Socialist Alliance Queensland

Public Forum: The Truth About the Aboriginal Tent Embassy Feb 7th

2012-01-30T12:52:00.000+10:00

Green Left Weekly Public Forum:

THE TRUTH ABOUT THE ABORIGINAL
TENT EMBASSY
Speaker: Sam Watson,

Prominent Murri leader and Socialist Alliance member, who was an early activist at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra in 1972, and attended the Embassy 40th anniversary commemoration, Jan 26-28. Sam will give an eyewitness account of the protests on Invasion Day in Canberra, refuting the racist media furore launched against the Aboriginal community, and explain the real issues addressed at the Embassy anniversary.

TUES FEB 7, 7pm
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Meal available from 6.30pm.
Pho: 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for more info.

BRISBANE: Socialist Alliance branch Meeting Jan 31

2012-01-28T19:39:00.000+10:00

The next SOCIALIST ALLIANCE BRISBANE BRANCH MEETING will be held on TUES JAN 31, at 6.30pm, at the Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Meal available from 6pm.

Proposed agenda will include:

1. Reportback from SA 8TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE, held in Sydney, Jan 20-22.
2. SA STATE ELECTION CAMPAIGN.
3. Calendar of events.

Alliance to hold public consultations on socialism in the 21st century

2012-01-27T11:43:00.000+10:00

SYDNEY - The 8th national conference of the Socialist Alliance in Australia decided to take a draft document entitled “Towards a socialist Australia” through a nation-wide public discussion and consultation process to promote a wide discussion about socialism in the 21st century.

This was part of the Alliance's response to its assessment that in addition to the challenge for socialists today to immerse themselves in the new wave of struggles that have and are erupting, it is equally important challenge for socialists is to take full advantage of the expanded political opening created by this new wave of popular anti-capitalist sentiment and mobilisation to win many more people to socialism.

“The global capitalist economic and environmental crises and the now global Occupy movement have opened a big public discussion about alternatives to capitalism,” said Susan Price, newly elected national co-convenor of the Socialist Alliance.

“We hope to advance this discussion by organising a series of forums and consultations in all major cities. We'll be inviting a range of socialists and other progressive groups and individuals to give their input.

“The conference extend this dialogue beyond the organised left to trade unions, unions, faith-based communities, the First Nations, local governments and community-based activist organisations.”

At the 9th national conference of Socialist Alliance, to be held January 19-20, 2013, a redraft of the document, based on the consultation year-long consultation process, will be reconsidered.

A discussion on the new world political situation was kicked off at a packed out special presentation, on the Friday night before the conference, by Dick Nichols (from Green Left Weekly's European desk) on the topic "The Indignado movement and beyond: Crisis, revolt and the left in Europe". Nichols is now based in Barcelona but is back in Australia to attend the conference.

This discussion was continued the next day with reports on the international situation, by Mel Barnes, and the Australian political situation, by Paul benedek.

The 8th conference also reviewed the wide range of political activities that Socialist Alliance members are involved in. This included the Aboriginal rights movements, fighting the racist Northern Territory Interventions and the extension by the Gillard labor government of its discriminatory provisions to other states, the campaign against Aboriginal deaths in custody and campaigns to defend Aboriginal heritage sites in Tasmania. Socialist Alliance members and Aboriginal leaders Pat Eatock (who opened the conference) and Sam Watson – both veterans of the 1972 Aboriginal Tent Embassy protest – urged support for the 40th anniversary of the Tent Embassy January 26-28.

“Back in January, 1972, I was invited down to the Embassy as the Minister for Information of the Brisbane Chapter of the Black Panther Party of Australia,” said Watson in his greetings to the conference. “That was my first visit to Canberra and I was invited to stay on and become a full-time staff member of the Tent Embassy. I stayed there until July, when the federal government enacted a law that gave them right to move the cops in and smash the tents.

“Over the next seven days, thousands of Blacks and our supporters, rallied, marched and fought pitched battles with the cops to put the tents back up.

“The Embassy has now been there for 40 years and it has been the focal point of our national struggle...

“This struggle has achieved great things; but there is still a long way to go. I want to acknowledge the enormous contribution that has been made to our struggle by our non-indigenous comrades and friends. We would never have succeeded to this stage without that strength and support from our comrades,” Watson added.

Other campaigns where Socialist Alliance members have played leading roles range from the campaign against coal seam gas mining and “fracking”, the equal marriage rights campaign, refugee rights, international solidarity and anti-war campaigns, women's rights and various trade union struggles.

Socialist Alliance members were also very active in the Occupy movement that came to Australia in October last year.

While the Alliance made plans to build and strengthen its own organisation, it also resolved to continue to try and unite with “anyone who supports the replacement of the capitalist system with a socialist system”.

“From our point of view, the door is always open to unity (or even practical proposals for greater collaboration) with others on the left, “ Alex Bainbridge said in the SA buikding report to the conference.

“We welcome the election of Anthony Main from the Socialist Party to Yarra Council since our last conference and by welcoming the actual local alliances that have emerged in the last period: that is Community Voice in Wollongong; and Left Unity in Adelaide. Further, we pledge our support to the Communist Party's election campaign in South Australia this month.”

The Socialist Alliance also decided to field two candidates in the upcoming March 25 Queensland state elections.

The conference received greetings in person from Greens NSW upper house parliamentarian David Shoebridge; Patrice Nyembo, President of the Congolese Community of Australia, Comrade Hom from the Nepalese People's Progressive Forum and Victor-Hugo Munoz from the Latin America Social Forum.

Warm messages of solidarity were received from Nelson Davila Lameda, the ambassador to Australia for the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, and Pedro Monzon Barata, the ambassador to Australia for the Republic of Cuba.

Written greetings were presented from several parties and individuals: the Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM), the Labour Party Pakistan (LPP), Partido Lakas ng Masa (Philippines), John Riddell (Canada), Peoples Democratic Party (PRD) of Indonesia, Socialist Aotearoa, Left Unity, Aurora-POR (Spain), Janadesh Weekly (Nepal) and the Green Left current in the Green Party of England & Wales.

Susan Price and Peter Boyle were elected National Co-convenors and Neville Spencer was elected Treasurer. Conference also elected 12 other members to the National Executive. Another 14 members of the National Executive will be elected by state bodies.

Socialist candidates call for radical change in Qld

2012-01-27T10:18:00.003+10:00

Mike Crook

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- "The major parties in the upcoming Queensland election stand for the neoliberal status quo. What the people really need is a radical transformation of the system," the two endorsed Socialist Alliance candidates for the Queensland state election said on January 27.

The two candidates, Mike Crook, running for the seat of Sandgate, and Liam Flenady, contesting South Brisbane, issued an initial joint statement, following the announcement by Labor Premier Anna Bligh that the election would be set for March 24.

After an almost unbroken reign of 22 years, the Queensland ALP appears to be facing an electoral rout in the coming poll. The latest opinion poll, released in the January 27 Courier-Mail, shows Labor making up some ground, but still trailing the Liberal-National Party by 59 to 41 per cent on a two-party preferred basis.

Labor currently holds 51 seats, to the LNP 31, with Independents the rest, out of a total of 89 seats in the Queensland Parliament. Bligh called the election, close to three years after the previous poll, after new revelations delayed the release of the final report of the inquiry into Queensland's disastrous floods in January 2011.

The March 24 date means that Queensland council elections, originally due for March 31, will now be delayed until April 29. Any adverse findings in the flood inquiry report are likely to have a major impact during the campaign.

"One of the biggest issues arising from last year's floods is the failure of the private insurance companies to pay out on fair claims," Crook and Flenady said. "We are calling for the re-establishment of a state-owned insurance company to offer automatic coverage for floods, fires and cyclones, and take on the greedy private insurance corporations."

"We also want to put up front an alternative to the ALP government's sell-off of public assets, with the support of the LNP opposition. The Socialist Alliance calls for QR (Queensland Rail) National and other privatised state enterprises, to be re-nationalised under workers' and public control."

"SA will also be campaigning against the Coal Seam Gas industry; demanding no new coal mines and the phase-out of existing mines, with large-scale creation of green jobs; and a total overhaul of the public transport system," Crook and Flenady said.

"These are just some of the key policies we will be advancing in this campaign," they added. "To implement this program of radical change we are calling for a government genuinely accountable to the people: For a government of the 99 per cent, not the 1 per cent!"

For more information on the Queensland Socialist Alliance election campaign, or offers of assistance and financial support, contact 07 3831 2644, or 0423 741 734 , or email:brisbane@greenleft.org.au.

Rally, march for Invasion Day in Brisbane

2012-01-27T10:12:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- Around 200 people rallied and marched to mark Invasion Day 2012 on January 26 here. A number of speakers noted that sovereignty had never been ceded by the Aboriginal people to the British colonisers, nor to the Australian government.

They stressed the need to continue to support Aboriginal rights, to campaign against Black deaths in custody, to oppose the Northern Territory Intervention and to pay back the Stolen Wages. Speakers also emphasised the mobilisation in Canberra to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy occurring that day.

The crowd then marched through city streets to Musgrave Park, where food and music were provided at Jagera Hall by the Murri community.

Red Cinema: First Australians -- Feb 4th

2012-01-26T01:44:00.001+10:00

Red Cinema presents:

FIRST AUSTRALIANS

Chronicles the clash between the Aboriginal people, the world's oldest living culture, and an invading British empire. Explores the struggles of Aboriginal people to defend their land and their rights. Selection from pathbreaking SBS series.

Plus, film and discussion about the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

SAT FEB 4, 7pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Meal available from 6.30pm.

Tickets: $10/$7 concession.

Phone 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for more info.

International Women's Day March 10th, 2012

2012-01-25T15:56:00.000+10:00

International Women's Day 2012
No woman is free until all women are free
safety, equality, public services

Rally and marchSaturday March 10, 1pmQueens Park (George St, behind Casino)March to Kurilpa Hall for festival
(174 Boundary St, West End)

* End the NT Intervention
* Equal pay now: increase funding to public services
* Repeal all anti-abortion laws
* No mandatory "income management"
* Refugee rights now: end mandatory detention

For over a century, International Women's Day has been marked by protests organised to highlight and build the campaigns for women's rights. These days, the history of IWD is too often hidden behind the dazzle of corporate funded luncheons and government sponsored talk-fests. But that was never what the women's liberation movement was about. The movement that founded International Women's Day was one that set out to liberate all women. As long as sexism, misogyny, racism, queerphobia, transphobia, ableism and exploitation continue to oppress women here and around the world, then we need a women's liberation movement. Because no women is free until all women are free.

This year's IWD rally will highlight some of the many issues and campaigns that are being waged by women for justice and equality. It will demand an end to the NT Intervention; equal pay and an increase in funding to public services; a repeal of all anti-abortion laws; an end to "income management" and an end to mandatory detention. There will also be speakers to address issues faced by women prisoners; the campaign for the rights of transgender and transsexual women and the campaigns against sexual assault.

The only way to keep the real history and traditions of International Women's Day and the struggle for women's liberation alive is through taking our message to the streets in protest. Through collective protest action, we can inform and empower ourselves, create awareness and an understanding that we don't just have to accept the injustices that society creates - there is something that we can do about it. As a new tide of protest is sweeping the world, people are awakening to the strength of their collective power. Now more than ever we need a movement that can raise the demands of women and join with this rising wave of protest to build the struggle for true women's liberation. Join us!

VIDEO: Socialist Alliance National Conference

2012-01-22T09:48:00.002+10:00

Main sessions of the Alliance's National Conference 2012 -- Sydney January 20th, 21st, and 22nd 2012.

greenlefttv1 on livestream.com. Broadcast Live Free

Year in Review -- Dec 13

2011-12-14T18:25:00.000+10:00

Socialist Alliance and Resistance present:

A YEAR FOR THE 99%!
RECESSIONS, REVOLTS AND REVOLUTIONS!
An audio-visual presentation on the political work of this year.

Tues Dec 13, 6.30pm. Meal from 6pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre,
74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Pho: 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734 for more info.
www.greenleft.org.au

No US troops in Australia, Fri Dec 16, 5pm

2011-12-14T07:29:00.000+10:00

NO US troops in Australia

US out of everywhere

Speakout:
Friday December 16, from 5-7pm
King George Square, City

Come along to this speakout to show your opposition to the plans to permanently station 2500 US marines in Australia. Hear speakers about the impact of US military bases around the world and the international campaign against militarism and war.

Join the Facebook event and invite your friends:

Occupy Brisbane

www.occupybrisbane.net

Date changed for SA Xmas BBQ from Sun Dec 4 to Sun Dec 11:

2011-12-01T17:22:00.000+10:00

SUN DEC 11, 3pm. SOCIALIST ALLIANCE XMAS BBQ AND EOY CELEBRATION. 3pm. New Farm Park, near CityCat terminal. Food, drinks, music. Ph: 0423 471 734 for more info.

Free Julian Assange December 6th protest (if appeal fails)

2011-12-01T03:31:00.000+10:00

IF JULIAN ASSANGE'S APPEAL FAILS, RALLY THAT DAY 5.30pm Brisbane Square

5:30pm .Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Brisbane Square (Reddacliff Place) - Top of the Queen St Mall, Cross the Road

December 5 is the date we expect to hear the outcome of Wikileaks founder and Australian Citizen Julian Assange's FINAL APPEAL against extradition to Sweden to face politically motivated charges that are not a crime in either the UK or Australia.

If extradited, Assange has no legal protection against his forward transit to the United States, where many believe he may face the charge of Espionage, which carries the death penalty. More likely, Assange may face disappearance into a military prison. Assange's future appears dire.

PM Julia Gillard has put her government's relationship with the US above the welfare of this courageous Australian journalist, deliberately attempting to prejudice public opinion against Assange. This is unacceptable.

Wikileaks showed the world what it is to wield the power of truth, exposing the war crimes and other heinous dealings our governments enact in our name. As a result, Assange has become an "enemy" - but we who support truth, justice and democracy know better than this.

Not so long ago, Australian's united to demand the freedom of David Hicks - an Australian tried by the US in a bogus military tribunal, imprisoned for 7 years and tortured - for actions that would not have been a crime under Australian law. The parallels between the role the Australian Government played in the Hicks case and the case of Julian Assange are stark. The role we played must be the same.

If the worst case scenario eventuates for Assange, Australians must take a stand. We must launch a national campaign that does not end until Assange is free.

FREE JULIAN ASSANGE!
HANDS OFF WIKILEAKS!
WE DESERVE THE TRUTH!

CHILEAN STUDENT PUBLIC FORUM: FRI DEC 2

2011-12-01T03:25:00.001+10:00

Open Solidarity Forum:
THE BATTLE OF CHILE:
FREE and QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL.
Featuring CRISTIAN MILLA, visiting student
from Chile's Convergencia Estudiantil.

FRI DEC 2, 6-9pm.
QCU, 16 Peel St, South Brisbane.
Organised by Movement for Justice and Peace -- Brisbane.
Supported by LASNET (latinlasnet.org.)
Pho: 0415 734 852 or 0433 975 779. email: mojupaz@gmail.com.

The gig of the year!! Dec 3.

2011-11-29T17:44:00.003+10:00

GREEN LEFT WEEKLY and RESISTANCE PRESENT....

THE GIG OF THE YEAR STARTS 5.30pm THIS SATURDAY!

STRIKE. OCCUPY. TAKEOVER .... PARTYYYY!!

Come one, come all to the BEST DIY. SUMMER FESTIVAL for brissie UNDERGROUND MUSIC AND ART!!

Staring:

-Desmond Cheese + Guests-The 50 Bags-Man On Moon-Order 66-Run Pig Run-Big Iron-These Dirty Bones-Tit Machine

Artists:

-Sam Bullock-Jack Rodgers-Milan Ilich-Jess Bush-Jacob Ball-Josa Rubbra-Jaime Pinea-Timothy Woods-Alice Jenkins-Melanie Simpson

....with more bands and artists to be announced. (know anyone interested)

DJS including: Don Chip and the Large Hadron Collider, Dusty Fungus and DJ Beefstain

CHEAP BEER, WINE, SPIRITS AND FOOD from 5:30

LIVE INTERACTIVE STREET ART ALL NIGHT

ART AUCTION

Entry: $5/Concession $10/Waged

ALL AGES

This is going to be a day to remember, so come along and be apart of history, and please invite your friends and share this event. =D

YEEEEWWWWWWWW
CYA THERE ;)
74b Wickham St THE VALLEY (across the road from centenary park/all hallows)
The Activist Centre
Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane calendar of Events Nov 29-Dec 13

2011-11-29T10:08:00.001+10:00

TUES NOV 29, 6.30pm. SOCIALIST ALLIANCE BRANCH MEETING AND PRE-CONFERENCE DISCUSSION: DRAFT POLITICAL RESOLUTION. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Ph: 0423 741 734 for more info. Resolutions and further contributions to discussion available in Alliance Voices.

FRI DEC 2, 6.30pm. FORUM WITH VISITING CHILEAN STUDENT SPEAKER. QCU Auditorium, 16 Peel St, South Brisbane.

SAT DEC 3, all evening, from 5.30pm. RESISTANCE GIG. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Musical extravaganza. Plus art show, poetry, food. Ph: Dom on 0431 638 772 for more info.

TUES DEC 6, 6.30pm. SOCIALIST ALLIANCE BRANCH MEETING AND PRE-CONFERENCE DISCUSSION: DRAFT SOCIALISM RESOLUTION. Plus election of conference delegates. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Ph: 0423 741 734 for more info. Resolutions and further contributions to discussion available in Alliance Voices.

SAT DEC 10, 3pm. INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY FORUM FOR TAMIL RIGHTS: Toowong Senior Citizens Hall, 9 Maryvale St, Toowong. Organised by RAC and ATC.

SUN DEC 11, 3pm. SOCIALIST ALLIANCE XMAS BBQ AND EOY CELEBRATION. 3pm. New Farm Park, near CityCat terminal. Food, drinks, music. Ph: 0423 471 734 for more info.

TUES DEC 13, 6.30pm. Meal from 6pm. A YEAR FOR THE 99%! RECESSIONS, REVOLTS AND REVOLUTIONS! Audio-visual presentation on 2011, a year of struggle, and the work of SA/Resistance. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley, Ph: 0423 741 734 for more info.

Venezuelan guest speaker: RUBEN PEREIRA - Brisbane, Tues Nov 22, 6.30pm, QCU

2011-11-20T12:48:00.000+10:00

For the 99% : Social movements and political change

Speaking tour by RUBEN PEREIRA from Venezuela
Coordinator of Social Movements for Bolivarian Alliance of the Peoples of Our America

The rise of the Occupy movement – from Wall Street to Sydney – reflects the mass dissatisfaction and growing anger about the injustices of capitalism. In Latin America, a united organisation that reflects and fights for the needs of the people – the 99% - against the greed and destructiveness of the corporations is changing the shape of politics across that continent, and the world. The Bolivarian Alliance of the Peoples of Our America (ALBA) was launched by Cuba and Venezuela in 2004 and now includes eight Latin American nations.

Rubén Pereira, from Venezuela, is the Coordinator of ALBA’s Council of Social Movements, and a member of ALBA’s Executive Secretariat. He is visiting Australia this month to speak (in Sydney and Brisbane) about the Council of Social Movements’ work to strengthen people’s power and unity in the struggle against neoliberalism and imperialism, and for social justice, peace, social security and self-determination, in harmony with nature.

BRISBANE
6.30pm, Tuesday Nov 22nd
Auditorium, Qld Council of Unions
16 Peel St, South Brisbane
Ph Jim 0423 741 734 or email brisbane@venezuelasolidarity.org

Defend Julian Assange, November 25

2011-11-20T00:08:00.001+10:00

Friday, November 25, 2011Time 5:00pm until 7:00pmAustralian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ann Street, Brisbane (MAP)

Julian's extradition to Sweden puts him at risk of disappearance to the United States.

No human being should ever have to pay for the ultimate price or to go through torture just for telling the truth.

Please bring banners, signs, friends, family and rally with us next Friday.

WE DESERVE THE TRUTH!
HANDS OFF WIKILEAKS!
PROTECT JULIAN ASSANGE FROM FUTURE PROSECUTIONS!
FREE BRADLEY MANNING!

Bris rally demands action on Black deaths in custody

2011-11-20T00:01:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- "Still no justice! Stop Black deaths in custody!" were the themes of a rally held at Emma Miller Place on November 19, to mark 20 years since the release of the report of the Royal Commission into Black deaths in custody in 1991. Up to 150 people attended the rally, and marched through city streets to Musgrave Park in West End to demand a new Royal Commission into Aboriginal deaths since that time.

Murri activist and rally chair Sam Watson announced that a new Deaths in Custody Watch Committee would be formed in Brisbane, to monitor treatment of Aboriginal prisoners. "We serve notice on police that Aboriginal rights will be defended. We demand justice now," he added.

Special guest speaker Michael Anderson, a co-founder of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra in 1972, spoke about the history of the struggle for Black rights. He outlined a project he was pursuing to challenge the legal basis of colonial dispossession of Aboriginal land, and declared that Aboriginal people "have sovereignty, always have had, and always will."

Aboriginal researcher Megan Williams noted the under-reporting of Aboriginal deaths in custody figures in official government statistics. "South-East Queensland has the highest rate of incarceration of Aboriginal prisoners in Australia," she said. "At least 30 per cent of inmates in SE Queensland prisons are Aboriginal. They are 12 times more likely to be in prison that non-Aboriginals," Williams said.

Other speakers condemned the failure to achieve justice over the murder of Mulrunji Doomadgee seven years ago on Palm Island, and the deaths of other Black prisoners over the past 20 years. They expressed solidarity with the campaign to force the legal system to convict and jail police and prison officers who kill Aboriginal prisoners.

Stop Black Deaths in Custody Rally Nov 19th

2011-11-14T21:05:00.000+10:00

Mark the 20th Anniversary of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody

RALLY
STOP BLACK DEATHS IN CUSTODY
20 YEARS SINCE THE ROYAL COMMISSION AND STILL NO JUSTICE

GATHER 12noon SATURDAY NOV 19th, ROMA ST FORUM (Emma Miller Place)
WE DEMAND THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ALL 339 RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE 1991 ROYAL COMMISSION!

For more info call Sam Watson 0401 227 443

Socialist Alliance National Conference January 21/22 -- 2011

2011-11-14T12:42:00.000+10:00

Saturday, January 21, 2012 at 9:00am - Sunday, January 22, 2012 at 6:00pm
Resistance Centre
22 Mountain St, Ultimo
Sydney, Australia

As we have just had a huge public conference in Melbourne with the Climate Change Social Change Conference , the SA conference will be a more membership-focused and decision-making conference.
We have set a deadline of Saturday January 7 for policy drafts so that they can be circulated (and made available) to the membership.

Events this weekend - Occupy & Wikileaks -- Nov 12, 13

2011-11-10T15:21:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone

This Saturday (Nov 10) there will be another Occupy demo - this time starting 12pm in Brisbane Square.

Then at 3.30pm Saturday in Musgrave Park at 3.30pm there will be a gather to make plans for Wikileaks solidarity actions, in the light of Julian Assange's pending extradition from the UK to Sweden, and the risk that he may be transferred to the US and disappeared.

Feel free to email me to let me know if you can attend either of these events on Saturday.

In solidarity

Ewan

Garry McLennan's speech to Occupy Brisbane

2011-11-09T00:13:00.000+10:00

NOVEMBER 8, 2011

Gary McLennan speaking at Occupy Brisbane

Seminar: What is Democracy Nov 8

2011-11-03T13:09:00.000+10:00

Socialist Ideas Discussion Seminar:
WHAT IS DEMOCRACY?

The worldwide and local Occupy movement has raised many crucial issues about
the crisis of the system today. In addition to challenging the rule and wealth of the 1%,
it poses what kind of democracy can and do the 99% implement?
Come along to a discussion about existing, parliamentary democracy, compared
to people's, participatory democracy.

TUES NOV 8, 6.30PM.
Food from 6pm.
BRISBANE ACTIVIST CENTRE, 74B WICKHAM ST, FORTITUDE VALLEY.

PH: 38312644/0401 234 610 for more info.
Presented by Socialist Alliance and Resistance.

BRISBANE CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS, NOVEMBER 2011

2011-11-03T13:04:00.001+10:00

SAT NOV 5, 12 noon, Queens Park. RALLY IN SOLIDARITY WITH OCCUPY MOVEMENT.

TUES NOV 8, 6.30pm. WHAT IS DEMOCRACY? Issues arising from Occupy movement. Socialist Ideas Discussion Seminar. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Sponsored by Socialist Alliance and Resistance. Ph: 3831 2644/0401 234 610 for info.

SAT NOV 19, 12 noon. NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION AGAINST BLACK DEATHS IN CUSTODY. Roma Street Forum.

FRI-SUN NOV 25-27, 7pm. ABORIGINAL FILM FESTIVAL. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Dinner from 6.30pm. Fri night: Sam Watson selection of short films. Sat night: Ten Canoes, plus short: Keeping Both Campfires Burning. Sun night: Jandamarra, plus shorts. Ph: 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

SAT DEC 3, all evening. RESISTANCE GIG. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Musical extravaganza. Ph: Dom on 0431 638 772 for more info.

UPDATE ON OCCUPY BRISBANE EVICTION, NOON WED NOV 2

2011-11-02T17:58:00.005+10:00

Police and Brisbane City Council staff moved in on the Occupy Brisbane campsite at Post Office Square at 4.30am, Wed Nov 2, issuing an eviction order for people to move out by 6am. While the approximately 100 occupiers protested vehemently against this attack on the democratic right of peaceful assembly, the majority decided to comply with the order to avoid violence and needless destruction of their property.

A group of the occupiers then marched through the city to Queens Park to re-consider the situation.

Another smaller group sat down in Post Office Square, refusing to move, until police forcibly removed them from the square. At this stage, it appears one person will be charged from the sit-down protest.

The Occupy Brisbane protesters are now gathered in Queens Park, discussing options for the immediate future of the occupation. A general assembly will be held at 5pm today Wed Nov 2 at Queens Park to decide the next steps.

Sam Watson speaks at Occupy Brisbane

2011-10-29T21:27:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- "It's great to see the sense of coming together shown in your camp here," Murri community leader Sam Watson told a gathering of around 40 people at the Occupy Brisbane camp at Post Office Square here on October 29. Watson spoke at a special forum, as the Occupy Brisbane site continues into its third week.

The work of the camp has continued to develop and expand, as up to 40 tents now occupy the park, and OccuLibrary has been added to the OccuPlay childcare tent. General assemblies are held every evening to discuss issues facing the occupation.

"The issue expressed in the slogan, 'We are the 99 per cent,' is a very important, global concern. It highlights the fact that the One Per Cent dominate the wealth and power in society," Watson said.

"For example, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has just been granted a $2 million bonus, for laying off workers and cutting conditions.

"The 99 per cent know what it's like to battle the rising cost of living, rents, transport, power bills.

"In a country with one of the highest living standards in the world, many young people and families are homeless.

"It's time to hold the multinational corporations to account for their actions, while ordinary people do it hard," he added.

"Aboriginal people in our country do it toughest of all. In the latest death in custody, a young Aboriginal man from Mount Isa has died in a Brisbane prison cell, just last week.

"His pleas for help were ignored, and he tragically took his own life.

"All across this land, Aboriginal communities are fighting to protect their sacred sites against the big mining companies. Our elders are calling our for assistance.

"They have expressed support for the global Occupation movement. We have a long experience of occupying for justice.

"Next year is the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, set up in Canberra in 1972. We will mark that anniversary with a major announcement to challenge the legality of white colonial occupation of our land," Watson said.

"In addition, this year marks the 20th anniversary of the Royal Commission into Black Deaths in Custody, whose findings were released in 1991. The commission made 339 recommendations, few of which have been implemented.

"While the commission did some good work, of the 99 deaths studied, at least 45 would have justified criminal charges against police or prison officers. Yet no charges were recommended.

"In 2011, the Aboriginal community has carried out a series of activities to highlight this critical issue. Meanwhile, there has been an increase in the arrest rate, incarceration rate and death rate of Black people in custody.

"In November 2004, Cameron Doomadgee was killed by Senior Sergeant Chris Hurley on Palm Island. The campaign to bring Hurley properly to account is still running.

"Until we can force a cop or prison officer to be convicted and jailed for these crimes, Black deaths in custody will continue unchecked," Watson stressed.

During discussion, Watson ranged over many topics, especially relating to Aboriginal issues. He condemned the Northern Territory Intervention as a "retreat back to the old days of ration cards for Aboriginal people." It is a "brutal form of social engineering," he said, adding that it has not only continued from the days of the Howard government, but been extended under Prime Minister Julia Gillard.

In conclusion, he urged the protesters at Occupy Brisbane to "stay focussed on maintaining your camp. This international Occupy movement is not going away, but building up and getting stronger," Watson emphasised.

No more deaths in custody protest October 31st

2011-10-29T08:55:00.001+10:00

URGENT COMMUNITY NOTICE - NO MORE DEATHS IN CUSTODY!! PROTEST AT THE PREMIER'S OFFICE AT THE EXECUTIVE BUILDING, GEORGE STREET, THE CITY - AT 12 NOON ON MONDAY, 31ST. OCTOBER!! WE WANT URGENT ACTION! URGENT AND INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION! THE PRISON SYSTEM FAILED OUR YOUNG BROTHER!! HIS DEATH COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED!! NO MORE DEATHS IN CUSTODY!! sw

Aboriginal Film Festival Nov 25-Nov 27

2011-10-28T12:23:00.000+10:00

Green Left Weekly presents:
ABORIGINAL FILM FESTIVAL,
Fri-Sun Nov 25-27, 7pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Dinner from 6.30pm.

FRI NOV 25, 7pm: Murri activist SAM WATSON's SELECTION OF SHORT FILMS.
    'BLACK MAN DOWN,' plus others.

SAT NOV 26, 7pm: TEN CANOES, directed by Rolf de Heer and Peter Djigirr.
    Story of tribal legend from Arnhem Land, NT. Plus short: Keeping Both Campfires Burning.

SUN NOV 27, 7pm: JANDAMARRA'S WAR.
    The life of Aboriginal warrior Jandamarra in 19th century WA. Plus short films.Tickets: $10/$7 concession.

For more information, phone 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

www.greenleft.org.au.

Occupy Brisbane -- going strong since October 15 (VIDEOS)

2011-10-27T23:54:00.000+10:00

Occupy Brisbane has been going strong since it was launched on October 15 international United for Global Change day, along with indefinite occupations in Melbourne and Sydney.

The occupations in Melbourne and Sydney were violently smashed up by police on October 21 and 23, but in Brisbane, protesters continue to camp at Post Office Square, between Adelaide and Queen Sts, and Edward and Creek Sts, in Brisbane City.

A visitor from Occupy Brisbane told the Occupy Sydney general assembly on October 26 that, with various people coming through at different times and different protests organised, about 100 people were sleeping at the camp every night and the occupation was growing daily.

Below are a series of videos posted at www.occupybrisbane.org that show the occupation in action.

Mini-doco on the occupation.

Occupy Brisbane marches in support of refugee rights.

Day Three.

An Occupy Brisbane participant: 'We all need to do something now.'

Monster Garage Sale This Saturday! Oct 29

2011-10-27T01:28:00.002+10:00

Bring your junk and donate it for a good cause!!

All extra junk will be welcomed on the day!!

Occupy Brisbane still going strong

2011-10-26T02:56:00.000+10:00

Occupy Brisbane in the city's
Post Office Square.
Photo: Occupybrisbane/Facebook

By Jim McIlroy, Brisbane

Occupations in Sydney and Melbourne have been violently broken up by police in the past few days, but the Occupy Brisbane camp at Post Office Square is going well so far. At this stage, there is no sign of police or Brisbane City Council harassment.

A general assembly of the camp was held at noon on October 23. About 100 people attended.

The main discussions were about how to respond to the police evictions of the Occupy Melbourne and Occupy Sydney camps. While no threats from police have been received so far, that could change at any time.

Discussion focussed on how to defend the camp with non-violent resistance, and planned to quickly mobilise supporters to defend the camp, especially if a police raid occurred in the early morning as in Sydney.

The need to seek broader support, including from unions, was emphasised.

Following the assembly, there was music from the group Jumping Fences. Also, the first seminar of the new “Free University of Brisbane” presented to about 150 people.

Veteran activists Jeff Rickertt, Dan O'Neill and Ian Curr gave talks about the radical history of Brisbane, from the 1912 General Strike, to the 1960s civil liberties and anti-Vietnam War movement to the right to march campaign of the 1970s against the Joh Bjelke-Petersen regime.

Reclaim the Night October 28

2011-10-24T23:05:00.000+10:00

Reclaim the Night 2011
Stop Sexual Violence
Friday 28 October 2011

Gathering from 6pm for a rally at 6:30pm at Brisbane Square (outside the City Library)
Marching at 7.30pm from the city to West End
(along Melbourne St and Boundary St)

Women only after event at the Boundary Hotel West End

Reclaim the Night is an annual gathering of women and children to speak out against all forms of sexual violence against women and kids. This is a women and children only event however men who support an end to sexual violence against women and kids are invited to show their support by lining the march route and bringing banners with messages of support.

BEHIND THE OCCUPATION MOVEMENT: WHERE TO NOW? Nov 1st

2011-10-23T18:25:00.000+10:00

Green Left Weekly presents:

BEHIND THE OCCUPATION MOVEMENT:
WHERE TO NOW?Panel of speakers involved in Occupy Brisbane discuss the vital issues of the worldwide,Australian and local Occupation movement. What is the meaning of this new democratic struggle withfar-reaching implications? Where is it going now?

TUES NOV 1, 7pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Meal from 6.30pm.
For more info, phone: 3831 2644/0423 741 734.
www.greenleft.org.au

Socialist Alliance condemns violent police attacks on Melbourne and Sydney occupations

2011-10-23T12:46:00.000+10:00

Socialist Alliance at Occupy Sydney in
Martin Place, October 15. Photo by Peter Boyle.

The Socialist Alliance released this statement on the morning of October 23.

* * *

Socialist Alliance condemns violent police attacks on Melbourne and Sydney occupations

Socialist Alliance condemns the violent police dispersal of peaceful protesters at Occupy Melbourne (October 21) and Occupy Sydney (dawn, October 23) and pledges its full support for the re-establishment of these occupations against the tyranny of the world's richest 1%.

The experience around the world has been whenever one of these Occupy movement camps has been attacked, even more people have rallied to support them in response. We are confident the same will happen here.

We call on all people who share the Occupy movement's rejection of the gross injustices and global ecological vandalism being carried out around the world to make the richest 1% even richer to join the occupations and lend all possible solidarity and assistance to their re-establishment.

Occupy Melbourne and Occupy Sydney will be back stronger because the 1% and their enforcers cannot arrest the truth. They cannot handcuff ideas. They cannot beat the people's spirit of resistance or throw it into a paddy wagon.

We call on all progressive trade unionists, community leaders, church leaders, state and federal MPs, local councillors and mayors, to publicly condemn the violent attacks on Occupy Sydney and Occupy Melbourne.

We urge anyone who supports the re-establishment of the Melbourne and Sydney occupations to attend the emergency general assemblies of Occupy Sydney at University of Technology Sydney on Sunday October 23, 5pm and Occupy Melbourne at the State Library Tuesday October 25, 6pm.

Socialist Alliance also supports the October 29 global day of action widely endorsed by the Occupy movement in support of a "Robin Hood" tax on global financial transactions.

For further comment: Peter Boyle (national convenor) 0401 760 577

BRISBANE CALENDAR OF EVENTS OCT. 2011

2011-10-22T09:31:00.000+10:00

Socialist Alliance Brisbane Branch Meeting: Tues Oct 25, 6.30pm. Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Ph: 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for info.
Reclaim the Night 2011: Stop sexual violence. Fri Oct 28, 6pm. Brisbane Square, march to West End.
GLW Monster Garage Sale: Sat Oct 29, 7am-2pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Eclectic mix of treasure and junk, plus books, T-shirts etc. Sausage sizzle. Please donate items. For information, phone 3831 2644 or Mike on 0413 119 956.
Palestine Film Nite: Sling Shot Hip Hop. Sat Oct 29, 6.30pm. Elements Collective, 17 McLachlan St, Fortitude Valley. Entry by donation. For info, ph: 0400 720 757. www.justiceforpalestinebrisbane.org.
Behind the Occupy movement: Where to now? GLW Public Forum. Tues Nov 1, 7pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Ph: 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

For Occupy Updates: GLW coverage : LIVE BLOG: Occupy Melbourne attacked, rally called

2011-10-21T16:05:00.001+10:00

The article put up this morning now turned into "olive blog" that will be updates when possible. The latest news, according to 3cr, is city square has been evicted, but hundreds of people still occupying intersection and surrounding streets. Tram drivers have been told by their union not to drive through occupied streets as it is a health ansd safety issue, such it is causing huge disruptions. (And rally at 5pm)

RALLY AT #OccupyBrisbane TOMORROW (Saturday) Oct 22 12 MIDDAY

2011-10-21T15:46:00.002+10:00

SIEV X rally, Occupy Brisbane Oct 15

Rally in solidarity with #OccupyMelbourne, under attack from police on the orders of the Lord Mayor.

Stand together with all those OCCUPYING against corporate greed and inequality.

Meeting at the Occupy Brisbane Site at Post Office Square

We approach the end of the first week of Occupy Brisbane in Post Office Square, Queen Street, Brisbane. Down south at #OccupyMelbourne today, riot police have moved in to clear the occupiers in advance of the Queen's visit. Construction workers, wharfies and seafarers unions have marched on the site in defence of the occupiers. Come along tomorrow (Saturday) to show your solidarity and stand united.

We know that many economists are forecasting a coming global depression. For Australians the worst has yet to come, but it is coming.

The way out is not corporate rule or more bailouts, not austerity measures, cutbacks or privatization, but genuine democracy.

SPEAKERS - LIVE MUSIC - OCCUPIERS!

We are the 99%
This is our country, we will occupy it
These are our streets, we will occupy them
http://www.occupybrisbane.org/

Occupy Brisbane march Mon Oct 17, 12.30pm

2011-10-17T00:43:00.002+10:00

Occupy Brisbane has decided to hold a march from the Post Office Square to Eagle Street at 12.30pm Mon Oct 17. If anyone can make it that would be good.

300 occupy Post Office Square in Brisbane

2011-10-15T17:23:00.003+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- At least 300 people attended the occupation of Post Office Square here on October 15, as part of a national day of action around Australia in solidarity with the Occupy Wall Street protesters in New York. People from a wide variety of beliefs and backgrounds joined the gathering during the day, and some prepared to spend the night there.

At a community assembly in the square, spokeswoman for the organising committee, Kate Haskett, led the crowd in chanting, "Show me what democracy looks like! This is what democracy looks like!"

"We thank the New York citizens who have inspired people in more than 1200 cities across the world to show their own power," she said.

The words of the Declaration of the Occupation of New York City were then read out.

Haskett then added, "This declaration speaks for all of humanity. It's up to us, the people, to stand up against what we know is wrong."

"We were born free, we live free and we will die free."

"We acknowledge the original occupiers, the traditional owners, of this land, the Aboriginal people. And we open our arms to all people of different races, beliefs and nations. We are the 99 per cent!"

Further discussions were being held to plan the future of the Brisbane occupation.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/occupybrisbane.

Become a solidarity subscriber to Green Left today

2011-10-13T16:09:00.000+10:00

Help spread the word!

By Chris Williams, Green Left Weekly

Green Left Weekly faces a constant financial struggle to stay afloat. We can't afford to take it for granted. It's become more than just a newspaper; it’s an important part of a movement for social change as can be seen from its efforts to promote the OCCUPY Wall Street movement against corporate greed that is currently sweeping the rich countries.

Green Left Weekly not only provides information and analysis, it actively builds campaigns for social justice, human rights and the environment. It reaches beyond our borders to an international audience too – particularly our website. In today's Murdocracy of media monopoly, Green Left Weekly is a refreshing beacon of journalistic integrity.

We do all this, and have become the best and most widely circulated alternative paper in Australia without any large financial backers. For 20 years Green Left Weekly has survived by relying on contributions from our subscribers and supporters. The struggle to stay afloat is well worth it!

To help us maintain our independence from the billionaires and media moguls, and to continue to provide a progressive alternative to the mainstream media, we need to encourage more people to subscribe at the solidarity rate of $240 a year. Subscriptions – particularly solidarity subscriptions – to Green Left Weekly are our most reliable source of income. Subscribers are the back bone of our financial viability. Today we have around 200 solidarity subscribers. Pushing this up to 250 would be a huge boost to the stability of our national budget. It would mean we could more confidently make political projections, knowing we have the resources to carry them out.

If you don't already, please consider taking out a solidarity subscription today (or when you next renew your subscription). Click here for a solidarity subscription form.

If you are already a solidarity subscriber, try to convince others to take up the option with the knowledge that they too will be playing a crucial role in helping to keep Green Left Weekly rolling off the press!

CCSC conference a huge success

2011-10-12T18:17:00.000+10:00

By Viv Miley, conference organising team

Whew! It's been a week since the Climate Change Social Change conference and I can say that it was a huge success.

The feedback, from members and others who attended, has been overwhelmingly positive, saying it was extremely inspiring and educational.

However you can get a flavour of just how good it was from my article in the current Green Left and should also check out the videos from the conference which we have streaming here.

The GLW article reported that over the four days of the conference we had more than 500 people attending, but if anything 500 is on the conservative side.

It was hard to get an accurate picture of total numbers for the Friday night public meeting, as the registration and sign in got chaotic when people started arriving in large numbers.

We had speakers from as far away as Canada, the US, Pakistan, Cambodia, Philippines, Malaysia and Britain. There were also speakers from Stop CSG, Lock the Gate, Friends of the Earth, Beyond Zero Emissions, Earthworker, Refugee Action Coalition, the Greens, Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and Australia-Asia Worker Links, among others.

There was a book launch for Too Many People by Ian Angus and Simon Butler and the premiere film screening of Growing Change, a film by Simon Cunich about the food revolution in Venezuela. We jammed a lot into the four days and given the total number of workshops being run concurrently, the hardest thing for people was deciding which workshops they would attend and which they would miss.

For me, Ian Angus talk How to make an ecosocialist revolution was one of the highlights and others Ive spoken to agree. Check out the reprint of this talk in the current Green Left and also the streaming video.

On this Vimeo Channel you can now access several of the sessions of the Climate Change Social Change conference that were filmed by Art Resistance. Thank you Jill Hickson, John Reynolds and crew!

REFUGEE ACTION COLLECTIVE, QLD Organising meeting with special guest speaker Oct 16th

2011-10-10T19:20:00.000+10:00

After our successful rally last Saturday to commemorate the SIEV-X disaster of 10 years ago, the Refugee Action Collective invites you to get involved in the campaign to create a better future for asylum seekers and refugees who try to come to this country.

This meeting will include a special presentation by well-known Refugee Action Coalition (NSW) spokesperson Ian Rintoul. His subject will be: Since the collapse of the Malaysian agreement, will Labor bring real change?

Other main agenda item: planning an event to mark Human Rights Day in early December. There are a few minor items as well.

When: 6.30 pm, Wednesday 16th October.Where: 2nd floor, TLC Building, 16 Peel St, South Brisbane.Getting there: Parking on site. Close to Cultural Centre bus station, South Brisbane railway station, South Bank City Cat.Further info: Paul, ph.3392 3843, paul@rac-qld.org .Website: www.rac-qld.org All welcome.

TV program of interest to refugee supporters

This week's episode of 4 Corners, ABC-TV, is entitled "Asylum" and is claimed to be an expose of "what life is really like inside the detention camps." Further info athttp://www.abc.net.au/4corners/ . There may be new revelations, although I doubt much will surprise those of us who are in the campaign. But it should be worth watching.
Screening times: ABC1, 8.30pm, Monday 24th October; repeat 11.35pm, Tuesday 25th October. ABC News 24, 8pm, Saturday 29th October.

BRISBANE CALENDAR OF COMING EVENTS, Sept-Oct 2011

2011-10-02T21:01:00.003+10:00

GLW Public Forum: Climate Change/Social Change Conference report back. Panel of speakers. Tues Oct 11, 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Ph: 3831 2644/0423 741 734.
Transforming the Law on Abortion: Forum with Dr Leslie Cannold. Thurs Oct 13, 6pm. State Parliament House. Children By Choice and Family Planning Qld.
World Day Against the Death Penalty Dinner. Fri Oct 14, 7pm. Broncos Leagues Club, 98 Fulcher Rd, Red Hill. Info: elisa.petranich@uqconnect.edu.au.
Commemorate SIEV X: Rally to take a stand for refugees. Sat Oct 15, 1pm. Brisbane Square, City. www.rac-qld.org.
Red Cinema: "Welcome": A film about the struggle of refugees in France. Sat Oct 15, 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Ph: 3831 2644/0423 741 734.
Defend Our Water from Coal Seam Gas and Coal. Rally and march. Sun Oct 16, 11am. Queens Park, cnr George and Elizabeth Sts, City. Ph: 0404 677 781/0401 234 610 for info.

RED CINEMA: 'WELCOME.' SAT OCT 15, 7pm.

2011-10-02T17:45:00.001+10:00

'WELCOME:'

A film about the plight of refugees in Calais, northern France. Directed by Phillippe Loiret.A story of personal challenge in the face of red tape, and government enforcement.A 17-year-old Kurdish refugee, Billal, is coached by a French swimming instructor,intending to swim across the English Channel. Billal's dream is to join his girlfriend inBritain, and to play professional soccer. Refugees in France suffer harassment andpoverty, while it is illegal for French citizens to assist them.

SAT OCT 15, 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Tickets: $10/$7 concession.
Pho: 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for more info.
www.greenleft.org.au.

'CLIMATE CHANGE/SOCIAL CHANGE CONFERENCE' REPORT BACK FORUM: Tues Oct 11

2011-10-02T17:33:00.000+10:00

REPORT BACK FORUM:
Hear a panel of participants give their views on key issues discussed at the World at a Crossroads Conference, held in Melbourne, Sept 30-Oct 3.

TUES OCT 11, 7pm. Meal from 6.30pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Pho: 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for more info.
www.greenleft.org.au

Climate Change: Social Change Conference LIVE STREAM Sept 30/Oct 3

2011-09-24T23:12:00.002+10:00

Some sessions at the upcoming Climate Change Social Change conference will be livestreamed.
Welcome to Green Left TV1
These are trial broadcasts but between September 30 and October 3 we will be broadcasting live from the Climate Change Social Change Conference in Melbourne, Australia
For more information about this conference go to here. There will be 80 speakers, six major sessions and 40 workshops

Watch live streaming video from greenlefttv1 at livestream.com

Go to live stream page.

Chilean student insurrection - QUT forum, 15 September

2011-09-15T18:01:00.000+10:00

STUDENTS IN REVOLT: CHILE, 2011

Public forum with visiting education historian Dr Leonora Reyes, University of Chile
QUT Gardens Point, 15 September 2011, Room 310 M-Block, 6.30-8pm

Since April, Chile has been paralysed by huge student and workers’ mobilisations intended to abolish fees, democratise schools and universities, and make public education open to all. Thousands of students are on strike and have occupied hundreds of schools and universities. Such is their public support that the popularity of the national university students’ leader, Camila Vallejos, now outstrips President Piñera's by 4 to 1. The global implications are profound: the Pinochet dictatorship’s private marketisation of education in 1980 has since been copied around the world. Join us for a first-hand report, discussion, and debate on the implications for Australia.

Sponsors: Australian Solidarity with Latin America (ASLA), National Tertiary Education Union (UQ), QUT Student Guild

Mining union blasts Bligh govt over fly-in, fly-out decision

2011-09-15T17:52:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- The Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) has slammed the Bligh Labor state government over its decision to approve a 100 per cent fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workforce for the Caval Ridge mega coal mine near Moranbah, central Queensland. The union, with about 10,000 members in the state's coal mines, has threatened to take the fight to the Bligh government in the months before the Queensland election, due early next year.

"We will ensure our members and the communities they live in are not left behind," CFMEU state secretary Jim Valery said, according to the September 7 Courier-Mail.

The union was reacting to the government's acceptance of the Caval Ridge mineowners', BHP-Billiton-Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), claim for a 100 per cent FIFO workforce of 500, so long as it builds 400 houses in the Bowen Basin, including 160 in Moranbah, where rents are often $2000 a week.

"The government's media statement on their approval of the BMA 100 per cent fly-in, fly-out application is completely misleading, and I'm personally very disappointed in their arrogant and out-of-touch behaviour on this entire process," Valery said, according to the Courier-Mail report.

"It's clear this government just isn't listening to regional leaders and communities. Many communities feel they are banging their heads up against a wall of Bligh government spin," he said.

"This decision will open the floodgates for forced 100 per cent fly-in, fly-out operations across the Queensland industry, promoting unsustainable population imbalances... between residents and non-residents, and an explosion of mega temporary accommodation camps," Valery said.

THE PEOPLE'S REVOLUTIONS IN VENEZUELA AND BOLIVIA; AN EYEWITNESS REPORT, Sat Sept 17

2011-09-06T22:47:00.000+10:00

Australia-Venezuela Solidarity Network presents:

THE PEOPLE'S REVOLUTIONS
IN VENEZUELA AND BOLIVIA:
An eyewitness report

Guest speaker: John Cleary,
AVSN Brigade co-ordinator, and former ETU organiser, recently returned from Venezuela and Bolivia.

SAT SEPT 17, 2pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre,
74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
For more info,phone 0423 741 734 or 0439 411 330.
Sponsored by AVSN Brisbane.
www.venezuelasolidarity.org.

Climate Change Social Change Conference update

2011-09-06T18:21:00.000+10:00

Newly confirmed speakers for the Climate Change Social Conference include Jeff Sparrow, editor of Overland magazine; Nala Mansell-McKenna, Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre; and Rodney Augustine from the Save Kimberley From Gas Mining Campaign.

Drew Hutton (pictured) from the Lock The Gate Alliance will be speaking on a special panel on the growing community campaigns against coal seam gas mining.

Given the latest attacks on renewable energy by the Ballieu Liberal government in Victoria, we're also planning a new feature workshop on green jobs and renewables.

If you haven't yet registered you can do so online today here.

ACFS (Brisbane): Cine Cubano, Wed Sept 7

2011-09-06T08:47:00.000+10:00

The Australia–Cuba Friendship Society (Brisbane) presents

Cine Cubano

An irregular screening of Cuban films!

WILL THE REAL TERRORIST PLEASE STAND UP?
A Film by Saul Landau
Wednesday 7 September, 2011
6.30 p.m.

CEPU Rooms
41 Peel Street, South Brisbane

Admission $10 / $5 (concession)

Funds raised will support the ACFS' health information project in Granma Province

Film showing to be opened by the Cuban Ambassador, Pedro Monzon.

For half a century, small groups of Cuban exiles have waged a terrorist campaign against Cuba's revolutionary government, with support from the U.S. government.

In the 1990s, Florida-based exiles began bombing tourist sites, at that time the backbone of Cuba's economy. An Italian tourist died in one of the bomb attacks. Since the FBI did not arrest the bombers in Miami, Havana sent agents there to infiltrate and report on the violent groups. Instead of stopping the perpetrators of these terrorist attacks, the FBI arrested the five Cuban agents. They were tried in Miami and given draconian sentences despite a dramatic absence of evidence against them.

'Will The Real Terrorist Please Stand Up?' documents this violent history involving the CIA, and the 5 Cubans serving long sentences in U.S. prisons. The film features an interview with Gerardo Hernandez, one of the Cuban Five who is currently serving life imprisonment in Victorville Maximum Security Prison for "conspiracy to commit espionage." Landau also interviews Luis Posada Carriles, Orlando Bosch, and others who have acknowledged perpetrating acts of terrorism in Cuba as “freedom fighters.” Surprise appearances in the film include Fidel Castro and Danny Glover.

www.acfs-brisbane.org.au

Coal seam gas and refugee rights rallies outside community cabinet

2011-09-03T13:41:00.001+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- Protesters against the coal seam gas industry and supporters of refugee rights rallied outside a community cabinet meeting of the federal government here on September 1. Around 200 people in all held banners and placards and chanted slogans on the roadway outside Yeronga State High School, as ministers and then Prime Minister Julia Gillard met members of the public inside.

Despite three separate requests from the Lock the Gate Alliance management committee and individual members of the campaign against CSG, no personal interview with federal Environment Minister Tony Burke was granted. LTGA members and supporters gathered to call on the federal government for urgent action against the threat to water, land and the environment represented by the CSG industry.

Rally chairperon Ewan Saunders told the audience that it was time to "stand up and say No to CSG!" and that the LTGA was growing in leaps and bounds as widespread opposition develops across the country. "Our water, our land, no to CSG!" the crowd chanted.

Scott Collins, a resident of the Tara estate in south-western Queensland, which is experiencing all-out invasion from the CSG companies, said, "There will soon be no farmland left because it will be all covered by the CSG. Our homes are now unsellable, and almost uninhabitable."

Beside the anti-CSG rally, supporters of refugee rights gathered to demand an end to mandatory detention of asylum seekers. The rally, called by GetUp and supported by the Refugee Action Collective, centred on the theme, "We remember" the evils of the Howard government "Pacific solution," when refugees were locked up in detention centres on Nauru.

At one stage, the two rallies united in chanting, "Open the gates to refugees! Close the gates to CSG!"

Assembly in solidarity for the Chilean students

2011-08-31T15:26:00.002+10:00

Assembly in solidarity for the Chilean students
Saturday, September 3 · 11:00am - 12:00pm
King George Square, Brisbane

Due to the current and ongoing student protests across Chile, the Chilean community in Brisbane would like to join our voices to those of the Chilean Student Movement, which is in response to the ongoing struggle for free and quality education, as well as demanding justice and democratic changes.

We feel that quality education is a basic human right, not a luxury or a consumer good, as such. To stop the profit in private Universities and to stop the elimination and modification of public education (closure and endemic under funding of municipal schools in poor neighbourhoods, the high level of student indebtedness, and the increasing precarity of employment for teachers, amongst other demands).

We held the Chilean government responsible for the health and safety for those participating in demonstrations and others activities demanding those basic rights'

The Chilean community in Australia urge the Chilean government to find a democratic solution to the current student demands for better education and to stop the brutal repression against its people.

The Chilean community in Brisbane, Australia, invite everyone to participated in a assembly in solidarity with the student and their demand for Justice and Free Education

Organised by:

Movement for Justice and Peace– Brisbane
Endorsements (Please let us know if you like to endorse this event):
Chilean Community of Australia
Australians and Chileans for Public Education http://www.facebook.com/groups/133508623404044/
Chilean Autoconvocados
Hijos Chile

We invite all groups, students. educators, workers, individuals and family to come along.

Max Brenner protest, Brisbane: "Max Brenner, you can't hide! You're supporting apartheid!"

2011-08-31T15:15:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- "Boycott Apartheid Israel! Boycott Max Brenner!" were the main themes of a rally and march here on August 27, focussing on the Max Brenner chocolate shop at South Bank. Despite steady rain, more than 50 protesters demonstrated to support a boycott of the Max Brenner chain, as part of the Australian and international Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign initiated by representatives of the Palestinian people.

Max Brenner is a subsidiary of the Israeli-owned Strauss Group, which boasts of its role in providing support to shock troops of the Israeli army in its repression of the people of the West Bank and Gaza. The Brisbane protest action was organised by Justice for Palestine Brisbane.

JfP spokespeople Kathy Newnam, Sarah Giles and Hamish Chitts explained the reasons for boycotting Israeli companies trading in Australia, such as Max Brenner and the cosmetics firm Seacret, as a peaceful campaign to place popular pressure on the Israeli regime over its brutal colonisation of Palestine.

During the march to Max Brenner, the protesters chanted, "Max Brenner, you can't hide! You're supporting apartheid!" "Max Brenner, come off it! Exporting your hot chocolate!" and "Free Palestine! Boycott Israel!"

At South Bank, the demonstrators were confronted by a hostile counter-rally called by right-wing University of Queensland students and other organisations. A tragic irony of the pro-Zionist counter-protest is that it included members of the far right, semi-fascist Australian Patriotic Defence Movement (APDM) -- who have called two racist, anti-Islamic rallies in Brisbane in recent weeks.

After marching back to a post-rally gathering, the BDS protesters heard Arab-Australian activist Phil Monsour declare that the boycott Israel campaign was "absolutely anti-racist." "This campaign is part of a big international movement, which needs to escalate to a demand for an arms embargo on Israel and other measures.

"Now we need to do the hard work in the unions and elsewhere in the community to build the infrastructure for a stronger, broader campaign to isolate Israel," Monsour added

For more information, visit www.justiceforpalestinebrisbane.org.

Public Meeting: The Inconvenient Truth about Coal Seam Gas Sept 8th

2011-08-31T15:00:00.000+10:00

Why are farmers asking Brisbane to care?

The Inconvenient Truth about Coal Seam Gas
Thursday September 8th, 6.15pm
The Gap State High School Auditorium, 1020 Waterworks Rd, The Gap

Welcome to Country and indigenous perspectives on CSG
Sarah Moles – Lock The Gate Alliance and Western Downs Alliance Farmer Ruth Armstrong tells her story
Agforce – Sue Dillon
BOB IRWIN – conservationist
Doctors for the Environment - presenter Dr Sandra Bayley on health impacts of Coal Seam Gas
Beyond Zero Emissions - presenter Helen Fairweather

SEATING IS LIMITED, PLEASE RSVP

Sam Watson: Tackle the real ‘Aboriginal industry’

2011-08-30T18:20:00.000+10:00

The Strategic Review of Indigenous Expenditure was submitted to the government in February 2010 but only made public on August 7 after a long-running freedom of information case brought by Channel 7. Queensland Murri activist and Socialist Alliance spokesperson Sam Watson spoke to Green Left Weekly’s Jim McIlroy about the report’s findings.

Over a decade ago, racist One Nation leader Pauline Hanson attacked what she called the “Aboriginal industry”. But the problem lies with the real Aboriginal industry, which is characterised by an army of white businesspeople, consultants, contractors and public servants.

This industry has made an enormous amount of money out of Aboriginal disadvantage over the years. If you closed down all Aboriginal programs tomorrow, many thousands of whites would be out of a job.

You see this contradiction right across the Northern Territory today. The whites live apart from the communities they are supposed to serve. They experience far better salaries and conditions than the Black communities.

This report reinforces what Aboriginal leaders have been saying for years. The major benefits are gained by career carpetbaggers, who follow the trail of Aboriginal disadvantage.

At the end of the day, what outcomes have really been delivered to Aboriginal people by government policies? The Strategic Review of Indigenous Expenditure reinforces the fact that the true Aboriginal industry is not based on Indigenous communities.

Australian governments have again been shown to have no understanding of the genuine needs and aspirations of Aboriginal people.

A succession of federal governments, under prime ministers John Howard, Kevin Rudd and Julia Gillard, have also appointed a number of high-level Aboriginal advisers, such as Noel Pearson, Marcia Langton and Warren Mundine, who have no mandate to speak on behalf of Aboriginal people. Yet these governments have relied on the advice of such people to influence their policies.

Howard closed down ATSIC [the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Commission] in 2002. Despite the many problems with ATSIC, thousands of Aboriginal people did participate in the elections for the organisation.

ATSIC did have a legitimate mandate to represent Aboriginal people. Howard replaced ATSIC with a hand-picked, non-elected Advisory Council, which had no legitimacy.

We need to get back to community representatives elected by Aboriginal people, who can speak on their behalf. We now have an enormous leadership vacuum, in which people like Pearson, Langton and Mundine can put themselves forward as Aboriginal spokespeople. The real tragedy of the current situation is precisely that vacuum of real and current Aboriginal leadership.

This tragedy is measured in the ongoing suffering and slavery of the Indigenous people. This means that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are totally dominated and manipulated by big mining corporations and their agents.

If the NT intervention continues for another five years, it will destroy the ability of Indigenous communities to act to deal with their own problems.

The Strategic Review of Indigenous Expenditure is another in the long line of high-level government reports on Indigenous affairs. These surveys merely highlight the accelerating outflow of resources from Aboriginal communities.

In all this, there has been very little real outcome for Aboriginal people who really need government assistance.

Derek Wall and Muckaty women to participate in CCSC conference -- Oct 3rd

2011-08-30T17:58:00.002+10:00

Leading British ecosocialist Derek Wall (pictured left) has confirmed that he will prepare a video presentation especially for the World At A Crossroads: Climate Change Social Change conference in Melbourne September 30-October 3. It will be on the topic "Organising for ecosocialism" and we will probably show it in the plenary session on the evening of Sunday October 2. He will do a Skype audio connect to that session so he can join in the discussion as well.

We also have confirmation that two women traditional landowners from Muckaty (the site of the planned nuclear waste dump opposed by the local Aboriginal community and many others), Dianne Stokes (pictured below left) and Kylie Sambo(who is also a hip hop artist-- pictured below right), will be travelling all the way from Central Australia to the conference.

Wall is running for chair of the Green Party in Britain and will know if he wins on September 8.
In the current issue of GLW, there are interviews with keynote guest speakers John Bellamy Foster and Ian Angus and also a profile article about the three young Cambodian women activists who are coming to the conference.

The longstanding and globally respected Monthly Review magazine, which Foster edits, has become the latest co-sponsor of the conference, joining Melbourne University Office for Environmental Programs, Friends of the Earth (Melbourne), climateandcapitalism.com, Links International Journal of Socialist Renewal, Labour Party Pakistan (LPP), Sydney University Political Economy Society, Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM), Partido Lakas ng Masa (PLM – Philippines), Australia-Asia Worker Links, Left Unity Adelaide, Adelaide Climate Emergency Action Network (CLEAN), Community Radio 3CR, Transform Asia and Action Aid International.

Individual sessions are being sponsored by the Victorian Trades Hall Council, Earthworker and the Society on Social Implications of Technology (Australia).

Green Left Weekly Public Forum: WHAT EVERY ENVIRONMENTALIST NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CAPITALISM -- Sept 6

2011-08-30T11:47:00.000+10:00

Green Left Weekly Public Forum:
WHAT EVERY ENVIRONMENTALIST NEEDS TO KNOW
ABOUT CAPITALISM

The major force behind the current environmental crisis is big business and its ceaseless quest

for private profit -- capitalism. We urgently need to change the social system if we are to effectively

tackle climate change. Join in a discussion on the way forward for the ecology movement today.

Speaker: Liam Flenady

TUES SEPT 6, 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre,
74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
Phone 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734 for more info.
www.greenleft.org.au.

Symposium: Red Scare!!! Cold War Politics and the 1951 Referendum on the Banning of the Communist Party -- Oct 8th

2011-08-29T20:20:00.002+10:00

Red Scare!!!
Cold War Politics and the 1951 Referendum on the Banning of the Communist Party

...a symposium by the Brisbane Labour History Association

Saturday, October 8 · 1:00pm - 5:00pm

QCA Lecture Theatre,

Qld College of Art,

Griffith University,

226 Grey St,

South Bank.

(opposite South Bank train station)

Free admission

Speakers:

• Humphrey McQueen
• Neil Lloyd
• Bob Reed
+ open forum

Download the flyer

Film Screening: Battle of Algiers

2011-08-27T15:17:00.003+10:00

Saturday,September 3,7pm
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

Latin American Film Festival Sept 16-18

2011-08-27T15:09:00.002+10:00

'RED CINEMA' PRESENTS:
LATIN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL

FRI-SUN SEPT 16-18, 7pm.
Latin American food from 6.30pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre,
74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

FRI SEPT 16: WAITING LIST, from Cuba.
SAT SEPT 17: COMUNA (COMMUNE), from Venezurla
SUN SEPT 18: THE INNOCENTS, from El Salvador.

Tickets: $10/$7 concession. All sessions: $25/$16.
Phone: 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for more bookings/info.
Sponsored by Green Left Weekly. www.greenleft.org.au

Socialist Ideas Discussion Forum: "THEIR MORALS AND OURS." Aug 30

2011-08-27T15:06:00.002+10:00

Socialist Ideas Discussion Forum:
THEIR MORALS AND OURS

TUES AUG 30, 6.30pm.
Meal from 6pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre,
74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

In the aftermath of the recent riots in London, Tory Prime Minister David Cameron talked about a "moral collapse" in Britain. But whose morals have collapsed? The poor people of suburban England, or the bankers, businesspeople and politicians who rip off the public with their bail-outs

and corruption.

Join in the discussion around Leon Trotsky's famous book, Their Morals and Ours, and the contemporary equivalent under the crisis of capitalist society today.

Pho: 3831 2644/0423 741 734 for more info.
www.greenleft.org.au.
Presented by Socialist Alliance and Resistance.

Latest issue of Alliance Voices [Vol 11 No 2 August 2011 ]

2011-08-25T18:33:00.001+10:00

The latest edition of Alliance Voices is now available online.

Vol 11 No 2 August 2011

Report on the transition and Socialist Alliance national division of labour
Minutes of the SA National Council meeting, June 26, 2011
Socialist Alliance Building report
Socialist Alliance education
`Stop coal seam gas mining’ campaigning motions
Community Voice platform
Resistance plans action against injustic

Protest outside Queensland Gas Conference

2011-08-19T17:10:00.001+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- "No coal seam gas! No fracking way!" was one of the chants of a group of around 50 protesters outside the Queensland Gas Conference at the Convention Centre here on August 17.

The rally, organised by the Stop CSG Brisbane Committee, coincided with People's Day at the Ekka (Brisbane Exhibition Show Day), and indicated the people's opposition to the threat to land, water and the environment posed by the expanding CSG industry in Queensland and Australia.

Indigenous leader Sam Watson expressed his "significant concerns about the effect of CSG on our land. This is a dangerous industry, and any damage to land and water could last for 1000s of years. "The Bligh government and the mainstream political parties are in bed with the big mining companies. We must challenge this threat to our future with all our strength," Watson said.

Leonie, a farmer from Tara in south-western Queensland, said that at least 2000 farmers have put a Lock the Gate sign on their properties. "The Bligh government's new laws to limit CSG exploration around larger country towns will make no real difference to the situation," she said.

Adam Shara, an Aboriginal representative from the Northern Rivers region of NSW, told the rally, "There is a second mining invasion of Indigenous land under way. We now have a Third World War going on between the people and the multinational mining companies. "We must stand together against the divide and rule tactics of the big corporations," he said.

Mike Crook from Socialist Alliance said he had worked in the mining industry until the 1980s, when he realised that, "Nothing good comes out of mining. The companies are destroying the environment and attacking their workers.

"The world is now turning against the coal mining industry. But the mining corporations control the major parties.

"We have to turn to alternative parties like the Greens and SA, which are taking a stand against the coal and CSG industry," he said.

Hannah Reardon-Smith from the StopCSG Committee explained that her parents owned a farm at Felton on the Darling Downs, where the land-holders had campaigned strongly against the threat of coal-mining to their land.

"Contrary to the myth being advanced by the industry, CSG is not better than coal on carbon emissions. We need to look to renewable energy sources instead of CSG.

"The push for CSG has nothing to do with reducing carbon emissions, but everything to do with increasing mining company profits," she said.

Rally chairperson Ewan Saunders said that the people's movement against coal seam gas had swept the country, with rallies, meetings and protests in many areas.

"This movement has united many, varied forces, and captured the imagination and the anger of the people in defence of their land, water and the future," Saunders said.

The protesters then marched around the South Bank precinct, and back to the Convention Centre. A further protest was held later that afternoon at the same venue, when the Gas Conference was due to discuss public relations strategies to sell CSG to the community. For more information, contact stopcsgbrisbane@gmail.com.

Brisbane Activist Calendar Aug 23-Sept 18

2011-08-19T17:01:00.000+10:00

Socialist Alliance Branch Meeting: Defend Palestine/BDS campaign. Tues Aug 23, 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Meal from 6pm. Pho 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

Tampa Day: Defend refugee rights. Public meeting. Wed Aug 24, 6.30pm. Trades and Labour Council Auditorium. 16 Peel St, South Brisbane. Organised by Refugee Action Collective (RAC).

Boycott Apartheid Israel: Protest Max Brenner. Sat Aug 27, 1pm. Gather in park at corner Merivale and Glenelg Sts, South Brisbane, for march to Max Brenner Store at South Bank. Visit www.justiceforpalestinebrisbane.org.

Unite against racism: Rally against racism and Islamaphobia. Sun Aug 28, 10.30pm. King George Square, City. Email noracism2011@gmail.com.

Socialist Ideas Discussion Forum: "Their Morals and Ours." Tues Aug 30, 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Pho 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

Red Cinema: TBA. Sat Sept 3, 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre. Pho 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

GLW Forum: What every environmentalist needs to know about socialism. Tues Sept 6, 7pm. Meal from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Pho 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

Latin American Film Festival: Fri-Sun Sept 16-18. 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Pho 3831 2644/0423 741 734.

Climate Change/Social Change Conference. Fri-Mon Sept 30-Oct 3. University of Melbourne. Visit www.climatechangesocialchange2011.wordpress.com.

Six weeks to go: have you registered for the CC|SC conference? Sept 30-Oct 3

2011-08-16T23:08:00.001+10:00

The Climate Change | Social Change conference begins in six weeks.

Check out the Preliminary Agenda (pdf)

Book now! Go to the TryBooking website: it'’s easy and secure.

Sponsorships

Capitalism and Climate, the website edited by Ian Angus, has just agreed to be a co-sponsor. Also consponsoring are Friends of the Earth (Melbourne), Australia-Asia Worker Links, Left Unity Adelaide and the Adelaide Climate Emergency Action Network (CLEAN). More sponsorships are pending.

Speakers

From Malaysia: Angeline Loh/Shannan who works with the Malaysian human rights groups ALIRAN, S.Arutchelvan, secretary general Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) and Joethi Sahadevan, the PSM environment coordinator in 2010 and lecturer in Journalism and Communication Theories for Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, a non-profit private university in Malaysia.

From Cambodia: Ly Pisey, who will be speaking on climate change and sex work and Chrek Sophea, who will be speaking about climate change and health in Cambodia.

From Pakistan: Farooq Tariq, spokesperson for the Labour Party Pakistan (LPP) and

Riffat Maqsood, general secretary Women Workers Help Line, a working class women's organisation.

From the Philippines: Roland C. Vibal, national vice-president of the Aniban ng Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (Philippines).

From New Zealand: Sue Bradford, former NZ Greens MP and current member of the Mana Party.

See the website for the latest list of confirmed speakers as we’ll be updating this as new speakers are confirmed.

Publicity

This is where the most up-to-date information about the conference can be found.

Also as it’s going to be AFL grand finals that weekend so if anyone is travelling from interstate now is the time to get your travel and accommodation booked.

Successful solidarity dinner in Brisbane

2011-08-16T22:53:00.001+10:00

The People's Power Solidarity Dinner, celebrating global movements for peace and justice, was held in St Francis Church Hall, West End, here on August 13. The event was sponsored by Green Left Weekly.

The night featured an international feast, spanning the continents, and live entertainment from guitarist Chris Anderson and friends, Hannah Reardon-Smith on flute, Dom Hale's group, and Tilla and his band.

Indigenous leader Sam Watson gave the welcome to country, and warned that "the battle lines are now drawn on racism," and other key issues in Australian politics. "Socialist Alliance will be up and ready for a state election, whenever it is called," he said.

Former Senator and Greens candidate, and long-time refugee rights campaigner, Andrew Bartlett reminded the audience that 2011 marked 20 years since the pathbreaking, united front-based Green Alliance contested the Brisbane City Council elections in 1991. "Now more than ever, it is important to push ahead in fighting on core political principles", he said.

Equal Marriage Rights rally in Brisbane

2011-08-16T22:50:00.002+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- Up to 400 people gathered in Queens Park here on August 13, as part of a national day of action for equal marriage rights. The rally and march which followed were called for the seventh anniversary of the former Howard government's 2004 ban on Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transsexual and Intersex (LGBTI) people's legal right to marry.

Speakers included Labor MP for the state seat of Brisbane Central Grace Grace, and Queensland Greens Senator Larissa Waters. Grace told the audience that she was supporting a motion for equal marriage rights being proposed for the ALP National Conference in Sydney in December, and expected it would be adopted.

Waters urged increased public pressure on federal MPs from the major parties to force them to take a stand for marriage equality. "The right to choose is a basic entitlement, " she said.
Marchers chanted loudly as they proceeded through city streets, "Hey, Hey! Ho, ho! Homophobia's got to go!"

To close the demonstration, the audience were filmed chanting, "Brisbane demands equality! Brisbane demands better!"

For more information, visit, www.equallove.info.

People's Day at the QLD GAS CONFERENCE, AUG 17th

2011-08-15T17:56:00.000+10:00

IT'S PEOPLE'S DAY at the QUEENSLAND GAS CONFERENCE!
Join the rising voice of the community at the Queensland Gas Conference, billed as "Queensland's most important Coal Seam Gas / LNG event"!

WHEN: Assemble 9.30am, Wednesday 17th August (Brisbane Ekka show holiday)
WHERE: Brisbane Convention Centre, corner Glenelg & Merivale Sts, South Bank

Bring your placards, wear your message, bring your instruments! Bring a friend! A current petition will be available.
For those who have the energy, or cannot make the morning demonstration, there will be another action at the same location that afternoon, to coincide with the Conference session on combating anti-CSG campaigners!

ASSEMBLE AGAIN AT 3PM to show the Coal Seam Gas Industry how the community intends to "deal with" the threat to land, water and our future!

This will be an opportunity to attract additional media with our creative and spirited message!

For enquiries contact stopcsgbrisbane@gmail.com

Murdoch vs Assange: Forum discusses media issues

2011-08-10T18:33:00.000+10:00

By Bill Mason

BRISBANE -- The dilemma facing journalists in Australia today was addressed by Philip Castle, a veteran journalist for over 30 years and current academic at Griffith University, at a public forum sponsored by Green Left Weekly at the Activist Centre here on August 9. The forum entitled, Murdoch vs Assange: Media corruption versus the truth, also heard from Jim McIlroy, a long-time correspondent for GLW.

In the face of the dominance of the Murdoch empire in this country, journalists faced a battle to maintain the union code of ethics advanced by the Australian Journalists Association (AJA), as part of the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA). "There is no guarantee that hacking practices like in the UK have not occurred in Australia," Castle said.

On the other hand, "What Julian Assange has done has tipped the balance internationally in favor of free speech in the media," he said. We need to welcome the advent of the "Fifth Estate," the new media, which had played such a major role in the people's movements in the Middle East and Europe, Castle said.

McIlroy summarised the issues raised by the Murdoch empire's hacking scandal in Britain, and contrasted the part played by WikiLeaks in exposing the secrets governments want to keep out of the public gaze. He went on to put forward some ideas about democratising media access for alternative political parties and social movements, including expanded publicly funded advertising before and during election campaigns.

A lively discussion from the audience ensued, taking up issues such as "commentary versus news" in the mainstream media, the myth of "balance," and sensationalism replacing serious reportage in the big business press. Discussion also occurred about building up alternative and community media sources, as a counterweight to media empires such as News Ltd.

Anti-racists confront far right rally in Brisbane

2011-08-08T12:33:00.001+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- Around 200 people attended a "Unite Against Racism" rally in the King George Square on August 6, called in opposition to a rally organised by the far-right Australian Defence League attacking Islam and calling for a ban on the burqa. The tiny ADL rally was aimed at inciting hatred and violence toward Muslim people and refugees.

After several speakers condemned attacks on Islam and refugees, the anti-racist rallygoers confronted a small group of around 20 racists as they tried to address passersby through a loudspeaker system.

The anti-racists drowned out the ADL speakers with chants of, "Muslims are welcome, racists are not!" Although heated arguments broke out, there was no violence in the end.

Earlier, Greens spokesperson Libby Connors told the crowd, "We need a warm and embracing culture that allows religious and cultural diversity."

Long-time anti-war campaigner Adrian Skerritt declared that, "Our message of unity and friendship with the Muslim community will drown out the messages of hate."

Hiroshima Day in Brisbane

2011-08-08T12:30:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- The annual Hiroshima Day rally and march, commemorating the US atomic bombing of the Japanese city of Hiroshima in 1945, was held here on August 6. The rally, under the theme, "For a nuclear-free and independent Australia," attracted around 100 people to Brisbane Square, to hear speakers, and singers, including the Trade Union Choir.

Dr Sue Wareham, from the Medical Association for Prevention of War, told the audience, "Japan has suffered three nuclear catastrophes -- Hiroshima, Nagasaki and Fukushima. These disasters together emphasise the close link between nuclear power and nuclear weapons.

"We need to support the international campaign, ICAN," she said. "This stands for, 'I can imagine a world without a nuclear industry'," Wareham said.

Dr Marianne Hanson, politics lecturer at University of Queensland, outlined "the risks and dangers in all nuclear technology, especially nuclear weapons. Accidents are inevitable," she said. "And the only answer is to phase out the entire nuclear industry."

Robyn Taubenfeld, from Nuclear Free Queensland and Peace Convergence, condemned the Talisman Sabre Exercises, held recently at Shoalwater Bay, central Queensland. These exercises are "the world's largest military exercises, involving 32,000 military personnel," she said.

"Australia greatly contributes to the international nuclear arms race, through its involvement in uranium mining and the housing of US military forces and bases. We need to stop supporting US military interventions and collaborating with the US nuclear war machine," Taubenfeld urged.

GREEN LEFT WEEKLY 'PEOPLE'S POWER SOLIDARITY DINNER' SAT AUG 13

2011-08-08T12:01:00.000+10:00

GREEN LEFT WEEKLY PRESENTS:
PEOPLE'S.POWER SOLIDARITY DINNER

CELEBRATING GLOBAL MOVEMENTS FOR PEACE, JUSTICE and SUSTAINABILITY

SAT AUGUST 13, 7pm.

St Francis Church Hall, 59 Dornoch Terrace, West End.

Multicultural food, live music and speakers.

Map to venue

Come along and help Australia's socialist weekly newspaper celebrate international and local "people's power" struggles.

TICKETS $15 concession, $25 full-waged, $35 Solidarity price
Proceeds to the GLW 2011 Fund Appeal.

Sumptuous food spanning the continents

Live entertainment from Chris Anderson and friends, Hannah Reardon-Smith & friends, and more

Special guest speakers, including Brisbane Murri Leader Sam Watson

Bar and Cocktails

BOOKINGS REQUIRED FOR CATERING
PH 0423 741 734 or 3831 2644

Hiroshima Day – August 6

2011-08-05T19:49:00.001+10:00

Hiroshima Never Again. Hiroshima Day – August 6, 2011

SATURDAY 6TH AUGUST
1pm RALLY 2.15 pm PEACE MARCH
REDDACLIFFE PLACE BRISBANE SQUARE
Opposite Treasury Casino

THREE MILE ISLAND CHERNOBYL FUKUSHIMA

NUCLEAR DISASTERS - out there are uncounted hundreds of other nuclear incidents/accidents graded (1) to (7) each will leave a legacy, toxic to humans, animals and every other thing. That’s 3 too many: we must KEEP AUSTRALIA NUCLEAR FREE

Rally Program

Welcome to country –
Combined Unions Choir
Dermot Dorgan –Satirical Singer, Songwriter : “They said it couldn’t happen”
Dr Sue Wareham: Immediate Past President of the Medical Assoc for Prevention of War - is on the Management Cttee in Australia for ICAN the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons:“The Fukushima disaster reinforces some of the perils of nuclear power. The magnitude of the damage has been covered up and public health jeopardized for the sake of the nuclear industry.”
Dr Marianne Hanson: teaches International Politics at University of Queensland and is a specialist in International Security and the project to eliminate nuclear weapons: “The recent accident at Fukushima demonstrates the dangers inherent in nuclear power, but also the limited abilities of humans to ensure safety and security where nuclear power and nuclear weapons are concerned.”
Robin Taubenfeld : Nuclear Free Queensland. Peace Convergence : “As a key ally to the US, Australia plays the role as the face of US-dominated politics in the southern Pacific region. The presence of US troops, US bases and training in Australia serves as physical representation of the US nuclear umbrella in the region. ”

Contact jshears28@yahoo.com.au
Rally for Peace and Nuclear Disarmament Inc ph 3855 9497

Say NO! to Racism Rally August 6

2011-08-05T19:40:00.000+10:00

SAY NO TO RACISM!
SAY NO TO ISLAMOPHOBIA!

RALLY: Saturday August 6, 11amKing George Square

Racists have called a rally on Saturday August 6. The organisers call for a ban against Islam. Their rally is aimed at inciting hatred and violence toward Muslim people and against refugees.Join us for a peaceful show of opposition to racism and Islamophobia and let the racists know that their hatred and incitement to violence is not welcome.For more information:
Email - noracism2011@gmail.com

*****
Help spread the word!!

Join the Facebook event and invite your friends:
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=247498601929356

Download posters and flyers to distribute:
http://racismno.wikispaces.com/flyers%26posters

MURDOCH VS ASSANGE: Media corruption vs the truth -- Aug 9

2011-08-03T13:34:00.002+10:00

Green Left Weekly Public Forum:

MURDOCH VS ASSANGE:Media corruption vs the truth.

Rupert Murdoch, the most powerful media baron in the world, is guilty of lies, corruption and war crimes. Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks, has opened a new era of media openness and truth. Murdoch's crimes are being covered up, while Assange faces extradition and legal persecution. Join in the discussion on the reality of mass media hypocrisy today.

TUES AUG 9, 7pm. Meal from 6.30pm.

Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

Phone 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734 for more information.

Register now for the CCSC II Conference : Sept 30-Oct 3

2011-08-02T19:26:00.002+10:00

By Peter Boyle and Viv Miley, conference organising team

John Bellamy Foster, the keynote speaker at the upcoming Climate Change | Social Change conference "World At A Crossroads", to be held at Melbourne University Sepetmber 30-October 3, 2011, is the co-author (with Fred Magdoff) of a newly published book titled What every environmentalist needs to know about capitalism.

The publisher, Monthly Review Press, has kindly given permission to Links International Journal of Socialist Renewal, one of the cosponsors of the conference, to publish "The growth imperative of capitalism", a chapter from the new book. Click here to read this chapter.

Foster is a renowned US economist and ecologist, editor of Monthly Review and author of The Ecological Rift, The Ecological Revolution, The Great Financial Crisis (with Fred Magdoff); Marx’s Ecology; Ecology Against Capitalism; and The Vulnerable Planet.

The conference will feature three days of talks, panel discussions and more than 20 workshops to discuss climate change, social change and the intersections of the movements for pro-people and pro-ecological sustainability solutions for a world in crisis.

Themes and topics being discussed will include:

Capitalism, socialism and ecology -- People’s power and democracy
The climate debt and the Global South
Refugees, racism and internationalism
Food security and survival
Building movements that can stop climate change
The global nuclear threat
Indigenous resistance, land and sovereignty
Feminism and climate change
Imperialism, war and oil
The market Vs social ownership
The dirty record of carbon trading
Population and the planet
Agri-business and sustainable alternatives
The movement against coal seam gas mining
The conference is organised by Green Left Weekly, Resistance and the Socialist Alliance. It is being sponsored by the Office of Environmental Programs, Melbourne University and co-sponsored by Friends of the Earth (Melbourne), Links Journal for Socialist Renewal, Labor Party Pakistan (LPP), Sydney University Political Economy Society, Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM), Partido Lakas ng Masa (PLM – Philippines).

Click here to register online for the "World At A Crossroads" conference or to find out more about it.

Registration is very affordable but every dollar of early registration gives us money to build the conference bigger. More and more international and local interest is being registered through the website.

SA at Einbunpin Festival

2011-08-01T09:33:00.002+10:00

by Jim McIlroy

Socialist Alliance and Green Left Weekly sponsored a lively stall at the annual Einbunpin Festival, held annually at the Parklands Lagoon in the northern Brisbane suburb of Sandgate on Sunday July 31. The stall featured a colorful banner reading, "The USA is a terrorist state," and other banners and posters.

The festival attracts dozens of stalls and many thousands of attendees, and includes a number of political and environmental displays. The SA/GLW stall won considerable interest, with stall workers selling half a T-shirts, Green Left newspapers, and scores of signatures on a petition opposing the Coal Seam Gas industry.

The stall also helped to lay some further solid political groundwork for the Socialist Alliance campaign for the Queensland state election next year.

Protest planned for Blair’s Brisbane visit July 28

2011-07-25T17:12:00.000+10:00

Former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, will be addressing a $500/head gathering at Brisbane's Convention Centre on Thursday, July 28 and protesters will be there to give this war criminal the “welcome” he deserves.

“Tony Blair has the blood of millions of people on his hands. He is a mass murderer who should be rotting in a jail cell, not jet-setting around the world earning millions,” said protest spokesperson Hamish Chitts.

Inquiries in the UK have shown that Blair conspired with the Bush Administration and knowingly lied to the world to justify the invasion of Iraq, causing over one million deaths, 4 million refugees, countless maimings and traumas.

Chitts said, “It was growing evidence of these lies that forced him to resign as Prime Minister in June 2007 but his infamy hasn't ended there. He was rewarded for his crimes by being appointed Middle East for the United Nations, European Union, United States, and Russia.”

In January 2009 as special envoy Blair gave political cover to Israel's invasion of Gaza, that for 22 days saw bombs and white phosphorous dropped on a trapped civilian population in one of the most densely populated places on Earth. 1400 people were killed during Israel’s attack on Gaza, including 352 children.

On February 2, this year, Blair hailed his old friend, Egyptian despot Hosni Mubarak, as “immensely courageous and a force for good” after Mubarak's troops killed civilians protesting for democracy.

In response to Saudi Arabian troops joining Bahrain's military in a murderous crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Bahrain, Blair supported his friends in the Saudi and Bahrain royal families.

“Blair continues to be a major cheerleader for the war on Afghanistan - a war that the majority of people in Australia and around the world want the troops removed from. Blair recently stated on Fox news that, “completing the mission should be the number one priority.” The same tired line we hear from the Australian Government to justify their ongoing participation in the US war for oil and strategic real estate” Chitts said.

Protesters will be gathering at the Convention Centre on the corner of Merivale and Glenelg Streets at 6pm.

For more info:

phone Hamish 0401 586 923

email hamishmail@gmail.com

Socialist Alliance Introductory workshops, Cairns -- August 3, 24 & Sept 14

2011-07-24T16:44:00.004+10:00

Educate! Agitate! Organise!

Want to take part in a movement to change the world? Three workshops about why there is a Socialist Alliance.

All welcome. Ph Jonathan 4053 2340 for more info.

Details for each workshop are:

Educate!
What are the aims of Socialist Alliance – communicating socialist ideas.
Wed Aug 3, 5.30pm, 24/25 Grafton St (next to ETU office, upstairs, Pentagon complex).
Agitate!
Mass action and social change: Socialist Alliance and campaigns
Wed Aug 24, 5.30pm, ( contact Jonathan 4053 2340 for venue. ).
Organise!
Making collective action work: organising as Socialist Alliance
Wed Sep 14, 5.30pm, ( contact Jonathan 4053 2340 for venue.).

BRISBANE ACTIVIST CALENDAR: July/August

2011-07-22T22:18:00.000+10:00

Upcoming events calendar to August 13th

SOCIALIST IDEAS DISCUSSION GROUP: Tues July 26, 6.30pm. Main themes of the Climate Change/Social Change Conference, being held in Melbourne, Sept 30-Oct 3. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.
PROTEST FOR REFUGEE RIGHTS, outside Serco offices, 301 Coronation Drive, Milton. Fri July 29, 12noon.
ARAB FILM FESTIVAL, Sat-Sun July 30-31. Dendy Cinema, Portside, Hamilton.
SOCIALIST ALLIANCE BRISBANE BRANCH MEETING, Aug 2, 6.30pm. Meal from 6pm. Activist Centre. For info, ph 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734.
ANTI-RACISM PROTEST AGAINST 'BAN THE BURQA' RALLY. Sat Aug 6, 11am. King George Square.
HIROSHIMA DAY RALLY. Sat Aug 6, 1pm. Brisbane Square.
GLW PUBLIC FORUM: MURDOCH VS ASSANGE: Media corruption vs the truth. Tues Aug 9, 7pm. Meal from 6.30pm.Brisbane Activist Centre.
EQUAL MARRIAGE RIGHTS RALLY: Sat Aug 13, 1pm. Queens Park, City.
GREEN LEFT WEEKLY 'PEOPLE'S POWER SOLIDARITY DINNER': Sat Aug 13, 7pm. St Francis Church Hall, 59 Dornoch Tce,West End. Multicultural food, live music, speakers. Tickets: $30/$18 conc./$40 solidarity. Pho 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734.

SOCIALIST IDEAS DISCUSSION GROUP: THEMES OF THE CLIMATE CHANGE/SOCIAL CHANGE CONFERENCE July 26

2011-07-22T22:13:00.001+10:00

Socialist Ideas Discussion Group:
CLIMATE CHANGE/SOCIAL CHANGE CONFERENCE:
(BEING HELD IN MELBOURNE, SEPT 30-OCT 3, 2011.)
MAIN THEMES FOR A RED/GREEN FUTURE.
A discussion of the central themes of the conference,with reference to some priority readings.

TUES JULY 26, 6.30pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

Phone 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734 for more information.

Links International Journal of Socialist Renewal has collected together articles by the main featured international speakers who will be attending the World at a Crossroads/ Climate Change, Social Change Conference in Melbourne in September-October. There are also a range of links that gather together articles that deal with particular enviromental topics.

These resources provide excellent background reading for the issues that will be discussed at the conference.

To find material on other issues, please use the search engine on the Links site .

Mac Ensemble: Gas from Ice -- July 28

2011-07-21T19:58:00.002+10:00

Click on image to enlarge view

MAC Ensemble (Musicians Against Complacency) are:

Hannah Reardon-Smith - flutes
Tabatha McFadyen - voice
Elizabeth,John and Matt Horsley - percussion
Lloyd Van't Hoff - clarinets
Alex Raineri - piano
Peter Clark - conductor

Playing new compositions by Liam Flenady, Peter Clark, Gerardo Dirié and Kim Cunio

Ipswich rally tells PM, 'Can't eat coal, can't drink gas'

2011-07-21T15:52:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

IPSWICH -- "We can't eat coal, can't drink gas. Lock the gates!" was the main chant of a group of about 40 protesters gathered outside the Civic Centre here on July 21, opposing the coal and coal seam gas industries. Inside, Prime Minister Julia Gillard was addressing a business and community breakfast, co-sponsored by the Ipswich City Council.

Outside a Julia look-alike sat down to a breakfast of coal and toxic CSG "fracking" fluid, in a symbolic protest at the threat to South-East Queensland farmers and residents from burgeoning coal and coal seam gas exploration in the region. This was followed by an alternative breakfast in the nearby Ipswich Mall.

Another group, organised by GetUp, rallied for "Action on Climate Change Now." The prime minister dodged both rallies by leaving via the back door.

"We want our prime minister to know that declining air and water quality, the threat to food security and agriculture, and the health risks of living with heavy industry, is not acceptable," Ipswich region Lock the Gate Alliance spokesperson Cassie McMahon stated.

The previous day, LTGA president Drew Hutton told a Brisbane hearing of the Senate inquiry into the CSG industry, that, "This coal seam gas development is the worst public policy process I have ever seen. It is a ruthless exercise of corporate power, involving the complete alienation of farmers' and landholders' rights.

"We need a strategic alliance of rural landholders with city environmentalists in order to campaign effectively against the threat of coal and CSG mining. CSG and coal-mining are completely incompatible with farming.

"Food security is crucial," Hutton told the Senate committee. "We urgently need a national food security policy.

"Drilling and exploration are also occurring right next to residential areas. Environmentally sensitive sectors also need to be protected.

"We need to develop a mass people's movement on this issue," Hutton said.

Tamil Massacre in Sri Lanka Video July23

2011-07-14T18:32:00.002+10:00

SPECIAL RED CINEMA:4 CORNERS/CHANNEL FOUR PROGRAM
ON TAMIL MASSACRE IN SRI LANKA

Introduced by Dr Brian Senewiratne and Tamil community representative

Sat July 23, 7pm.

Tamil food available from 6.30pm.

Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

Presented by Green Left Weekly, www.greenleft.org.au
Phone 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734 for more information.

'Refugees under siege': Brisbane forum

2011-07-13T19:14:00.001+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- Refugees under siege: Where to now? was the title of a public forum here, sponsored by Green Left Weekly here on July 12.

Frederika Steen, independent refugee rights advocate and former information officer for the Romero Centre, 2002-2009, and Jaime Pinea, refugee from Chile, and former Villawood Detention Centre resident in the 1980s, addressed an audience at the Activist Centre on issues facing the refugee movement today.

Steen, a former Immigration Department officer, explained that she had had extensive experience in dealing with "people who carried the scars of war and civil war" during her career. She had also worked for more than 10 years with Temporary Protection Visa holders under the previous Howard government.

The facts are that, "Asylum seekers have the legal right to seek asylum," Steen said. "And our government has the responsibility under international law to provide protection to them."

"There are huge problems with the 'Malaysian solution,'" she added. "But Nauru is no solution either. Under Howard's 'Pacific Solution,' Nauru was hell on Earth for asylum seekers."

"We need to redouble our efforts to pressure this Labor government to change direction on refugee policy. We also need to visit and befriend asylum seekers, to show that Australians do care," she concluded.

Jaime Pineda made an emotional plea for support for refugees. He explained that he had fled with his family from the Pinochet dictatorship in Chile. In 1984, at the age of four, he spent time in Villawood in Sydney.

His presentation summarised the history of Villawood Centre, and noted the mental stresses of persecution and suffering experienced by refugees. A lively discussion followed on key questions raised by the growing refugee crisis, in Australia and around the world.

__._,_.___

July 9th -- Two solidarity protest actions: Malaysia and Palestine

2011-07-10T18:22:00.004+10:00

Bris rally against Israeli apartheid wall

BY Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- Around 100 people rallied in King George Square here on July 9 as part of an International Day of Action against the Israeli Apartheid wall. Demands of the rally were: Tear down the wall! End the occupation of Palestine! Equal rights for Palestinians! and Right of return for Palestinian refugees!

The rally featured a large banner depicting the wall itself, along with a series of placards describing aspects of the wall. Arab-Australian activist Phil Monsour told the crowd, "The wall is intended to surround and intimidate the Palestinian people. It will not succeed."

Following the rally, demonstrators marched through city streets to the main entrance to the Myer Centre, to highlight the campaign against the Israeli company Seacret, which operates a stall in the centre. Speakers there called on the Myer Centre to refuse to allow an agency of the Israeli apartheid state to continue to trade from their premises.

For more information, visit www.justiceforpalestinebrisbane.org.

Brisbane rally for democracy in Malaysia
By Jim McIlroy

BRISBANE -- "What do we want? Clean elections! When do we want it? Now!" was the chant of around 100 members of the Malaysian community and their supporters here on July 9, at a rally held as part of an international day of solidarity with the BERSIH movement in Malaysia that day. The rally, held in Brisbane Square, heard speakers explain the deep problems of corruption and repression in their home country.

Speakers condemned attempts by the Malaysian government to foment racial divisions in order maintain their power. They called for national unity, and solidarity with the Malaysian people mobilising at Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere to demand genuine free elections and free speech in their country.

Vist www.bersih.org for more information.

BRISBANE ACTIVIST CALENDAR

2011-07-07T19:06:00.001+10:00

The calendar for the nest few weeks...

NAIDOC INDIGENOUS FESTIVAL: Fri July 8, 10am-5pm, Musgrave Park, West End. Socialist Alliance/Resistance stump, 11am-2pm.
(Followed by Queen Street Mall Resistance stall, 3.30pm-6pm).

PROTEST FOR DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS IN MALAYSIA: Sat July 9, 11am. Brisbane Square (top of the Mall).

BRING DOWN THE ISRAELI APARTHEID WALL! Rally for Palestinian rights. Sat July 9, 1pm. King George Square.

REFUGEE RIGHTS UNDER SIEGE: WHERE TO NOW? GLW Public Forum. Speakers: Frederika Steen, Jaime Pineda. Tues July 12, 7pm.
Dinner from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

RED CINEMA: THE END OF POVERTY? THINK AGAIN. Introduced by Gary Maclennan. Sat July 16, 7pm. Dinner from 6.30pm.
Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Tickets: $10/$7 concession.

SPECIAL RED CINEMA: FOUR CORNERS/CHANNEL 4 PROGRAM ON MASSACRES OF TAMILS IN SRI LANKA. Introduced by Dr Brian Senewiratne. Sat July 23, 7pm. Food available from 6.30pm. Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley.

GREEN LEFT WEEKLY 'PEOPLE'S POWER SOLIDARITY DINNER.' Sat August 13, 7pm. St Francis Church Hall, 59 Dornoch Tce, West End. Multicultural food, live music, speakers. $25/$15 concession/$35 solidarity.

PHONE JIM ON 3831 2644 OR 0423 741 734 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ALL EVENTS.

PLEASE COME ALONG!

Sandgate coal seam gas protest and march on July 5th

2011-07-05T18:22:00.003+10:00

Protest at the Environment Ministers office (Vicki Darling) at Sandgate.Part of the Coal Seam Gas campaign.

Photographs: Mike Crook

Forum: Refugee Rights Under Siege -- July 12

2011-07-05T10:36:00.001+10:00

REFUGEE RIGHTS UNDER SIEGE: WHERE TO NOW?

As shown in the SBS program "Go Back to Where You Came From," the Australian community is deeply divided on refugee rights, and the "Malaysia Solution" is no solution at all. Hear speakers discuss the real alternatives to this country's offshore processing and mandatory detention policies on asylum seekers.

Speakers:

Frederika Steen, independent refugee rights advocate, and former information officer at the Romero Centre (2002-2009).
Jaime Pineda, refugee from Chile, and former Villawood Detention Centre resident.

TUES JULY 12, 7pm.

(Meal available from 6.30pm).

Brisbane Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley

Phone 3831 2644 or 0423 741 734 for more info.

www.greenleft.org.au

Red Cinema: The End of Poverty? July 16th

2011-07-04T17:36:00.002+10:00

7PM SAT JULY 16th

Cheap meal 6.30pm

Brisbane Activist Centre (map)

Global poverty did not just happen. It began with military conquest, slavery and colonization that resulted in the seizure of land, minerals and forced labor. Today, the problem persists because of unfair debt, trade and tax policies -- in other words, wealthy countries taking advantage of poor, developing countries.

Renowned actor and activist, Martin Sheen, narrates The End of Poverty?, a feature-length documentary directed by award-winning director, Philippe Diaz, which explains how today's financial crisis is a direct consequence of these unchallenged policies that have lasted centuries. Consider that 20% of the planet's population uses 80% of its resources and consumes 30% more than the planet can regenerate. At this rate, to maintain our lifestyle means more and more people will sink below the poverty line.

Filmed in the slums of Africa and the barrios of Latin America, The End of Poverty? features expert insights from: Nobel prize winners in Economics, Amartya Sen and Joseph Stiglitz; acclaimed authors Susan George, Eric Toussaint, John Perkins, Chalmers Johnson; university professors William Easterly and Michael Watts; government ministers such as Bolivia's Vice President Alvaro Garcia Linera and the leaders of social movements in Brazil, Venezuela, Kenya and Tanzania . It is produced by Cinema Libre Studio in collaboration with the Robert Schalkenbach Foundation.

Can we really end poverty within our current economic system? Think again.

The End Of Poverty? Trailer from Cinema Libre Studio on Vimeo

Reconciliation Beats Musgrave Park July 9

2011-07-04T11:54:00.002+10:00

RECONciliation BEATS! is a new music festival, live and loud from Musgrave Park Brisbane.

RECONciliation BEATS! 2011 offers a showcase of Australia’s best hip hop and emerging folk, funk and rock acts from both indigenous and non-indigenous artists on the one stage. The lineup includes Urthboy, Jessica Mauboy, Muph & Plutonic, Busby Marou, Indigenous Hip Hop Showcase, Golden Sound, The Medics and many more great acts. The event is supported by triple j and was initiated to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of NAIDOC ( National Aboriginal Islander Day Observance Committee) and will become a new annual music festival for Brisbane with your support.

RECONciliation BEATS! is a collaboration between Musgrave Park Cultural Centre and Colman Ridge Presents to bring young people together through affordable access to the music they love. The emphasis on RECON, borrows from common street slang ( Reckon – yeah!), to emphasize that making friends is only common sense. The festival will also offer food from many Brisbane tribes and free show rides all day.

Event promoter Colman Ridge says “This is the most exciting new music festival formula in a long time and will go on to become one of Brisbane’s great gigs, creating many many important friendships. Get ready for ozoriginal culture, live and loud!

RECONciliation BEATS! Saturday 9th JULY 2011 Musgrave Park Brisbane, $25 OZTIX, proudly supported by triple j !

Rally for Palestine July 9th

2011-07-03T15:16:00.001+10:00

RALLY FOR PALESTINE:Brisbane

International Day of Action against the Israeli apartheid wall

TEAR DOWN THE APARTHEID WALL!
End the occupation of Palestine!
Equal rights for Palestinian citizens of Israel!
Right of return for Palestinian refugees!

RALLY: Sat July 9, 1pm

King George Square, city

Boycott apartheid Israel! Cut all trade ties!

For more information contact Justice for Palestine, Brisbane:

Phone: 0401 586 923, 0400 720 757

Brisbane Socialist Alliance branch meeting : July 5th

2011-07-02T16:51:00.001+10:00

The next BRISBANE BRANCH MEETING OF SOCIALIST ALLIANCE will be held on TUES JULY 5, at 6.30pm, at the Activist Centre, 74B Wickham St, Fortitude Valley. Meal available from 6pm.

Proposed agenda includes:

1. BUILDING THE SOCIALIST MOVEMENT IN AUSTRALIA IN 2011:
Report back on the SA National Council meeting, held June 26.
2. Report on crackdown on Malaysian Socialist Party.
3. Report on movement campaigns.
4. Socialist education report.
5. Activities calendar.

Coal Seam Gas Events this week July5-7

2011-07-01T18:10:00.000+10:00

Monday 5 July 3:30pm March to new Environment Ministers office (Vicki Darling)

Meet at Sandgate Train Station (Rainbow Street Sandgate), wave your banner, placard or sign about CSG or Coal mining as we walk through the streets of Sandgate.

We will be presenting a letter to the Minister and having speeches outside the ministers office.

Tuesday 6 July 6:30pm Kyogle Public Meeting - Kyogle Memorial Hall

Come and learn more about the CSG pipeline that is proposed to run from Casino to Ipswich via Lions Way and the World Heritage listed Border Ranges National Park. A group of us will be creating a documentary of the route in preparation for a bus tour of this pipeline in August.

Wednesday 7 July 8am Queen Street Mall - Anna Bligh will be launching a cookbook.

It would be great if a group of people are present to remind Anna Bligh that the CSG industry are threatening our food security

BERSIH 2 Malaysia solidarity protest July 9

2011-07-01T09:43:00.000+10:00

International: Bersih Global Solidarity Facebook page (containing information and updates)

PROTEST

BRISBANE - JULY 9 -- BRISBANE SQUARE @ 11 AM

Join us to support BERSIH. For democratic, for clean and fair elections, for a better Malaysia.

Our demands:
1. Clean the electoral roll
2. Reform postal ballot
3. Use indelible ink
4. Minimum 21 days campaign period
5. Free and fair access to media
6. Strengthen public institutions
7. Stop corruption
8. Stop dirty politics

Urgent - Speak out in solidarity with Malaysian activists July 1st

2011-06-29T12:40:00.002+10:00

Malaysia, the country PM Gillard wishes to send asylum seekers to face torture and starvation, has conducted a major anti-democratic crackdown on peaceful demonstrators. Urgent global solidarity is needed NOW.

4:30pm - 5:30pm Friday, July 1
Malaysian Consulate
239 George Street
Brisbane

31 activists from Malaysian Socialist Party (PSM), including two juveniles, have been charged under the Section 122 of Penal Code (waging war against the Monarch and trying to revive the communist ideology) and have been remanded for 7 days for practising their freedom of expression.

The group were arrested on June 25 at Kepala Batas, Penang while they were distributing leaflets to inform the public in their campaign Udahlah-Ber...saralah (It is Enough, Time to Retire) national awareness campaign that the PSM recently conducted from 24 to 26 June.

Those found guilty under the repressive Section 122 can be punished with imprisonment for life, or imprisonment not exceeding 20 years and shall also be liable to fines.

The proof the Malaysian police are claiming for these absurd, yet extremely serious, charges are t-shirts and flyers. The t-shirts, found in the luggage compartment, had images of well known historical leaders of the Malaysian Communist Party and others bearing the slogans “Serangan Neo- Liberal Rakyat Terus Sengsara” (Neo-liberal attack the people continue to suffer) and “Anti-Capitalism”. These t-shirts are sold openly and their possession has not been a problem in the past.

Penang deputy police chief Datuk Abdul Rahim Jaafar held a press conference at the Seberang Perai Utara district police headquarters in Bertam on June 26 to display the t-shirts and to condemn the activists call for democratic change. Rahim claimed the PSM flyers contained provocative messages and said, “We view these messages seriously as they may pose a threat to national security.”

The flyers read: “If the people of Arab nations were successful in toppling the autocratic regimes that had ruled for decades, it is not impossible for Malaysians to demand for political changes in our country.” “We have been suffering enough for the past 54 years under one-party rule. It is time for change.”

The extreme reaction of Malaysian police is most likely part of a bigger act of political repression aimed at scaring people away from organising and participating in the BERSIH 2.0 rally planned for July 9 in the capital Kuala Lumpur.

BERSIH’s first public demonstration of November 2007 saw thousands of ordinary Malaysians take to the streets in support of clean and fair elections. The organisers of BERSIH 2.0 say after 3 ½ years the aims of BERSIH continue to be relevant.

The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (better known by its Bahasa Malaysia name “BERSIH”) issued its first joint communiqué on 23 November 2006. At its formation, BERSIH comprised civil society organisations and political parties with the objective of campaigning for clean and fair elections in Malaysia.

Police also seized 600 flyers for the BERSIH 2.0 rally from the PSM activists and Rahim openly branded the rally at the press conference as an attempt to cause trouble. The PSM is only one of many groups supporting and promoting BERSIH 2.0.

The following PSM activists were arrested:

1. Dr, Jeyakumar – PSM’s sole Member of Parliament
2. Choo Chon Kai – PSM International Coordinator
3. Selvam (bus driver)
4. Letchumanan- PSM Sg. Siput Branch Secretary
5. M.Sarasvathy – PSM National Deputy Chairperson
6. Chong Moi
7. Soh Sook Hwa – PSM Central Committtee Member
8. M.Sukumaran – PSM Central Committee Member
9. Kamaladevi
10. Indra
11. Saroja
12. Velayutham
13. Santhana
14. Ravindran - PSM Youth Secretary
15. Raveen Veerasenan
16. Thivya Kumar
17. Packialechumy
18. Jody
19. Wong Mei Yong
20. Nalaiyani
21. Deepa
22. Remy - Tanjung Malim Branch Chairperson
23. Saratbabu - PSM Youth Chairperson
24. Gana - Buntong Branch Chairperson
25. Sivoosamy - Bercham Branch Secretary
26. Shanmugam
27. Subramaniam
28. Arokiammangalam
29. Murugan
30. Tanushia
31. Kavitha

Show your solidarity with these brave fighters for freedom by attending the speak out or by visiting here for more details on how to help.

For further information about the speak out phone 0401 586 923.

Honk for refugees: Sandgate Road

2011-06-28T14:26:00.000+10:00

Outing last Monday -- 20 June -- for refugees.

Place: the afternoon peak hour outside Sandgate High School starting at 3pm (school's out) finishing at 5.15 when it got dark.

Mike Crooks says: I am taking the picture, but the rest of the time held a corflute saying “honk for humanity”. You will be pleased to know that we got over 15% honks or waves and only 12 “fingers”, this from a couple of thousand cars.

Bris. art show on popular and personal struggles

2011-06-26T18:01:00.000+10:00

By Jim McIlroy

Sam Bullock.

Wild International
Art exhibition by Sam Bullock
June 1-July 2
Andrew Baker Gallery
26 Brookes St, Bowen Hills
Brisbane
www.andrew-baker.com

Sam Bullock has a wonderful artistic talent. He is also autistic.

This is the basis of a joke (one among many) we share as friends and comrades in Socialist Alliance, as we do our regular Green Left Weekly stalls together. When God's human designer was creating Sam, he couldn't properly hear what God's orders were: "Did He say autistic or artistic? Oh, never mind, we'll make him both just to be on the safe side."

Sam is a dedicated socialist and a brilliant painter. You can't separate the two aspects of him.

His latest exhibition, Wild International, at the Andrew Baker Gallery in Brisbane, is an explosion of colour and imagination, depicting various events and themes of revolution and people's struggle around the world today and in the past.

The 26 paintings refer to a wide variety of political and social themes, in a most striking and evocative manner.

As well straightforward politics, Sam also refers to personal sexual experiences and cultural issues in some surprising works. The overall effect is absolutely stunning.

The impact of the exhibition is further enhanced by the explanations/captions accompanying the paintings, based on recorded comments by Sam on each work.

For “The Egyptian Revolution (2011)”, Sam said: "We saw millions of people come to Tahrir Square, to overthrow the regime of Hosni Mubarak. Mubarak was a despotic dictator funded by the US ... The US is now losing control of Africa and the Middle East, as the Arab uprisings have spread."

For "Wild International (2011)", which includes the figures of Lenin, Trotsky and Mao, he said: "This is another painting that I did just recently. It was actually inspired by Diego Rivera -- I was looking at his work. It's about world socialism."

Of "Solidarity between Latin America and the Middle East (2010)", Sam said: "That's what the picture of Che and the fist represents -- the Arab world and Latin America bonded together in solidarity and respect over Palestine."

Some other works include: "The Socialist Republic of Afghanistan (2011)," referring to the historic progressive struggle in that country; "Red Star over Nepal (2010)," representing the anti-monarchical revolution there; "Feminism and Socialism (2010)," depicting three women comrades from Resistance and SA; "Freedom Fighters in the Basque Country (2010); "Dare to Struggle, Dare to Win (2011)," showing union activist Ark Tribe and Aboriginal leader Lex Wotton; and "Financial Assistance (2010)," about the US intervention in earthquake-struck Haiti.

Sam also has a number of personalised works, including, "Two Bodies, One Soul (2011)," about a close family friend, who had recently died tragically of cancer; "Wynnum Girl (2011)," whom he had met on a train; and "Self-Portrait in Red and Black (2011)".

This is the seventh exhibition of Sam's work held at the Andrew Baker Gallery.

In all, his body of work represents a unique fusion of revolutionary socialist commitment and artistic expression.www.andrew-baker.com

SA Coal Seam Gas policy

2011-06-26T17:37:00.000+10:00

The gas industry is rapidly increasing its scope in the Australian energy market. Gas is talked up as by some as a clean energy source, or as a “transition fuel”, while we develop renewable energies. But gas is a fossil fuel. Burning it creates carbon emissions.

For a safe climate, we need to cut net emissions almost totally within the next decade. In fact, we then have to move below zero net emissions: to draw down more carbon than we produce. The single biggest contribution to a safe climate future in Australia will come through making the switch to 100% renewables*, with stationary energy currently responsible for 51 per cent of our total emissions.

Australia's approach to stationary energy must acknowledge the science and use societies resources to give us a chance at a safe climate future. This means no new gas.

Particular concerns with mining coal seams for gas - that require policy to address existing projects - include possible water, air and environmental contamination with toxic and radioactive compounds, salt and heavy metals; damage to aquifers and groundwater systems; gas explosions and flammability; sizeable footprint of gas fields and the networks of wellheads, pipelines and roads that fragment the environment; fugitive emissions and truck movements. Coal seam gas mining has also been linked to increased rates of cancer, kidney, heart lung and neurological problems, asthma, eye irritation, endocrine disruption and headaches.

Socialist Alliance campaigns for:

A public inquiry into the health, safety and environmental impacts of coal seam gas mining.
A moratorium on all coal seam gas mining until outcome of inquiry.
A ban on all coal seam gas mining under cities; water catchment, supply and storage areas; farmland; and other environmentally significant areas.
A ban on hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”).
No new coal seam gas mines or power plants; and invest in renewables. Investment in energy must be limited to technologies that can move us to a zero emissions economy, not commit us to other carbon polluting technologies.

* The Zero Carbon Australia 2020 (ZCA2020) Stationary Energy Plan shows that Australia could meet all its energy needs from 100% renewables within 10 years, using technology that is commercially available today. It is the product of collaboration between the University of Melbourne Energy Research Institute and Beyond Zero Emissions (BZE).

[Adopted as interim policy by Socialist Alliance National Council, 26 June, 2011]