PMA what's on where listings

*** INTERNATIONAL ***

~ Reminder - Humanitarian Emergency in Iraq - Christian World Service, together with its partners in Iraq and the Middle East, has launched an appeal for the millions of Iraqi people suffering in the wake of the US led invasion - "this appeal is for the distribution of food, medicines, water and water purification equipment, first aid kits, stoves/heaters, blankets, tents, sanitation packs, and school kits for children ... The first priority is to help those most immediately affected by the war to sustain life, reduce suffering and prevent disease and where they have to leave their homes, make sure the communities they go to are not overburdened. We also need to offer long term development support as the people and country try to recover and rebuild from the devastation of this war". CWS works with partner groups in Iraq, and funds raised go directly to the people who need it quickly and effectively. Donations can be made by ringing 0800 74 73 72 or on-line at https://secure.godzone.net.nz/CWS/donations/ProcessDonation.cgi

~ International Days of Action Against War - there are currently no international days of action as such scheduled; national events in the US and Britain are: * 1 May * Stop the War Coalition (Britain) http://www.stopwar.org.uk is supporting demonstrations all over Britain on May Day, calling for peace and justice in the Middle East, and around the world

* 3 May * Protest the War on Iraq in President Bush's Home State - thousands of people from around the country will converge in Austin, Texas for a national rally. George W. Bush's home state provides weapons, troops, and fuel for the US military - for more info see United for Peace and Justice http://www.unitedforpeace.org

* 6 May * The US National Youth and Student Peace Coalition is calling for a national lobbying day to demand change - I'm voting for Books not Bombs' - the cost of one day of war on Iraq (about $US1.1 billion) is enough money to prevent cuts to education programs in the entire 2003 fiscal year; for more info see United for Peace and Justice http://www.unitedforpeace.org

* 13 May * US National Teach-In on Iraq, Preemptive War and Democracy - a national day of education and action in Washington, DC. Organised by United for Peace and Justice http://www.unitedforpeace.org

* 17 - 18 May * US National Conference against War, Colonial Occupation and Imperialism, in New York City, organised by the ANSWER Coalition http://www.internationalanswer.org/

~ THURS, 15 May - International Conscientious Objectors' Day, for information about the day see http://www.wri-irg.org/news/2003/icod-03.htm This year's focus is on conscientious objection in Israel and non-violent resistance to the occupation of Palestine, see http://www.wri-irg.org/pdf/br58may15.pdf

~ Ongoing - Medical Supplies for Iraq - Quaker Peace and Service Aotearoa/NZ are once more raising money to buy medical supplies for Iraq. These will be used to support the US-based NGO, LIFE for Relief and Development, mainly in their cancer relief projects, and the Rome-based NGO, Bridge to Baghdad's Sindbad Primary Health Care Clinic in Basra. Cheques can be made out to Quaker Peace and Service and sent to QPS, 7 Moncrieff Street, Wellington. Credit card donations can processed by email. To arrange a credit card donation or for more information, contact Tony Maturin and Sandra Jones email hoggard@top.net.nz or tel (04) 389-4715. * New! help raise funds for Medical Supplies for Iraq by purchasing a W.A.R. t-shirt, you can order yours at http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/warpost.htm

*** NATIONAL ***

~ 30 April - Green Ribbon Award nominations deadline - "the awards, given by Environment Minister Marian Hobbs, celebrate people leading the way in environmental action." Awards will be made for: caring for the urban environment; caring for the rural environment; caring for our biodiversity; raising awareness of environmental issues; business caring for our environment; kids who care - youth award; state of the environment reporting; and caring for our lakes, rivers and streams, a special award marking the International Year of Freshwater. For more info check out http://www.mfe.govt.nz/withyou/awards/green-ribbon.html

~ FRI, 9 to SUN, 11 May - National Peace Workshops 2003! After a two year absence, the annual gathering of peace and anti-war people is back ... organised by Peace Action Network Otautahi, in association with Peace Movement Aotearoa, the National Peace Workshops will take place at the Coppertop Conference Facilities, Second Floor, Commerce Department, University of Canterbury, Ilam, Christchurch. They are non-residential this year, but there are some billets available. If you require a billet, or wish to have lunch provided on the Saturday, you must register by MON, 5 May. The programme, general information and registration form are available at http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/npw03.htm

~ Ongoing - Not in Our Name (Aotearoa / New Zealand) - War without end? not in our name ... at http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/nionnz.htm

~ Ongoing - Buy USA? No Way! Boycott US brands, we can help peace every time we go into a shop and we can choose where to spend our money. We can send a message to Bush and his band of bullies that is strong and clear and effective. For more info check out Spend for Peace Boycott at http://www.spendforpeace.co.nz

***** LOCAL *****

*** AUCKLAND

~ TUES, 29 April - Auckland Indymedia Doco Night - showcase of three awesome independent documentaries: Not in My Name (41 mins) - the story of the US attack on Afghanistan which we didn't see on our television screens; Woomera 2002 (34 mins) - a documentary about last year's protests at the Woomera Detention Centre for asylum seekers in Australia which resulted in the break out of 50 refugees; and Plan B: Peace (25 mins) - made by Aotearoa Indymedia, this doco looks at NZ's role in the worldwide anti-war demonstrations on Feb 15 that tallied into the millions. Starts 7pm at The Spiral Gallery, 260 Queen Street (above McDonald's - yes we realise the irony.......). $5 / $3 entry, a fundraiser for Aotearoa Independent Media Centre, for more info contact chloeheffernan@xtra.co.nz

~ THURS, 1 May - International Workers' Day Auckland Rally - Oppose the invasion and occupation of Iraq - Oppose job casualisation - Support higher benefits; 5pm at Downtown Queen St for open mike session, 5-30pm march to Aotea Square for official speakers. For more info contact Daphna tel 021 037 4544 or Garry 021 326 261.

~ FRI, 2 May - the 2002 Roger Award Event! The two Christchurch-based groups (CAFCA and GATT Watchdog) which organise the annual Roger Award say that TNCs are the real 'government' of New Zealand; the public were invited to nominate the worst of 2002. The criteria for judging are by assessing the transnational that has the most negative impact in New Zealand in each or all of the following fields: unemployment, monopoly, profiteering, abuse of workers/conditions, political interference/running an ideological crusade, environmental damage, cultural imperialism, impact on tangata whenua, impact on women, health and safety of workers and the public. The six finalists are: Tranz Rail; Novartis; Carter Holt Harvey; Shell; Telecom and Sky City. The judges: Sukhi Turner, Mayor of Dunedin; Dr Ranginui Walker, Emeritus Professor at Auckland University, Prue Hyman, academic and feminist, of Victoria University; and John Minto, National Chairperson of QPEC (Quality Public Education Coalition) and community activist. Music and revelry preceding the announcement of the winner begins at 5-30pm, Ellen Melville Hall, Freyberg Square, High Street. For more information on the awards ceremony, contact email g.baxter@auckland.ac.nz

~ SAT, 3 May - MAYFEST 2003, a free concert calling for workers and youth to unite against the war; from 12 noon to 5-30pm in Hayman Park, Manakau City. For more information contact Jean tel (09) 268 4364 or email nitsuj_naej@hotmail.com

~ SAT, 3 May - Palestine/Israel Rally for Peace, supporting peace and justice based on Removal of Israeli Occupation, Right of Return for Refugees, Sharing Jerusalem and Cessation of Jewish only Settlements in occupied Palestine, 2pm to 3pm, Aotea Square, Queen Street. Contact David Wakim tel (09) 520 0201.

~ SAT, 3 May - The Invasion of Iraq: 'Justified War'? A seminar looking at the many issues and questions raised by this war: the history leading to this invasion: why now? is this a 'legal' war? the role of the UN in the lead-up to the war; half truths and media spin: whom do you believe? the role of the USA in Iraq: now and in the future; what is Washington's agenda for the Middle East in the years to come? With presenters: Steve Hoadley, Associate Professor in Political Studies at The University of Auckland; Heval Hylan, former Iraqi citizen, military conscript and lawyer; and David Robie, Senior Lecturer in Journalism at the Auckland University of Technology and co-convenor of Pacific Media Watch. There will be an opportunity at the conclusion of the seminar for open and vigorous debate chaired by Joe Atkinson, Deputy Head of Department, Political Studies, The University of Auckland. From 1pm to 4pm, at the Old Government House Lecture Theatre, The University of Auckland, corner Waterloo Quadrant and Princes Street; entry fee $15 ($10 unwaged, UOA staff). Pre-enrolment is essential, for more information, including how to enrol for this Course G1.920, please contact Continuing Education, tel (09) 373 7599 x87831 or x87832 or email conted@auckland.ac.nz

~ SAT, 3 May - Waitakere Community Peace Concert - featuring Kurdish musicians from Iraq, and a selection of great Auckland songwriters and musicians including special guest Jeff Clarkson, 'Heartstrings' Natarani and Sasha Witten-Hannah, plus Dave Parker and Eru, Miriam and Sergio, Neal and Katz duo, Jahnie Aroha, Joy Lake (Spirit Dancer) and more... live music - dance - multimedia show - Middle Eastern food; 7-30pm at the Titirangi War Memorial Hall, South Titirangi Road (beside the library); $15 waged / $10 unwaged and family concessions. Organised by Free Spirit Peace Productions; for tickets and more details contact Laurie Ross tel (09) 811 8696 or email laurie-ross@xtra.co.nz or David Lynam tel (09) 817 8338. Tickets are also available from the Titirangi Pharmacy. Proceeds will go to humanitarian aid in Iraq.

~ MON, 5 May - Global Peace and Justice Auckland Forum with Murray Horton, Anti-Bases Campaign and CAFCA, 7-30pm, Trades Hall, 147 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn. For more info contact John Minto tel (09) 846 3173 or email jbminto@xtra.co.nz

~ WEDS, 7 May - 'Measuring Genuine Progress - Has 'Growth' Made Us Better Off? (GDP vs GPI)', Anew NZ - Monthly Forum Series 'Creating a New New Zealand' with speaker Dr Ron Colman, international leader in the development of the GPI (the Genuine Progress Indicator) who is constructing an index of prosperity and well being for Nova Scotia as a pilot for Canada. Ron says that 'growth' has not made us better off - "not when you include crime, pollution, wars and sickness as positive contributors to our society - as the popular measure of progress does in the GDP." Our economic well being is presently misguided by using the GDP; it is an artificial, fictitious measure of growth. From 6-30pm to 9pm, AT2, Atrium Building, Massey University, Albany; $20 / $15 (Anew NZ Associates, students and seniors). Please register using the form available on-line at http://www.anewnz.org.nz/MeasuringGenuineProgress.php or email breuer.d@ihug.co.nz

~ Every week day - anti-war vigil / service with Rev Craig Forbes, 12 noon to 1pm, at the Pitt Street Methodist Church, Newton.

~ Every Wednesday - Direct Anti War Action meeting, supper provided, all welcome! 7-30pm, at Trades Hall, 147 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn. Organised by Direct Anti War Action, for more info contact email euphemiak@yahoo.com

~ Every Saturday - picket at 12 noon, outside the US Consulate, Citibank Building, Customs St East, because the US is still occupying Iraq and killing Iraqis. Organised by Direct Anti War Action, for more info contact email euphemiak@yahoo.com

~ Every Sunday - Silent Peace Vigil, every Sunday from 9-15am to 9-45am, outside the Quaker Meeting House, 115 Mt Eden Rd. All welcome, for more info tel Friends Centre (09) 630 6834.

*** HAMILTON

~ Every week day - peace vigil from 12 noon to 2pm, Victoria St., opposite The Casino, in front of Garden Place. Bring your slogan and join us even for a few minutes in your lunch hour. Organised by Hamilton Peace Movement, for more info contact Patricia Waugh, tel: (07) 856 1001 or email davetricia@hnpl.net

*** THAMES

~ Every Saturday - silent vigil for peace, 9-15am to 9-45am, outside St James Church. For more info contact tel (07) 868 9914, email bellbird@wave.co.nz

*** GISBORNE

~ Every Thursday - peace vigil, from 5pm to 6pm, at Heipipi park by the waka, while the aggression continues. For more info contact tel (06) 868 1905 or email cdelahunty@clear.net.nz

*** WHANGANUI

~ Every Friday - vigil for peace, 12 noon to 1-30pm, Majestic Square. For more info contact Peter tel (06) 345 0634 or email pbiet@clear.net.nz

*** DANNEVIRKE

Every Sunday - candlelight vigil for peace, from 7pm to 7-30pm in Copenhagen Square; bring your candle, and wish for peace. Organised by Peace For Iraq - Tararua, for more information contact Tanya tel (06) 374 7267.

*** MASTERTON

~ Every Sunday - Peace Vigil: silent meditation and prayers for world peace, from 5pm to 5-30pm at the Cenotaph, Masterton Park, until the invasion ends. Bring a cushion, candles and flowers if you wish. For more information contact Guusje tel (06) 379 5047

*** PALMERSTON NORTH

~ SAT, 3 May - the Annual MayDay Concert, 7-30pm, Regent on Broadway, entry by gold coin donation. Organised by the Manawatu MayDay Coalition, for more info contact email dmartin@nduunion.org.nz

*** WELLINGTON

~ WEDS, 30 April - Human Rights Dimensions of the Treaty of Waitangi - with speakers TeHuia Bill Hamilton (HRC Treaty Project Manager) and Michael Powles (Commissioner). "One of the new functions of the Human Rights Commission is to promote by research, education, and discussion a better understanding of the human rights dimensions of the Treaty of Waitangi and their relationship with domestic and international human rights law. The Commission plans to achieve this by facilitating public dialogue around those themes." From 10-30am to 12 noon, Conference Room, Human Rights Commission, L8, Vogel Bldg, 8 Aitken St. A Human Rights Speakers Forum, if you're planning on going please RSVP to Narlene Ioane tel (04) 473 9981 or email Narlenei@hrc.co.nz

~ WEDS, 30 April - 'Why the Crown needs a Coherent Long Term Strategy for Relationships with Indigenous People: Lessons from Canada', with Professor Brad Morse, from the University of Ottawa Faculty of Law, a longstanding teacher and researcher in indigenous people's issues; from 12.30pm, Lecture Theatre 3, Ground Floor, VUW Law School (Old Government Buildings). For more info please contact please contact Renee Tibbs tel (04) 463 6327 or email renee.tibbs@vuw.ac.nz

~ THURS, 1 May - 'Reducing Poverty by Reforming Welfare? Possibilities and Pitfalls from the US Experience' with David Ellwood, Professor of Political Economy at the John F Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. "In the mid-1990s, the US underwent a social policy revolution that is only partially understood by most policy makers and scholars. This talk will explore the original vision behind the Clinton welfare reform initiative, describe what was actually implemented, discuss the impacts of the reforms on work and poverty, and examine the lessons, both positive and negative from that episode." From 9-30am to 10-30am, Level 5, Tower Block Building, Bowen Street. Places are limited so you must RSVP if you are planning on going to Fiona Cameron by Weds 30 April tel (04) 916-3085 or email fiona.cameron003@msd.govt.nz

~ THURS, 1 May - Ya Basta! No War, No Capitalism! Mayday Mayhem Masquerade March - with masks, costumes and pots in hands the carnival will congregate at the Freedom shop, where Food not Bombs will provide free food and local musicians will play; then head down Cuba Street to Civic Square before heading off to a range of undisclosed locations. Our purpose is to make as much noise and be as colourful as possible, so bring pots, pans and put on your best britches; this is our celebration for all the workers of the world. It is a time to unite our voices against the continuing injustice we suffer under capitalism. Meet at 12 noon at the Freedom Shop, 272 Cuba Street. For more info check out http://aotearoa.wellington.net.nz/mayday/

~ THURS, 1 May - vigil for peace, 5pm to 6pm at the Cenotaph, for more info contact Peace Movement Aotearoa, tel (04) 382 8129 or email pma@xtra.co.nz

~ FRI, 2 May - meeting with people from the Kotare Trust to help them offer useful programmes for community development and activism - you may be a workshop participant, a funder, a member or an interested person. All are welcome to an afternoon of activity and discussion (and refreshments) to give feedback to Kotare; 2pm at Wellington Peoples Centre. For more info please contact Catherine Delahunty tel (06) 868 1905 or email cdelahunty@clear.net.nz

~ SAT, 3 May - Justice and Peace in the Middle East information stall, 11-30am to 1pm in Cuba Mall (usually near Trade Aid), look for the banners. For more info contact Peace Action Wellington tel (04) 382 8129 or email peacewellington@hotmail.com

~ SAT, 3 May - Celebrate International Workers' Day! gather at 12 noon at Glover Park (Ghuznee Street, west of Cuba St intersection), march to Civic Square where there will be a rally at 12-30pm in Civic Square with performances by Brass Razoo Solidarity Band, and others; speakers include Stephanie Cook (WCC), Don Franks (Peace Action Wellington), and others; food, fun, and music for all; 12-30pm in Civic Square. For more info contact email john@eclectic.org.nz

~ SAT, 3 May - Latin American Night, with cultural talk, videos - cultural displays, Spanish tuition, travel information, Latin American and international dishes, raffles, music and dancing, and Salsa Merengues. From 6-30pm, at the Alay Community Centre, Level 5, Victoria Arcade Building, 44 Victoria Street, $6 entry per person. Organised with the collaboration of the Embassies of Chile, Mexico and Peru; for reservations please contact Silvia tel (04) 499 3390 or Sala tel (04) 977 0923.

~ THURS, 8 May - vigil for peace, 5pm to 6pm at the Cenotaph, for more info contact Peace Movement Aotearoa, tel (04) 382 8129 or email pma@xtra.co.nz

~ THURS, 8 May - 'Measuring Genuine Progress - How Indicators Shape the Policy Agenda', with speaker Dr Ron Colman, international leader in the development of the GPI (the Genuine Progress Indicator) who is constructing an index of prosperity and well being for Nova Scotia as a pilot for Canada. Ron says that 'growth' has not made us better off - "not when you include crime, pollution, wars and sickness as positive contributors to our society - as the popular measure of progress does in the GDP." Our economic well being is presently misguided by using the GDP; it is an artificial, fictitious measure of growth. A seminar, presentation, and discussion hosted by the Centre of Social Research and Evaluation, Ministry of Social Development; from 8pm, Featherston Room, InterContinental Hotel, Corner Grey and Featherston Streets. Please RSVP to email Jim.Lindsay002@msd.govt.nz if you are planning on attending.

~ FRI, 9 May - Poets for Peace: with Emad Jabbar, Iraq; Yilma Tasew, Ethiopia; Ron Riddell, Aotearoa/New Zealand; Saray Torres, Colombia; and NZ musician Bryan James. From 6pm to 7-30pm at St Andrews on the Terrace, 30 The Terrace. Free entry, with a koha collection for poets living in Iraq. Organised by Peace Movement Aotearoa, in conjunction with St Andrews on the Terrace. For more info contact Peace Movement Aotearoa tel (04) 382 8129 or email pma@xtra.co.nz

~ SAT, 10 May - Justice and Peace in the Middle East information stall, 11-30am to 1pm in Cuba Mall (usually near Trade Aid), look for the banners. For more info contact Peace Action Wellington tel (04) 382 8129 or email peacewellington@hotmail.com

~ Every week day - St Andrew's on The Terrace is offering a quiet space for anyone to participate in offering ecumenical peace vigil. Everyone is invited to share in a quiet meditative time, offering prayers for peace before going to work; from 8am to 8-30am, Monday - Friday. For more info contact email office@standrews.org.nz

~ Every Saturday - 'Behind the News' on Wellington Access Radio (783 AM), broadcast at 12-30pm, presented by Don Franks, Victoria Quade and Jim Delahunty. If you have something you'd like them to cover, or a comment on the programme, please contact Jim Delahunty tel (04)938 6943.

~ Every Sunday - Te Aro Heritage guided walks, courtesy of Campaign for a Better City, take place each Sunday for the foreseeable future. Meet at 1pm at the junction of Cuba Street and Tonks Avenue, opposite Arthur Street; entry by koha. Contact Karen MacIntyre tel (04) 973 5355 for more information or to volunteer your time.

~ Every Sunday, 'Peace Report' on Wellington Access Radio (783 AM), broadcast at 11-45am, brought to you by the Peace Council, funded by PADET. If you or your group wish to make a free programme to be broadcast in this slot, please contact Des Brough tel/fax (04) 388 3173.

*** NELSON

~ Every day - a candle lit vigil will be held at 5pm, on the Cathedral steps at the top of Trafalgar Street, each night until the war stops. For more info contact Briar Maaroufi email brelma@clear.net.nz or Anne email anne.f@clear.net.nz

~ Every Friday - Peace Talk on Fresh FM (99.4), at approx 7-20am with Matt Lawry and guest. For more info contact email anne.f@clear.net.nz

*** BLACKBALL

~ SAT, 3 May - three Mayday events! * 9-30am - Regional Economic Development Forum, at the Hilton * 2pm - Theatre: An actor's Tale of Blackball '08 and Homage to Rachel Corrie, at the Blackball Community Hall * 8pm - Blackball Workers Choir sing Songs of Struggle, at the Hilton. For more info about any or all of these, contact Paul email wkcultur@ihug.co.nz For more info about Rachel Corrie see http://www.starhawk.org/activism/activism-writings/rachelcorrie.html

*** CHRISTCHURCH

~ THURS, 1 May - Special Interest Forum on 'Living Green in the City' with Rhys Taylor of the Sustainable Households Project speaking on Practical Tips for Your Household, and Architect Roger Buck speaking on Urban Design Issues; 7-30pm at the WEA, 59 Gloucester St; gold coin koha to cover room hire and tea/coffee/biscuit costs. For more info contact email p.despa@paradise.net.nz

~ SUN, 4 May - 'Another World is Possible', march and rally - starts at 2pm with a rally and speakers in Cathedral Square; then march along Colombo Street, Cashel Street, Bridge of Remembrance (for a moment's silence), Oxford Terrace, Worcester Street, and return to Cathedral Square. Marchers will carry white flowers to leave at the Bridge of Remembrance. For more info please contact Peace Action Network tel (03) 981 2825 or email peaceactionotautahi@yahoo.co.nz

~ MON, 5 May - Fundraising fun quiz night for WILPF and Bougainville women's projects, starts 7-30pm at Captain's Mistake, Hillsborough Tavern (corner Opawa Rd and Curries Rd), $10 / $5. For more info contact Leith Graydon tel (03) 384 2322.

~ Every day - people of faith and no faith are invited to join us for a half hour prayer service for peace, with prayers from Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities from around the world; 12 noon at St Marks Methodist Church in Somerfield (corner Barrington and Somerfield Streets). For more info contact tel (03) 332 5202 or email ChChSthMeth@xtra.co.nz

~ Every week day - Peace Sanctuary, all are welcome to pray for peace, be still and quiet, or light a candle, from 12 noon to 2pm, at St Luke's in the City, Anglican Church, corner Manchester and Kilmore Streets. For more info tel (03) 366 2253.

~ Every Friday - Christchurch Catholic Worker invite you to join their vigil at the US Air Force base at Harewood, flights from the base serve the vast US military/intelligence bases at Pine Gap and Nurrungar. Meet at 5pm, at the Airport Roundabout (where the totem pole is). For more info contact Christchurch Catholic Worker email mmc62@student.canterbury.ac.nz

~ Every Saturday - Peace vigil, 12-30pm to 1pm at the Chalice in the Square. For more info contact email heatherthrasher@hotmail.com or tel (03) 981 2825.

*** TIMARU

~ Every Friday - prayers for peace, 12 noon at the stone cross outside St Mary's Church, Church St. For more info please contact Nance Hammond tel (03) 684 4608 or email nancehammond@hotmail.com

*** DUNEDIN

~ Every day - Candle-light vigil in the Octagon. Gather at 7pm, light candles and catch up then stand in silence between 7-10pm and 7-30pm. Anyone who wants to demonstrate opposition to war in this way is welcome. For more info contact email marie@corso.org.nz

~ Every Tuesday - Students Against War meetings, 5pm at Clubs and Socs. For more info contact Katie email klt_grace@yahoo.com

~ Every Tuesday - Coalition Against War meetings, 5-30pm at Quaker Hall. For more info contact Fiona email fionabowker@hotmail.com

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