Updating DefendersLIVE Format

Dear Listeners,

After some discussion and review of my long-term goals for the show, we've decided to leave the LIVE aspect of the show behind and pre-record. You shouldn't notice anything except a cleaner, better quality program - better sound, better timing and with a couple of consistent new segments. I hope you'll continue to enjoy the show, or actually enjoy it more.

There may be a name shift in future, but the only thing I can assure you is that it will not be called "DefendersPreRecorded".

Looking forward,

Ana

Ashley Williams Trial Postponed

Ashley Williams will NOT be going to trial tomorrow, Wednesday, Nov. 28. At the request of the prosecution, the trial is being postponed. No new date has been set.

According to Paul G., an attorney in the Henrico law firm of Morrissey and Goldman, which now is representing Ms. Williams, the lead prosecutor in the case told the court she had a family emergency involving her mother. It may be months before a new trial is held. The next milestone in the now three-year-old case will likely be a bail hearing, probably within weeks. Mobilizing for that hearing will be critical to Ms. Williams being released from Richmond City Jail, where she has been held for more than a year.

Ms. Williams is charged with second-degree homicide and felony child neglect in the death of her two-year-old son D'Sean, who was severely underweight when he died. Supporters have pointed out that three close relatives also have young sons who are dangerously underweight, raising the possibility that D'Sean was suffering from a genetic disease. At any rate, there is no evidence of Ms. Williams having neglected either D'Sean or any of his three siblings, all of whom are healthy. And yet Richmond's Commonwealth's Attorney's office filed charges against Ms. Williams before D'Sean's autopsy report was even issued. That report stated D'Sean died from malnutrition, but said the cause was “undetermined.” There was no evidence of any neglect.

The decision to postpone the trial was made on Nov. 26, according to King Salim Khalfani, Executive Director of the Virginia State Conference NAACP, who along with other longtime Richmond Black activists has played a key role in building support for Ms. Williams. That decision came just as new support has been building for Ms. Williams.

For weeks now, several of the women's rights activists responsible for turning out large numbers of women and male supporters earlier this year to oppose restrictions on abortion rights have been meeting and discussing the implications for the women's rights movement of the Ashley Williams case, which involves issues of race, class and gender. If women are truly to be free to choose whether or not to have a child, they must have the means to raise a child, which means access to good, affordable health care. A statement by women's rights activists calling for the public to attend the Nov. 28 trial was released to the media Nov. 27. Among the statement's endorsers was the Richmond chapter of the National Organization for Women (NOW).

Information about Ms. Williams' next court hearing will be shared as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, please make sure this case stays in the public consciousness by discussing it with your family, friends, neighbors and co-workers.

Phil Wilayto

Editor, The Virginia Defender
DefendersFJE@hotmail.com

Support Ashley Williams Nov. 28 -- http://www.facebook.com/SupportAshleyWilliamsNov28?fref=tsAshley Williams Court Support- POSTPONED --http://www.facebook.com/events/499412266765534/

Today's show

Dear Listeners,

Our apologies to your EARS! for the rough quality of the recording and abrupt close to the interview. The opportunity for this interview came up quickly as well as preparing it for broadcast. The edited closing did not make it, so you did not get to hear the repeat of information about tonight's event and the speakers coming to Richmond for 2 nights only: tonight at William Byrd Community House and tomorrow night at Elegba Folklore Society.

More information is provided below:

November on DefendersLIVE

TODAY, Nov. 19

Interview (pre-recorded) with Cuban Filmmaker Gloria Rolando and Cuban National Archivist Dr. Tomas Fernandez Robaina to discuss Monday night Virginia premier screening of 1912 - Breaking the Silence, Chapters 1 & 2 about the Cuban government's massacre, also known as Guerrita de Races (the Little Race War), of 6,000 AfroCubans and members of the Independent Party of Color. Presented by Lee C. Robinson (African Awareness Association) and Roberto Zurbano is the editor/publisher of "Casa de las Americas," a Havana-based cultural institution that publishes the works of writers, artists, musicians, and playwrights as well as scholars of literature, the arts, and social sciences in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Historic Note: This program will also welcome Special Guest Speaker: Patricia L. Pego Guerra, First Secretary, Cuban Interests Section to Washington, DC - permitted for the first time to travel out of the DC area.

Film and Discussion Program TONIGHT, 11/19: at William Byrd Community House 7-9pm. Tickets $10 at Eventbrite or at the door.

2nd Program on Tuesday night, 11/20: at Elegba Folklore Society, 6-9pm. Tickets $10 at Eventbrite or at the door.

Much more information about this story, the film, and the US tour of this delegation is available at http://afrocubaweb.com/cubanscholarsvisitus.htm.

Nov. 26: Family and Activists in Defense of Ashley Williams

White and Black Women are coming together to demonstrate solidarity and support for a young African American mother being driven into prison by a system more interested in scapegoating than in knowing the truth being sought in the death of her youngest child. Trial date: Nov. 

Dec. 3: Afro-Columbian Human Rights Campaign (ACHRC)

Pre-recorded interview with Charo Minas-Rojas, U.S. host of Francia Marques, an Afro-Colombian community leader from La Toma, a community of artisanal miners settled in 1636 by Africans, who spoke at the School of the America’s annual vigil at Fort Benning, Georgia, during the weekend of Nov. 16-18.

Learn more in English: www.afrocolombianhr.org

Learn more in Spanish: www.renacientes.org

Today on DefendersLIVE

11/12: Queen Zakia Shabazz (by live phone interview) on Mold Regulation in Virginia
11/15: Saunter, Partnership for Smarter Growth - see www.psgrichmond.org
11/22: Thanksgiving Feast
11/28: Ashley Williams' Trial: at John Marshall Courts Building. Details and Facebook event coming soon.

Reporting LIVE from Frankenstorm SANDY:

Updates & Announcements from The Virginia Defender – Oct. 28, 2012 

About that storm  … Looks like coastal and Central Virginia will get hit pretty hard from Hurricane Sandy. So before we go to the Announcements, here's some information from the City of Richmond:

The City has designated two Emergency Relief Shelters for city residents if they expect to be displaced by the effects of Hurricane Sandy. Major power outages have been predicted throughout this weather event, and total rainfall is expected to reach 5 to 8 inches.

Two shelters are presently open and operating: Linwood Holton Elementary School on the Northside (1600 West Laburnum Ave.)  and J. H. Blackwell Elementary on the Southside (1600 Everett Street). GRTC is providing transportation to the emergency relief shelters as needed. Residents needing transportation to the shelters should look for the buses marked “Special” on the following routes:

     Bus 1: Chimborazo going west to 21st Street to Princess Anne Ave. to Whitcomb Street to Ford Ave. back to Mechanicsville Tnpk. to Fairfield Way to 17th Street to Broad and then west to Malvern and turn right to Laburnum Ave. to Linwood Holton School.

     Bus 2: Harrison Street and Main Street to Colorado Avenue to Meadow Street to Idlewood Ave. to Robinson to Main to Nansemond to Cary Street east on Cary Street to McCloy Street to Douglasdale Road to the Boulevard to Linwood Holton School.

     Bus 3: Jeff Davis Hgwy. and Wamsley Boulevard to Semmes Ave. left to Forest Hill Ave. to Hug. School (no stop at Wall Mart) turn around and go back down Forest Hill Ave. to Semmes Ave. to Commerce Road to Maury Street to Blackwell School

     Bus 4: Hull Street west to Chippenham Parkway to Midlothian Tnpk. to Hull Street to 16th Street to Blackwell School.

     Additionally, GRTC Route #74 Oak Grove will take residents to the Southside Shelter (Blackwell).  The Oak Grove bus will be running its regular route, but residents traveling to the shelter may identify themselves, and will not be charged a fee.

Mayor Dwight Jones has declared a local state of emergency for the city of Richmond. According to the mayor, “It is vitally important that residents prepare for a prolonged weather event where we will likely see extended power outages. Also, if you think you are gong to be in need of emergency shelter, we encourage you to travel to the shelter sooner rather than later, so that you will not be traveling to the shelters in dangerous weather.”

For residents with medical needs, it is strongly advised that you act now to stock medicines and medical supplies. If you take medicine or use a medical treatment on a daily basis, be sure you have enough on hand to last at least a week. This includes oxygen. If you use oxygen please contact your supplier and request to have extra bottles delivered to you. Do not depend on emergency responders to assist you with these types of supplies. Additionally, if you anticipate needing assistance during a disaster, make a plan for getting assistance from family, friends or others who can help you. As part of your preparation, teach them how to operate your equipment or administer medications in case of an emergency.

In addition:

• The Freedom House Conrad Center will serve as a homeless shelter beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday, October 27 through 6:30 p.m., Monday, October 29. The Conrad Center is located at 1400 Oliver Hill Way.....
• Homeless persons needing shelter tonight should go to Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church, 14 West Duval Street. The shelter opens at 7 p.m. tonight and closes the tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. Food will not be provided.
• All residents are encouraged to treat this storm seriously by taking precautions now in preparation for any impact from this hurricane. Residents should go to www.RichmondGov.com for a detailed list of storm precautions.
• Residents are strongly advised to stay tuned to local TV and radio stations for the most current storm information. In the event your home loses electrical power, plan to have a battery-powered and/or hand-crank radio and extra batteries ready so that you can access weather information and instructions from officials.
• For up-to-date information and additional instructions from the city of Richmond during the storm, please visit www.Richmondgov.com, follow the City on Twitter @CityRichmondVA, and stay tuned to local radio and television stations.

.............................................................................................................................................

 Thursday, Nov. 1 – AUTUMN ISSUE OF THE VIRGINIA DEFENDER  – on the streets and in the neighborhoods. And online at: www.DefendersFJE.org. Stories on the Ashley Williams case, the new threat to put a ballpark in historic Shockoe Bottom and a major report on conditions in the Richmond City Jail. Plus, what the U.S. military is trying to do in West Africa. Want to help get this information out to the community? Contact the Defender to volunteer to help distribute the paper. Call 804-644-5834 or email DefendersFJE@hotmail.com.

 Monday, Nov. 5 - Working People's Movements Forum  – "Join Students for a Democratic Society for an educational panel on working class movements. Speakers include representatives of local labor unions, community organizations, and more. A variety of issues relating to working Americans will be discussed, including public transportation, jobs, racism, and the importance of having a working people's movement. We are all workers, and we are all in this together. The event is from 7pm to 8:30pm on Monday, November 5th in the VCU Student Commons Theater (907 Floyd Avenue). It is free and open to the public."

 Thursday, Nov. 8 – Public Forum on Housing in Segregation  – HOME and the Virginia Poverty Law Center Invite you to join them for “Residential Segregation: A Community Conversation” - 6:30 p.m., University of Richmond Downtown, Gallery Space, 626 E. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219. Come hear panelists discuss Richmond's history of residential segregation, current segregation in the city, and 
how the community can work toward a more integrated city. Dr. Shawn Utsey, Chair of VCU's African American Studies; The Reverend Ben Campbell of Richmond Hill; Dr. John V. Moeser, UR's Bonner Center of Civic Engagement - moderated by Ana Edwards, Manager of Library Programs  & Byrd House Market at William Byrd Community House. Seating is Limited. Please RSVP: The Future of Richmond's Past - 200 S. Third Street, Richmond, VA 23219. Contact: Carolyn Martin · Office: 804-289-8088 · Fax: 804-287-6540 · Email: cmartin@richmond.edu - www.futureofrichmondspast.org

 Sat., Nov. 10 – Peace Center Auction and Dinner – The Richmond Peace Education Center will hold its annual fundraising auction and dinner on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2012, beginning at 6 p.m. This year’s event will again be held atop the Troutman Sanders Building, 1001 Haxall Point, overlooking the James River. During the evening, Lori Haas and Andrew Goddard will be recognized as Richmond’s 2012 Peacemaker of the Year; our 2012 Peace Essay winners will also be recognized. Items available in the live and silent auctions include vacation getaways; ethnic dinners for four; gift certificates from local restaurants and other businesses; art and craft objects; clothing and jewelry; books by local authors; home-made treats and much more. Tickets to the event are $30 in advance; $35 at the door.  Reservations for children 5-12 are available for $15. Tickets are available by calling the Peace Center at 232-1002, emailing tickets@rpec.org, or by credit card at www.rpec.org.  Last year’s event sold out, so early reservations are highly recommended. Tickets will be sold at the door, but only if space is available. As always, proceeds from the auction will support the programs of the Peace Center, including the Richmond Youth Peace Project, Racial Justice in Richmond workshops, public forums and conflict resolution training for adults and young people. For more information:  Richmond Peace Education Center, 232-1002, rpec@rpec.org.

 Sat., Nov. 17 – Cooking as a 2nd Language  – “West African cuisine from Senegal!! Wolof-central! Jolof-central! Home of Yassa and Thiebu Jen and Maffe and Curry and Oxtails - OH so GOOD. Chef Boubacar will surprise us on Nov. 17 - daring to share his way of cooking at least two of these fabulous entrees. Register at EatGoodGrowGreat.blogspot.com! This cooking class only $10. William Byrd Community House – Nutrition Room, 224 S. Cherry St., Richmond. www.wbch.org / 804.643.2717, ext. 306."

 Thurs., Nov. 22 – Thanksgiving Feast  – The 2012 Giving Heart Community Thanksgiving Feast will be held Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from 11 am to 2 pm. ALL ARE INVITED! From Giving Heart: “Become a donor.  Interested in making "in kind" donations? … We'd love to accept your offerings. Help to provide for our cooking needs and to offer items for our food bags that are given to many of the guests by coming out to our annual Sam's Club (Short Pump) food and toiletry collection event from November 16th to November 18th. Take up a collection within your family, neighborhood, club, church, school or business. Do you like craft or floral projects?  Make a few centerpieces to grace some of our tables. Gather toiletries and other items for our distribution room. Information: http://thegivingheart.org/thanksgivingfeast.html

 Wed., Nov. 28 – ATTEND THE TRIAL OF ASHLEY WILLIAMS

Ashley Williams is charged with second-degree murder and felony child neglect in the tragic death of her 2-year-old son D'Sean. When her son died, he weighed just 14 pounds – about half of what is normal for a child that age. Without a shred of evidence, Richmond's Commonwealth Attorney's office is claiming that Ms. Williams neglected her child and basically allowed him to starve to death. Medical experts who have looked into this case have suggested that D'Sean likely suffered from DiGeorge Syndrome, a genetic disease that can prevent the victim from properly processing food. The state autopsy performed on D'Sean reported he had both food and liquid in his system, and yet he was severely malnourished. Bolstering this theory is the fact that two of Ms. Williams' sisters and a niece also have young sons who are dangerously underweight. But the private doctors of those boys have prescribed life-saving treatment. In contrast, Ms. Williams's Medicaid-appointed doctor did not suggest any such treatment. Ms. Williams was pressured by a court-appointed attorney to plead guilty to the lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter – a lesser charge, but still one that carried a long prison sentence. Today she would be in a state prison if it had not been for the timely intervention of the Virginia state NAACP, former Richmond City Councilman Sa'ad El-Amin and support from the larger community, which has packed the courtroom for each of Ms. Williams' court hearings. In the words of one of her sisters, “The only thing Ashley is guilty of is being young, poor, uneducated and following the advice of people who she thought knew what they were doing.” Ms. Williams has been held in the Richmond City Jail since November 2011. The medical, Social Services and legal systems have all utterly failed her. Now they are trying to scapegoat her for those very failures. Community support has so far kept her from prison. Let's join together one more time to help her win her freedom. Please attend Ashley Williams' trial on 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, Courtroom 307 in the John Marshall Courts Building, 400 N. 9th St., Richmond, VA 23219.

 Wed., Dec. 12 – SAVE THE DATE!  – 12/12/12 Fund-Raising Holiday Party for The Virginia Defender. Details to be announced. This will be the last time in nearly 90 years – until Jan. 1, 2101 – when the month, day and year will all be represented by the same numerals: 12/12/12. Let's mark this numerical occasion by raising some numbers so the Defender can start 2013 on a solid financial basis.

 New Activists Events Calendar  – A Richmond activist has launched an online calendar to announce local news and opportunities for local action. Check it out at: http://active-rva.tumblr.com/calendar.

DefendersLIVE today: A Chat about Public Education

Chicago Teachers' Strike
Chicago's teachers have created a true 'paradigm shift'... National Education Association weights in with 'lessons' of the Chicago Teachers Strike of 2012, SubstanceNews.Net

New York City Public Education Challenge
Getting Out from Under: A Human Rights Alternative to the Corporate Model of Public Education in NYC
Independent Commission on Public Education, icopenyc.org 

On The Education of Black American Children
www.blackeducationnow.org

The ideology undergirding the charter school movement has been sharply analyzed via: http://www.bnyee.org/charterschoolwars.htm

Richmond Public Schools & School Board Elections

For information about the Richmond School Board, click here, then Administration, then School Board

Oct. 7 Public Forum: US Hands Off Syria, Iran & Mali

On the 11th ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. WAR ON AFGHANISTAN,
you are invited to a

PUBLIC FORUM:

“U.S. HANDS OFF SYRIA, IRAN & MALI!

We need JOBS not WAR!"

6:30 PM – SUNDAY – OCT. 7

William Byrd Community House – 224 So. Cherry St., Richmond
(2 ½ blocks south of West Cary & 3 blocks west of So. Belvidere)

ALSO: Updates on the Ashley Williams case, support for inmates in the Richmond City Jail & the fight to keep a ballpark out of Shockoe Bottom

BEHIND THE HEADLINES: THE TRUTH ABOUT U.S. DESIGNS ON SYRIA & IRAN
An analysis of the developing crises by: PHIL WILAYTO – Editor, The Virginia Defender; author, “In Defense of Iran: Notes from a U.S. Peace Delegation's Journey through the Islamic Republic”

WHAT'S BEHIND THE UNREST IN MALI?
An analysis of the recent coup, civil war & the threat of U.S.-backed military intervention in Mali by: ANA EDWARDS – Host, DefendersLIVE! weekly radio program; Chair, Sacred Ground Historical Reclamation Project

& A SPECIAL REPORT on the Sept. 25 meeting of U.S. peace & social justice activists in New York City with IRANIAN PRESIDENT MAHMOUD AHMADINEJAD by:KWAME BINTA – Member, Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality; District 3 Commissioner, UNIA-ACL; Regional Representative, November Coalition

PLUS: A SHOWING OF THE AWARD-WINNING FILM, “BAM 6.6”
This acclaimed documentary explores the humanity of the Iranian people through the prism of the devastating 2003 earthquake that struck the ancient town of Bam in southeastern Iran. Through the experiences of two young American tourists, one of whom is a Jewish woman, viewers witness how a natural disaster can overcome religious and political barriers, dispel stereotypes and unite disparate members of the
human family.

This event is part of a NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION called by the UNITED NATIONAL ANTIWAR COALITION (UNAC)

FREE – LIGHT REFRESHMENTS – CHILDREN WELCOME – DONATIONS APPRECIATED

Sponsored by:
THE VIRGINIA DEFENDER newspaper & the DefendersLIVE! radio program
PO Box 23202, Richmond, VA 23223 – Ph: 804.644.5834 – Fax: 804.332.5225
– Email: DefendersFJE@hotmail.com

Today on DefendersLIVE: Freedom For Birth

The Interview

Freedom for Birth is a documentary about the arrest and trial of a Hungarian midwife that serves as an introduction to the world of midwifery and women's reproductive rights to give birth as they see fit. 
Jessica Jordan (nurse midwife of the Complete Care Birthing Center) and Abby Dini (Program Manager for Complete Care Center for Women) discuss the film in the contexts of the full range of women's rights, especially the right to determine when and how to give birth,  the factors that affect these decisions, and how the medical mainstream has developed a treatment culture - health decision-making culture based on fear rather than the empowerment that it should offer.

Watch a Trailer

One World Birth

Screenings 

Thursday September 20 at VCU Commons Theatre (sponosred by Birth Matters Virginia)
Saturday September 22 at Chippenham Hospital (sponsored by Complete Care Birthing Center)

Upcoming Actions and Events

Sept. 13 – Sentencing hearing for Ashley Williams – 10 am, Courtroom 311, John Marshall Court Building, 400 N. 9th St., downtown Richmond. Ashley Williams will go to trial on Nov. 30 on charges connected with the tragic death of her 2-year-old son D'Sean. Richmond's Commonwealth's Attorney's office is trying to put her away for many years for supposedly allowing D'Sean to starve to death. There is no evidence for this, but there is evidence that D'Sean suffered from an undiagnosed genetic disease that can prevent the body from processing food. Three of D'Sean's close relatives exhibit signs of the same disease. Mass community support has so far kept the courts from railroading Ms. Williams, but we can't let up in this struggle. The sentencing hearing on Sept. 13 deals with a separate case. On July 17, Ms. Williams pleaded guilty to an unrelated charge, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. At the time of her arrest on that charge, she had lost her son D'Sean, then her other three children were taken away by Social Services, she had lost her job because of the publicity around her homicide and neglect charges and her family had had to pay out $8,000 in bond money. She was depressed and broke, without a way to earn a living. We need to turn out for this sentencing hearing so that the court knows her supporters have not abandoned her.

Fri., Sept. 14 – Protest TRAP – 7:30 a.m. (yes, a.m.), 9960 Mayland Drive, Richmond. From the organizers: “We call for 500+ to line the walkway at the Perimeter Center where the Board of Health is mtg to re-address and re-vote on permanent regulations that unfairly target abortion providers (TRAP). The Attorney General is demanding regulations be written in such a way they will shut down most clinics in VA., continuing his War on Women. The outside protest will be followed by an opportunity to speak out to the Board in their meeting. *Signs, Banners, T-Shirts, All Welcome!*” Information:http://www.facebook.com/events/160915500711642/

Mon., Sept. 17 - DefendersLIVE Interview with Richmond author Gigi Amateau about her new book, "Come August, Come Freedom: The Bellows, The Gallows, The Black General Gabriel", available in bookstores Sept. 12. Click here to see a trailer.

Thu., Sept. 20 - Book Launch: "Come August, Come Freedom: The Bellows, The Gallows, The Black General Gabriel" by Gigi Amateau, at the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, 6:30-8:30 pm. Click here for more information.

Sat., Sept. 22 – Malian Independence Day Celebration – 6-8 p.m., at the Virginia Commonwealth University Commons. From te organizers: “You are invited to join us on Saturday September 22, 2012 for VFOM's annual celebration of Mali Independence Day featuring a special presentation by the Malian Ambassador to the US, M. Almaamoun Baba Lamine KEITA, on the state of the crisis in Mali, with food by Goree African Restaurant and centers of information in French and English covering the history of Mali, VFOM, travel programs, Women's issues, annual cultural festivals... and a concert of world reknowned, traditional and innovative Malian musician Cheick Hamala DIABATE and his band! You will not want to miss this! SAVE THE DATE for this annual meeting (very brief) and celebration of Mali's independence from colonial rule. Given the current state of affairs this will be an opportunity to learn and celebrate the achievements and struggles of this West African nation, and the larger context in which it is happening. That, with great music and great food, reports of VFOM's work over the last year, and greetings from special guests and friends alike.” Information at: http://vafriendsofmali.org/

Sat., Sun., Oct. 6-7 – Second Street Festival – From the organizers: “... one of the Mid-Atlantic's largest street festivals. Nearly 50,000 people visit historic Jackson Ward to reminisce about the days when 2nd Street was the heart and soul of Richmond's African American community. Attendees enjoy jazz, R&B, fashion shows, gospel music, the children’s area and performances by community groups on four stages. They also enjoy the marketplace, delicious food and reuniting with family, friends, classmates and acquaintances.” Sponsored (unfortunately) by Altria (cancer-causing cigarettes) and Dominion (high electric bills and dangerous nuclear power plants). Information at: http://www.venturerichmond.com

Sun., Oct. 7 – Public Forum: “U.S. HANDS OFF SYRIA, IRAN & MALI! We need JOBS not WAR!" – Is the U.S. preparing to attack Syria & Iran? Is it preparing to intervene in the West African country of Mali? Can we stand by as the lives of millions more people are put at risk? If there's no money for a public jobs program, how is there money for more wars? What's really behind the developing crises, and what can we do about it? On the 11th ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. WAR ON AFGHANISTAN, you are invited to a PUBLIC FORUM to address these and other issues. With a special showing of the award-winning documentary “BAM 6.6.” 6:30 p.m., William Byrd Community House, 224 So. Cherry St. (2 ½ blocks south of West Cary & 3 blocks west of So. Belvidere), Richmond, Virginia. Free, donations appreciated. Children welcome. Light refreshments. Sponsored by The Virginia Defendernewspaper and the DefendersLIVE! radio program. Information: http://www.facebook.com/events/458022344238368/

Thurs., Oct. 18 – Autumn issue of The Virginia Defender – Look for it at your local barber shop, beauty parlor, church, mosque, corner grocery store and all branches of the Richmond Public Library. Online at www.DefendersFJE.org.

To help support the work of The Virginia Defender, please send a check or money order payable to “Virginia Defender” to: “Defender, PO Box 23202, Richmond, VA 23223.” Or contribute through PayPal at www.DefendersFJE.org.

DefendersLIVE in a Box

WRIR.org  97.3 LP FM

Since 2005

Update on Mali and visit from Mayor of Segou

View Larger Map

Map of the major cities of Mali, especially related to the coup d'etat in the capital city Bamako, the rebellion in the north, and Richmond's sister city, Segou. The RN6 is called the "Main Road" and essentially follows the Niger River's route southwest to northeast. You use the buttons on the map to zoom in, out and move in any direction to see more.

SNAP at Farmers Markets

Today on DefendersLIVE we are rebroadcasting a show from June 13, 2011 in which I announced that farmers markets around Richmond were going to be able to accept SNAP benefits; in fact nearly 40 farmers markets and farm stands around the state gained the funding to make this available.

Chock full of good information and points of departure about food, there are also a few calendar items that are NO LONGER VALID - so please contact the Elegba Folklore Society about their mid-August Down Home Family Reunion and the Black History Museum and Cultural Center about their current exhibit, "Shackles" which runs through August 30, 2012.

Its interesting to listen to my old shows again. In this one I set up the idea that our "old ways of eating" are not so good for us anymore. I KNOW what I meant, but as a listener suddenly I heard the vagueness in the reference. The "old ways" I was referring to is the 20th century system of industrializing food into commodities. While the mass production of foods coupled with the exponential capacity to transport that food - meant that an amazing variety of foods became available to far more people around the country, it also meant the loss of market for our local food producers. And, as discussed, longer term problems evolved - additives impact on health, etc.

Did you know SNAP covers seeds and plants for growing your own food too?

As excited as we have been about the ability to use SNAP benefits at farmers markets, and as integral as this should be to the farmers market framework, this is not going to address the issue of Hunger and Food Deserts alone. Community Gardens, farm stands, neighborhoods farming together... So much that is so local to our daily lives that we can actually make a difference. There'd be no Whole Foods if corporation didn't see the profit in it. So, clearly "we're" already buying enough organic, natural, local and nutrient dense foods that they see the BIG FAT $$$ rolling in. 


So, what if we decided to take control of feeding ourselves? Then comes the chat about entitlement versus letting the private sector handle everything... And did I mention the impact of subsidies on our farmers and farmers in far countries like Mali whose cotton can't be sold for hardly anything because they can't compete with subsidized cotton on the global market? Too bad you say??? Then think about the impact on migration and immigration. People NEEDING to leave where they've been in order to sustain themselves somewhere. Its as old as people, people!


And yet, don't we always have to remember WHY it matters? Yes. It is food after all. We have to have food. And it should never have be deserved. Getting food based on merit? Sounds like a human right violation to me. A moral inambiguity of the highest order. And besides who gets to decide? Me?

Cooling Shelter Information

City cooling shelters are opened when the temperature and/or heat index reaches or exceeds 95 degrees. 

For more information regarding cooling services, residents can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office at (804) 646-7046. Elderly residents with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit at (804) 646-0501. In the event of a heat related emergency, please call 9-1-1.

All residents should take measures to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the heat during the day.

Public announcements (tv, radio and newspaper) are published when cooling shelters are to be opened. Always double-check!
 
City cooling shelters are opened when the temperature and/or heat index reaches or exceeds 95 degrees. Typically city cooling shelters will open from Noon to 5 p.m.during the week and are located at:

• Southside Community Services Center, 4100 Hull Street Road
• Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street
• East District Center, 701 North 25th Street 

Shelters were open last weekend (July 6-8)  from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., located at:

• Southside Community Services Center, 4100 Hull Street Road
• Department of Social Services, 900 East Marshall Street

Bottled water will be available, but food will not be provided. Pets, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed.

For more information regarding cooling services, residents can contact the Department of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office at (804) 646-7046. Elderly residents with heat related issues can contact the Adult Protective Service Unit at (804) 646-0501. In the event of a heat related emergency, please call 9-1-1.

DefendersLIVE, weekly on WRIR 97.3 FM, Monday at Noon, live streamed at WRIR.org.

Today on DefendersLIVE

Back in the seat of the Live Room Studio B, your host will chat about the week's issues. On her mind today: the myriad of terms born every 20 years or so to justify displacement of poor people from their homes, even a reach back to when that meant displacement of our primal homes (our bodies). If we don't have a collective right to self-determination of our oppressed bodies (aka human rights) what have we?

and in case you didn't know...

DefendersLIVE airs Mondays at noon on WRIR 97.3 LP FM radio in Richmond and online at WRIR.org. 

DefendersLIVE receives African Community Network (ACN) Community Leadership Award in recognition for outstanding leadership an dedication in the African Community. Presented on Sat., June 2, 2012, host Ana Edwards was one of 19 individuals and organizations recognized during the African immigrant support network's first annual fundraising dinner at the Virginia Home for Boys and Girls. The award acknowledged the ACN Interview Series of 2010 and 2011 during which representatives of many of the ACN's member nations were guests of DefendersLIVE in order to bring brief introductions of these African nations, featuring geographic, cultural, historical and contemporary dynamics, to Richmond listeners.

Presented by the ACN, Humanity Helping Sudan and Global Outreach for Humanity Foundation, more than 120 people attended the 4 hour program of live music and dance, storytelling, food, fashion and presentations including from featured speaker Reginald Gordon, executive director of the American Red Cross, Richmond Chapter. It was through the facilitation of Mr. Gordon and former Red Cross staffer Peter Von Der Lippe that the ACN was first formed to facilitate the agency's multicultural emergency preparedness outreach. 

To see pictures and learn more about the African Community Network visit 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/African-Community-Network-ACN/115815761766878

Today on DefendersLIVE

Secrets of Mary Bowser - Part 2

Part 2 of 2-part interview with Lois Leveen, author of "The Secrets of Mary Bowser"- Continuing the conversation about Mary Bowser's work with Elizabeth Van Lew as a Civil War Union spy in the White House of the Confederacy. Why would an educated, free Black woman in Philadelphia risk all to return to the city of her birth, and her enslavement, to do this work? How is a culture of secret-keeping a key to survival while enslaved as well as in espionage... Why symbolic truth is as important for the oppressed as it is for the oppressor...

Author Lois Leveen at book-signing...
Tune in at 12 noon - live streamed at WRIR.org or on your radio at 97.3 FM (LP).

Click on Listen above for links to the 2-part interview.

Emergency Court Watch: All Out for Ashley Williams, Tues. June 19 at 3pm

Attention Defenders & Friends!!

The Coalition for Justice has just learned that Judge Richard Taylor has scheduled the sentencing hearing for Ashley Williams. for tomorrow, June 19, 2012, at 3pm, at the John Marshall Courts Building, 400 N. 9th Street. We do not know the room number, but it will be posted in the lobby.

It is critical that everyone who can attend this hearing.
We must speak out against this miscarriage of justice!

Supporters include the Coalition for Justice, VA NAACP, Defenders, and Alliance for Progressive Values.
For background on the case, visit DefendersFJE.org

Today on DefendersLIVE: part 1 of 2 part interview with Lois Leveen, author of "The Secrets of Mary Bowser"- A conversation about this historical novel based on the limited historical record available about her work with Elizabeth Van Lew as a Civil War Union spy in the White House of the Confederacy providing information to the Union Army from the desk of Jefferson Davis... Why would an educated free Black woman in Philadelphia risk all to return to the city of her birth, and her enslavement, to do this work?

Tune in at 12 noon - live streamed at WRIR.org or on your radio at 97.3 FM (LP). More on DefendersLIVE at defendersliveradio.blogspot.com

Info From Today's Show

ACTION ALERT!

The court hearing we've been waiting for in the Ashley Williams case is scheduled for 11 am, Wednesday, June 13, Room 302, John Marshall Courts Building, 400 N. 9th St. in downtown Richmond. The courthouse is just north of East Marshall St., behind City Hall. If you're driving, come a little early, because parking is tight.

At this hearing, Judge Margaret Spencer is to decide on the only motion now before the court: whether Ms. Williams will be granted her request to be represented by attorney Pauline Ewald. If Judge Spencer rules against Ms. Williams, the case will go back to Judge Richard Taylor, for sentencing. There will be no trial. Ms. Williams is facing up to 45 years for a crime she did not commit.

We have got to pack the courtroom on Wednesday. Please recommit to being there and bringing as many people as you can. It is now obvious that the court system and most media would like to keep this case as quiet as possible. It's our job to make sure the public is aware of it.

For more information on the case, please go to www.DefendersFJE.org to read the statement that has been released by the Coalition for Justice, the Virginia NAACP, the Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality and the Alliance for Progressive Values. Also, see the Defenders news story posted below that.

The Defenders also are urging everyone to support the courageous Virginia prisoners carrying out a hunger strike at the notorious Red Onion State prison. (See http://virginiaprisonstrike.blogspot.com/)

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO IS FOLLOWING BOTH THESE IMPORTANT STRUGGLES.

UPDATE ON THE ASHLEY WILLIAMS CASE – The court hearing to decide on Ms. Williams' request to be represented by attorney Pauline Ewald will NOT take place this Monday, June 4. What will happen Monday – by email – will be deciding the DATE for the court hearing. We should know that date by Monday afternoon, and will post and send out the information.

An explanation: A June 4 hearing is listed on the Virginia Courts Case Information website (http://ping.fm/DiYZP), the standard site reporters use to find out the progress of cases. But Ms. Ewald has told us that an actual hearing will not take place on that day. There has been confusion about hearings in the past, so, just to double-check, I stopped by the court clerk's office yesterday, and was told the same thing.

Hopefully, everyone who had planned to attend a June 4 hearing will be able to make the new date. If Ms. Williams is granted her request, Ms. Ewald will then ask the court to allow Ms. Williams to withdraw her guilty plea and let the case go to trial, under a new judge. If Ms. Williams is denied her right to be represented by the counsel of her choice, the case will go back to Judge Richard Taylor – not for a trial, but for sentencing. Ms. Williams is facing up to 45 years in prison for a crime she did not commit, so a big turnout for the court hearing will be crucial to prevent a major miscarriage of justice.

Look for a public statement to be jointly issued soon by the state NAACP, the Defenders and the Coalition for Justice, a group of longtime Richmond Black activists that is playing the leading role in supporting Ms. Williams right to a fair trial.

FOR THE BACKGROUND ON THIS CASE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.DEFENDERSFJE.ORG.

The Defenders also are urging everyone to support the courageous Virginia prisoners carrying out a hunger strike at the notorious Red Onion State prison. (See http://ping.fm/24TXg)

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO IS FOLLOWING BOTH THESE IMPORTANT STRUGGLES.

New contact email for DefendersLIVE radio

The team at DefendersLIVE finally decided to have our own email address. Please use it for any show related inquiries or productive comments:

DefendersLiveHost@gmail.com

(not case sensitive)

DefendersLIVE May 28:
On Tuesday, May 22, a group of prisoners held in Virginia's notorious Red Onion Super-Max prison began a hunger strike to demand that the Virginia Department of Corrections (DOC) follow its own regulations in regard to meals, sanitation, isolation, safety and procedures for processing prisoner grievances. To support these courageous prisoners, a press conference was held Wed., May 23 at 11 a.m. outside DOC headquarters in Richmond, sponsored by the Richmond chapter of SPARC (Supporting Prisoners and Advocating for Radical Change). (See: http://ping.fm/C1S0U). SPARC members Isis Hodari, Adam Ryan and Joshua DePaolis provided an update and background on this struggle and SPARC's goals for radical change in our nation's prison industrial system.

LINKS
virginiaprisonstrike.blogspot.com
sparcva.wordpress.com

EVENTS
Solidarity with Red Onion State Prison Hunger Strikers - Letter-Writing Party - http://ping.fm/cdVva
Vigil in Solidarity with Hunger Strikers - http://ping.fm/WmJ3t

TODAY on DefendersLIVE: MONEY FOR JOBS AND HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION ...NOT FOR WARS:

1. Ashley Williams update; CORRECT HEARING DATE: June 4th not 6th
2. Court date for capital step protesters: May 25
3. Mayor's Poverty Commission hearings in Gilpin Court tonight and Hull St., Wednesday at Southside community center
4. School Rezoning hearings 6:30 May 29 at Geo Wythe HS and 31 at John Marshall HS. School Brd. Meeting June 18 7pm at City Hall
5. June 15: TRAP hearing in Glen Allen Dept of Health
6. Recent NATO & G8 protests
97.3 lp fm
LIVE at www.wrir.org

DefendersLIVE today: Part 2 of the Interview with Naseem Rakha, journalist and author of The Crying Tree, a novel about the death penalty and its impact on the victim, the workers, the guilty, and its essential impotence as a crime prevention tool in our society. Noon on 97.3 LP FM and live streamed on www.WRIR.org.

Part 2 with Naseem Rakha posted

Part 2 of the interview with Naseem Rakha, journalist and author of The Crying Tree, has now been posted. Click on the Listen tab above.

Part 1 will be rebroadcast (online at wrir.org only) at 11am and 2pm and the podcast will be posted on this blog by Wednesday.

Thanks for your patience.
- Ana

Come Tell How Slavery and Emancipation Should be Remembered.

Elegba Folklore Society
Richmond, VA 23219

http://ping.fm/V3AuS

Former U.S. Army Col. and now Peace Activist
ANN WRIGHT to speak May 5 in Richmond

The Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality will host a talk by noted peace activist Ann Wright on Saturday, May 5, 7 pm, at the William Byrd Community House, 224 So. Cherry St., Richmond, Va.
Ann Wright is a former U.S. Army colonel who publicly resigned from the military over her opposition to the 2003 invasion of Iraq. She has since become an internationally known anti-war activist and speaker. She is the co-author of “Dissent: Voices of Conscience; Government Insiders Speak Out Against the War in Iraq,” which includes a forward by Daniel Ellsberg of Pentagon Papers fame.
Ms. Wright will speak on U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East and the human and economic cost of U.S. wars and occupations on our communities here at home. Her presentation will be preceded by reports on community efforts to support Ashley Williams, a young Richmonder wrongfully convicted in connection with the tragic death of her two-year-old son; Richmond's celebration of International Workers Day (May Day); and recent events in the West African country of Mali.
The meeting is free and open to the public. Children are welcome. Donations to help cover costs are appreciated.
The Richmond event is part of a four-city tour by Ann Wright. Other stops will be in Charlottesville on May 3, Roanoke on May 4 and Hampton Roads on May 6. For more information, call the Defenders at 804-644-5834, e-mail DefendersFJE@hotmail.com or log onto www.DefendersFJE.org or www.DefendersFJE.blogspot.com.


Biography

Ann Wright, a former U.S. Army colonel and decorated State Department official, is now a leading anti-war activist, author and outspoken opponent of U.S. wars and occupations.
In 1987, Col. Wright joined the Foreign Service and served as a Deputy Ambassador in Micronesia, Mongolia and in Sierra Leone, where she received the State Department’s Award for Heroism for her actions during the evacuation of 2,500 people during Sierra Leone's civil war. In December 2001, she helped reopen the U.S. embassy in Afghanistan. Her other overseas assignments included Somalia, Kyrgyzstan, Grenada and Nicaragua.
While on assignment in Sierra Leone, she assisted in bringing a Gullah family from South Carolina to Sierra Leone to their African village in a trip documented in the film “The Language You Cry In.” She also helped with the homecoming to Sierra Leone of a family of direct descendants of a young girl taken from Sierra Leone in 1756 into slavery and whose family was located 250 years later in Charleston, South Carolina.
On March 19, 2003, the eve of the U.S. invasion of Iraq, Col. Wright cabled Secretary of State Colin Powell to inform him that she was resigning from the military and the State Department because of her opposition to the impending invasion and occupation.
Since then, she has been writing and speaking out for peace with a courageous eloquence that has earned her the respect of the entire anti-war movement. She has picketed at the notorious U.S. prison at Guantánamo, Cuba; served as a juror in community-based impeachment hearings of former President George W. Bush; traveled to Iran as part of a delegation of peace activists; and has been arrested numerous times for peaceful, nonviolent protest of U.S. policies, particularly the war on Iraq. She has travelled several times to Gaza in Palestine and was an organizer for the Gaza Freedom March that brought 1,350 people from 44 countries to Egypt in solidarity with the people of Gaza. She was on the May 2010 peace flotilla to Gaza that was attacked by the Israeli military, resulting in the deaths of nine international peace activists. And she was an organizer for the Audacity of Hope, the U.S. peace boat in the 2011 Gaza flotilla.
Ann Wright grew up in Bentonville, Arkansas, receiving a master’s and law degree from the University of Arkansas. She also has a master’s degree in national security affairs from the U.S. Naval War College. She spent 13 years in the U.S. Army and 16 more in the Army Reserves, retiring with the rank of colonel. She now lives in Honolulu.

Founded in 2002, the Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality is an all-volunteer community organization based in Richmond, Va. Among other activities, we publish The Virginia Defender, a statewide quarterly newspaper with a press run of 16,000; produce DefendersLIVE!, a news and commentary radio program heard Mondays from noon to 12:30 pm on WRIR community radio, 97.3 FM and online at www.wrir.org; and sponsor the Sacred Ground Historical Reclamation Project. The Defenders are affiliated with the United National Antiwar Coalition. See www.DefendersFJE.org and www.DefendersFJE.blogspot.com.

DefendersLIVE: Today's topic: the upcoming May Day commemorations with guest was Nathan Stickel of the Flying Brick Library, a 9-year old community library of radical literature. Info about the library and May Day activities can be found at flyingbrickrva.wordpress.com and richmondiww.org. Today's show will be rebroadcast ONLINE at WRIR.org Tuesday at 11am and 2pm.

Today on DefendersLIVE: Dr. Michael Blakey

Today on DefendersLIVE: Remembering Slavery, Resistance & Freedom is a project to gain community input and assistance for discovery and reclamation of sites of cultural and historical of meaning to African descended peoples of Virginia. Dr. Michael L. Blakey, director of the Institute for Historical Biology, College of William & Mary, will elaborate on this project, cemeteries, community engagement and decision-making. WRIR 97.3 LP FM at 12noon.

Dear friends,

The fatal February shooting of Florida teenager Trayvon Martin has produced a firestorm of protest across the country, including here in Richmond.

As a follow-up to organizing the 300-strong March 22 vigil at Richmond's African Burial Ground and supporting the 700-strong March 26 vigil at VCU, the Defenders are honored to host longtime human rights activist Ajamu Baraka, founder of the U.S. Human Rights Network, who will be speaking on the case of Trayvon Martin in the context of the deepening political and social crisis in the United States. (Please see the attached bio.)

The presentation will take place at the Defenders' regular monthly meeting: 7-9 pm, Monday, April 2, at the William Byrd Community House, 224 S. Cherry St. (just south of VCU). If you have questions please call 804-644-5834. DO NOT CALL William Byrd, they are the host site, not the organizers of this meeting)

We are inviting our friends and allies to join us at this event, especially those Occupy Richmond, Occupy the Hood and the developing campaign for Justice for Trayvon Martin.

We will also have a special report on the March 23-25 conference of the United National Antiwar Coalition in Stamford, Conn., at which the Defenders presented workshops on Black leadership in the anti-war movement, and the threat of a new war, this time with Iran.

Hope to see you there!

NOTICE!! Slave Trail Commission Resolution Postponed to April 17 Land Use Committee meeting for discussion and April 30 City Council meeting for vote.
11 am PRESS CONFERENCE to be held at VA NAACP Office on Graham Road behind VUU (off Brook Rd) - called by Va State Conference NAACP, King Salim Khalfani. Speakers to include Mr. Khalfani, Sa'ad El-Amin who has drafted a detailed description of the procedural problems of the Slave Trail Commission, members of the Sacred Ground Project, African Burial Ground Community Organizing Committee, Defenders and Virginia Defender Newspaper.
12 noon today: DefendersLIVE topic: Trayvon Martin and His Murder - LIVE on WRIR.org or 97.3 Lp FM

UNAC anti-war conference underway. Anti-war Strategies from Black Community Organizations workshop begins at 10:45am. UNACpeace.org

March Roots to Roots at WBCH: Unknown No Longer is the Virginia Slave Name Database - a breakthrough resource with 4,000 names now online for family history research. This exciting development in archival materials access is being led by Dr. Lauranett Lee, first African American intern at the Virginia Historical Society and its inaugural curator of Virginia's African American History. Meet Dr. Lee and learn about this wonderful resource. RSVP by Friday, Mar. 16: 643-2717 ext. 306 or byrdhousemarket@gmail.com.

Thanks for being patient and staying with us. Thanks to Alex and Harvey for sorting out the problem and getting DefendersLIVE back on the air in 5 minutes!

and meanwhile right now:
**YES, THE PROTEST *AND* THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WILL BE IN SESSION ON MONDAY, DESPITE PRECIPITATION AND THE HOLIDAY **

CALL FOR ACTION: On Feb 20th at 11 am, we call for 500 women (but men are very welcome and wanted!) to line either side of the walkway between the General Assembly building and the Capitol in SILENCE as our Senators and Representatives pass between the two buildings several times day to work on passing bills oppressive to women and reproductive rights. **Please note that the legislators WILL be in session on Feb 20!**

We are there to tell our elected representatives: Support women's rights to control their bodies! Don't enact oppressive Anti-choice (what pro-life really means) laws!

A RALLY will follow at 2pm at the Bell Tower with supportive Senators, Delegates, and women's rights leaders.

Please try to attend this important meeting, which will have major consequences for the future of Richmond's African Burial Ground and the rest of Shockoe Bottom:

Land Use Committee Meeting
3 pm, Tuesday, Feb. 21
Council Chambers (2nd floor)
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad St.
Richmond, Va.

New resolution seeks to eliminate term limits, reduce commission from 17 to 13 members, and make 8 of those 13 ex-officio. This will formally remove this commission's decision-making processes from public awareness or accountability.

Technical difficulties on today's DefendersLIVE. Please bear with us as our engineers work on it.
host, Ana Edwards

Monday, 20 Feb. at the Virginia GENERAL Assembly
11am SILENT VIGIL: STAND FOR WOMEN'S RIGHTS
2pm RALLY at the BELL TOWER, more info at http://ping.fm/bgjhV

"Black-Red Relations Today: Racism, Genocide, Vital Statistics and Recovery" with Anita & Hugh Harrell of the Weyanoke Association.
This is a call in show between 12:20 and 12:40: 804.649-9737. From Nottoway to Cherokee, from Plecker to RACE: Are we really so different
From Genocide and Marginalization to Self-Determination? A conversation on the state of African American and American Indian history and relations.
with host Ana Edwards
defendersliveradio.blogspot.com

Resources/Links

www.weyanoke.org

http://ping.fm/es28H

http://ping.fm/DcEIL - Are Blacks Being Victimized Twice by the Cherokee?

From today's show...

Feb. 4: No War On Iran National Day of Action

12 - 1 pm at the Richmond Federal Courthouse 701 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219

Resolution on Iran Unanimously Adopted at the 2012 session of the Virginia People’s Assembly Richmond, Virginia, January 14, 2012: 

No War, No Sanctions, No Internal Interference in Iran!

Recently, the U.S. government has increased its threats against the Islamic Republic of Iran. The U.S. has declared Iran to be its enemy and has publicly stated that it will use all means possible, up to and including military attack, to stop the production of nuclear energy in Iran and to change its government.
To this end, the U.S. has:

1 - Used hacking to disrupt nuclear energy facilities in Iran
2 - Conducted covert operations in Iran
3 - Deployed spy drones to Iran
4 - Imposed draconian sanctions and embargo against Iranian oil exports, banking and trade
5 - Deployed U.S. nuclear supercarrier battle groups with destroyers and nuclear submarines to the Persian Gulf
6 - Threatened Iran with military attack
7 – Is about to hold the largest ever joint military exercises with Israel

The U.S. government has carried out these activities to weaken Iran in preparation for a military attack if Iran does not submit to its demands.
The U.S. government lied to the U.S. people to prepare them for an attack on Iraq, which caused the destruction of Iraq, the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis and the deaths of 4,500 U.S. soldiers and injuries to many thousands more, in addition to more than $800 billion in war expenditures.
It is extremely important that we do everything in our power to stop another U.S. war in the Middle East. To this end, we, the 2012 Virginia People’s Assembly, demand:
No War, No Sanctions, No Internal Interference in Iran!

Co-Proposed by Simin Royanian, Co-Founder, Women for Peace & Justice in Iran; and
Phil Wilayto, Board Member, Campaign Against Sanctions & Military Intervention in Iran (CASMII)

RIHD - Prison and Ex-Offender Legislation Alert

About the Bills  Download Copy Click Here:  CRC 2012 Focus.doc

Earned Second Chance – The focus on education and rehabilitative programs that include the Earned Second Chance legislation and the Volunteerism Tax Deduction as well as a

Focus on arts in the prison educational environment in order to provide tactile learning for those approximately fifty percent of inmates with specific learning disabilities. While we may

Not support the use of discretionary and often arbitrary parole; we do support a person’s ability to reduce their sentence through hard work and positive contributions to their community.

Ban the Box – Starting with legislation focused on removing barriers to ex‐offender employment, including the ‘Ban the Box’ approach, the campaign will promote equal opportunity in employment as well as developing healthy relationships with employers. All persons should have the right to support themselves and their families without remaining forever reliant on government and community handouts.

Restoration of Civil Rights – A focus on a complete and automatic restoration of voting rights upon completion of a term of incarceration. While a ballot resolution could not be put forward this year, we should challenge the right of the government to tax a citizen at any time while he is unable to vote under the law. A government should not be able to tax a citizen who is not permitted a stake in his own destiny.

Opt Out of All Bans on Drug Offenders – This focus will include legislation to finally

opt out of the TANF ban on formerly incarcerated person with drug offenses. In addition, since drug use and addiction is a medical and mental health issue, the campaign should stand against any and all bans that preclude former drug offenders from receiving any type of service, particularly when it has negative effects on their families. An ADA challenge might be made here. Government should not be allowed to punish individuals and their families for medical or mental health conditions.

Protecting Our Children – A multifaceted focus on keeping children in the juvenile system and not permitting unprotected transfers to adult court for a greater focus on restorative justice practices for youth. Also, a focus on mentoring and protecting children from the constant influx of violence needs to be legitimately addressed.  Children should be nurtured, and a government should not treat children as adults until such time as they can determine that they are adequately prepared to be instilled with ALL the rights and responsibilities that come along with adulthood.

Feb. 17:Virginia Immigrant People's Coalition Day of Action

• If these legislators get their way, this is what our state will look like:
  - Police would be empowered to demand to see immigration papers from any person that they suspect to be an immigrant;
  - Undocumented students would be banned from attending state universities, even if they are VA residents who have been paying taxes here for years;
  - Government issued ID would be required to vote, disenfranchising thousands of poor, elderly and African-American voters;
  - People who don’t speak English well and lose their criminal court cases would be required to pay for their interpreters.
• Si estos legisladores obtienen lo que están proponiendo, esto sería como nuestro estado luciría:
  - La policía tendría el poder de preguntar por documentos de inmigración si ellos sospechan que una persona es inmigrante.
  - Estudiantes indocumentados no podrían asistir a las universidades del estado, aunque sean residentes de Virginia y hayan pagado sus impuestos por anos.
  - Para poder votar, se requerirá una identificación dada por el gobierno de Virginia, afectando a muchas personas mayores, personas pobres y Afro-Americanos.
  - Personas que no hablen ingles y pierdan su caso en la corte criminal, tendrán que pagar por sus propios intérpretes.

Revolutionary Poet Warrior Woman Jayne Cortez at William & Mary's Muscarelle Museum on Feb. 9 at 7pm - http://ping.fm/heSsi

This week on DefLIVE: Jason Brown and Mark Carter of Occupy The Hood RVA join me to discuss last Saturday's Occupy The Hood RVA General Assembly and what the rising up of the Occupy The Hood movement means to the Occupy Wall Street movement and other campaigns for economic and social justice in the US. DefendersLIVE airs Monday at noon on 97.3 LP FM in Richmond VA and online at www.WRIR.org and is rebroadcast Tuesdays online only at 11 am and 1pm.