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February 15th, 2021News, Events & Updates |
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| Dear grassroots leaders, Global Days of Listening invites you to a live conversation with the Afghan Peace Volunteers on Sunday, February 21, 2021. Please see below for details about the timing and content of this two-hour program. This is a community of young Afghan peacemakers based in Kabul working for peace, ecological sustainability, permaculture, and more.
Do “nonviolent politics” exist today? How have nonviolent politics been practiced or how can they be practiced? Gandhi, Ghaffar (Bacha) Khan, and Martin Luther King, all deeply embodied the principles of NONVIOLENCE. As Global Days of Listening examines the question, “Do Nonviolent Politics exist today?” we remember that for centuries, political processes have frequently used violence as a primary social and political strategy to remain in power and resist external pressures. This is still true today! However, while each of these three leaders of nonviolence were from different cultural and historical backgrounds, their teachings were absolutely dedicated to principles such as these:
“Today’s world is traveling in some strange direction.
You see that the world is going toward destruction and violence.
And the specialty of violence is to create hatred and fear among people.
I am a believer in nonviolence and I say that no peace or tranquility will descend
upon the world until nonviolence is practiced, because nonviolence is love
and it stirs courage in people.”(Bacha Khan) But is nonviolence, relevant today? When a Presidency is run by violent tweets and life-saving vaccines are used as a political tool to “remain in power,” can nonviolence still be effective in politics?
Join the Afghan Peace Volunteers as we share how nonviolent politics have been, or could be, practiced. Listen to this Global Days of Listening “LIVE” via the livestream.
Starting times for listeners known to be in these time zones. Follow the Afghan Peace Volunteers DIRECTLY: |
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| We have a take-action opportunity that we need your help with! The safest way to secure nuclear weapons is to dismantle and dispose of them altogether. In order to survive the legitimate threats that face our societies, it is crucial that our brightest scientific minds and limited resources no longer be wasted on maintaining nuclear weapons that will never keep us safe and imperil us today. Oregon PSR and our members have created a petition urging OSU to model dismantling nuclear weapons. Please sign Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility’s petition to encourage OSU’s respected scientists and researchers to work towards true nuclear safety and security by mapping out a path for the United States to join the world community and embrace nuclear disarmament, the safest and most realistic way to prevent further nuclear injustice and a catastrophic nuclear war. We have created a social media toolkit to help spread the word about this action opportunity. Please help us by posting about it on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter – just click on the toolkit link to find our info-graphics and suggested accompanying text. Make sure to tag us! Thank you for your support! Peace & Light, Katy — Katy Morrow (she/her/hers) Program Assistant Facebook | IG: @oregon_psr | Twitter: @OregonPSR |
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Black History Month Features |
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News & UpdatesCOVID The Environment The Nation International Legislation Housing EventsClimate- Southern Oregon Climate Action Now
- Forests & Fire Project – Feb. 17
- Coastal SOCAN – Feb. 17
- Sustaining Climate Activists – Feb. 17
- February Monthly Meeting – Climate Conscious Fire Recovery – Feb. 23
Social JusticeWar & PeaceCommunity Films |
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Black History Month Features |
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LAPLACE, La. – Today, the Louisiana’s River Parishes Tourist Commission (LARPTC) commemorated the 210th anniversary of the 1811 Slave Revolt with the unveiling of a dedicated 10-mile trail at a special press event hosted at Destrehan Plantation, where the trials in the aftermath were held. The 1811 Slave Revolt Trail recognizes the bravery of those who fought for equality against the ties of slavery and social oppression. The path tells the historical tales of the group that marched toward New Orleans to set up their own free nation and of the others who would join the ranks of the insurgents as they began America’s First Freedom March. Tales of the 1811 revolt group led by Charles Deslondes will be noted at special kiosks depicting the 1811 Slave Revolt Trail, which goes from the 1811 Kid Ory Historic House where the uprising began to Destrehan Plantation. Click here to view the 1811 Slave Revolt Trail Map for additional information. “It is imperative to immortalize the contributions of these freedom fighters and to educate all who visit or study this area about their monumental sacrifices to modern society and the development of civil rights,” said Buddy Boe, Executive Director of LARPTC. “The Commission looks forward to supporting the efforts of the 1811 Slave Revolt Trail, to foster interest in these local heroes.” CONTINUE READING… |
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Jackson County COVID StatisticsCurrent as of 02/15/2021: View updated stats HERE Jackson County COVID-19 TESTING SITES |
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Take action for human rights at the JOCO Jail |
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Statement from Grace Warner, a member of Josephine Social Justice Alliance: Dear friends, We have community members trapped inside a county facility with a deadly virus, with little to no control over their own exposure. As people who care about social justice and human rights, we have a moral imperative to speak out and demand that our public officials take swift action for the safety of people in the jail and for the community at large. Here’s one way we can take action today: Our friends at the Siskiyou Abolition Project have created this “phone zap”– a phone-in campaign to demand immediate action from the Josephine County Sheriff’s office. Sheriff Dave Daniel is an elected official, and his office manages operations at the Josephine County jail. To participate in the phone zap, call these four officials: Dave Daniel, Josephine County Sheriff: 541-474-5123
Nate Gaoiran, Director, Community Corrections: 541-474-5165 ext. 3713
Scott Hyde, Deputy Director: 541-474-5165 ext. 3708
Angela Brown, Administrative Services: 541-474-5165 ext. 3727 If you reach someone, or if you are able to leave a message, please share the following demands: 1. Compassionate release for all adults in custody who are elderly, immuno-compromised, pregnant, or within 6 months of their release date.
2. Immediately offer vaccines to all adults in custody at the Josephine County Jail, following the federal court’s mandate for the Oregon Department of Corrections to offer the vaccine to state prisoners.
3. Mandate and enforce the proper wearing of PPE (masks, etc) by Josephine County deputies, corrections officers, and county officials.
4. Immediately provide additional PPE and disinfectant supplies for all adults in custody. After you call, let folks know how it went by emailing siskiyouabolition@protonmail.com Love and solidarity, Grace |
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When President Biden rescinded a crucial permit for the Keystone XL pipeline last week, it marked the culmination of one of the longest, highest-profile campaigns in the North American climate movement. The opposition to Keystone XL included large environmental organizations, grassroots climate activist networks, Nebraska farmers, Texas landowners, Indigenous rights groups and tribal governments. Few environmental campaigns have touched so many people over such large swaths of the continent. The Keystone XL resistance was part of the ongoing opposition to the Canadian tar sands, one of the most carbon-intensive industrial projects on the planet. Yet, it came to symbolize something even bigger. Many activists saw stopping Keystone XL as a measure of success for the climate movement itself. Read more… Return to top |
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A Potentially Fatal Blow Against Jordan CoveThere’s already a lot we could say about 2021, but today we’re celebrating another big victory in the fight against Jordan Cove LNG project! Today, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) upheld the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s denial of a key permit for the proposed Jordan Cove LNG export terminal and Pacific Connector fracked gas pipeline. The fight is not won yet, but this is a potentially fatal blow. |
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| “The FERC decision is very encouraging. It is certainly our hope that Pembina will give up on this devastating project once and for all,” said Chairman Don Gentry of the Klamath, Modoc, and Yahooskin Tribes. Amidst this series of victories in our fight against the pipeline, Siskiyou Rising Tide has focused on other crises impacting our community, including the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, wildfires that raged throughout our communities, and the rise of American fascism. The climate crisis ties into all of these things, and we are looking at current and future impacts and what we can build now to help our communities weather them. Return to top |
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Despite multiple court rulings denying its permit on valid environmental grounds, the Dakota Access pipeline continues to pump noxious oil through the heart of my homeland every day. As you know, this injustice has to be corrected. And if the courts won’t take the necessary steps to protect my relatives on the Standing Rock Nation, then once again it’s up to us — the grassroots — to use our voices and find a political solution. Fortunately, as you can see in our new blog and video, our movement to stop DAPL has gained new traction. I feel echoes of the days when our protest camps filled with tens of thousands. Four Lakota tribal leaders, several organizations, and an online army of folks like you have taken up the call to tell President Biden to use his authority as the chief executive and stop this dangerous pipeline before it spills and kills. We’re distributing all our videos to other concerned organizations via a sharing tool created by Earthjustice, the law firm representing the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in its NoDAPL legal resistance effort. It’s an all-hands-on-deck moment, and many organizations — from the Sierra Club to one affiliated with actor Mark Ruffalo — have joined the effort to pressure the president and the Army Corps of Engineers to do right by my people. I offer my gratitude to you for standing with us. The president has already made several positive decisions on pipelines and the environment, but he has yet to show that he understands the gravity of our plight here at Standing Rock. Our immediate goal is to make sure that he does. By working together and by reforging our movement in bigger numbers, with more volume than ever, I believe we can do it. Wopila tanka — I can’t thank you enough for your activism and your prayers! Phyllis Young
Standing Rock Organizer
The Lakota People’s Law Project Return to top |
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 Nuclear Power in Oregon Again? Dear Friends, Oregon PeaceWorks is the grandchild of the successful statewide 1980 ballot measure campaign that halted the development of nuclear power in Oregon. That ballot measure required that in order to site a nuclear plant in Oregon, an operating federal nuclear waste repository had to exist and the proposal had to be subject to a vote of the people of Oregon. Despite nuclear proponents’ claims during the campaign, the industry was not able to meet either of these criteria. Thus our ballot measure has protected Oregonians from the costs and dangers of nuclear power for 40 years. This year we are seeing three legislative attempts to overturn Oregon’s voter-approved nuclear power policy. HB 2692 and SB 360 are companion bills which grant exemptions from the provisions of our ballot measure for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). HB 2332 is an outright attempt to repeal our popularly elected provisions. We would like to think that Oregon legislators are smart enough and have sufficient integrity to turn their backs on these three bills, but one never knows. Therefore, we are urgently requesting that you help protect Oregon from another attempt by the nuclear power industry to build nuclear power plants in Oregon. Please visit http://oregonpeaceworks.org/nuclear-power/ where you will find a legislative alert explaining the bills. We are asking you to do two things:
 Print copies of the action alert flyer and distribute them to your friends and family, or send out the link via email. Contact your state senator and representative and urge them to reject these three bills. (Find their contact information here.) Return to top |
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Oregon is poised to be the next hot spot for mega-polluting mega-dairies. The expansion of these large-scale commercial dairy operations is wreaking havoc on Oregon’s family farms, rural communities and the environment. Smaller family farms are being displaced by industrial mega-dairies with thousands of cows in confined spaces. But we’re fighting to put a stop to this destructive practice by Big Ag. Food & Water Watch is a member of the Stand Up to Factory Farms coalition, which has been working to stop the spread of mega-dairies in Oregon. This 2021 legislative session, Senator Michael Dembrow (D-23) and Representative Rob Nosse (D-42) are introducing legislation to enact a moratorium on new and expanding mega-dairies in Oregon. The time for our legislators in Oregon to take bold action to stop mega-dairies is now! Urge your legislators to co-sponsor this critical legislation! Mega-dairies are harming our state and our communities in a multitude of ways. Mega-dairies: - Create colossal volumes of waste
- Cause water and air pollution
- Contribute to climate change
- Take large amounts of water from our rivers, streams, and aquifers
- Harm the welfare of animals
- Push family-scale farms out of business
Our legislators must take urgent action to protect Oregon from dangerous mega-dairies. Urge them to support a mega-dairy moratorium. |
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‘The Capitol Insurrection Was as Christian Nationalist as It Gets.’By Thomas B. Edsall – Opinion, New York Times
 It’s impossible to understand the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol without addressing the movement that has come to be known as Christian nationalism. Andrew L. Whitehead and Samuel L. Perry, professors of sociology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and the University of Oklahoma, describe Christian Nationalism in their book “Taking America Back for God”: It includes assumptions of nativism, white supremacy, patriarchy and heteronormativity, along with divine sanction for authoritarian control and militarism. It is as ethnic and political as it is religious. Understood in this light, Christian nationalism contends that America has been and should always be distinctively ‘Christian’ from top to bottom — in its self-identity, interpretations of its own history, sacred symbols, cherished values and public policies — and it aims to keep it this way.
In her recent book, “The Power Worshippers: Inside the Dangerous Rise of Religious Nationalism,” Katherine Stewart, a frequent contributor to these pages, does not mince words: It is a political movement, and its ultimate goal is power. It does not seek to add another voice to America’s pluralistic democracy, but to replace our foundational democratic principles and institutions with a state grounded on a particular version of Christianity, answering to what some adherents call a ‘biblical worldview’ that also happens to serve the interests of its plutocratic funders and allied political leaders.
This, Stewart writes, “is not a ‘culture war.’ It is a political war over the future of democracy.” Read More… Return to top |
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Talking Back is a six-part web series that reveals the growing movement for justice in the theatre field. Through candid conversations with founding artistic directors, newly appointed leaders, and activists who have operated at all levels of leadership in arts organizations across the US, Talking Back explores what it takes to transform not just an institution, but an entire industry. |
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The Other Shoe Drops: Reflections on Myanmar’s Latest Coup |
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On February 1, 2021, the day before a new Myanmar parliament was to be sworn in following an election in November, the majority civilian government was ousted by the Tatmadaw, Myanmar’s military. With tanks and armored cars rolling through the streets of Yangon and other cities, the military declared a one-year “state of emergency.” Full leadership was claimed by General Min Aung Hlaing, Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services. In early morning raids, State Councilor Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint, along with numerous ministers, deputies, members of parliament, and known activists were swept up and taken to jails or to house arrest.  While this coup surprised most of the world, its rumbling approach could be felt in the few months since November’s national election. The Tatmadaw, which directly or indirectly has controlled the government and economy of Myanmar (also known as Burma) for nearly sixty years, saw a vast majority of parliamentary seats—396 of a total of 476 seats—assigned to Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD). Only 33 seats were won by the military’s proxy, the Union Solidarity and Development Party. According to the 2008 constitution, the Tatmadaw itself is given the power to appoint 25% of the parliament, but the results of last November’s election would have given the NLD a super-majority, which might have enabled them constitutionally to break the iron grip of the military. Read More… Return to top |
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The Threats Against María Eugenia ContinueDear Friends, On Friday, January 29th and Saturday, January 30th the human rights defender María Eugenia Mosquera was threatened by Whatsapp for the second time while she was in Buenaventura, Colombia with representatives from FOR Peace Presence, Fellowship of Reconciliation Austria, and Witness for Peace Solidarity Collective. She received Whatsapp messages to her personal cellphone. The threat fits into a larger context of threats against social leaders in Buenaventura. The same assailant (cell phone number +57 317-694-3450) threatened human rights defender Orlando Castillo on January 31st. Orlando is one of the leaders of the Puente Nayero Humanitarian Space in Buenaventura. Threats have also been made against leaders of the Buenaventura Civic Strike and particularly against the Committee for Access to Justice, Victims, Protection and Memory, of which María Eugenia Mosquera is a member, and there has been intimidation of members of the La Esperanza Community Council. There is a new surge of violence in Buenaventura, with six people killed by illegal armed structures in a single day, December 30, 2020. These groups are responsible for forced recruitment of youth and are trying to impose their control in the city through fear. They are also using extortion and other tactics to promote what they call a social “cleansing” in the city. El Espectador journalist Ariel Ávila found in his research that there are several factions of armed groups fighting for control over the city, and that local authorities have been largely absent in preventing the escalating violence. You can help us take action today for María Eugenia. These kinds of threats should not be tolerated. Follow the link below, set up by our friends at Witness for Peace Solidarity Collective, for more. |
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As you may know, the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act established the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This program designates rivers with exceptional cultural, scenic, or recreational value and offers protections to preserve segments of rivers in free-flowing conditions. Our rivers and streams are precious natural resources and shine as a point of pride for Oregonians and the country. I am a strong advocate for protecting public lands in Oregon and across the country. At nearly 111,000 miles, our streams and rivers stitch together our state’s natural spaces and give life to rich biodiversity. It is vital that we preserve these waterways and the ecosystems for future generations. Our vast rivers and streams are also economic drivers, fueling Oregon’s fishing industry to provide jobs for rural communities and drinking water across the state. As climate chaos triggers wildfires that ravage public lands and endanger water quality, we must ensure that our pristine rivers and streams remain protected. Bold protections for our rivers and streams will create jobs, safeguard wildlife, improve recreation, and increase wildfire resiliency across Oregon. That is why I have joined Senator Ron Wyden by introducing the River Democracy Act, which would more than double the number of river miles with Wild and Scenic protections from 2,173 to 4,702. This bill would also provide long-term management plans for Oregon’s waterways, collaboration with Tribal governments, and wildfire assistance, all while preserving private property and tribal treaty rights. Oregon’s streams and rivers provide rich economic, cultural, and ecological wealth to our state. They require conscientious stewardship, especially in the face of devastating wildfires and the prolonged effects of climate chaos. It is up to us to ensure that our natural resources will thrive for years to come. Please know that I will continue to fight for legislation that protects our environment and natural resources. Thank you for your input on this issue. I hope you will continue to write me about the issues that matter most to you. All my best, Jeffrey A. Merkley
United States Senator Also: State Senator Jeff Golden is now a co-sponsor of the Anti-Racism Curriculum Act (SB 683) Return to top |
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Dear Friends and Neighbors, On Wednesday, February 17, 5:30 to 8:30 PM, the Oregon Legislature House Special Committee on Wildfire Recovery will hold a public hearing for Southern Oregonians to share about your post-fire recovery experiences. This is an opportunity to inform state representatives about your shelter, basic needs, clean-up and rebuilding, and to help us understand where our efforts should be focused during this legislative session. So many have experienced the devastating impacts of last year’s fires, and you know more than anyone about what you need to recover and reestablish your homes, livelihoods and communities. I urge you to deliver either verbal testimony live/virtually during the meeting, or to submit written testimony. Note there will be Spanish interpretation available to interpret any testimony delivered in Spanish. Instructions to submit testimony and watch the hearing are linked here and included below. How to Testify by Audio and/or VideoYou must register in advance to provide verbal testimony during the public hearing. There are two ways to register: - Register online: Use this link to register online. The system will send you an email with a registration meeting link and instructions for delivering your verbal/video testimony using the Microsoft Teams platform.
-or- - Register by phone: Call toll-free 833-588-4500. The phone system will provide you with a phone number and access code to call into the meeting and deliver your verbal/audio testimony.
How to Submit Written TestimonyIf you would like to submit your story in writing, please email it to hwrec.exhibits@oregonlegislature.gov. Your submission will be posted on the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS) website where it can be viewed by legislators and the public. Questions about the Hearing?Please contact Laura Kentnesse, LPRO Analyst, at laura.kentnesse@oregonlegislature.gov or 503-986-1731. |
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Joyce Puccini Chapman Jackson County Board of Commissioners Work Session (01/26/2021)1. Discussion of a Request for a Letter of Support for the Southern Oregon Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee – Rick Dyer. Dyer began by saying that he’d sent an email explaining this to the BoC and asking if there were any questions. — Dotterer asked what the background of the request was. Who would be running this project and who was making the request? Dyer said that Tom Walker of Adroit Construction sent the email. He asserted that it is well known that there are not enough trained construction workers, especially in the trades, such as electricians and plumbers and more. He asserted that the program would bring in more people and that they are desperately needed. He acknowledged that the BoC has supported trade programs at local schools in the past. Dotterer said that it appears to be an organization based in Klamath Falls and covers Southern Oregon and that they have made a request to BOLI. He noted that CTE is a big deal in the state and has a special funding stream and he enthusiastically supports efforts at training people in the trades. — Jordan explained that he only saw this request this morning. Dyer made a direct request to have this item on the agenda. Staff has not had a chance to review or create a draft letter of support because of it not coming to staff first for analysis. Usually if it happens this way, the group making the request provides a draft letter. Dyer said they only provided samples. Read More… |
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Judi’s Midnight Diner — New Mobile Warming SpaceWe wrote last spring about Siskiyou Rising Tide’s work supporting houseless communities during the pandemic. The lack of housing and the continued criminalization of houseless individuals means that people are sleeping in dangerously cold temperatures this winter. That’s why we’ve created Judi’s Midnight Diner, bringing heated pop up tents and hot drinks to folks around Jackson county. Even more people are displaced or living on the streets this winter because of COVID and wildfires. Unfortunately, the cities, county, and state have not found ways to support these folks, and we’re seeing far fewer emergency shelters this year in Medford and Ashland. The shelters that do exist are full and have high barriers for access. We believe in harm reduction approaches to houselessness. People have the right to exist. Locations and days vary each week depending weather forecast, so we’ll be sharing fliers at the Southern Oregon Equity Coalition’s daily meal in Hawthorne Park and at the Phoenix Fire Relief Center (located at the Shoppes at Exit 24). Judi’s is all-volunteer run! We need people to help with night shifts as well as daytime support roles (like prepping food and drinks) so email us at sorisingtide@gmail.com if you’d like to help. Donations to Judi’s Diner help us purchases food and supplies for free distribution — you can donate through Venmo to Siskiyou Street News, @siskiyou_sn. Just note it as “for Judi’s.” Or check out our Amazon Wishlist: https://tinyurl.com/JudisMidnight |
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| | A night out at Judi’s Midnight Diner |
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$4.2 million grant to convert Ashland hotel into shelterASHLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Community Foundation announced Thursday that Options for Helping Residents of Ashland has been selected to receive the first Project Turnkey grant of $4.2 million in state funds to purchase and transform an Ashland motel into the new OHRA Center – a resource center and facility to safely shelter community members negatively impacted by wildfires and COVID-19 pandemic. In November, the Oregon Legislature’s Emergency Board allocated $65 million in state funding to purchase financially distressed motels across the state to deliver safe shelter in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and wildfires. These properties may ultimately be converted into long-term housing. OCF is administering the funds and convening a statewide community advisory committee to select qualified applicants to ‘Project Turnkey.’ Continue Reading… Return to top |
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 Forests & Fire ProjectForests and Fire Project will meet via ZOOM to review updates of current actions. The Forest and Fire Project meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday, currently via ZOOM. Contact Gary Clarida for the Zoom link if you are not already on the list. Return to top |
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Coastal SOCANWednesday, February 17 from 5:30 – 7:00 via Zoom
Link to SOCAN Calendar Event
Ann Schmierer, Executive Director, Wild Rivers Land Trust will discuss permaculture, including suggestions and lessons for those of us who want to start or expand our home gardens. Contact Bill Gorham for the Zoom link if you are not already on the list. Return to top |
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Sustaining Climate ActivistsSaturday, February 27 from 11:00 to 12:00 am via Zoom
Link to SOCAN Calendar Event
A facilitated support group addressing the fatigue, distress and grief for those engaged in climate action. Facilitators: Liz Olson (Clinical Chaplain) and Ken Deveney (Trainer of Re-Evaluation Counseling). Contact Liz Olson if you are interested in attending and are not on the current email list |
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SOCAN February Monthly Meeting 
Climate Conscious Fire Recovery: The Role of Local Cities and Oregon’s Energy TrustAs residents of Bear Creek Valley build back after September’s disastrous Almeda Fire, we recognize that this fire disaster is not likely to be a unique event. Although weather conditions that day may have been historically unusual, the accelerating climate chaos that global warming imposes upon us warns that fire will return to SW Oregon. SOCAN’s February monthly general meeting will feature Michael Hoch, Sustainability and Parks Coordinator, City of Talent and Karen Chase, Southern Oregon Outreach Manager with the Energy Trust of Oregon (ETO) discussing how cities and the ETO can help residents build back greener and more resilient in preparation for the inevitable next fire event. The program will be held from 6 – 7 pm on Tuesday, February 23 via ZOOM. It is free and open to the general public but attendees need to register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkduGhqT4uH9RaBKJVtQoKEZH2kuL_JZif. After registering, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a Zoom link to join the event. Michael will provide a brief introduction to the Almeda Fire and discuss how Talent has been dealing with it. A review of how city operations have changed to deal with recovery efforts will be accompanied by a discussion of some ongoing energy-focused projects. Karen will then introduce the Energy Trust of Oregon, identifying the operations that are its focus. In particular, Karen will discuss the ETO Communities program and how this can help fire victims rebuild while retaining an emphasis on energy and sustainability. Karen will explore how this can help single-family, multi-family and mobile home residents as well as commercial property owners. Return to top |
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 INVITATION: For folks who want to learn and un-learn the patterns of whiteness, of privilege, dominance, and fragility, in the company of others on the path of anti-racism work. Please join our mailing list for the most current information on our offerings. RSVP: To receive the Zoom link for specific monthly offerings, RSVP here. INTENT: This space is primarily for self-identified white folks to do the necessary work of deconstructing whiteness. A space is offered to feel discomfort, make mistakes, to examine biases and experiences in a supportive atmosphere. GOAL: To come away with actionable items for our own lives, that eventually create a safe and welcoming community for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. DATES & FORMAT: Offerings are held every 4th Thursday of the month, 6:30-8:30 PM. As a new format for 2021, general events (open to all) will occur every other month, starting February 25. Alternating months, starting March 25, will offer the opportunity for work with a more intimate cohort. The format for both consists of a topic, videos, experiential exercises, reflective writing, sharing, and connecting. General offerings: February 25, April 22, June 24, August 26, October 28, 2021 Cohort offerings: March 25, May 27, July 22, September 23, November 18 (third Thursday!) PREPARATION: QUESTIONS?: Contact Toni Lovaglia: dwlearningspace@gmail.com Return to top |
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Interfaith
Social
Justice
Coalition |
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Ashland’s New Racial & Social Equity CommissionWhen: Monday, February 22 via Zoom from 5:00-6:30pm Where: Online! If you would like to join the meeting, email cjvoisin@yahoo.com. Your email will be put on the master list of folks who will receive the Zoom invitation on Monday morning February 22. Details: We have assembled a panel to discuss Ashland City Council’s proposal for a new city commission – Race and Social Equity Commission. We are planning a lively discussion about the goals and vision of the commission. Our input and questions will be heard by two of the panelists – Ashland Mayor Julie Akins and Ashland Councilor Gina DuQuenne who are strong supporters of the commission. We have asked local persons of color to engage them and us in a discussion around the issues of race and social equity in the Rogue Valley and in Ashland. Homework: Read the description of the commission: CLICK HERE for the link to the commission description as presented to the Ashland City Council Return to top |
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 February 19, 4:30 p.m., Zoom: WEBINAR – 1619 AND THE LEGACY THAT BUILT A NATION A lecture by Nikole Hannah-Jones, who will explore the lasting impact of black enslavement on our nation, specifically, how black Americans pushed for the democracy we have today. Award-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones was the lead writer for New York Times Magazine’s “The 1619 Project,” a major viral multimedia initiative observing the 400th anniversary of the first African slaves arriving in America. She will speak about “The 1619 Project” and participate in a panel discussion with UO faculty and students about the need to remain vigilant in the fight against racial inequality at a time when the United States is deeply divided. The event will include an audience Q&A. Register https://uoregon.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qMvWmrcTSRWT7qFtFPoDuA |
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 K.A.W.S., Keeping Ashland And All Women Safe, brings you “Speak True, Stand Firm” small group series for Women. Four meetings once per month beginning February 26th to explore racism and our feelings, beliefs, experiences, and shifts over time with Dr. Sabre Patton-Fee and Alaya Ketani CHT CFT CPC. Registration and details: keepingashlandwomensafe.com/speak-true-stand-firm-small-group/ |
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 ENDING NUCLEAR WEAPONS BEFORE THEY END US Virtual Policy Briefing and Interactive Workshops Opportunities under the Biden administration to take action In January 2017, then-Vice-President Biden said: “As a nation, I believe we must keep pursuing the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons—because that is the only surety we have against the nightmare scenario becoming reality.”
We couldn’t agree more.
Over the last month, there has been a marked shift in the direction of nuclear weapons policy, with the inauguration of President Biden, the Entry into Force of the U.N. Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, and New START extension all having major implications for the survival of our species. While these changes will reduce the likelihood of nuclear war in the short term, it’s unlikely the new Biden administration will pursue global nuclear abolition as a top priority, despite knowing the existential threat these weapons pose to humanity. This is a critical moment for activists around the country to engage at the local level to build pressure on the new administration to make the elimination of nuclear weapons and reduction of nuclear risk an urgent priority. To that end, we’re excited to invite you to an upcoming event; Ending Nuclear Weapons Before They End Us: Opportunities Under the Biden Administration to Take Action which will be March 4th at 11am EST / 8am PST. The conference is jointly sponsored by our partner organizations, Back from the Brink and our Nobel Peace Prize-winning colleagues at the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons. It will feature an expert panel and Q&A followed by interactive workshop sessions to provide activists with the tools and information required to make change under this administration. The workshops will cover a variety of topics, from Nuclear Weapons & Racism to Divesting from Nuclear Weapons. Click here to view the full program and register. Return to top |
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Rogue Valley Housing SolutionsHow do we replace and rebuild our community? One option is TINY HOUSE VILLAGES February 16th at 11:00AM on Zoom |
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| Featuring Dan Bryant, Executive Director of SquareOne Villages |
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Dan Bryant is a community builder with a big heart and sophisticated solutions. He founded SquareOne Villages in 2012, and since then has been successful in generating three developments including Opportunity Village in Eugene, a transitional shelter of 35 units; Emerald Village in Eugene, which has 22 units with utilities on 1 acre; and Cottage Village with 14 units. There are two other future developments in the works, totaling 116 units. |
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Attend the ongoing Zoom Series Every Tuesday at 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, starting February 2nd
For quick access: zoom link here |
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Dear Friends and Neighbors, On Wednesday, February 17, 5:30 to 8:30 PM, the Oregon Legislature House Special Committee on Wildfire Recovery will hold a public hearing for Southern Oregonians to share about your post-fire recovery experiences. This is an opportunity to inform state representatives about your shelter, basic needs, clean-up and rebuilding, and to help us understand where our efforts should be focused during this legislative session. So many have experienced the devastating impacts of last year’s fires, and you know more than anyone about what you need to recover and reestablish your homes, livelihoods and communities. I urge you to deliver either verbal testimony live/virtually during the meeting, or to submit written testimony. Note there will be Spanish interpretation available to interpret any testimony delivered in Spanish. Instructions to submit testimony and watch the hearing are linked here and included below. How to Testify by Audio and/or VideoYou must register in advance to provide verbal testimony during the public hearing. There are two ways to register: - Register online: Use this link to register online. The system will send you an email with a registration meeting link and instructions for delivering your verbal/video testimony using the Microsoft Teams platform.
-or- - Register by phone: Call toll-free 833-588-4500. The phone system will provide you with a phone number and access code to call into the meeting and deliver your verbal/audio testimony.
How to Submit Written TestimonyIf you would like to submit your story in writing, please email it to hwrec.exhibits@oregonlegislature.gov. Your submission will be posted on the Oregon Legislative Information System (OLIS) website where it can be viewed by legislators and the public. Questions about the Hearing?Please contact Laura Kentnesse, LPRO Analyst, at laura.kentnesse@oregonlegislature.gov or 503-986-1731. |
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Better Broadband, Basically Tuesday, February 23rd, 6:30-8 pm PST Broadband internet has never  been more essential than during the pandemic, and many communities are still struggling to get connected because of prohibitively high prices, the lack of physical infrastructure, or both. What can we do to push local and state governments toward truly accessible broadband internet? What grassroots efforts are already gaining traction in rural Oregon? Register here to join the conversation by phone or computer. Return to top |
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Ashland Independent Film Festival |
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February 12-21 Ticket Price: $10.00/$8.00 AIFF Members Trailer: To make ends meet, people in the U.S. are working longer hours across multiple jobs. This modern reality of non-stop work has resulted in an unexpected phenomenon: the flourishing of 24-hour daycare centers. Through the Night is a verité documentary portrait of Deloris Hogan, a heroic daycare provider, and the ecosystem of parents and children for which she is the beating heart. “Through the Night” is both celebration and indictment. A sympathetic depiction of “women’s work” in all its unsung dignity, it’s also a quietly damning portrait of a merciless economy’s effect on working-class mothers.” – Sheri Linden, Hollywood Reporter. |
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February 19-28 Ticket Price: $12.00/$10.00 AIFF Members Trailer: In 1999, filmmaker Davy Rothbart met Emmanuel Sanford-Durant and his older brother, Smurf, during a pickup basketball game in Southeast Washington, D.C. Davy began filming their lives, and soon the two brothers and other family members began to use the camera themselves. Spanning 20 years, this story illuminates a national, ongoing crisis through one family’s raw, stirring, and deeply personal saga. Made from more than 1,000 hours of footage, it all starts on the street where they lived in 1999, 17 blocks behind the U.S. Capitol. “An essential viewing doc about race & class in America… A documentary with Cinema Verite sensibilities and no qualms whatsoever about the honest presentation of its subjects, 17 Blocks is both heartbreaking and inspiring.” – Warren Cantrell, The Playlist |
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Online screening of a remarkable film NAILA and the UPRISING. The film highlights the role of women in leading and organizing massive, non-violent resistance to the Israeli occupation. The film is extremely informative and inspirational, with important lessons about the role of women which are as relevant today as they were in 1987. WHEN: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18th TIME: 6 – 8 PM Just Vision will send you a ZOOM link After the film there will be a moderated discussion over Zoom. The discussion will be led by a staff member of Just Vision, who will also update us on the people in the film and the women’s movement in Palestine. Just Vision is the organization which produced and distributes the film and is dedicated to increasing the power and reach of Palestinians and Israelis working to end the occupation. For more info on Just Vision go to: https://justvision.org/about I hope you can join us for this illuminating film. Please contact me with any questions or concerns. Avram Sacks Membership Coordinator, Jewish Voice for Peace, Rogue Valley Chapter |
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