humbled are those who are able to read the truth aloud. Blessed are those who can hear the message of life and can take it into their hearts. The continuing struggle against the agents of death at Gangjeong is like a tangerine tree planted next to running water. It will yield its fruit in due time. Those who can remain patient and steadfast, despite the apparent strength of the opposition, will surely, in time, once again the sweet taste of community. A community in which a gentle non-violent spirit reigns in every house and in the hearts of all the people. (The lying, bribery and duplicity of the Navy has separated some in the village.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKTHeQ7_BcLx1wkRTQ3eREObURRmFD16oBX6A0QhFXXzUiraoZ5IPIvuYD_MzWNJKub7hEu8-cu9W-879DXFPIb4bREVtpaSEAWLTiYjv-IEgfuLRqEejKqtlsY_r2kEdr8lNUe-VSMg/s1600/Fr.+Kim,+communion+at+gate,+by+L.+Kerschner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKTHeQ7_BcLx1wkRTQ3eREObURRmFD16oBX6A0QhFXXzUiraoZ5IPIvuYD_MzWNJKub7hEu8-cu9W-879DXFPIb4bREVtpaSEAWLTiYjv-IEgfuLRqEejKqtlsY_r2kEdr8lNUe-VSMg/s1600/Fr.+Kim,+communion+at+gate,+by+L.+Kerschner.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fr. Kim giving communion during Mass at the gate.</td></tr>
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After meeting with the head of the village resistance committee I now have a better understanding of what has happened here. I mentioned before about the secret meetings and bribery that the Navy used to get an agreement to build the base here. I was wrong when I previously stated that the population of the village is 5000; when intact it's actually about 2000. The resistance here was so effective in the beginning that the national police actually sent 2000 police officers to occupy this village on Jeju Island. They intimidated the villagers on a daily basis and arrested many of the leaders. The police occupation lasted for several years. There were a number of national environmental laws that should have protected this area, however the Navy decided to ignore all of those laws. The Korean court system essentially told the people here that they would just have to live with it even though they recognized that these were some illegal actions on the part of the Navy. It appears that South Korea is no more of a nation under law than the United States is when it comes to issues between those in power and the people.<br />
<br />
I mentioned earlier that the governor was going to try to get the Navy to move the Naval housing to someplace outside of the village. While we were eating dinner tonight a Korea news program came on in which it was announced that the Navy today refused the governor's request. The villagers are clearly getting tired of fighting the Navy so it will be interesting to see how they respond to this news.<br />
<br />
<i>Larry Kerschner</i><br />
<b><i><br />
</i> <i>Editor's Note: Per Larry's reference to the election in Okinawa, here is yesterday's news on the subject from the BBC: <a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-30074445" target="_blank">US base opponent wins Okinawa governor poll</a></i></b>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-50806203704034977882014-11-16T09:18:00.000-08:002014-11-16T09:18:00.492-08:00Jeju: "community of peace--fortress of resistance' (reflection from Mira Leslie)This is a small village-- everywhere I walk there are people I know-- and I haven't been here a week yet. Lunch was delicious today-- and afterward I walked alone down to the port (marina). Women divers were sorting their catch for the day. This is a traditional way of fishing -- they do it without any breathing apparatus - holding their breath, diving down to collect shellfish and seaweed. The younger women don't want to start-- so it is mostly older women. Some of these women were bribed to support the base, so there is a division of in this micro community that is carried into the larger village. The marina is small. The naval base is on one side-- and there is massive obstruction by huge cement pilings making the waterfront mostly inaccessible to shore fishermen .... fish is a staple here. <br />
<br />
There is a very good view of the naval base construction from there. Where Gureombi rock once lived and gave life, there is a massive sea wall making an artificial harbor, with a plethora of cement trucks, earthmovers and cranes. One crane in the middle of the harbor lifts a huge weight every 2 minutes or so and then drops it into the water making a bomb-like underwater sound and huge splash. Dredging.<br />
<br />
On the way back I stopped and sat with several activists blocking the naval housing site. The site has a barrel fire outside , a bus and tent -- manned day and night with activists communing- talking, laughing, eating, organizing... There is no rush, and people interact with each other rather than their smartphones. Here, and at the peace center and peace café, babies pass from hand to hand, tangerines are piled high to snack on, dogs mingle. Many people have moved here to join the struggle-- --many, many ferociously powerful women. <br />
<br />
This is a sacred place and community of peace-- a fortress of resistance. There is no way to describe the intensity of tragedy that is occurring in the environment here as a direct result of our uncontrolled power and greed.<br />
<br />
Seeds of peace, solidarity, and love are deeply rooted in this community and throughout the world but the earth and its plants and animals cannot survive ongoing assault indefinitely. We must use every ounce of energy to change course.<br />
<br />
<i>Mira Leslie</i><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Please <a href="http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/save-jeju-island-no-naval" target="_blank">sign the petition</a> (at moveon.org) to Save Jeju Island.</b>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-88498857136635403822014-11-16T09:07:00.001-08:002014-11-16T09:07:50.134-08:00Jeju: Quiet Sunday (reflection from Larry Kerschner)Apparently the police are trying to save money so the large forces that are out during the week are not here on Sundays. We were able to block the gates into the base for about an hour and a half while mass and rosary was said. The workers were still working today and were not too pleased about us being there. They got quite loud and noisy trying to interrupt us. It was amusing that yesterday the security guards would have been helping the police move us out of the way and today they were protecting us from the workers who are trying to drive out of the base.<br />
<br />
In the afternoon we had a long session with Bishop Kang who has been very supportive of attempts to block building the naval base on Jeju Island. We had a wide ranging discussion on many subjects. He said most of the other bishops in Korea have given him lipservice but there's very little actual support. He talked about the fact that the villagers here have shut down one gate to a part of the base that would have had housing for Navy personnel and their families. I hadn't realized that they were talking about 3000 people occupying this housing when the base is running at full. Clearly this would overwhelm a village of 5000 people. And you can imagine what would happen when a US aircraft carrier comes in and sends 5000 sailors on shore leave. The bishop said that the new governor of Jeju Island has said that he will try to have this housing built somewhere outside of the village but he is waiting for some actual indication that this may happen.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Larry Kerschner</b></i>Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4103493443136184809.post-54440186807852428442014-11-15T09:22:00.002-08:002014-11-15T09:24:28.664-08:00Jeju Early Morning: 100 Bows for Peace (and an end to militarism)The members of the Pacific Northwest Peace Delegation to Jeju Island, South Korea with members of the Jeju resistance community -- early Thursday Morning, November 13, 2014 in Gangjeong at the entrance gate to the construction site for the naval base. One hundred bows (for PEACE).<br />
<br />
The man interviewed (in the 2nd half of the video) overlooking the construction site is Sasha Davis, a faculty member at University of Hawaii, Hilo who joined the delegation for the last couple of days. "Sasha's teaching and research focuses on the intersection of environmental and social issues as well as on the relationships between nature and society. Over the past decade his research has focused on environmental contamination, conservation, resource management and politics near American military installations in the Marshall Islands, Hawaiʻi, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. More recently he has also focused on environmental and social movements seeking to re-imagine global geopolitics, environmental sustainability and security" (quoted <a href="http://hilo.hawaii.edu/depts/geography/prof-jsdavis.php" target="_blank">from the UH website</a>).<br />
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Following the interview with Sasha another peace delegation participant, Jean Crawford, tells the Mordor story. Sonja initiates a conversation about the role of playfulness of the protesters. Thanks to Rodney Herold for producing this video!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/J30Sv7vhJOc" width="480"></iframe><br />
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Playfulness aside, the construction of the naval base on Jeju Island is part of the garrisoning of the globe that has been going on for decades and continues unabated. The United States has a military presence in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_military_deployments" target="_blank">more than 150 countries</a> and has <a href="http://www.tomdispatch.com/blog/175338/" target="_blank">more than 1000 military bases spanning the earth</a>. As Sasha says in the video, the US is looking to the base on Jeju to help control this strategic "choke point" is the insane quest to control China and its access to resources.<br />
<br />
Wouldn't it be more intelligent to engage China economically, politically and diplomatically to build an enduring relationship rather than alienating a country that can be either an ally or a formidable foe? Other nations (such as Russia) seem to understand that military might is not the answer. Our global arrogance is stunning.<br />
<br />
Of course one could make the observation that it is the South Korean government that is building the naval base on Jeju. And one can also see, by the evidence, that the port is being constructed to very specific standards to receive US surface ships and nuclear submarines. There is no doubt that the base on Jeju is about the US Pivot to Asia (or Asia Pacific Pivot as it is also called).<br />
<br />
As a nation, we can either continue to support our way of life using our military as a BIG stick around the world, or we can ratchet it back, create a sustainable way of life, and engage other nations in diplomacy, cooperation and nonviolent conflict resolution. Of course, this will entail closing and re-purposing military bases; finding alternative and sustainable employment for members of the military as their jobs are phased out; and of course the pursuit of total, global nuclear disarmament. And lest we forget, the very corporations that reap huge rewards from building the weapons of war will need to shift to civilian production.<br />
<br />
This will all require such a huge paradigm shift that one wonders if it is remotely possible. For the sake of the people of Jeju Island and people everywhere we can only hope (and work) for this good and noble goal. May it be so.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">How You Can Help the Jeju Resistance</span></b><br />
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Join their Facebook groups: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/nonavalbase/" target="_blank">No Naval Base on Jeju</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SaveJeju" target="_blank">Save Jeju Island </a> to stay updated<br />
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Visit Jeju.<br />
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Write letters to Gangjeong's prisoners of conscience.<br />
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Organize a solidarity event (concert, sreening of <a href="http://www.theghostsofjeju.net/" target="_blank">The Ghosts of Jeju</a>, protest, etc.) and share it on social media.<br />
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Find out more and read the ir monthly newsletter at <a href="http://savejejunow.org/">savejejunow.org</a>.<br />
<br />Leonard Eigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08211690207308023413noreply@blogger.com0