Another update from Dave Coatsworth:
Friends, here's a brief update on what transpired at the Monday (April 23) PPC meeting in Phoenix at the Unitarian Universalist Church. Then I have some feedback questions for you.
The first part of the meeting focused on the San Carlos Apache community. The issues on which the Poor People's Campaign (PPC) is focused have had serious effect on the San Carlos community, not the least of which are the U.S. actions related to mining at Oak Flat. Members of the community, including Wendlser Nosie and his daughter, Vanessa, told stories about their experiences and offered prayers. As this first part closed, Mr. Nosie invited two children to help him present an eagle feather to Rev. Barber.
Rev. Barber spoke with us and answered questions for about 90 minutes. He commented on the San Carlos community's experiences and connected them with the experiences of minorities and poor people around the country for decades. He presented some high-level training and comments about PPC background, objectives, and some principles to be observed in PPC activities.
After lunch, there was a discussion circle to organize committees and do other specific planning work.
For now, what you can anticipate for Arizona's Poor People's Campaign is a rally at 2:00 p.m. followed by direct action (including marches, sit-ins, etc.) from 3-5 on each Monday, starting May 14 and going through June 18 or 25. Location TBA.
ACTIONS FOR YOU TAKE NOW
Read these two documents:
Tell me if you want to be added to this email list
PRIVACY POINT -- A big part of what we need to do is build the network to increase the base for participation in PPC activities. So far, I have sent messages with your address in the Blind Copy part of the header. I think we can network better if others know who's involved and know if someone they think should be involved isn't in the mail group yet. THEREFORE, starting April 30, I'll make all addressees visible unless you ask me to keep your address in the Blind Copy area.
Mark your calendar for the Mondays I described above. Later I'll ask you to RSVP to say which of the Mondays you can attend.
Consider what you can donate to support the PPC. We may have specific Arizona expenses to support in addition to the national effort. More on that when I have additional information.
Thank you for your interest in the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival. Rev. Barber stated repeatedly that this is an opportunity for thousands of people across the country to speak up for justice, but that we should understand we must be persistent well beyond June 25 to achieve even modest progress. Without a doubt, that's true regarding justice issues in Arizona, whether we refer to immigration, education, incarceration, and other issues.
Dave Coatsworth, phone/text 520-743-6763; join the email list davec4ppc@gmail.com