Past Events 2009

Past Events 2009:

Solidarity Committee- Film: “Surplus: Terrorized into Being Consumers”
Saturday, December 19, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its2009-2010 film series with the documentary, “Surplus: Terrorized into Being Consumers” (2003, 52 minutes). Shot in the United States, India,China, Italy, Sweden, Hungary, and elsewhere, this very unusual film explores the superficial nature of what has become the major freedom encouraged in many societies: the freedom to consume. Directed by Italian-Swedish filmmaker Eric Gandini and edited by Swedish music composer/editor/percussionist Johan Söderberg, “Surplus” shows why the purchase of goods does not necessarily lead to happiness. A post-film discussion will be led by Brooke Newell of the NY Citizens Trade Campaign.
This film-showing—co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action—will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington venue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. Information: 466-1192

 

Elliott Adams, Board Member of Veterans For Peace, National
and past president of Veterans for Peace,
will speak on his October, 2009 trip to Gaza
Thursday, December 17, 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall
445 Delaware Ave, Delmar

In October 2009, Elliott Adams traveled to Gaza with Washington Physicians for Social Responsibility and Veterans For Peace. The delegation met with government officials, educational institutions, NGOs, student groups, cultural centers, medical institutions, and ordinary citizens to learn about Gaza. In his slide presentation Elliott considers both the complexity and tragedy of Gaza, considering such questions as: What is the lasting impact of the January attack and invasion by Israel and the implications of the 3 year old blockade? What is the role of Hamas? Is there any possible solution to this political powder keg in the Middle East? How might we find a lasting peace? Is our 3billion dollars a year in military aid to Israel helpful to creating peace? What is our responsibility as American citizens and taxpayers?Please join us this evening for an important presentation and discussion about Gaza. Information466-1192

 

BNP Film: Battle in Seattle
Thursday, December 10, 6:45 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

 

Battle in Seattle (2007, 98 minutes) This dramatization of the 1999 protests of the World Trade Organization meeting in Seattle. This drama features actors Charlize Theron, Woody Harrelson, André Benjamin, Connie Nielsen and Michelle Rodriguez. Most of us know how the protested ended but this dramatization is sure to spark discussion. Roger Ebert: “…. “Battle in Seattle” makes a case for the way the WTO punishes Third World nations, allows the dumping of surpluses that drive workers away from jobs and is managed for the benefit of fat-ca tnations. ” After the film, Brooke Newell of the NY Citizens Trade Campaign will lead a discussion and talk about the 2009 Trade Act. Information 466-1192

 

Tuesday, December 1st, 7:00 p.m. Roger Bacon Hall 202 (Key Auditorium), Siena College. Scott Ritter and Dr. Larry Wittner on Nuclear Weapons Dangers Today. Scott Ritter has had an extensive and distinguished career in government service. He is an intelligence specialist with a 12-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps including assignments in the former Soviet Union and the Middle East. Rising to the rank of Major, Ritter spent several months of the Gulf War serving under General Norman Schwarzkopf with US Central Command headquarters in Saudi Arabia, where he played an instrumental role in formulating and implementing combat operations targeting Iraqi mobile missile launchers which threatened Israel. In 1991, Ritter joined the United Nations weapons inspections team, or UNSCOM. He participated in 34 inspection missions, 14 of them as chief inspector.Ritter resigned from UNSCOM in August 1998, citing US interference in the work of the inspections. He is the author of many books,including “Iraq Confidential: The Untold Story of the Intelligence Conspiracy to Undermine the UN and Overthrow Saddam Hussein” and most recently “Target Iran: The Truth About the White House’s Plans for Regime Change.” Lawrence S. Wittner is Professor of History at the State University of New York/Albany, and a former president of the Peace History Society. His books include Rebels Against War (1969,rev. ed. 1984), Cold War America (1974, rev. ed. 1978), and American Intervention in Greece (1982). His most extensive project was an award-winning, scholarly trilogy entitled The Struggle Against the Bomb(1993-2003). In June 2009, he came out with an abbreviated version: Confronting the Bomb: A Short History of the World Nuclear Disarmament Movement. He has also edited or co-edited four other books, co-edited he scholarly journal Peace & Change, and written about 200published articles and book reviews. A Presentation in Concert with sychology 490 Seminar: Political Psychology (a Problem-Based Service Learning Course) Co-sponsored by: School of Liberal Arts/Peace Studies, The Franciscan Center for Service and Advocacy Bonner Service Leaders Program, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Mr. Ritter and Dr.Wittner also will be signing their most recent books, which will be forsale at the event. For further information, contact Dr. Mo Hannah([email protected])

Local Peace Groups call for Action on Escalation of Afghanistan War, Wednesday, December 2

Obama is scheduled to make the announcement at West Point Tuesday night!

Join us in in Albany at the intersection of Wolf Road and Central Avenue on Wednesday, December 2, for a 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. picket line in front of the Colonie Shopping Center. We have signs calling for an end to the Afghan war, or bring your own. The protest is being organized by Tom Paine Chapter of Veterans for Peace,Women Against War, Upper Hudson Peace Action, and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Please sharethis plan immediately with your organization’ s members. Weinvite other regional groups to join us as co-sponsors, so please spread theword.

8 Years of War in Afghanistan, How Many More?

CONTACTS:
Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Joe Lombardo at 518 439-1968 or jlombard@nycap. rr.com
Veteran for Peace, Dan Wilcox at 518 482-0262 or dwlcx@earthlink. net
Women Against War, Maureen Aumand at 518 869-6674 or maumand@nycap. rr.com

 

Solidarity Committee- Film: “Rethinking the War in Afghanistan” with Connie Houde
Saturday, November 21, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany (Emerson Hall)
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010film series with a showing of the outstanding five part film , “Rethink Afghanistan” (2009, 75 minutes). Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Robert Greenwald whose screencredits include “Outfoxed,” “Wal-Mart,” and “Iraq for Sale”—thisfilm exposes the true costs of the military occupation of Afghanistan,the daily struggles facing U.S. soldiers, and the hardships endured byAfghan civilians. At this time when the U.S. role in Afghanistanis being debated among government officials and the public, “RethinkAfghanistan” could not be more timely. A discussion after thefilm screening will be led by Connie Frisbee Houde, who recentlyreturned from a visit to Afghanistan. This event—co-sponsored byBethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Upper Hudson Peace Action, and WomenAgainst War. Admission is free, and free refreshments will be providedby the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome. Information: 466-1192

Kathy Kelly: Pot Luck Dinner and Silent Auction Fundraiser
Friday, November 13, 6:30 – 9:00 pm
Delmar Reformed Church
386 Delaware Ave, Delmar, NY

Please join Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Kathy Kelly for a pot-luckdinner. Please bring a dish to share. This event will be a fund-raiser for Kathy as she continues her peace work in the MiddleEast. There will be a suggested donation of $10.00 per person (more if you can, less if you cannot) and we will be having a silent auction aswell. If you have a book, CD, DVD, baked goods or services you wouldlike to donate for the silent auction, they will be greatlyappreciated. A number of local merchants are donating gift certificatesfor this event. This will be a fun, delicious and interesting evening as Kathy shares her recent experiences. We look forward to seeing you all on November 13th! Please rsvp to Leslie Hudson 768-4676 [email protected]

BNP Film: Soldiers of Conscience
Tuesday, November 10, 6:45 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Soldiers of Conscience (2007, 86 minutes) was first broadcast on PBS, October 16, 2008. “Soldier sof Conscience is a dramatic window on the dilemma of individual U.S.soldiers in the current Iraq War – when their finger is on the trigger and another human being is in their gun-sight. Made with cooperation from the U.S. Army and narrated by Peter Coyote, the film profiles eight American soldiers, including four who decide not to kill, and become conscientious objectors; and four who believe in their duty to kill if necessary. The film reveals all of them wrestling with the morality of killing in war, not as a philosophical problem, but as soldiers experience it – a split-second decision in combat that can ever be forgotten or undone.” Veterans for Peace members, Frank Houde and John Amidon will lead the discussion following the film. Information 466-1192

 

Paola Gutierrez Galindo will speak on Why We Migrate: Stories of Mexico’s Displaced.
Friday, October 23 at 7:00pm
SUNY Albany, HU 113
1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222

The immigration debate, now heating up again, has revolved around border walls, deportations, and policies that have proven not only inhumane,but ineffective at resolving the undocumented migration crisis.Surprisingly lacking from this debate is one essential question: why?Why do millions of Latin Americans make the unlikely decision to leave their communities and cross a dangerous desert in order to live in a country with increasingly draconian anti-immigrant laws? Why did the number of Mexicans who made this decision double after the implementation of the U.S.-pushed North American Free Trade Agreement?To shed some light, Paola Gutierrez Galindo is coming from southern Mexico to tell stories of her family members, of her neighbors, of the vast majority of her community who now live as immigrants in the U.S. Paola will untangle the complex factors, including concrete U.S.economic policies, that have pushed person after person to abandon her community and come live among ours. Witness for Peace Mid Atlantic Speaking tour. Information: Jackie: [email protected]

Solidarity Committee- Film: The War At Home
Saturday, October 24, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2009-2010film series with a showing of the outstanding documentary, “The War at Home” (1979, 100 minutes). Nominated for an Academy Award and widely considered one of the most important political films ever made,”The War at Home” vividly chronicles the anti-Vietnam War movement of the 1960s and early 1970s. Through a powerful combination of rare archival footage and interviews with students, community leaders,Vietnam veterans, and participants from all points of view, this film shows how the movement for peace grew into a genuine people’s revolt.This film-showing—co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action—will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Film: The Reckoning; the Struggle for the International Criminal Court
with filmmaker Peter Kinoy
Friday, October 16, 7 PM
WAMC Linda Norris Auditorium
339 Central Ave., Albany

Late in the 20th century, in response to repeated mass atrocities around the world, more than 120 countries united to form the International Criminal Court (ICC)—the first permanent court created to prosecute perpetrators (no matter how powerful) of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide. The Reckoning follows dynamic ICC Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo and his team for 3 years across 4continents as he issues arrest warrants for Lord’s Resistance Army leaders in Uganda, puts Congolese warlords on trial, shakes up the Colombian justice system, and charges Sudan’s President Omaral-Bashir with genocide in Darfur, challenging the UN Security Councilto arrest him. Building cases against genocidal criminals presents huge challenges, and the Prosecutor has a mandate but no police force. At every turn, he must pressure the international community to muster political will for the cause. Like a deft thriller, The Reckoning keep you on the edge of your seat, in this case with two riveting dramas— he prosecution of unspeakable crimes and the ICC’s fight for efficacy in its nascent years. As this tiny court in The Hague struggles to change the world and forge a new paradigm for justice, innocent victims suffer and wait. Will the Prosecutor succeed? Will the world ensure that justice prevails? This special event is sponsored by: Peace Action, Women Against War, Solidarity Committee of the Capital District, Citizen Action of NY, Bethlehem Neighbors forPeace. We suggest you order your tickets ahead of time and come early to assure seating. For tickets call: 465-5233, ext. 4

Peace March and Rally on Saturday, October 17, West Capital Park (West side of the Capitol), Albany, NY at 12 pm. End the Wars! Stop the bombing of Pakistan!

Endorsers include the North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC), Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, Solidarity Committee, Guilderland Neighbors for Peace, Women Against War, Troy Neighbors for Peace, Upper Hudson Peace Action, Tom Paine Chapter of Veterans for Peace, Muslim Solidarity Committee,Schenectady Neighbors for Peace, Cap. Dist. Interfaith Alliance, SocialJustice Committee of the Schenectady Unitarian Society, Albany Friends meeting, Berkshire Citizens for Peace and Justice, Syracuse Peace Council, Rockland Coalition for Peace and Justice, Saratoga Peace Alliance, Peace Action & Education of Rochester, NY .

Speakers will including Jimmy Massey, founding member of Iraq Veterans Agains the War, Marilyn Fisher, member of Military Families Speak Out, Connie Frisbee Houde local resident who will just be returning of Afghanistan and other.

Live Music by The Ameros (Jesse Calhoun, Kawari, Sean Muniz, Kiki Vassilakis)

Peace and Justice Organizations welcome to table at this event.

October has several dates with significance for the peace movement. In October 2009, we’ll mark the eighth year of the U.S. war in Afghanistan and seven years since Congress passed the resolution authorizing war against Iraq. In addition, October commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Vietnam Moratorium, which brought hundreds of thousands into the streets to protest the war. We support and endorse a two-week period of united mass actions, beginning October3 and culminating on October 17. This includes Monday, October 5 as the date for a national mass march and non-violent civil resistance at the U.S. House of Representatives office buildings and the White House.

“There comes a time when silence is betrayal…” Dr. M. L. King, 1967

Email [email protected] to add your organization as an endorser. Call Joe at 439-1968 to volunteer to work on the organizing of this event.

“Worker’s Republic” w/ filmmaker Andrew Freund
Saturday, October 17 , 7:00 pm
Sanctuary for IndependentMedia
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

Workers’ Republic, (Filmmaker:Andrew Freund, 2009, 62 min). A story of the courage, resolve,creativity, and solidarity of the workers at Republic Windows and Doors who stood up for their rights after being thrown out of work three weeks before Christmas 2008.Three weeks before Christmas 2008, in the depths of the economic crisis, Chicago company Republic Windows and Doors told their workforce that the factory was closing shop. Republic executives complained about dwindling sales due to the crash of the housing market. Three days later, when the Republic employees came into pick up their final paychecks, they were informed that they would not be paid for their final week or receive their accrued vacation pay.Their insurance benefits were cut immediately, and they were denied the60-day severance guaranteed under the federal WARN Act.

What those workers did next reverberated across the country, reminding the working class it possesses a power long forgotten. They occupied the doomed factory 24-hours a day for six days, declaring they would not leave until they were given what their employer owed them.
Workers’Republic conveys the courage, the resolve, the creativity, and the solidarity of those window-builders who vowed to stand up for their rights. From the opening moments to the final settlement and culminating in the surprise fate of the Chicago factory, the film commits one of American society’s most grievous sins: speaking in favor of radical action as a solution to exploitation.

Film maker and union steward Andrew Freund has assembled the accounts of several of the main fighters in the Republic struggle, including front line workers, the organizers of their tiny union United Electrical, Radio,& Machine Workers, and a few of the thousands of everyday people hat supported them through small acts of solidarity. Co-sponsored by The Sanctuary for Independent Media, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and the Troy Area Labor Council. Admission: by donation ($10 suggested, $5 student/low-income)

BNP Forum: ‘Hydrofracking:’ Toxic gas-drilling in NYS
Thursday, October 1 , 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Learn more about the potentially disastrous “hydrofracking” currently underway in New York State. Underneath much of upstate NY is the Marcellus Shale, a rock layer that some geologists predict could meet the nation’s natural gas needs for more than two years. However, this is potentially disastrous for our drinking water supply . “The gas in the Marcellus is held like bubbles in a brick of Swiss cheese. To extract it, a mixture of water, sand and chemicals is shot into the earth with such force it fractures the rock, releasing the bubbles to the surface. When the gas surfaces, so does the water -laden with natural toxins from the shale, including suspected cancer-causing compounds.” according to a 2008 article in the Albany Times Union. Corporations have been given permits to drill without liability if our aquifers become polluted. As our government pursues energy supplies through wars, and looks the other way as corporations pollute an d pillage, how can we pursue true “homeland security”? Find out more.

Solidarity Committee- Film: Trouble the Water
Saturday, September 26, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District launches its 2009-2010film series with the outstanding documentary, “Trouble the Water”(2008, 96 minutes). Examining the human side of Hurricane Katrina, this extraordinary film weaves together professional film material with film footage taken in New Orleans by two self-described street hustlers as the storm rages, the levee breaches, and the flood waters fill their home and their community. It provides a moving story of remarkable people surviving not only failed levees,bungling bureaucrats, and armed soldiers, but also their own past. “Trouble the Water”—named as the best documentary of2008 by the Alliance of Women Film Journalists and the African American Film Critics Association—received the Sundance Grand Jury Prize and the Gotham Independent Film Award, and was nominated for an Academy Award.This film-showing is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action.

Presentation by Dr. Steve Breyman: “An Af-Pak Strategy for Obama”
Thursday, September 3, 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054
Dr.Steve Breyman, author of recent articles appearing on counterpunch.com,AntiWar.com and foreignpolicy.com, will present a talk on: “An Af-Pak Strategy for Obama”. Read some of Steve’s recent articles: Beginning to Smell in Afghanistan , Counting the Unemployed, Is Obama Ignoring Iarael? , Bomber Joe and Russio: Why is Biden Channeling Cheney? Steve Breyman teaches at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Information: 466-1192

North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC) Meeting
Wednesday, August 12, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, Channing Hall
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The meeting is being called to organize our area’s participation in fall actions that are being planned. As you may know, at the recent conference of the National Assembly to End the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars and Occupations,a program of action was decided on with other peace and justice forces that were present. Organizations from around the country are joining the call and it is hoped that the other major national anti-war coalitions will also join the call and that we can have united actions for peace this fall.

The actions that were decided on at the conference included a 3 week period started in Pittsburgh on September24 and 25 to protest the G20 meeting representing the countries with the 20 largest economies in the world. At these meetings in the past, these powerful countries have put forward programs that have been to the detriment to the world’s ecology, to the world’spoor and to the cause of peace. The 2 week period will end with local and region peace actions around the country on October 17. These are planned around the date of the beginning of the war on Afghanistan and will focus on that war and occupation. At the meeting we hope to plan actions for our area on that date, perhaps in conjunction with other Upstate New York areas. The 3 week period will also include a weekday mobilization and non-violent resistance in Washington , DC on October 5 and some other activity. Additionally, during the fall, there is a large mobilization being planned in Washington on gay rights. This will take place on October 10.

We hope to have people from this area that are organizing for that event at the meeting. Also, Please let Joe Lombardo know if your organization would like to endorse this fall program of action and I will send you an official endorsement form or fill it out for you. Your group will then be listed on the national endorser’s list. Please join us on August 12 and/or ask your organization to send representatives to the meeting. For more information on the fall actions, please see www.natassembly.org.Contact: Joe at 439-1968 or [email protected] for further information.

Harnessing the Winds of Change: The 11th Anniversary, Kateri Tekakwitha Peace Conference
Friday & Saturday, August 14 & 15
National Kateri Tekakwitha Shrine, Route 5, Fonda, NY

Friday evening, beginning at 6:00 pm , August 14 and Saturday, August 15,2009. Harnessing the Winds of Change – On election night, 2008, people all across the world were joyful and celebrated both the election of our first African-American President and the coming end of George W.Bush’s failed presidency. With the election of President Obama,America clearly voted for change. The issue of race was also brought to center stage predominantly in a positive way. Many of us began to smile again with renewed hope and it seemed as if a soft and gentle spring breeze move across the land. Please come. All are welcome! Check the conference website for the latest information. Cost: Friday Evening, Pot Luck Dinner and Free Will Offering; Saturday, Students and Seniors $10.00, Adults – $15.00through $40.00. High School students free.

BNP Film: FLOW: How Did A Handful of Corporations Steal Our Water?
Thursday, August 6, 6:45 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Flow, directed by Irena Salina, (2008, 84 minutes) gives us a look at the practical solutions to the water crisis and developing new technologies,which are fast becoming blueprints for a successful global and economic turn round. Salina builds a case against the growing privatization of the world’s dwindling fresh water supply with an unflinching focus on politics,pollution, human rights, and the emergence of a domineering world water cartel.This film presents an investigation into what experts label the most important political and environmental issue of the 21stCentury – The World Water Crisis. “The scariest movie at he Sundance Festival” –Wired Magazine. The film will be followed by a discussion. Information: 439-1968t

BNP Annual Summer Pot Luck Picnic ..BNP Semi Annual Store Clearance and Fund Raiser
Sunday, August 2, 3:00 PM- Dusk
Elm Avenue Park, 261 Elm Avenue, Pavilion A
Delmar, NY

Bethlehem Town Park, Pavilion A, 261 Elm Avenue, Delmar This will be our long awaited chance to socialize and have fun! Pleasebring a dish to share and if possible, your own plate andutensils. Bring musical instruments to make music, good stories, gamesetc., and lawn chairs or blankets. Join us for the social event of thesummer! For more information or to volunteer for set up or cleanup, Call Trudy 466-1192

 

5th Anniversary Commemoration of the Arrests of YASSIN AREF & MOHAMMED HOSSAIN
Tuesday August 4, 5:00-7:00 pm.
Rally& March – 5th Anniversary Commemoration of the Arrests of YASSINAREF & MOHAMMED HOSSAIN. Rally at the Washington Avenue Armory,March to the Masjid As-Salam Mosque, followed by speakers at the Mosqueabout the Aref/Hossain case and other cases of wrongfully prosecuted Muslims
For more information, contact Lynne Jackson at 434-6659 or [email protected]
Schedule:
5:00 – Rally at the Armory, Lark and Washington
5:30 – March to Masjid As-Salam Mosque, 276 Central Ave, Albany.
5:45 – Speakers about Aref/Hossain and other cases of wrongfully prosecuted Muslims

 

Solidarity Committee- Film: The World According to Monsanto
Saturday, July 18, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

 

The  Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2008-2009 film series with a showing of “The World According to Monsanto” (109 minutes). This French documentary, directed by independent filmmaker Marie-Monique Robin, paints a grim picture of a company with a long track record of environmental crimes nd health scandals. This film is for anyone interested in the behind the scenes world of the food industry, and how just one world dominating corporation holds the keys and patents to much of the worlds food supply. Monsanto, which started out as one of the planets largest chemical companies is also responsible for such chemical compounds as Agent Orange, Bovine Growth Hormone, PCBs and genetically-engineered crops. The film-showing, co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and the Honest Weight Food Coop, will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue(across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free,and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Iraq War Veteran and Conscientious Objector Josh Stieber will speak in Delmar, as he hikes across the US
Thursday, July 9, 7:00 -8:45 pm
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

With the military announcing successes in Iraq and seeking to repeat it’s surge strategy in Afghanistan, the nature of these policies begs further examination. Are these tactics as successful as the military proclaims? What were the costs and human factors of these accomplishments? A first-hand testimony can be heard from the 21 year old, Iraq veteran Josh Stieber.
Stieber was deployed to Baghdad as part of the Surge from Feb 07 to Apr 09. He spent the majority of his deployment living outside of larger military installations, working with his infantry company in converted warehouses and police stations. Spending time as a humvee driver,machine gunner, detainee guard, radio transmission operator, and a little bit of everything in between, Stieber has a broad range of firsthand experiences within the Army and of daily Iraqi life.
Upon return from his deployment, Stieber’s experiences lead him to apply as a conscientious objector. Nearly a year of investigation into the sincerity of his claim was conducted until he was unanimously approved by the Department of the Army Conscientious Objection Review Board. He spent the meantime studying and preparing his cross-country trip where he hopes to share his experiences while learning about alternatives to military involvement.Newly discharged from the Army, is on a pilgrimage to discover America while seeking and sharing alternatives for a peaceful world. Stieber claimed opposition to the Iraq war based on his Christian faith. In April, he won his appeal and earned his status as a conscientious objector. “Once I got out Iraq I got frustrated on a moral and a practical level by what I saw being done to the Iraqis,” said Stieber. “I thought the war was wrong and that we created more problems than we solved byfighting there.” His cross-country hike, which he calls the Contagious Love Experiment, is inspired by his love of the writings of Mohandas Gandhi and Jack Kerouac. More Information: 466-1192

 

Education as a Tool for Justice and Peace in the Middle East
Monday, July 13, 7:00 pm
Albany Public Library, 161 Washington Ave ( between Dove and Lark Streets) Albany, NY

Brother Jack Curran FSC PhD, the Director of Development at Bethlehem University in the Palestinian West Bank, will lecture about “Education as a Tool for Justice and Peace in the Middle East.” Bethlehem University – the first university founded in the West Bank, a Catholic university with a 2/3 Muslim student body – offers an alternative to suicide bombings, targeted assassinations, walls, fences, settlements,soldiers, and home demolitions. Education is the path it provides towards a just and viable peace in the Middle East. Jack Curran was born and grew up in the Albany area. . This program is sponsored by the Palestinian Rights Committee, Capital District Interfaith Alliance of New York State, Commission on Peace and Justice-Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany, Upper Hudson Peace Action, Women Against War and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Information 518-465-5425.

BNP Monthly Meeting & Film: The End of America ( Based Naomi Wolf’s book)
Thursday, June 11, 7:00 -9:00 pm
Bethlehem Town Hall
445 Delaware Ave, Delmar

Stop the Wars! Change the World! What is next for the peace movement locally and globally? How can we stop the wars? Let’s Build A Peaceful, Green Economy… Help create our upcoming events and actions. The General meeting will be held from 7:00 to 7:30. At 7:30 we will show the film End of America (74minutes). “Based on the best-selling book by Naomi Wolf, THE END OF AMERICA details the ten steps a country takes when it slides toward Fascism. It takes a historical look at trends in once-functioning democracies that are being repeated in our country today.” Information 466-1192

 

“IVAW co-founder Jimmy Massey and filmmaker Joe Stillman w/ “From Mills River to Babylon and Back..The Jimmy Massey Story”
Saturday, June 6, 8:00 – 10:00 pm
Sanctuary for IndependentMedia
3361 6th Avenue, Troy NY

This feature length documentary film by Joseph C Stillman, chronicles the life of Jimmy Massey, a former twelve-year career Marine who refused to continue killing in Iraq and examines the political, legal, moral, and human rights implications of the war. He witnessed—and in some cases participated in—the killing of innocent civilians. The Iraqis “were just doing their normal routines,” he says,“and they were getting frickin’ blasted for it.” Hebegan to speak out to his superiors and was eventually diagnosed with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. He won an honorable discharge in December 2003. This film chronicles the life of Jimmy Massey and examines the political, legal, moral, and human right simplications of the war. It was shot in fourteen different states from2005-2009. The documentary features Martin Sheen (actor/human rights activist), Ramsey Clark (former U.S. Attorney General), Cindy Sheehan (founder of the Gold Star Families), Congressman Dennis Kucinich ,Father Roy Bourgeois (founder of the School of the Americas Watch),former UN weapons inspector Scott Ritter, Kelley Dougherty (ExecutiveDirector of Iraq Veterans Against the War), Col. (Ret.) Ann Wright, Dr.Ed Tick (post-traumatic stress disorder expert), and Congresswoman Maxine Waters. The film shows Jimmy’s early life and the tragic death of his father, his decision to enlist in the marines due to economic conscript, illicit recruiting tactics that target single parent families by recruiters (Massey was a Marine recruiter), weapons of mass deception, depleted uranium use and its effects on soldiers and civilians, the administration’s rush to war and taking back our democracy are some of the topics which are discussed in the documentary. Co-sponsored by BNP and The Sanctuary for Independent Media. Admission: by donation ($10 suggested, $5student/low-income) More information: 466-1192

Solidarity Committee- Film: “F.T.A”
Saturday, May 23, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2008-2009film series with a showing of “F.T.A” (97 minutes). In 1971, as a massive GI movement to end the Vietnam War emerged among American troops, the FTA Show–a caustic antiwar comedy review led by Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland, and including Holly Near and Len Chandler–toured outside military bases from Guam to the Philippines,electrifying over 60,000 rebellious U.S. soldiers. FTA, based on that     tour, opened in U.S. theaters in 1972. But after only a week, the film mysteriously disappeared, reportedly because of intervention by the Nixon administration. It was never seen again–until now! The film-showing — co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace, the Tom Paine Chapter of Veterans for Peace, and Upper Hudson Peace Action — will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue(across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free,and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food  Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Lyn Miller-Lachmann to Discuss “Gringolandia”
Tuesday, May 19, 7:00 PM
Albany Public Library
161 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY

Lyn Miller-Lachmann’ s new book Gringolandia will be published in May. The Friends of the Albany Public
Library are holding a reading, reception and book signing. “Though haunted by memories of his father’s arrest in Pinochet’s Chile, Daniel Aguilar has made a new life in the U.S.–far away from politics. But when his father is suddenly released and rejoins the family, Daniel sees what five years of prison and torture have done. Papá is partially paralyzed, haunted by nightmares, and bitter about being exiled to”Gringolandia.” Trying to reach his father, Daniel finds himself in the democracy struggle of the country he thought he had left behind.” “From the stark cover image of an empty pool used to torture victims to the intensely poignant essay that concludes the novel, this is a rare reading experience that both touches the heart and opens the mind.”–School Library Journal

Thursday,May 21, 5:00 PM. Rally for Workers Rights at Price Chopper 1355New Scotland Rd Bethlehem. Join us at a picket, rally and shop-into call Neil Gollub out for leading the corporate community in the Capital District against the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). Gollub believes he should have the only voice at Price Chopper but PC employees deserve a Voice at Work. Employees deserve the freedom in he USA to have a union with card check or an election. Under EFCA employees would control the process for deciding whether to join a union, millions of workers would be able to join a union without fear of being fired or harassment and a neutral outside party would settle the first contract if an agreement couldn’t be reached. Employers would be subject to heavier fines & penalties for violating federal labor law (which is now dysfunctional & favors EMPLOYERS).

Rethinking the War in Afghanistan
Thursday, May 7, 7:00 – 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

“Rethink Afghanistan” is the topic of three short films recently produced by Brave New Foundation. Part One focuses on what military escalation will achieve in Afghanistan. Part Two looks at how the war could further destabilize a nuclear-armed Pakistan. Part Three focuses on the staggering costs of the war, which could easily exceed $1 trillion. The total length of these three films is about an hour. After the films, Joe Lombardo will lead us in a discussion of this timely and critical subject. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

May Day 2009: Workers Resist the Economic Crisis !
Friday, May 1, 2009, 6 to 9pm
Prospect Park, Troy, NY

With Speakers on: Resisting the Cutbacks, Single Payer Health Care, Ending Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Videos of the Chicago Republic Windows Workers Factory Occupation. Food and Drink Provided. More information: 518-273-2759

 

Solidarity Committee- Film: “Capitalism Hits The Fan”
Saturday, April 18, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

 

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2008-2009film series with a showing of “Capitalism Hits the Fan” (2009, 57minutes). In this documentary, Dr. Richard Wolff (Professor of Economics at the University of Massachusetts/Amherst ) argues that today’s economic meltdown was decades in the making, and reflects seismic failures rooted within the structure of corporate capitalism. Richly illustrated with motion graphics and charts,”Capitalism Hits the Fan” not only casts new light on a crisis-ridden economy, but suggests what can and should be done about it. The film-showing — co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and UpperHudson Peace Action — will take place at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 Washington Avenue(across the street from the downtown SUNY campus). Admission is free,and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. More information: 466-1192

BNP Film Night: “The Unforeseen”
Thursday, April 9, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

This 93 minute film, made in 2007 was directed by Laura Dunn. This film explores the price we are paying for endless development and greed. The message is even more disturbing when we consider that many of these developments are now virtually empty, while increasing numbers of American’s are living in tents. Featuring interviews with Robert Redford, Willie Nelson, the iconic Texas Governor Ann Richards, environmentalist Wendell Berry and many others, THE UNFORESEEN is a powerful meditation on the American dream – on the destruction of the natural world as it falls victim to the cannibalizing forces of unchecked development. It is an intricate tale of personal hopes, victories and failures; and of debates over land, water and the public good. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

Solidarity Committee- Film: “Aftermath: The Remnants of War”
Saturday, March 28, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2008-2009 film series with the showing of a powerful documentary, “Aftermath: The Remnants of War” (2001, 74 minutes). Although more than a hundred million people died during the wars of the twentieth century, the disastrous effects of these military conflicts have not come to an end. Filmed in Russia , France , Bosnia ,and Vietnam ,this film uses archival images and personal accounts of individuals involved in the cleanup of war: from”de-miners” who risk their lives daily, to a treasure trove hunter turned archaeologist in Stalingrad , to doctors struggling with the contamination from dioxin used during the Vietnam War. Its poignant stories tell a sobering tale ofwar’s lingering consequences. The film-showing is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action. Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. More information: 466-1192

North East Peace and Justice Action Coalition (NEPAJAC) Meeting
Sunday, March 15, 2 – 4 PM
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany, Rm 26
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

Please join other local peace and justice activists in a meeting to discuss and organize for future events. Many of us will be going to Washington for the March 21 peace demonstration. For more information on the event at the Pentagon in Washington: Troops Home Now from Iraq and Afghanistan. We will be organizing an event to recognize the 6th Anniversary of the War in Iraq, in Albany for Friday, March 20,probably at the Capital. This meeting will be a chance for us all to be involved in planning this event. Join us!! Contact: Joe at 439-1968 for further information.

BNP Film Night: “War, INC.”
Thursday, March 5, 6:30 – 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

This 106 minute film is a comedy about the American war machine.. This film takes aim at war profiteering, mercenaries, political corruption and embedded journalism. A political satire, the film stars John Cusack as Brand Hauser,a hit-man for hire who is deployed to the fictional country of Turaqistan to kill a Middle Eastern oil baron. Hauser’s employer is Tamerlane ( think Blackwater) , a secretive for-profit military corporation headed by a former US vice president played by Dan Aykroyd. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

Solidarity Committee- Film: “The Devil’s Miner”
Saturday, February 21, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its2008-2009 film series with the showing of a powerful documentary, “The Devil’s Miner” (2005, 82 minutes). This unusual film presents the story of two brothers, twelve and fourteen years old, who work in Bolivia’s Cerro Rico silver mines, a place so dark, depressing, and frightening that miners are firmly convinced it’s the home of the devil. Chewing coca leaves to stave off hunger and keep their wits about them, these and other child laborers risk their lives daily in the hope of securing a better existence. Over 8 million workers reportedly have perished in Bolivia’s mines since the 16thcentury. The film-showing is co-sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace and Upper Hudson Peace Action. Admission is free, and free refreshments will be provided by the Honest Weight Food Coop. Everyone is welcome to attend. More information: 466-1192

BNP Film Night: “Encounter Point”
Thursday, February 5, 6:45 – 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Encounter Point(2006) is an 85-minute feature documentary film that follows a former Israeli settler, a Palestinian ex-prisoner, a bereaved Israeli mother and a wounded Palestinian bereaved brother who risk their lives and public standing to promote a nonviolent end to the conflict. Encounter Point’s I production team of young women includes: director & producer Ronit Avni (formerly of WITNESS), co-director Julia Bacha (co-writer/editor of the award-winning documentary, Control Room), producers Nahanni Rous and Joline Makhlouf, the first Palestinian female pilot. Encounter Point features original music by Kareem Roustom, who combines classical Arabic melodies and instruments with traditional Jewish Klezmer. Gerry Magnus, Capital District co-chair of Brit Tzedek V’ Shalom,the Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace, will lead the discussion following the film. Sponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

 

Solidarity Committee- Film: “The American Ruling Class”
Saturday, January 24, 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
405 Washington Avenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus)

The Solidarity Committee of the Capital District continues its 2008-2009film series with a screening of “The American Ruling Class” (2007, 90minutes). Structured as a dramatic documentary musical, thisunusual film, hosted by longtime “Harper’s” magazine editor LewisLapham, takes on what might well be America’s most taboo topic: class, power, and privilege. In it, we meet former Secretaries ofState and Defense, as well as Kurt Vonnegut, Barbara Ehrenreich, RobertAltman, Pete Seeger, and a host of other memorable figures. According to one of its fans, the journalist Bill Moyers, “The AmericanRuling Class” provides a “satirical tour through the corridors of power.” The film-showing–cosponsored by Bethlehem Neighbors forPeace and Upper Hudson Peace Action–will take place at the FirstUnitarian Universalist Society of Albany, located at 405 WashingtonAvenue (across the street from the downtown SUNY campus).Admission isfree. Refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome. Moreinformation: 466-1192

.

Film: “Taxi To The Dark Side”
Monday, January 26, 7:00 pm.
Albany Friends Meeting House

“Taxito the Dark Side” is an in-depth look at the torture practices ofthe United States in Afghanistan, Iraq and Guantanamo Bay, focusing onan innocent taxi driver in Afghanistan who was tortured and killed in2002. Soldiers, their attorneys, one released detainee, U.S. AttorneyJohn Yoo, news footage and photos tell a story of abuse at Bagram AirBase, Abu Ghraib, and Guantanamo Bay. From Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, andGonzalez came unwritten orders to use any means necessary. The CIA andsoldiers with little training used sleep deprivation, sexual assault,stress positions, waterboarding, dogs and other terror tactics to seekinformation from detainees. A discussion will follow. The PineHills Neighbors for Peace and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace areco-sponsoring. Admission isfree. Everyone is welcome. Refreshments will be served. Contact: Lyn Miller-Lachmann, 729-3976

OnJanuary 28th, 2009, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace will be hosting arecognition dinner to honor Scott Ritter for the relentless struggle hehas pursued in the name of truth and justice. BNP will also celebrate its 6th birthday.
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 6 PM
Location: Delmar Reformed Church, just west of Four Corners, Delmar, NY
Food: Catered by The Hidden Cafe. Please indicate option: Vegetarian / Non-vegetarian / Whichever
Cost: $30. Reservations were due by January 11. If you would like to go buthave not yet registered, email Leslie to find out if we can stillaccept your reservation. Checks to BNP, sent to Leslie Hudson, 125 LaGrange Lane, Feura Bush, NY 12067. Additional contributions for a scholarship fund for the evening are welcome. Email Contact: [email protected].
Ifanyone would like to contribute something beyond the $30.00 ticketprice, we can use the funds for a scholarship fund for the evening. Email Leslie for further information: [email protected]

 

BNP Film Night: “Body of War”
Thursday, January 8, 6:45 – 8:30 PM
Bethlehem Public Library
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar NY 12054

Bodyof War is an 87 minute documentary about the reality ofwar. In the film, Tomas Young, 25 years old, paralyzed from abullet to his spine, was wounded after serving in Iraq for lessthan a week. “Body of War is Tomas’ coming home story as heevolves into a new person, coming to terms with his disability andfinding his own unique and passionate voice against the war. ” Produced and directed by Phil Donahue and Ellen Spiro, andfeatures two original songs by Eddie Vedder. Listen to Body of War music from the film. Contact: 466-1192 for further information.

The Sixth Battered Mothers Custody Conference, Friday evening, Jan. 9th through 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 11th. will be held at the Holiday Inn Turf on Wolf Road in Albany, Thisconference, dedicated to understanding and publicizing the problemsfaced by battered women in gaining protection for themselves and theirchildren from the child custody courts, has become an annual event thathas gained international recognition. This year’s conference willfeature addresses, panels, and workshops by over 30 legal experts,activists and advocates, including:

· Mylan L. Denerstein Executive Deputy Attorney General for SocialJustice

· Mildred Muhammad, the ex-wife of the convicted Beltway (D.C.) Sniper,John Muhammad, and the founder of After the Trauma.

· Wendy Murphy, J.D., nationally recognized television legalanalyst who appears regularly on CBS, Fox News, CNN

· Rita Smith, Executive Director of the National Coalition AgainstDomestic Violence.

· Workshops by actress Angela Shelton, author Lundy Bancroft, and manyothers.

For the complete conference schedule and to register,please go to www.batteredmotherscustodyconference.org. For moreinformation, contact: Dr. Mo Hannah, Chair, BMCC VI,[email protected], 518-210-2487