Return to MINUTES

2017

 

Sep.1, 2017           

Ronna, Marnell, Ellen, Margaret, Marcia

Actions

  1. We called the offices of Larson and DelBene to have them come on as co-sponsor of HR 1437: No Money Bail Act of 2017.  This act would help with lowering jail populations.  Congressman Ted W. Lieu is the author of this bill.
  2. The Whatcom County prosecutor (360-676-6784) who wants to get Facebook information on 1,000 people for their connection to the Red Line Salish Sea action that occurred last Spring. Call him and tell him to stop this snooping on citizens, that it sets a precedent for invasion of privacy and the right of freedom of speech.

Events (These events are all found on FB)

All Hands Meeting – Sep. 6,  7P – 9P at CO-op Downtown

Sep. 7 6P to 7:30P Our Revolution meeting – to Rally to get Amy elected 221 Prospect St.

Sep.11th Speak Up for the Homeless with HomesNOW  at City Hall 6P

Sep.11th September Clean Energy Activist Meeting 6:30P at Re Sources.

Sep. 14th Break Free Trial Support 8A Skagit County District Court

Sep. 18th NORTH WHATCOM INDIVISIBLE MEETING 3:30P Deming Library

Other Stuff

The meeting with Larson was just about Medicare, no Political questions.

Antifa — We will still send out information about it, investigating it, and discussing it at our meetings.

Books recommended

‘’Living My Life” by Emma Goldman Ronna’s Heroine.

 “Roar, Reflections on a Revolution” from Marcia

 

Aug. 25, 2017

Margaret, Ronna, Ellen, Marnell, Alyce, Marcia

Acknowledgement of our Coast Salish neighbors read by Ronna

Actions

  1. We called Gov. Inslee’s office during an Occupy meeting to call a state of emergency for the Cooke Aquaculture’s release of Atlantic salmon into the Salish Sea. Also hold this company responsible.
  2. Write a letter to our city and county councils to stop the new jail.

Reports

  1. Ellen told us about an Indigenous protest held a couple of weeks ago called “No Red Line Salish”. A presentation by the Puyallup Nation was very powerful.
  2. Ellen also went to a film at the Limelight called ‘’City of Ghosts” that was about Raqqa, Syria.

Other things

  1. Ronna and Alyce will meet with Rep. Luanne about the Hirst Decision which is a Washington Supreme Court decision about water. She asked for advice on how to pose a question without getting into the “fact” weeds.  Great suggestions from the group.
  2. International Day of Peace which is on Sept. 21, 2017 will be held at the Majestic. Occupy will have a table
  3. A hate group called Fortress of Faith is connected with a Baptist church at 2501 Orleans St., Bellingham. This group has been called out by the Southern Poverty Center as a nationwide hate group.  Should OCCUPY protest this church.  ACTION:  Ronna will invite Aneesa to visit us with an update on her community.

Discussion

  1. Antifa is an antifascist group and aggressive, harking back to the Black Bloc and other protest groups that espouse violence against the oppressors (mainly property) . Discussion centered around “Why these tactics?” and “How can we deal with them?”  Most agreed that OCCUPY has a value of inclusion and how can we exclude those who hate – who, themselves, are “excluders”?  How do we decide this?  Would it be exclusive to do so?  There is agreement that groups like these are easy to infiltrate by provocateurs.   ACTION:  Ronna and the rest will be vigilant of articles seeking to explain this phenomenon and forward out to group.  Looking specifically for words from the anti-fascists – interviews and the like. 
  2. Further discussion of the jail and efforts to post billboards, yard signs, and educate the public. There is an excellent syllabus out with current and past articles about this effort to move the jail to Ferndale property.  The Vera Institute report is worth reading.  No Cash Bail campaign is one we could support.  https://lieu.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-ted-w-lieu-introduces-no-money-bail-act-2016-0  FACT SHEET ON NO MONEY BAIL ACT 2017https://lieu.house.gov/sites/lieu.house.gov/files/No%20Money%20Bail%20Act%20of%202016.pdf The bill in the house is HR 1437: https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/hr1437

Events

Sep 11. Speak up for Homeless with HomesNOW! at City Hall 6p

N Whatcom Indivisible meeting September 18,  3:30 pm Deming library

Oct 14 Cherry Point Forum 2017 Emerging science in marine health.  9:30 AM Bellingham Tech College

AUG 18TH 2017                  

Peter, Margaret, Ronna, Gloria, Ellen, Marnell, John, Helen, Marcia, Marian

Acknowledgement of our Coast Salish Neighbors—read by Gloria

Announcements and Events

  1. Pickett Bridge signs have been removed by Bellingham Council.
  2. Rick Larson is having a Senior Forum at the Bellingham Senior Center on Aug. 31, 2017 from 9A to 10A.
  3. Ground breaking for an arch to remember the Sikh community that was removed from Whatcom County. At the Bellingham Public Library on Sep. 4th at 10A.
  4. Food Fest Sep. 8th and 9th Bellingham.
  5. 3rd and 4th Democracy School is coming. $70.00 is the cost with possible scholarships. It includes a dinner and lunch. Details will be announced later.
  6. Anne Richardson is having medical problems and is asking for help with her group. Grassroots  is having a meeting at the Leopold to pick up signs against the jail. Joy Gilfin will speak. Wed., Sept. 6, 2017 2;30 P (social hour). 3P meeting starts. 
  7. Marcia’s operation is postponed.
  8. North Whatcom Indivisible photo shot with all Ronna’s 60 signs at Maritime Heritage Park event is available on line. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1320157678046402/photos/

Book recommendations

  1. Peter likes “N.Y. 2040’’ by Kim Stanley Robinson. It’s about economics  in that everything we buy has an uncounted  environmental cost. This is a sci-fi work.
  2. Ellen has joined Whatcom Reads. This group is reading now “Your heart is the size of a fist”.

Discussion

Gloria is distressed by what happened in Charlottesville, and why there isn’t any protest in Bellingham.

Nafta is coming back with its same old problems like I.S.D.S. with its 3 corporate judges.  Our Federal Rep, and Senators may be in flavor of NAFTA as they were with TPP..

Marcia stated that the group she is a part of (Tri-Nation) has been against NAFTA since the beginning.

The lawsuit against Loew, Elfo, and McCeachron for sending out flyers in the 2015that were illegal is ongoing.

The Farmworkers that were fired in Sumas by the Munger Corporation need money, suitcases, etc.  to go home to Mexico.

  AUG. 4, 2017

MARGARET, RONNA, ELLEN, CINDY, MARCIA

CINDY CAME TO OUR MEETING WITH A STORY ABOUT HER BROTHER WHO DIED  IN A LOCAL FACILITY OF THE SIDE AFFECTS OF DRUGS ADMINISTERED IN THE FACILITY..  CINDY IS FROM ALABAMA, AND SHE WANTS TO WARN AS MANY PEOPLE AS SHE CAN ABOUT HOW HER BROTHER  WAS OVERDOSED FROM MEDICINE.  HER BROTHER HAD SOME SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS , AND HIS SON PUT IN CARE WHERE HE WENT DOWNHILL VERY FAST FROM A CAPABLE PERSON TO A PERSON WHO COULD NOT DO FOR HIMSELF.  IT IS A VERY SAD STORY.  CINDY AND HER SISTER FOUGHT HARD FOR THEIR BROTHER BEFORE  AND AFTER HIS DEATH  BUT WITH LITTLE SUCCESS. OUR RONNA GAVE HER SOME INFORMATION AND SAID THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED.  IT MIGHT BE THAT THESE FACILITIES THAT TAKE CARE OF PEOPLE  WITH MEMORY LOST WERE MORE INTERESTED IN THE BOTTOM LINE THAN HER BROTHER HEALTH.

BEST OF LUCK, CINDY.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

  1. MIKE MCAULEY IS RUNNING AGAINST ERICKSON IN THE 42ND LD FOR STATE SENATOR.  MIKE IS CURRENTLY A PORT COMMISIONER.   HE IS TAKING IT TO THE COUNTRYSIDE WITH A KICKOFF AT THE 10 MILE GRANGE AT 5.30P.
  2. OUR MARCIA IS GOING TO HAVE AN OPERATION ON HER KNEE / KNEES ON AUG. 28TH. WISHING YOU THE BEST.
  3. YESTERDAY EVENING AL GORE’S NEW MOVIE AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL TRUTH TO POWER. WAS SHOWN 2 TIMES.  THERE WAS  A RECEPTION ALSO.   HOPE TO HEAR A REPORT  ABOUT IT AT NEXT OCCUPY MEETING.
  4. ELLEN SHOWED A PICTURE OF ROSALINDA IN A MAGAZINE CALLED EQUAL VOICE . ELLEN TOLD US THAT THE VATICAN HAS ACCUSED THE AMERICAN RIGHT WING CONSERVATIVE AND EVANGELS  FOR ELECTING TRUMP.   ELLEN HAS EXTRA COPIES OF BILL DISTLER’S TRIBUTE THAT SHE WROTE.  
  5. MARCIA TOLD US ABOUT 2 MOVIES SHE WAS INTERESTED IN SHOWING. THEY ARE BACKPACKFUL OF DOLLARS. ABOUT THE PRIVATIZATION  OF EDUCATION  AND STARVE  THE BEAST.  IT WAS SUGGESTED THAT WE PURCHASE THESE MOVIES FOR OCCUPY.
  6. C TO C IS HAVING A FUNDRAISER ON AUG. THE 5TH AT BOUNDARY BAY. STARTS AT 5P AND GOES TO 10P.

 

July 21, 2017

Margaret, Ronna, Marnell, Ellen, Alyce

Annoucements

Marnell is a member of real change news of whatcom that started from Seattle.  It is a group that has venders who are down on their luck   sell newspapers to get some money for themselves.  Each week a vendor can buy newspaper for .60 cents and sell for 2.00 dollars and keep the 2.00 plus tips.  This provides income plus self-respect.  You can call Becky Spithill at 206 970-6815 or becky at real changewhatcom.org. If this sounds interesting to you or someone you know. They got a 3,000 dollar grant to set this up in whatcom county.  The paper is not bad.

Whatcom’s leading homophobe, bigot, racist, and all around creepy guy, Eric, the yeller, Bostrom was running for a seat on bellingham city council, but since there is no progressive news channel on the radio any more I personally do not know how he did.  Hopefully not well.

Ellen says that the judge in the case of the bellingham three is determined to have a trial probably sometime in October.  Larry Hildes is trying to get continuances.

Ronna believes that resistance is not enough, need new initiatives to push dems.   In that vein whatcom indivisible rising is having an event, INDIVISIBLE RISING, on Aug. 13th Saturday from 12-4.00pm.  At the marine heritage park.  Photo shoots, how to bird dog candidates/politicians, etc.

Others things

The Vera report on the jail has come back.  It says a new jail is not a good idea; we could have told you that for free. I guess it is easy to waste other people’s money.

Ronna recommends the book …The Half That Has Not Been Told by Edward Baptiste.  It is about slavery and capitalism.

CELDF is going to put on democracy schools again in bellingham.  The cost is 75 dollars. No time and date have been selected yet.

July 28, 2017

Nusi, Aneesa, Magaret. Ellen

We were all pretty upset about the loss of the Joe Show and the whole  loss of progressive news in Bellingham. We are going to have to cobble together something to get our progressive news.  We need some tech help. 

Here is a list we put together;

  1. Nwcitizen.com local whatcom news.
  2. Sirius xm.com for the Thom Hartman and Stephanie Miller
  3. Globalresearch. Com
  4. Robert Perry truthdig.com
  5. Democracy Now with Amy Goodman
  6. The gristle for local politics
  7. Noisy waters.com Dina’s blog it’s reported to be very good and it’s local
  8. NPR national and international news
  9. Canadian radio and tv

JULY 14TH, 2017                           OCCUPY  MINUTES

MARGARET, ELLEN, LYNNE

ACKNOWLEDGMENT READ BY LYNNE

ANNOUNCEMENTS

  1. EVENT- 9-11 FOR TRUTH FILM AT 6P AT ALTERNATIVE LIBRARY. DID NOT GET DATE.
  2. ANNE FEENEY BENEFIT FOR LARRY HILDES ON SATURDAY, 22 7PM AT BUF. 20 DOLLARS 3. AUG. 1ST IS PRIMARY. BE SURE TO VOTE 4. HUGE CHUNK  OF THE  SOUTH POLE  HAS FALLEN OFF.
  3. THINKING OF OUR PETER AND SENDING BEST WISHES TO HIM FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY.
  4. NUCLEAR FREE AUGUST HAS BEEN ADOPTED BY OCCUPY.

REPORTS

1, LYNNE HAD APPLIED TO WTA TO USE PARATRANSIT SINCE SHE GETS SICK IN A BUS DUE TO CELL PHONE DEVICES.  SHE WAITED FOR TWO MONTHS BEFORE SHE GOT A REPLY, AND THEY TURNED HER DOWN.  SHE WANTS TO CONTEST  THEIR DECISION.

  1. NATIONAL BAIL OUT. BAILING OUT INMATES WHO DO NOT HAVE THE FUNDS TO MAKE BAIL. IT WOULD BE IN WHATCOM COUNTY. IN SHORT, WE BUY THEIR FREEDOM WITH MONEY RAISED BY DONATION OR SOME KIND OF FUND RAISING.

WE WOULD HAVE TO SET THEM UP WITH SHORT TERM HOUSING, HEALTH CARE, TRANSPORTATION, DRUG TREATMENT, AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES.   IN NYC THE AVERAGE BAIL IS 910 DOLLARS, BUT THERE IS A 95 PERCENT RETURN WHEN THE PEOPLE SHOW UP FOR COURT APPEARANCES.  THAT MONEY COULD BE USED TO BAIL OUT ANOTHER INMATE.  SOMEBODY SAID FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES MIGHT HELP WITH THE HOUSING, HEALTH, ETC.

MISC.

MARCIA WAS VERY IMPRESSED WITH THE CRISTIC INSTITUTE.  DANNY SHEHAN WHO WAS WITH THE CRISTIC INST. IS NOW WITH LAKOTA LAW.

 

July 7, 2017                                    

Margaret, John, Hellen, Lynne, Ronna, Marcia

Recognition of Indigenous Lands read by Ronna

Reading recommendations from Ronna

  1. #Occupy The Bible by rev. Twistlewaite
  2. No Is Not Enough by Naomi Klein

Lynne

Two petitions to rep. Rick larsen passed out and signed by those present.   Thanks to Lynne.

  1. Hr1299 — stop money to Honduras
  2. Equality for women amendment era) which started when i was young. Our state passed it over 40 years ago, but Lynne wants larsen to push for passage in the house. 

JAIL

  1. Putting new jail on ballot for November passed the bellingham city council and the county council, and will be on the ballot next November.
  2. Some discussion ensued about doing a fundraiser to raise bail for those wo are incarcerated for lack of funds. Lynne and marcia said we could use their homes for fund raising.   Thanks   i have done a little research and will report on Friday.  Still very preliminary.

Pride parade

Ronna, myself, Marnell and two young women from Everson marched under OCCUPY with the peace and justice folks.  Nothing went wrong.  We had police escorts for the parade.  There were no “haters” on the sidelines that we could see.  IT was well attended and joyful.

PROTEST AGAINST THE MACHINE

G-20 met this week in Hamburg.  A lot of protesters from around Europe.  100,000 strong. The police used tear gas and water hoses on the demonstrators.  Marcia attempting to show some live stream which did not come through very well. 

Education Marcia

the NEA is suing Betsey DeVos who is the secretary of education for fraudulent  student loans.

 JUNE 30, 2017

RONNA, LYNNE, ALYCE, RONNA, PETER, ELLEN, DEBBIE, MARCIA, MARGARET

9-11 SHOW

16  PEOPLE ATTENDED BLUE PRINT FOR THE TRUTH THE SHOW ABOUT 9-11.

LYNNE IS HAVING A MEET AND GREET AT HER HOME  FOR AMY GLASSER ON JULY 6TH.  HER ADDRESS IS 2717 WALNUT ST., BELLINGHAM..  AMY IS RUNNING FOR DISTRICT 2 FOR COUNTY COUNCIL.  SHE IS A SOCIAL WORKER BY PROFESSION, AND VERY ENERGETIC.  SHE IS RUNNING AGAINST TODD DONOVAN WHO IS ENDORSED BY THE DEMS, AND ERIC THE YELLER.

LYNNE IS NOW AN EXPERT ON ELECTRONIC SENSORS LIKE CELL PHONES AND WHAT THEY DO TO HUMAN HEALTH AFTER EXTENSIVE INVESTIGATION AND READING.

ELLEN REPORTED ON THE ORCA FESTIVAL.

SHE SAID IT WAS GOOD, BUT NOT WELL ATTENDED.  SHE SAID THE LUMMI SINGERS AND DANCERS FROM THE WOLF GROUP WERE GREAT.  OUR LOCAL ORCAS EAT SALMON, AND IF THE SALMON GO THE ORCAS WILL GO.  A VERY SAD THOUGHT.

THERE ARE POSTCARDS FOR THE ORCA AVAILABLE THOUGH  RE-SOURCES.

 EVENTS

  1. LOCALIZE THIS ACTION CAMP ON VASHON ISLAND JULY 25TH THROUGH AUGUST 1ST, 2017. AT OUR LAST OCCUPY MEETING WE TALKED ABOUT PROVIDING A SCHOLARSHIP TO SOMEONE WHO WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND. APPLY AT LocalizeThis. org.  IF INTERESTED. 
  2. SUBDUED STRINGBAND JAMBOREE IF ON AUGUST 10TH, 11TH, AND 12TH AT THE DEMING LOG SHOW GROUNDS, BELLINGHAM, WA.

 

 

JUNE 23, 2017

MARGARET, ELLEN, PETER, ALYCE, AND MARCIA             

REPORTS

PETER— 1 .WENT TO ICE PRISON IN TACOMA WITH  JUNGA TO SEE  WHAT IT WAS LIKE.  MARU MORA VILLAPONDO IS ON A HUNGER STRIKE  IN SUPPORT OF THE ICE PRISONERS WHO  ARE ON AN  OFF/ON HUNGER STRIKE INSIDE THE PRISON.  PETER SAID THE PRISON WHICH IS LOCATED IN AN INDUSTRIAL AREA IS HARD TO FIND, VERY DIRTY, AND THE AIR IS AWFUL.  JUNGA  WHO IS A LAWYER, WENT IN AND REPORTED ON THE CONDITIONS.  WE THOUGHT ABOUT A TRIP TO THIS ICE PRISON  AS AN OCCUPY EVENT TO SUPPORT THE PRISONERS.  NEED MORE TALK AND PLANNING. 2.  SALISH SEA PERSONHOOD IS WORKING WITH CELDEF.  ANOTHER DEMOCRACY IS BEING PLANNED FOR SOMETIME IN SEPTEMBER.  3. THERE WILL BE A  SALISH SEA CONFERENCE AT LUMMI   NATION AT THE END OF SEPTEMBER.  DETAILS WILL FOLLOW. 

ALYCE— 1. SHOWED THE MOVIE ”WHERE TO INVADE NEXT” AT THE LYNDEN LIBRARY.  WORLD’S MOST HUMANE PRISON IN IN NORWAY WHICH WAS SHOWN IN THIS MOVIE. TWO PRISON ADMINISTRATOR FROM NORTH DAKOTA WENT TO THIS PRISON, AND MADE A NEW SECTION IN THEIR PRISON AFTER RETURNING TO N. DAKOTA. THIS WAS IN AN ARTICLE  FROM ” MOTHER JONES”.   2.  ALYCE ALSO SAID THE PRIMARY IN ON AUGUST FIRST.

ELLEN—  1.WENT TO A HOUSING FORUM.  SHE SAID THE CITIZENS HAD GREAT QUESTIONS FOR THE FORUM PANEL WHICH SHE SAID WERE ALSO GREAT.  SHE SAID THE FORUM WAS PACKED.  EVEN ERIC THE YELLER WAS THERE WITH A PLUG FOR TINY HOMES IN BELLINGHAM.  RISING RENTS AND COST OF LIVING  ARE DRIVING HOMELESSNESS  IN BELLINGHAM.  2.  ELLEN WENT ALSO TO TACOMA DOME FOR HER GRANDDAUGHTER’S GRADUATION FROM THE EVERGREEN COLLEGE.  IT HAD TO BE MOVED TO THE TACOMA DOME FROM THE COLLEGE BECAUSE OF  RACIALPROBLEMS  ON CAMPUS WITH THREATS BEING MADE. 

 

Friday June 16      2:30 p.m.

Present:  Peter, Marnell, Aneesa, Nusy  Alyce

With just 4 people who haven’t been together for some time we didn’t have an official meeting, but we each shared our thoughts and activities.  Peter shared his experiences as he and Stony Bird attended meetings with Lummi leaders on plans for an important conference about the Salish Sea.  First Nations, local and national tribes and other people of good will who will gather in September here.

Marnelle helped us clarify events about the pride parade and of a work session today to make meaningful signs to carry.  She found information from her phone to help us.

Aneesa (who had along her daughter, Nusy) caught us up on her experiences in Bellingham as a Muslim woman and her daughter.  She brought and offered The Diary of Malcom X and we all have read and pondered it.  We talked of face offs in Seattle between opposing groups.  She told us that she is weary from unfriendly people and gestures.  Peter asked and she gave a helpful response as to why she was not wearing the hajib on Friday.  This led to sharing on what it means to appear in public with a religious symbol or the safety pin.

Alyce told of experiences she has had these months in preparing for parades in the county.  The plan is to prepare and carry signs in positive words expressing values in a way described by George Lakoff in the Little Blue Book:  Love your neighbor, Make America kind, Protect water, Fund our Schools,  etc.  The reception in Lynden from tending-to-be-conservative watchers was noticeably more accepting, friendly.

At 4 we hugged and parted as friends who had listened and spoken.

Alyce   

6/3/2017

Marcia, Ellen, Marnell, Gloria, Peter, Ronna

Ellen read the acknowledgement that we reside today on American Indian land for which we are grateful.

Update on Bill Distler – he is now on hospice care at our local hospice facility.  Receiving many visitors and family in close attendance.  As his final journey is close to the end he continues to be active and speaking out, at the Veterans for Peace breakfast, etc.  He will be sorely missed. 

Peter reported on the Nature and the Law conference held at Lummi Indian College.  He tells us it was “exciting” and he learned a lot.  He will join Stoney Bird who was invited to participate in planning a fall conference.  Peter states we need to confront the “real evil which is the love of money and the desire for more”.  The word profiteering was used to describe those who use that goal to deprive others.  “It is the worship of magic paper and it is a false religion”.  Shelly Vendiola is active in this community and gave an excellent presentation.

This conversation morphed into discussions of what is happening right now at The Evergreen State College and the threat causing closure of the school.  This started on May 24 when a professor wrote a letter expressing his views about a “day of absence, day of presence” event and how it was handled.  He is being called a racist and there are demands for his firing.  This discussion also included the murders in Portland and Hoquiam.  The question was raised that if we continue this path of division among POC and all others – how will we achieve unity?  It was mentioned that Italians and Jews were made “white” in the 40’s.  Is it more about the “other” than color of skin? 

All this talk centered around how we could possibly get to unity.  The concept of Step Up/Step Back was reinforced when we are in groups along with POC/marginalized people.

With a few minutes left in our meeting some announcements were made:

Bellingham Tenant’s Union is holding a first meeting on June 3 at the library at 6 PM.

June 11 – Grass Roots action will host Jean Layton at a meet and greet At the Spiritual Living Center at 2224 Yes St. Road at 3 PM.  Jean Layton is running for COB Council against Roxanne Murphy.

The question was raised about whether OCCUPY WS Bellingham endorses candidates.  We recalled some history where we agreed to endorse or support local candidates, since they tend to be non-partisan.  IT is suggested that a proposal be brought forth next week.

Marcia announced that she will participate in a retirement event at BTC on June 8. She is asking for supporters to join her and possibly say a few words about her passion for creating education that benefits the marginalized and disenfranchised. 

With the help of Homeless Voices, a subcommittee of the Whatcom Coalition on Ending Homelessness, permission has been granted by COB for a big campout on the Bellingham City Hall and Library lawns from 12pm Sat., June 3 until later afternoon Mon., June 5.  Billed as the second annual City Hall Peace Out, this event is for everyone; the currently homeless, the formerly homeless and especially for those of us who have homes. (from the Cascadia Weekly)

Mentioned that the Bellingham Food co-op is noted to not have a secure WiFi.  Not known whether this pertains to the Cordata store.

May 26, 2017           Occupy Wall Street-Bellingham minutes

Ronna, Margaret, Ellen, Peter, Marcia, Barbara

Ellen read the acknowledgement/ of Coast Salish LAnds on which we Reside

Announcements

  • June 6th at 6;30 pm to 8;30 pm June general meeting at BUF for bellingham racial justice coalition.
  • Stoney bird, and peter are helping Shelly Vendiola and the Lummis with the community bill of rights at an indigenous symposium to be held sometime in the fall.
  • May 31: Resisting American Fascism; Oppression Dynamics 101.  Open to the public.  Hosted by rising tide bellingham.  I hope one of us went to it, and will tell us about it.
  • The movie We The People 2.0   June 9th at 6 pm at Terra Organica.
  • Marcia handed out directions to her retirement party on June 17

Reports

Peter went to the Vine Deloria seminar at the Lummi reservation, and he said it was great.   It was right up peter’s alley.   It was about the rights of nature and the law.  A native american tribe in Wisconsin is working with CELDF to write laws concerning nature.  Also, a book was recommended called   stamped from the beginning   the definitive history of racist ideas by Ibrahim X. Kendi.  Margaret states “I thought racism began when a pope divided the world between Spain and Portugal” and that she wishes “Dr. Hashmi was here, because he had it all down.  He used history, psychology, anthropology, philosophy as well as sociology to explain racism, and why we have it”.

Ellen went to a talk by Cladoosby, president of the Swinomish tribe held at WWU.  He talked about historical trauma and genocide, he gave historical information from Columbus on. He also talked about the personal story of his family concerning alcohol and drugs, and how they are now clean.  He was asked about a truth and reconciliation between the settlers and the indigenous people.  He said very thoughtfully — no.   Ellen thought he was a very powerful speaker. 

Discussion

Living democracy rising

Ellen reminded the group that this is the 2nd stage of living democracy or phase ii since it was held several years ago (Prop 2), and much work was done on it at that time.  Ronna indicated that the name for this renewed group is not completely settled.  At every introduction of the movie or other speaking engagement the past effort is recognized.

Living Democracy Rising held a conference call with a Toledo, Ohio group who is trying to get rights for Lake Erie.  The Toledo folks have had no communications with Canada although they share Lake Erie with Canada.

Working on water issues interest groups

Should include the tribes, public works, Re-sources, county, fishermen, bay keepers, river keepers.  Re-sources would have complete list of groups interested in the water. 

A lengthy discussion occurred related to water and the conservation district.

Marcia, reading from Jacques Ellul:    The technical has become the “sacred” now.

May 19, 2017

Margaret, Ronna, Gloria. Ellen, Helen, John, Marcia

Ellen read acknowledgement of Salish Lands on which we Reside

A conference called Nature’s Rights and the Law featuring the works of Vine Deloria, a highly regarded Lakota elder, who wrote  God Is Red  was held last week at  Lummi college.  Peter attended. 

8 of us voted for a resolution supporting Solutionary Rail a people-powered campaign to electrify America’s railroads and open corridors to a clean energy future.  The vote was unanimous.  Ronna will do the necessary paper work and forward this endorsement to Backbone Campaign. 

Ronna suggested we ask ourselves f OCCUPY WALL STREET BELLINGHAM is still relevant.  It should include social, economic, environmental, and envisioning democracy issues.   We looked at the demands and suggested some changes. 

  • Ellen said peace/militarism issues (items 12, 13, 14) are serious yet missing, and should be included. Ellen agreed to write this demand into our document. 
  • Also demand #2 on TPP. Ronna will ask Dianne to rewrite this demand TPP/NAFTA/Trade to make it current as she is our expert on this subject.
  • Item #8 on SS and Medicare should possibly move up to higher focus. Should say Strengthen vs Sustain.  Barbara suggested petitions work well and she would do some research on the subject.

Ronna asked that we all look at these demands to guide our actions.

The question is what could/should OCCUPY be doing.  Here is the list that could be added to later. 

  1. Water issue in Whatcom County
  2. Food deserts (Albertson’s closing in Birchwood neighborhood)
  3. Petitions (Barbara agreed to work on this)
  4. When at a protest be sure to use our OCCUPY signs (let it be known that we are active)
  5. Important information dissemination (continue to educate as a focus)
  6. Incarceration issues: Hold a fundraiser to raise bail for folks in our jail who do not have the money to do so themselves.

Ellen got interviewed by Whatcom Watch, and her interview was printed in the Whatcom Watch under unsung heroes.  She also told us about symbolic direct action, and gave us an example. 

Ellen also introduced us to the Vietnamese monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, and peace activist who returned to Vietnam in 1963 to teach his fellow monks how to protest nonviolently.  He was banned by both the communist and noncommunist governments.  He wrote about the universe being relational.  Everything is related.  https://www.thichnhathanhfoundation.org/?gclid=CjwKEAjwpJ_JBRC3tYai4Ky09zQSJAC5r7ruycoHROagRm8gZ09sOjD0g204Jg6sCEEeBBA-wdfQQRoCtCLw_wcB 

 

Ronna recommends we consider a new resource called Resistance School.  https://www.resistanceschool.com/ “Practical Skills for Taking Back America”.  Started by students at Harvard Kennedy School. 

May 12, 2017

Margaret, Peter, Ellen, Ronna, Marcia, John, Helen, Debbie

Acknowledgement read by peter

Upcoming events

June 9th movie We The People 2.0 at Terra Organica at 6:00 pm

Reports

CLEAN ENERGY:  County council meeting at county court house on May 16th to vote on the “Carl Weimer” amendment with a public hearing first.  (IT PASSED!). There will be a parallel protest by the Liberty Road folks across the way at the library lawn.  Save our Farms is the focus of that protest. 

STAND protest: Debbie went to Seattle to do an action with the group Stand to protest cruise ships going to the Artic from Seattle.  They carry a type of fuel that is toxic. IT is posted to the OCCUPY Facebook.

Indivisible:  Indivisible North Whatcom continues to meet, find ways to support our MOCs, and let lawmakers in WA DC know our opposition to the Trump agenda.

Resistance school is an online opportunity.  https://www.resistanceschool.com/ Teaching how to deal with communication, identify values, inclusion, etc.

Living democracy is continuing to work on infrastructure for its organization. Mari (from CELDF) will be in town for the Vine Deloria Conference on May 19-21.  She will meet with our steering committee on Thursday, May 18 to help sort issues/answer questions.

Incarceration

  • Federal justices [6,000] have been told by Sessions, US attorney general to give maximum sentences to drug offenders.
  • The Stakeholders group for the mega jail voted to approve the statement and move it to the City and County Council for further consideration. No restorative justice folks have been involved in the stakeholder group.  A public hearing may be necessary before it can be placed on the ballot. 
  • Call or write sheriff Elfo and ask that he provides no beds in this mega jail for ICE. 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225  360-778-6600

County council elections will be held in November.  The following graph details the changeover to 5 districts.  Filing period ended May 15 – primary – early August. 

CURRENT

District 1     Barry Buchanan (17)

                   Todd Donovan (19)

District 2     Kenn Mann (17)

                   Satpal Sidhu (19)

District 3     Carl Weimer (17)

                   Barbara Brenner (19)

AtLg            Rud Browne (17)

RUNNING 2017

District 1 – Rud Browne

District 2 – -Amy Glasser

District 3 – -3 are running (one progressive)

At Large 1 – Barry Buchanan

District 4 – 2019

District 5 – 2019

At large 2-  2019

 

May 5th, 2017

Margaret, Gloria, Debbie, Ronna, Ellen, Marcia

Announcements

Maggi from CELDF is coming to bellingham on May 18th.   She will participate in the Vine Deloria Jr. 12th Annual  Indigenous Studies Symposium at NW Indian College.  From 19 – 21.  The title comes from Vine’s latest book The Natural World and the Law.   http://www.nwic.edu/faculty-staff/vine-deloria-jr-symposium/ 

Angela day, author of Red Light To Starboard,  will be at BUF on May 25th.  Her book is about the Exxon Valdez disaster.  She will discuss what could happen to our Salish sea.  It will be from 6;30 – 8.30 pm.

A housing justice forum , hosted by bellingham tenants union, will meet at the bellingham library on June, 3rd from 5p to 7p.

We the People 2.0 will be shown on June 9th from 6 p to 8:30p.  at TERRA public market

Transition party for Marcia at her husband’s place [map to follow] on the 17th of June.  Wine tasting, cake, etc.  Whoopee

Comments/discussion

Ellen told us about the talk by Angela Davis she attended.    Ms Davis talked on seeing the whole picture.  One can be critical of an idea and embrace it at the same time.  I need some help with understanding this; it kind of goes over my head.  Some time was spent explaining th si concept.  Not all present could easily understand it.

Bits and pieces

Marcia handed out the people’s tribune.   Marcia talked about a book that told that efficiency is taking  place  in every aspect of our lives.  Technology is taking over things like education and this concerns Marcia very much.  She is afraid it will lead to domination of people.  Big big ideas. 

Living democracy arising

10 people attended last meeting.  A steering committee is continuing to meet and plan ways to involve othes and create an infrastructure that will allow this movement to have legal standing.

 

April 28, 2017

Marnell, Peter, Margaret, Junga, Helen, John, Debbie, Ellen

Prayer read by peter

Dialogue with Junga and Occupy

Peter had a meeting with Stoney Bird and his group about the rights of nature.  They want rights for the Salish sea, and all its watersheds.  Public officials have a duty to protect these rights.  They want these rights to be made into law. (clarification by Ronna:  The meeting mentioned above is follow up on the film showings of We The People 2.0.  Tentative name of the group is Living Democracy Arising with the goal of building a community bill of rights.  The next meeting of this group will be Wednesday May 10 [Place TBA].  CELDF https://celdf.org/ will assist with our goals.  The comments below by Junga are pertinent.  Some of the groups below, and many more, are being contacted to join this movement.  Also, changing the structure of government as opposed to reforming will be considered “illegal” by present law.  200 community bill of rights have been enacted throughout our country with 5 lawsuits against.  Those of us engaged in this action believe the time is NOW for our community.  OCCUPY BELLINGHAM is a partner in this movement.)

Junga said that this may not be enforceable at a city or county level and would may not be effective.  The Salish sea, as we know, crosses an international border, and touches many towns and counties in western Washington.  Junga said we need a major cultural shift.  Brazil changed its constitution to protect the rights of nature.  Get the cities and counties that touch the Salish sea involved.  Must get the indigenous people on both sides of the border also involved.  Junga suggested we get in contact with c2c, bellingham, NODAPL (now called Red Line for the Salish Sea), Idle No More for example.  How about a conference on the rights of the Salish sea?

I would like to personally thank Junga for her time and for her insightful comments.   Well done Junga. 

Emergencies

  1. The militarization of the police [tell me why bellingham city needs a tank?].

  for example, scapegoating/profiling of immigrants for no good reason.  To me this is not right and very cowardly.  Watch for increase in police power. 

  1. Ankle bracelets that allow people to go home are charged to inmates. Imagine No Kages https://www.facebook.com/ImagineNoKages/ is a group that deals with mass incarceration.

Announcements

  1. Racial justice organization meets 1st Tuesday of every month, at BUF, social starts at 6.30 p. Meeting starts at 7 p. https://www.facebook.com/groups/805865166153530/
  2. May 15, 6:00 pm 1st cong. Church on Cornwall. Dignity dialogues: court work, observation, watching.
  3. It’s the 3rd week of a hunger strike at NW detention center in Tacoma. America’s love affair with slavery has not stopped. ”Inmates earn a whopping one dollar per day for work.  The for-profit jail makes money on commissary, phone.  Ain’t capitalism great.
  4. Sunday, May 7: March for dignity (farmworkers march) from Lynden to Maritime Heritage Park. https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=marcha%20por%20la%20dignidad%2Fmarch%20for%20dignity
  5. Protect the Blanchard Mountain. https://www.facebook.com/saveblanchardmountain/ Contract your elected legislators to stop logging Blanchard mountain.  Submit letters to local papers, tell friends, families, organizations about this.

Reports from Marnell

  1. Police department is calling for volunteers for their “downtown watch”.
  2. 200 people came to homeless meeting at Leopold organized by Marnell.
  3. An emergency shelter is proposed for the waterfront by bellingham city. There is much opposition from the Maritime trades the Port of Bellingham and others.

April 21, 2017   

Ronna, Margaret, Ellen, Marnell, Peter, Mike, Debbie, Marcia, Keith

Lummi recognition read by Peter

Reports, announcements, discussion, asks

Peter let us know that there is a hunger strike at the ice detention center in Tacoma, a private for profit jail, where undocumented persons are being held.  Peter asked us to call Bill Elfo, our county sheriff, to tell him we do not want to have beds for undocumented persons in Whatcom.

Marnell has organized a town hall for the homeless.  It was held last Wednesday.  I personally think this is a very important idea, and i hope Marnell will host more.  I could not attend because of physical problems.  Good for you Marnell.

June 2nd there is a world naked bike ride.  This will be the 9th ride in bellingham.  Here is the schedule:  3 pm body painting, 6 pm bike ride, 7 pmish dance party.  Start at the hub community bike shop at 903.5 North State St.

Just a reminder that the vets for peace meetings are held on the 3rd Friday of the month at the downtown food-coop.

Lummi Island is having gathering for the Lummi island water protectors at 4 pm on this Saturday. [i am not sure 100 percent sure of time and place)

The people’s climate march on this Saturday April 29th, it starts at 12 pm at Marine Heritage Park and ends at Boulevard park.  There will be tabling before and after the march for Occupy, solutionary rail, indivisible, HR 48, and CELDF. 

Ronna says that the book— Strangers In Their Own Land is very interesting.  It explores what happens to an area of our country that has been used as a sacrifice zone for fossil fuel processing and shipment.

I hope to hear if anyone went to the talk on Viking economics or in other words how the Scandinavians got it right. 

I also hope to hear about the meeting of democracy rising which is working on a community bill of rights.  It is being held at Bellingham co-housing meeting room on Thurs. 27th time is p.m., and it’s potluck.  Toledo, Ohio has a bill of rights for Lake Erie why not one for our Salish sea.

Wamend has asked us to push on our senators and reps. For HR 48.  They want us to call them weekly, and since our state passed 735 to get big money out of elections it seems a likely thing to do.  Keith said he will go to Larsen’s office here in bellingham to get Larsen to sponsor HR 48.  Rep S. DelBene has endorsed this bill.

Mike reported on a dynamic Whatcom Democrat meeting.  Rep. Larsen was there and he asked to support for Jon Ossoff in Georgia.  Personally, i sent a check to Ossoff’s campaign. 

Indivisible north whatcom county staged a Tax Day protest at Hovander park with very nice pictures.    Keith said that there was 500 people for a Tax Day march in Anacortes he attended.  Hooray for Anacortes.

Open discussion

Movie night—maybe

Planet will survive, but what will happen to humans and other living things if climate change goes too far.

Should a state of emergency be declared? Maybe occupy could make a statement about climate emergency.   Emergency too alarmist— questions

 

The next ”oil rush” will be on water.  Privation of water is coming.  Maybe we will have a war over water.

14 April 2017 – OCCUPY MINUTES 

Barbara, Ronna, Peter, Ellen, Marnell

Just as we were about to call off the meeting – Ellen and Marnell showed and we stayed until 5 just talking!  

We The People 2.0 Reported on the steering committee meeting last night at Stoney Bird’s house as we planned for the group meeting on April 27.  We hope to make this about Rights for the Salish Sea.  We are using CELDF o help us in this undertaking.  They have successfully helped 200 communities make ordinances/initiatives to protect the health and safety of citizens.  Ours would likely follow the model for the Lake Erie Bill of Rights project in Toledo, Ohio.  http://lakeerieaction.wixsite.com/safewatertoledo There is a state organizer in Spokane who will assist us in this endeavor. 

Endorsement of 9/11 project (reported last week by Stoney Bird).  There were not enough people present at this meeting to take a vote but lots of thought and discussion:

  • Would be nice if this personation could prepare us for a similar stunt
  • Tie it to “now” and fake news.
  • Provide information on “false flags”. “something done to us that leads to war”
  • We need to know the purpose of this event – how will it help us to move forward and be prepared.
  • We should ask for a dependent investigation (there was some discussion that this had already happened)
  • IT is difficult to endorse something about which we know nothing so far.
  • A basic principle of OCCUPY is autonomy and for those interested can attend their planning sessions at Adagio on Wed at 10:00 am. You would be speaking for yourselves and not OCCUPY.
  • Would it be possible to start with the current wars and work back to 9/11?
  • Provide a reading list.
  • There may be nothing we can do to change people’s minds who are not already convinced this was staged.

 

This conversation morphed into a discussion of the “state of the planet”

Comments:

  • We don’t know what’s happening and there seems to be no plan.
  • The entire planet is at risk because of this “not knowing”.
  • We are in the ICU – no
  • We are still in the street bleeding out!
  • We need to put positive things on Facebook.
  • We must do significant self-care.
  • Einstein said: “We will never solve the problems we’ve created with the same consciousness with which we created them”
  • Each of us must therefore, change our consciousness.
  • IT IS ABOUT LOVE
  • WHY HASN’T A STATE OF EMERGENCY BEEN CALLED?

OCCUPY could write a Declaration of Emergency.  We will put this on next week’s agenda to brainstorm reasons for this to be so.  Then Ellen and Ronna agreed to collaborate on the writing of this piece.

April 7, 2017 

Margaret, Ronna, Peter, Marnell, John, Helen, Ellen, Stoney, Marcia, Ellen, Lorraine

Lummi prayer read by Peter

Actions, announcements, reports

A small group of people are working to understand what happened on 9/11 at the World Trade Center in NY City and to plan a public event on 6/22/2017 at the alternative library, details to be announced.  They are meeting at Cafe Adagio very Wed. at 10 am in preparation of this event.  Stoney bird asked OCCUPY to join or endorse.  Discussion ensued with the following comments:

  • All we are told is a fabrication.
  • Building 7 collapsed but was not hit with an airplane – not explained.
  • This event resulted in a reason for war with Iraq – even though we now know the reasons given were fabricated.
  • What good would come of this information? “We should be informed.”
  • OCCUPY name on this event may hurt our “brand”.
  • Ronna agreed to contact WFP for their take on this.
  • There is new forensic evidence on the 9/11 event.
  • IF here could be a tie in to recent events or big general issues to bring them into view it could be worth it.
  • We might have enough on our plates for now.
  • Will discuss in more detail and get back with Stoney
  • Anyone is free to join in this group (autonomy principle)
  • A recent film about how the 1st Iraqi invasion was staged.

Announcement:  Angela Davis is coming to WWU, details to be announced. My personal heroine.

Report: Veterans for peace the 50th anniversary of Dr. MLK’s speech, Beyond Vietnam was a success, 50 people attended.  The birthday cake for Bill Distler was delicious and all wonderful.  We need a change in our consciousness.  Be present.  Peter, “MLK was leading a rebellion against the war makers” and it is the role of OCCUPY to participate in ONE rebellion.

Marcia reminds us that we (citizens) need a moral stance and recommends readings from the Christic Institute http://christicarchive.org/the-christic-institute/ who have laid out a history of oppression. They give ideas for education.  Daniel Sheehan was also mentioned as an excellent resource and founder of this institute and now attorney for Standing Rock.

Intersectionality and indigeneity two newish words that Ronna keeps seeing.  Intersectionality essentially means everything is connected.  Not a new word but coined in the 70’s.

Marcia believes that our public education is almost taken over by corporations who use education to fuel their greed for money, and more money.  The plan is to “robotize” the population.  The goal of this new educational push is to create dependency in the citizens, an attack on thinking and knowing.  “IT is to the advantage of people in power to keep us confused.”

March 31, 2017

Margaret, Ronna, Marnell, Peter, Gloria, John, Helen, Lynne, Marcia, Debbie

Lummi recognitionread by Peter

Announcements, reports, and asks

  1. The community bill of rights 20 peopled attended meeting.  They worked on things they want such as the rights of nature, homelessness [the right of human beings to have shelter], our Salish sea, etc.  Next meeting it’s on 4/27, but site has not been decided.
  2. Marnell reported that the whatcom democratic women’s group is having their meeting 4/8 at the Leopold.
  3. Peace health labor action reported by Marnell. Peace health is trying to sell off its laboratories to a for -profit corporation called Quest. 65 lab techs would be laid off in Whatcom county who fought 3 years ago for a union.  It is widely believed that peace health is doing this as retribution against the union.  Several labor actions have been taken around Bellingham.   Union lab techs can’t picket, because of their contract with peace health.  We have been asked to call or send letter to the CEO of Peace Health to not sell their labs to quest.  Also, the tests we have done in Whatcom will be sent to Seattle or California for processing. So , if you have a test done at Quest you may have to wait longer for the results. 
  4. The County is trying to get a new jail built and will attempt to get a ballot initiative on the November ballot. Watch for opportunities to protest this action. Speak out at County Council meetings.  The citizens have said no once – NO is NO.
  5. Pull together stand up with first nations rally was held on 4/3 at the Communications lawn at WWU to protest the kinder morgan pipeline that will terminate in Vancouver, BC transporting Alberta tar sands oil. This will not be good for our Salish sea.  The area around the tar sands has been poisoned. Illnesses have skyrocketed. 
  6. Solutionary Rail: Debbie has asked us to get in touch with the WA state transportation commission [wstc.wa.gov] and get on the survey. John provifed contact information to the WASHINGTON STATE TRASPORTATION COMMISSION  www.wstc.wa.gov  AT this site you wil find Studies and Surveys (click surveys), voice of WA State (VOWS) Survey Panel (sign up on the VOWS page)
  7. Please read the Blue Marble Manifesto authored by Peter. We will wait for vote on it when enough people have read it. Peter has received several copies of feedback.
  8. Debbie and Ronna went to the WA Fair Trade Coalition annual meeting in Seattle. The fear is that since big corporations are into global trade and neo-colonialism, the TPP will come back in some form. While no definite actions were undertaken, or planned the group considered what strategies to adopt promoting Fair Trade. 
  9. Debbie went to Backbone meeting on Vashon island. She recommends the book Beyond Exclusion, Beyond Empowerment by Latia Nieto. It is expensive, and debbie wants us to call the bellingham public library to get this book.  We had success with getting Solutionary Rail copies at the library.

4/22—March for Science

4/29 Global climate march 12. Peter announced that we need banners for climate, the wall and immigration ban.  Has asked for banners to be made for the climate march.  Some body said how about sandwich boards.  More about this later.

  1. Marcia has been getting in touch with Marilyn Chase, Sponsor of bill HR 5731 http://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5731&Year=2017 She introduced hi-set test as alternative for Pearson’s expensive GED test. If there is any opportunity to bring this bill back for discussion it would be in an extended session so you can link to the bill and make a comment to your reps in Olympia and ask that this be considered.  MS chase is a Washington state senator in Olympia.  Marcia has talked with a staff person in chase’s office.  Kudos to Marcia, for sticking with trying to get rid of privatization of our public education.   Education for profit is so wrong. 

  March 24,2017

Ronna, Margaret, Naomi, John, Helen, Marnell, Marcia. Peter, Ellen, Debbie, Gloria, Barbara

Ronna read the Coast Salish prayer

Announcements

  • 4/4/2017, vet’s for peace, MLK day, 6 pm to 8:30 pm YWCA bellingham (On Forest St)
  • 4/2/2017, 2 p to 4 p, beginning gardening with our debbie, alternative library, rsvp Debbie Cantrell 920-0981
  • 4/6/ 2017, 4 pm, miller hall 138 Huxley college environmental speaker series, author Bill Moyer will discuss the Solutionary Rail vision, free 4.
  • 4/3/2017 to 4/9/2017 free yoga at yoga NW, 1440 10th St.  Fairhaven, Bellingham, 647-0712, try 1 or 2 classes 
  • 4/8/2017, Indivisible North Whatcom meeting, 1 pm to 3 pm at Bellewood Acres on the guide,
  • Every Wednesday, 3 pm, Indivisible at the Leopold at the Leopold Hotel downtown Bellingham
  • 4/29/2017, climate march, noonish details to come, there will be native canoes, starts at marine park and ends at maritime heritage park, debbie tells us there are quite a few sponsors.

Announcements that have passed

  • The first meeting of Community Bill of Rights was held on 3/30/2017 at bellingham library downstairs from 6 pm to 8 pm. Attended by 20 people and we are on the way. 
  • There were town halls with del bene and larsen last weekend.  Marnell will report on del bene at two different locations in whatcom county.

Peter’s Statement/”Manifesto”

Ronna sent out electronic copy and brought copies for member who cannot print.  Peter is asking for endorsement from OCCUPY for his statement.  He requests comments/feedback.  Proposal to endorse this document after feedback and revisions based on same are made.  If endorsed it can be “published” in our newsletter.

Margaret announced she will hold a yard sale for the benefit of OCCUPY BELLINGHAM once she has determined a date for her move to Seattle.  Many present agreed to assist with this effort and possibly bring other items for sale. 

Education with Marcia – SB 5731 allows for another GED test (such as the HiSet) that are free may not be totally dead it’s in the “x-files”.  Marcia will contact Rep. Marilyn Chase (sponsor of this bill) to assess whether it is possible to bring this bill back to committee for action this legislative session.  IF possible she will inform us of actions to take.  The following comments were made:

  • Debbie explained the Pearson GED to the group.
  • Ronna mentions a 5” video that speaks to the absurdity of this privatization of education (see below) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZEGijN_8R0
  • The HiSet GED is essential for the current demographic who have not gone to school in the Common Core curriculum and are finding it difficult to pass the Pearson GED (computer and “new” learning concepts).
  • Privatization of education is demonic!
  • The real problem is corporate rule.

Climate March report:  Debbie

Details are still being worked out but as it stands the march will take place along the waterfront trail.

There will be stops along the way to point out pollution and historical landmarks. 

There will be a canoe/kayak contingent. 

The march will end at Maritime Heritage Park with speakers, etc. 

There is a Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=people%27s%20climate%20march%20-%20bellingham

OCCUPY will have a table at this event – so far Marcia and Margaret have volunteered to staff this.

Meeting adjourned t 3:50 with casual talk afterwards.

March 17, 2017

Margaret, Marnell, Peter, Lyn, Ellen, Barbara, Keith, Marcia

Lummi recognition read by Peter

Announcements

  1. Bellingham’s veterans for peace chapter 111 50th anniversary of dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s perilous Beyond Vietnam speech on April 4th 1967 When—on April 4th 2017 6-8; 30 where YWCA corner of n. Forrest and Maple st, Bellingham
  2. Community bill of rights March 30, 2017 lecture room of Bellingham public library 6:00 pm Barbara suggested people who are interested in this project should go to each neighborhood association to introduced a community bill of rights. These associations do not have official power, but are influential in city government. 
  3. Making signs— Barbara brought to us the possibility of having a sign making workshop sometime in May.  Is it possible instead of a meeting on Friday we have a sign making session.  Think about messages and a trainer who could help us.  This would be small signs, as we have very large signs made from deer fencing. 

More things

  1. Marcia handed out the people’s tribune.
  2. Senate bill 5731— gives opportunity for other ged tests in the state of Washington. This didn’t get out of committee.  The HI-SET test is cheaper and fairer to students than the one being currently used. i.e., [the Pearson test].  Not completely dead but dead for this session.
  3. Lynn reports: Cell phone radiation on public transportation.  Lyn is concerned about this because she strongly believes it causes brain cancers, nerve damage. Etc.  Even to people around the cell phone user.  She wants labels on cell phone to warn users of the danger. She has met with the T.W.A . About this.  Lyn also asked us to think about not eating birds [poultry].   Lyn has an idea to save the planet which she will bring to us at a further meeting.
  4. Peter wants occupy to officially adopt the blue marble manifesto; and he wants to have a vote on it at the next meeting. Ideas to think about—nature has rights, the community has rights.
  5. The ERA (Equal Rights Amendment) from the 70’s is still around. Marnell said there are marches in California, specifically in LA, to finally pass this amendment.  Marnell said she will keep us up to date on the progress of the ERA.  Thanks, Marnell

Keith came to occupy to tell us about a backbone camp he attended on Vashon island.  He was very impressed.  We told him we offered to have a backbone camp in the summer at peter’s place.  Marcia also donated her husband property as a backup.  Keith said that backbone has equipment available for us to use.  Backbone is trying to get a permanent building on Vashon.  Keith told us about an action that a gentleman he met at the camp did at C-Pac.  This fellow got Russian flags with trump’s picture on them at the C-Pac[meeting of  republican/tea party members] into their national meeting.  Backbone’s e-mail is www.backbone.Org

Good news

Heather Christianson won a position on the county conservation district.

 

March 10. 2017

Naomi, Margaret, John, Helen, Marnell, Ronna, Peter, Debbie, Cynthia, Ellen

Poem read by Marcia

Lummi recognition– by Peter

Good to see our ellen back.  We worried about her.

Events – past and future

  1. 3-11-2017 42nd Dems membership meeting at Bellewood at 10 am 2. 3-11-2017 first 42nd indivisible meeting at Bellewood at 1p 3. A video at BUF from at 1pm to 3.30p. ACLU training organized by resistance. Also at someone’s house on medcalf rd.
  2. Ides of March (Trump) we filled out postcards provided by Ronna who will mail them on the 15th. This was part of a nationwide effort.
  3. Meeting Mar. 12 of organization on climate change at c to c march 12th at 4pm.
  4. Grassroots meeting at Mar. 12 center for spiritual living on 2;30p to 4;40p to make flags for climate march.
  5. March 14th election for whatcom conservative district at the conservative district office on Hannagan. We were asked to vote for Heather Christianson.
  6. Eric Hirst will talk about the Supreme Court ruling re: water on March 15 at Carl Cozier school at 7pm about the Hirst ruling to promote water conservation.
  7. Sikh temple on Pole Road March 12, 2017 from 12p to 2p for a discussion on a hate shooting of a Sikh man in kent, wa and ethnic profiling in whatcom county.
  8. Report on county council
  9. Whatcom is not meeting our water conservation dictated by the state.
  10. Lengthy meeting.
  11. Barbara Brenner tried to get an emergency for 6 weeks so folks could get their wells finished in the county.
  12. Rud brown suggested to have rain water collection during times of high precipitation.

EDUCATION

From marcia about workshop with Shelly Vendiola.  We decided not to have a workshop; because we don’t have the money.  An informal meeting with Shelly was suggested by Marcia.

TWO REQUESTS FROM DEBBIE FOR HELP

She needs big help in putting on the climate march, and the people’s summit.

The climate march or our sister city march for the climate

  1. 350 and other groups are involved.

2, details coming about April 29

  1. Occupy will have a table at the march.
  2. We gave our endorsement of the march and OCCUPY will contribute $50 towards expenses

VETERANS FOR PEACE

  1. 50 years since MLK gave his most dangerous [to him] speech at riverside church in New York City where he mentioned economic justice and his stance against the Vietnam War.
  2. On April 4th we will have an opportunity to hear this famous speech from 1967 and have a discussion on it. 6p to 8p at YWCA [corner of N. Forest St. And E. Maple St.

INDIVISIBLE

  1. Ronna reported that she is working with Naomi Murphy and Grace Cisneros to start an Indivisible Group for the North County. The first meeting will be on Saturday March 11 from 1 – 3 pm. 
  2. There are several groups already working in the Indivisible Guide in Bellingham. The various local groups can be found at https://www.indivisibleguide.com/groups-nav    Riveters Collective is particularly noteworthy as they are conducting workshops to help people run for office.

March 3, 2017

Ronna, Margaret, John, Marnell, Debbie, Keith, Mike, Peter, Marcia

Prayer-Ronna

LEGISLATURE

Ronna asked us if there were too many e-mails  sent out by her.  We said no, but someone suggested not to put everybody that’s on our list serve to get  these  legislative e-mails.

Senate bill 1253 passed out of the senate.   1253 allows credit unions to handle large amounts of public money for public projects.  Credit unions could do it alone or with other credit unions,  we want Erickson  to be put on record if he supports 1253 or not.   [ i am not sure if this was a senate or house bill]

BELLINGHAM CITY COUNCIL

Marnell reported that the police have suggested to the city council to have citizen patrols in the Bellingham downtown area.  Of course, they would have no authority, just report to police, and they could give information to tourists. Someone suggested that social workers would be better than just citizens to patrol the downtown, since they were already familiar with our homeless population.  Some of us were concerned with the profiling of the homeless by these citizen patrols. Marnell said she would keep us updated on these patrols.  Thanks Marnell.

Fund raiser for farm workers union

6,000 dollars were raised for the union to pay for office workers.  A lot of union members from various unions in whatcom and Skagit counties were there.  Way to go unions.

Ronna said she would pass out 12 ways the city ordinance, passed on 2/13/2017, does not protect our undocumented that was written by Rosa Linda.

County council

  1. County council meeting was on mar. 7th. Water usage is of high concern in whatcom county; our county does not meet the state’s water usage plan.   Hope we will find out how that went at our next occupy meeting.
  2. Dougie Erickson was at Merdian HS for a town hall last Saturday. Apparently, there was a very large crowd.  I wonder if somebody asked him if farmers would lose undocumented workers because  of profiling, or how many ALEC bills he has presented to the Washington state senate.

Solutionary rail

Ronna and debbie will introduce this project to dems.  There will be another presentation of solutionary at Huxley on 4/6th. By Bill Moyer , if I remember correctly.  Debbie is working on a power point presentation.  Money is badly needed for a feasibility study.  Mike gave great suggestions for raising money, and he will be connected to Bill Moyer.  Our Bellingham is the very first city in the us to be a model for attaining support for solutionary rail.

Grass roots action.

The meeting in Ferndale with Del Bene was cancelled due to bad weather, but balloons with grass roots asks on the balloons were made to her office in Mt. Vernon.

Climate march

Debbie has meeting with the grass roots group to share with what’s happening with the climate march

Amendment to the constitution

Keith, our comrade from move to amend whatcom, came to our meeting to have us call our federal rep. , larsen, to sign on to HR 48 . And our senators to sign on to senate resolution 20 to amend our constitution to get rid of Citizen’s United.

Peter is taking orders for the book beginnings.

24 February 

Barbara, Alyce, Ronna, Naomi, Gloria, Debbie, Peter, Marnell

Barbara:  Heard on Democracy Now.org The Seahawks were asked to go to Israel as ambassadors.  Michael Bennet refused along with 13 others who said they could not support the occupation

 Peter will take orders next week for the book Beginnings.  $15 a copy.  Thanks were offered for the gift of books last week.

Gloria announced:

  1. a Good Neighbors Project: Women Coming Together offering Interfaith friendship go to whatcomgoodneighbor@gmail.com to sign up for small group formation
  2. Drew our attention to a list of “pronouns 101” for gender neutral pronouns (from the handout) From the movie 3 to infinity which was “fascinating”.
TYPE NAME EXAMPLE
Feminine She, her, her She went to the store

I spoke to her

It was her apple

Masculine He, him, his He went to the store

I spoke to him

It was his apple

Gender Neutral They, them, their

 

They went to the store

I spoke to them

It was their apple

Gender Neutral Ze, zir/zem, zirs/zes Ze went to the store

I spoke to zir/zem

It was zirs/zes apples

Gender Neutral Ze, hir, hirs Ze went to the store

I spoke to hir

It was hirs apple

www.transstudent.org/graphhics

The following comments were made

  • There are over 48 gender identities.
  • It is so much more than chromosomes.
  • Indigenous people accept all genders
  • How primary does this have to be?
  • Our society makes it into a problem when it is not

Alyce:  Whatcom Dems outreach There is a good letter writing group which is growing and active.  Send any actions events, etc. to Gwen Groden, co-planner for actions.  There was brief discussion about the cooing election of DNC chair and hopes for Ellison to win that seat.

Marnell: Grass Roots Action – Going to DelBene office in Mt. Vernon on Monday to press her about her votes on difficult situations and to thank her for her votes thus far.  There is need to hold her feet to the fire on issues.  She may not be in this office on the day they attend.

PINK POST CARDS for the Ides of March.  Action under foot to send Our president a pink postcard with a message about how you are feeling about his actions thus far.  Please address them to President Donald Trump; 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC,  20500.  IT is hoped he will receive at least 1 million of these post cards on or around March 15 (the Ides of March).

Human Rights Film Festival:

  • OCCUPY was at the Red Power Energy film Debbie passed about Solutionary Rail fliers. William John helped Marcia facilitate a discussion after the movie. 
  • We Solutionary Rail Campaign) are seeking a resolution from the local democrats to endorse Solutionary Rail. Barbara Lewis would be a good contact for this – the 42nd Dems will meet at Bellewood Acres on 11 March and Whatcom Dems will be on 16 March.

Kudos were given to Debbie for a great February newsletter.

WE THE PEOPLE 2.0 – as of March 2 all tickets are sold and the movie is a go!  Ronna and Debbie are working with others to facilitate the movie and planning thereafter for a Community Bill of Rights.

Light projection:  would like to shoot for the 3rd (Friday) .  Orders for more Gobos has been placed and Ronna will make some by hand.  Talked about having clean energy.  Possibly showing on the Herald Building, Kulshan Cycles, Federal Building.  Hope to have enough volunteers to swing this action.

INDIVISIBLE:  Marnell’s group at the Leopold is having about 5 members.  They’re following actions of other groups.  The main thing is to find out about a town hall by members of congress and local reps.   Lyn reports that she went to Olympia with the Quakers.  Ronna will work with a group from north county who would like to start a 42nd Indivisible group. 

Pipelines

 

Feb. 17, 2017                    

Margaret, Peter, Marnell, Ronna, Alyce, Lyn, Debbie, Naomi, John, Barbara, Marcia

Lummi/Nooksack prayer read by peter

Books were given to each of us called Beginnings: A Mediation On Coast Salish Lifeways by Patrick Twohy.  Thanks Peter for this wonderful gift.

Took a few minutes to express how are we-feeling this week -a query started by marcia. —appreciation to Marcia for a good idea.

MTA

Offer 2 scholarships for a retreat to cle elum, or give the money we have to MTA Washington which can surely use it.   We have over 350 dollars in the bank.  MTA is working to get money out of politics, and say that corporations aren’t people.  We passed it on the ballot in our state, but we want to have it as an amendment to the us constitution.

TPP

  1. Ronna has consolidated the lists. The questions is—how do we want trade to work.  We think something like TPP that does not promote fair trade will resurface.  Ronna and Debbie will attend an annual board meeting of Washington Fair Trade Coalition on March 17.  The fair trade coalition is a watch dog on trade.

NoDAPL

  1. We need a current update on standing rock. Ronna will research it, and write up what she finds.  Debbie will post to the newsletter.
  2. A discussion was engaged about OCCUPY’s endorsement of an action (NoDAPL rally of Feb 11, that resulted in the I-5 blockade) when we are not informed about the totality of the action. The following comments were made:
    1. Civil disobedience is a good strategy but tactics should be examined thoroughly for impact and timeliness.
    2. OCCUPY Bellingham will vet future actions more carefully
    3. Maybe we can say we will do an illegal act and then not do it. “we are not guilty until we commit an act”
    4. The valve turners announced their actions ahead of time and some pipelines were shut down by the industry.
    5. Lessons have been learned
    6. Write a LTE
    7. Raise funds for the accident victim

NEXT SPEAKER FOR OUR OCCUPY MEETING

Marcia will get hold of Shelly Vendiola to come to a meeting, speak to us about how best to ally with indigenous culture and help us plan a Saturday special session on white and indigenous folks.  How about an apology to the original people who met us when we came to these shores from Europe? 

LEGISLATURE

Ronna has kindly offered to send out to us, bills from our senator and reps., that we can comment on.  Topics like oil transportation, toxic cleanup, etc.

EDUCATION

  1. Marilyn chase has bill 5371. The bill wants to offer the high-set text as an alternative to the expensive GED tests being pushed by private for profit corporations. Ronna will send info about this bill.
  2. Marcia read us a letter she is sending to gov. Inslee about the hi-set test. Way to go marcia.

THINGS TO GO TO

1.Wed. 11am  feb. 22nd at Settelmeyer hall (next to the book store on the BTC campus).  She will table for the movie Red Power Energy a movie about Native Americans discussing energy development.  Debbie will help with Solutionary Rail handouts.

  1. Climate March on april 29th. Debbie is one of the organizers, and she needs sponsors and allies. Planning on Thurs. Evening 5:30 p.  March 2nd.  Get in touch with debbie 920-0981 if you want to help or have questions.   This march may take place on the interurban trail

FEB. 10, 2017  

Margaret, Ronna, Alyce, Debbie, Marnell, Nusy, Aneesa, Peter, Gloria, John, Uma

Lummi prayer read by Ronna

CHECK IN

Marcia asked us to take a minute and say how we felt.  Personally, i think it’s a good idea to help keep our sanity in these crazy times.  All agreed.

Education

Marcia told us that Marilyn Chase, who is either a state senator or state rep, is proposing and alternate to the Pearson test called High Set test which offers a much cheaper and fairer test for high school equivalency tests. 

Marnell announced an MSNBC special with Rahm Emanuel about Chicago at 8 pm.

Solutionary rail

25 people turned about for the Bill Moyer’s talk, and 8 books were sold.  This was during a bad snow storm.  I think i can safely say it would have been much more if folks didn’t have to have driven thru a snow and ice storm.  Money is needed for a feasibility study which will cost a million dollars. Washington St Legislature is being asked for this grant.  Bill Moyer will speak at Huxley College on April 6 at 4 pm. 

Someone in the county is going to donate a heated space in the county (2332 E. Hemmi Road) for future art build by Bill Moyer’s group. 

Still working on strategies to promote the book. 

BLUE MARBLE MANIFESTO

 Peter would like as many people as possible to read his latest version.  Ronna agreed to help him get the text electronically and send it out to OCCUPY.  It is included at the end of these minutes

Familias Unitas Union

There will be a fundraiser for this Union on March 2 from 6-8 at WWU Academic West 204.  Mark McDermott will be a speaker who has toured the nation speaking about union causes. 

Discussed asking Shelly Vendiola to speak at a workshop on a Saturday about indigenous issues.  Will clarify details at next meeting.

Ronna will add Gloria, John and William to the Google group.  Debbie will send instructions on how to read and manage the emails form this group

Peter announced that Patti Murray is showing some backbone in her refusal to take the “corporate route”.

Debbie will arrange with Colleen for tabling at the Human Rights Film Festival.  First up is Sat, Feb 18 at FCA – Margaret and Ronna will table this.

I-735

Not much to report.  No one from the original group has responded to Debbie’s ask for leadership.  There is some idea for a retreat to plan strategy for moving forward.  When we hear about this Debbie or Ronna will report to OCCUPY and will see what we want to do.  Margaret will send the money in the treasury to WAMEND/FIX DEMOCRACY FIRST.  There is a bill in congress for Move To Amend.  Needs research.

INDIVISIBLE

Ronna and Marnell will meet at the Leopold on Wednesday at 3 pm to strategize about how OCCUPY can benefit from this document in our future actions.

TPP

There will be trade talk ahead and OCCUPY is opposed to globalization and supports FREE TRADE.  Ronna will consolidate several email groups into one, send a talking points memo from the Washington Fair Trade Coalition and an article by Stan Storcher to this group.  We may need to activate this group and see where we go next.  Debbie and Ronna will be on a conference call Friday Feb 17. 

Announcement that there are 2 opportunities to learn about Islam at St. Paul Episcopal Church at 2117 Walnut Street on Saturday February 11 at 1000 am.  This is the second in the series of Islam 101 and then the third on the following Saturday same place and time. 

Report:  C2C meeting attended and they announced they are “fighting white supremacy” and are going to propose that the Pickett Bridge be renamed. 

A question was raised asking whether anybody knows about Community Supported Activism.  Aneesa thought she might know someone and she will inquire.

 THE BLUE MARBLE MANIFESTO  by Peter Holcomb for OCCUPY

The blue marble is the iconic photograph of Earth from space.  Our planet is the only example science knows that supports rich ecosystems of life.

Legitimate governments are instituted to protect the Rights of Nature to exist and flourish, and the rights of humans.  Whenever a government fails to protect the rights of nature and of the people, it is the duty of the people to abolish it, and institute forms and rules which will.

The life of the blue marble is desperately threatened by the activities of a single species.  Only humans have the leverage of mathematics, chemistry and machines to destroy so much life, even before we have a good inventory.  Only humans destroy the land, ocean and atmosphere, the rivers, forests, mountains, and prairies.  Only humans coat the surface with asphalt, concrete, oil, buildings, plastic, and poison.  Human activity needs to be sharply turned from destruction and smothering to restoration, which only humans can really do.  Before we commit suicide, Rise Up! while we still have air to breathe, water to drink, and land to grow food.  It is already too late for many species and a dire emergency for us.

Scientists believe that humans have already overshot the carrying capacity of Earth, but whether the situation is past hope or merely a dire emergency, we must act quickly on vital topics: 

  • Respect the rights of nature.
  • Conserve and protect the water.
  • Conserve topsoil and sequester carbon in the living soil.
  • Proclaim an immediate moratorium on mining, drilling for oil, laying pipes for oil, logging, highway building, commercial fishing, and industrial agriculture.
  • Abolish institutional racism, classism, sexism, and nationalism. Then root each ism out of our own souls.  Educate it out.  Love it out.
  • Begin universal democracy. Make it as direct as we can.
  • Begin humane population control.

Government will be needed, but government does not have a great history.  The U.S. Constitution was founded by a few rich men to make themselves richer.  Its unwritten principles caused the near extermination of one race and accelerated the enslavement of another.  Among these privileged few, only male land owners had citizenship rights.  Governments are founded to benefit the already privileged, or to form a new privileged class while eliminating the old.  We have to do better, and we have examples of some that are better:  Small indigenous communities which practice conservation as spirituality, a few religious sects which stayed small, a few towns in pre-Franco Spain, possibly a contemporary cooperative movement in Argentina, and there may be others.  We need some novel, truly democratic forms of government; the old forms are not capable of acting quickly and powerfully enough to save us.  Rise up!  Write and start some new forms, which WILL save us, maybe even forms of direct democracy.

Article I of an effective government needs to be THE RIGHTS OF NATURE, with first rights to the land, the atmosphere, and the one world ocean, with specific rights for rivers, prairies, forests, deserts, reefs, ecosystems, and species.  Humans are one of the species and so will have human rights, with the rights of people above the right of government, which is merely a human creation.  Railroads, universities, schools, hospitals, theaters, plumbing, electricity, trolleys, and other public utilities which contribute to welfare and happiness will have limited rights.  While private institutions may be permitted to serve specific needs, such as housing, gardening, cooking, keeping stores, transport of cargo, manufacture or crafting of needed items, no giant corporations which aspire to political power will be permitted.  Corporations must be constrained by rules that give them no power over nature, real people or government, so Rise up!  Overthrow corporate rule.

People must have a basic income that allows for food, water, a safe, private shelter with reasonable temperature control, to sleep and to keep personal possessions and papers. People must have free and equal medical care rights.  People must have an opportunity to keep themselves and their clothing clean.  People must have the right to express any ideas and be free from unreasonable search.

We need prosecutors and police to enforce the new rules, but they will not be the terrorist police in Darth Vader uniforms and high tech weaponry protecting money  and doing the bidding of corporations.   They will be real police protecting Nature and real people, led by scientists and humanists, not corporate terrorists.

The world depends on humans to set right that which we have ruined.  We need a complete (AND COMPLETELY NONVIOLENT) revolution and we need it now.  It must be spontaneous and everywhere, a general strike.  On a day, quit using media, roads, power, everything corporate.  So RISE UP!  Overthrow corporate rule:  the bankers, brokers, drillers, miners, poisoners, and corporate despoilers of all kinds, and the many governments which serve them.  Do it in the name of our planet which needs us at this crucial moment.  Rise Up!

Feb. 3, 2017          

Margaret, Mike, Peter, Ronna, Marnell, Alyce, Mesa, Debbie, Aneesa, Ellen, Johnny-

Lummi recognition read

EDUCATION ABOUT OUR MUSLIM COMMUNITY

Anissa was invited to our meeting to help us get to know the Muslim community in Whatcom County and the Muslim community in America in general.  We asked that she include how we can be most helpful in this time of peril for immigrants both documented and undocumented.   She explained some things we can do to be a good ally of Muslims.

  1. She brought head scarves and encouraged anyone to try it out. She believes it would be appropriate to wear a head scarf in solidary with Muslims if desired.
  2. When we see a person in a head scarf or someone praying approach carefully and ask this person “how is it going”? As a rule, Muslim women are shy and might not ask for help. 
  3. Protest anti- Muslim actions. If we see intimidation or bullying of a Muslim, approach the person and act as a friend – talk about weather, etc. Say nothing to the bully.  In this situation lean toward the Muslim person. 
  4. Say something when you see or hear negative comments against Muslims. The problem with this is that it happens so randomly and it happens so quickly, and in isolation.  So be aware and ready to act spontaneously.
  5. Ramadan will be happening sometime in May no exact date because the date is based on the lunar calendar. They know the exact date only a few days before it happens.  We are invited to attend mosque and celebrate this holiday.
  6. We are invited to attend the mosque in Bellingham at 1244 Nevada Street. OnFriday’s at noon.  Simple rules of covering your hair and taking shoes off at the door.
  7. Learn about Islam. Books suggested are; “Islam for dummies”, “Autobiography of the Koran” by Karen Armstrong. 
  8. Support the Sanctuary City ordinance. Attend the City Council meeting on Monday, 2/13  The ordinance being promoted is called Keep Bellingham Families Working
  9. Call and write letters to in support of Muslim people. Encourage people to vote.
  10. When encountering someone with bias toward Muslims, ask questions like: Where did you learn this?  How do you know that? 
  11. The local community is learning how to organize and be cohesive.
  12. Muslim is usually considered a person who follows the Islam faith. Muslims are also known to be Christian.
  13. Muslims hold intention in high regard, believing that “Intention gives you half the reward for a deed”. If you have good intentions that is very important and meaningful.
  14. Aneesa agreed to be the link to our group for her community and if there is an urgent action or news to disperse she should email Ronna who will spread the word.

Thanks to Aneesa for such a great presentation, and Nusy for being so grown up. 

Dianne foster news — Dianne’s plants have been taken care of, and she will be home soon.

WOMENS MARCH

Ronna handed out more postcards for us to send to our members of congress in our 2nd week of 100 days of action called for by the women’s march.  Ronna also introduced us to huddles that are being started by the women’s march (second week of actions).  Grass Roots Action will host such a meeting on Feb 13 at Cordata Food Co-op at 6 PM. 

Occupy is starting a study group for the document Indivisible.  Time/ place not decided yet.  Marnell, Ronna, Marcia and Margaret expressed interest. 

Solutionary rail book reading at Village Books will take place next Wednesday at 7 pm at Village Books in Fairhaven.  Debbie will report next week on the turnout.  Alyce will work on getting Bill Moyer on the Joe show to promote this event.  We are all encouraged to call in on the 7th from 12 – 1 at 930 AM radio.

Marcia has been introducing us to the prophetic tradition to cope with what’s happening in our situation.  It is about mourning, organizing and celebrating our successes.

  1. Imagine our goal and picture what we want. Look at Occupy’s mission statement.
  2. The relationship between justice and love. Book recommendation on this topic is “Surplus Powerlessness”
  3. What is really truth. The secular and the spiritual
  4. Starving the beast is a recommended documentary about the privatization of education. Watch for it at the PIckford.

Alyce recommends the book American Prosperity Gospel

January 27

Margaret, Ronna, Naomi, Peter, Bill, Marnell. Gloria, Debbie, Alyce, Marcia

Peter read Lummi prayer

Announcements

Marnell reported that a group of Chinese youth will be at leopold with singers and dancers starting at 3pm on 1/28 2017.  Chinese new year celebration

Bill Moyer  one of the authors of solutionary rail will be coming to the villiage books on wed. 2/8/2017 at 7pm.  Solutionary rail needs money to fund a feasibility study.

WOMEN’S MARCH

Ronna reported that there is 10 actions in 100 days sponsored by the Women’s March.  The first action is to send postcards to reps stating concerns.  Ronna gave out postcards to mail to our federal senators and our rep. So they know what we want from them.  Do it, and that also means me asap.  Some ideas suggested included:

  1. Support Indigenous inherent rights (vs acquired rights)
  2. Support Conyers HR 676 – Expanded and improved Medicare for all Act. https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/676
  3. Support veterans
  4. Support Immigration and END THE BAN
  5. Oppose the gag rule placed on science and environmental agancies

BLUE MARBLE MANIFESTO

Peter handed out a revision of his original document.  Asks that we read it and he is willing to take feedback.  There is no electronic copy on file.

DIANNE

Ronna asked for donations to provide 4 hours of gardening to ready her yard for her return which will be in the next few weeks.  She passed around a card form Dianne thanking us all for our support.

 NEW GUEST

William bill l john came to our occupy meeting for the first time. and we were truly honored.  Bill is a Lummi elder who speaks the Lummi language and has taught it in whatcom county at several institutions.  He said he would try to bring his wife to one of our meetings.  We are looking forward to it. He talked to us about the importance to know the difference between inherent rights and acquired rights.  His e-mail is nexwlummi@gmail.com

 HUMAN RIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL

Gloria handed out bellingham Human Rights film festival leaflet.  She gave a very brief summary of each film and they sound wonderful.  Thanks Gloria.  We discussed which films would be good to have an OCCUPY table – Debbie and Ronna will look into it.

BELLINGHAM PEOPLE’S ASSEMBLY

Margaret attended a second meeting called by Edgar of C2C.  She is unable to give much information and will get this together for the next meeting. 

Debbie said that 25 percent of the people who signed up for the occupy newsletter at the Women’s March opened it.

Proposal to endorse the work of the WWU blue group in seeking sanctuary city status for bellingham and other actions on behalf of immigrants and marginalized people.  We voted to do it.  Ronna will send this endorsement on to the Blue Group.

Ronna is outreaching to find a person of Muslim faith to come to occupy and we will ask how we can do for this group.  Maybe a hajib demo. Sometime soon.

JAN. 13, 2017   

MARGARET, RONNA, NAOMI, PETER, ALYCE, DEBBIE, MARNELL, MARION, MIKE

LUMMI PRAYER

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Beach clean up 10am, semiahmoo  park building jan. 16th

Jan. 20th-don’t mourn organize

Dems  8;30-11;30a conference-sat jan. 14 public library

MLK jan. 14th 4 people from occupy going 10am to 2pm

WE THE PEOPLE 2.0

The we the people movie on jan. 6th and jan. 12th were very successful with 45 folks at library and 25 at the leopold.

SANCTUARY CITY

Ronna will bring a proposal to next meeting that suggests occupy endorse the WWU blue group. A group proposing that Bellingham become a sanctuary city and other proposals in support of immigrant rights. 

INDIVISIBLE

Suggestion made that a reading group form to study and use this document.

 BLUE MARBLE MANIFESTO

Ronna will send out The blue marble manifesto to occupy members.

Solutionary rail

  1. Debbie said the party in Tacoma was fun.
  2. Bellingham is one of the first cities to get into solutionary rail–thanks to debbie.
  3. Debbie is the organization head in whatcom county.

4, debbie has written an article in this week’s whatcom watch

  1. Letters to editors on solutionary rail was very welcomed. We need to do a lot of education. Alyce’s George has agreed to write an article—yeah George. 
  2. Alyce is going to take s.r. to the rail way museum in bellingham. There are a lot of rr enthusiasts there; i know from many hours spent there with my grandson.

STANDING ROCK – NoDAPL

  1. THERE IS STILL A PRESENCE AT STANDING ROCK, AND PROBABLY MORE AFTER THE DUMP’S EXECUTIVE ORDER ON OIL PIPELINES.

RECOMMENDED READING

BERNIE’S:  OUR REVOLUTION

JAN 6, 2017

Margaret, Ronna, Lyn, Peter, Ellen, Debbie, Marcia

Lummi Prayer

JOB OPENING

A manager of the Leopold Hotel is needed.  Call the Leopold if interested.

ARMY CORP OF ENGINEERS needs communication from us.  Peter says the Core ignores EIS, and doesn’t follow court orders.  Please call them, and put some heat on them.  An article about this situation can be found in the latest WHATCOM WATCH.  http://www.nws.usace.army.mil/ 

THE BLUE MARBLE MANIFESTO

Peter cautions us about having too much on the agenda before we get a real picture about what to do.  Want to remain flexible to be able to protest in March or April.  Need a long-term strategy and long range plan.  You Tube – Trump on the Couch  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_FsbL1Z9Z4 

PEOPLE’S SUMMIT there was something about it in at the Occupy meeting last Friday.  This is on hold for now since the Women’s March will have “community partners” at tables and will essentially cover much of what we wanted to do.  Also, Ronna and Jeremy will be speakers.  OCCUPY will have a table at the march.  Please volunteer to help.

MONEY LEFTOVER FROM MOVE TO AMEND. What to do with it.  Margaret is advised to hang on to it until this local group reconvenes and if that does not happen it can be donated to WAMEND.

We The People 2.0.  The turnout at the library was about 45 people.  Western Front was covering it there.  Will show at the Leopold 1//14.  Then MLK conference on 1/14  and then Pickford on March 16. 

SOLUTIONARY RAIL

  1. Debbie wrote an article about SOLUTIONARY RAIL for the current issue of WHATCOM WATCH. CONGRATS DEBBIE. I so admire people who do this.
  2. Peter will write an article in the NW CITIZEN ABOUT SOLUTIONARY RAIL. Thanks in advance, Peter. He will have written the article by Feb. 1. 2017.
  3. The Bellingham Library has 5 copies of SOLUTIONARY RAIL.
  4. There will be a SOLUTIONARY RAIL reading at Village Books on Wed. the 8th of Feb. It will start at 7PM. Village Books is at 1200 11th St. in Fair Haven. 
  5. Debbie will attend the Kick off in Tacoma and report next week.

350.org bellingham, LofWV, and Transition Whatcom are helping publicize.  Press release to Western Front

DOUG ERICKSEN

Introduced a bill into the Washington State Legislature to make it a FELONY to protest in the state of Washington because it might “interrupt commerce”.

  1. We feel this needs at least a letter to the EDITOR and to Doug http://dougericksen.src.wastateleg.org/contact-me-2/ or O. Box 40442; Olympia, WA 98504-0442
  2. We also feel that Doug needs a little bannering in front of his office. (does not have local office)
  3. This is probably sponsored by ALEC

SUGGESTED READING INDIVISIBLE, A Practical Guide for Resisting the Trump agenda. 

POINT OF PROCESS:  There was a Point of Process made when the discussion trailed away from the agenda after a member present suggested not using the term “guys” when referring to a group of people.  Agreed that members need to feel safe in this space, calling out Point of Process is useful (reminder) when off topic.

MARCIA read a selection from PROPHETIC THOUGHTS which says that Justice is the Embodiment of Love.  Love and Justice go together.  “Love is the soul of justice and justice is the embodiment of love”.