Libya

Following extended discussion on what should be UJP’s position on US intervention in Libya, several points were proposed for focus and vote.  There was consensus that UJP support:

-         an end to US intervention in Libya

-         self-determination for Libyans

-         cease-fire and negotiations.

Duncan McFarland’s proposed text was then discussed and adopted with minor modifications.  The final resolution adopted follows:

Stop UN/US Intervention in Libya

United for Justice with Peace opposes UN/US military intervention in Libya. 

Use of military force is destructive, pours fuel on the flames and makes worse an already bad situation. 

We call for an immediate cease fire and negotiations including all Libyan parties.

We support Libya's right of self-determination and reject efforts by other countries to determine its government.

BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions)

Leafletting interventions have occurred at the cooperatives in Cambridge and Jamaica Plain, urging customers not to purchase Tribe and Sabra hummus.  The Boards of Directors of these two co-ops have been asked not to shelve these two products and their decisions are awaited. Another hummus, also called Sabra, is made locally and flyers are being revised to encourage customers to buy the locally produced Sabra.

Middle East Teach-In

Elaine Hagopian is available in early May.

Paul will contact Phyllis Bennis re her availability; whether she can be a speaker will determine other panelists.

Committee for this event: Ann, Shelagh, Cole.

October Conference

This conference will “celebrate” the 10 year anniversary of UJP.  Ann will contact Noam Chomsky re his availability as the keynoter.  Current plans for the all-day conference include a panel of speakers and workshops on various topics such as cutting the military budget, Islamophobia, torture and civil rights, Iraq and Afghanistan, the “new” Middle East, and the anti-nuclear movement.  The Planning Committee looks forward to input from the UJP Brunch.

Jobs for Afghans

Susan Sherpa attended the meeting to explore UJP affiliation and to promote Jobs for Afghans, a “mini-Marshall Plan,” which would be funded by 5% of the amount appropriated for military operations in Afghanistan.  The goal is to rebuild the war-torn infrastructure by providing Afghans with labor-intensive cash-for-work jobs.  Helping Afghans achieve a stable economic and political footing will facilitate the withdrawal of US forces.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Approximately 500 people responded to the Vets for Peace call to join them in the alternative St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston.  The event received broad media coverage and parade watchers were generally supportive of the peace brigade.

Malalai Joya

The Harvard Square demonstration protesting the denial of a visit for Malalai Joya to visit the United States for a three-week speaking tour attracted about 25-30 people.  The Cambridge event featuring Joya and Noam Chomsky will still occur, with Joya participating via Skype. 

Bradley Manning

Lois reported on Sunday’s spirited demonstration at Quantico to free Bradley Manning.  She also reported that David House said the Manning family/father now controls who visits Bradley and that he, House, is very concerned that he is being excluded.

April 9

Marilyn encouraged everyone to attend the April 9 national march and rally -- $$ for Jobs and Education, Not War --  in New York.  Bus transportation information to the rally will be posted on the UJP website.  The Muslim community is organizing and mobilizing its members to participate.  Students for Justice in Palestine are also mobilizing for the demonstration.

Next meeting of the UJP Planning Committee – April 13