Humanist Network
The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - among friends of universal humanism Vol II, Number 26 - September 2009
The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific
- among friends of universal humanism
Vol II, Number 26 - September 2009
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Page 1 - EDITORIAL
Page 1 - World March for Peace and Non-Violence
Page 2 - World March for Peace and Non-Violence programs in Oceania and Asia
Page 7 - International film makers join hands to document peace march
Page 7 - Important message to members of the Humanist Movement
Page 7 - Humanist Association of Hong Kong - Elections to Executive Committee
Page 8 - Contact details for the organisms of the Humanist Movement
Page 9 - Overview of the Underpass - Silo and the Humanist Movement
Page 10 - Obama - UN security council summit
Page 12 - World March supports Obama suspending anti-missile shield
Page 13 - Burma - At least 110 political prisoners released
Page 14 - Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency
Page 14 - Contact information
Editorial,
The World March for Peace and Non Violence is at the forefront of the activities of the Humanist Movement and its organisms. We provide links to the March's various Internet portals so you can have a quick meander among the sites and see for yourselves what is taking place - far too much to give in synthesis in this little newsletter. However, we do provide a rough guide to the various events that will spring up on the passage of the World March Base Team across Asia as the team leave Oceania.
The Humanist Movement is undergoing a radical transformation and anyone wanting to join our ranks had better now proceed via one of the organisms, all details below.
Here in Hong Kong we have our Humanist Association, founded in the same moment as the Humanist Parties worldwide, therefore we are committing to join the federation of humanist parties under the International Humanist Party title. We are revamping our executive committee as well in concert with these changes. Do consider becoming an active member of this committee, see below for details.
Also included here is an accolade to Silo as he steps aside from any role directly influencing the Humanist Movement, where, in the past, he has played a pivotal role.
The most recent speech by President Obama at the UN was significant and reflects our priorities as seen in the campaigns we are waging against nuclear weapons. For this reason we repeat his words here, as a reminder to all of us engaged in the efforts to achieve this urgent need.
Tony Henderson
Editor
World March for Peace and Non-Violence
"So that the voices of millions who yearn for peace can be heard as they call for the end of war and all forms of violence."
Begins in New Zealand October 2, 2009 and concludes in the South American Andes Mountains, January 2, 2010.
World Without Wars - and without violence
International co-ordinator Rafael de la Rubia - rafael@marchamundial.org http://www.worldmarch.info/
http://blog.theworldmarch.org/
http://world.pressenza.org/
http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/
World March for Peace and Non Violence
The world's first 93-day, six- continent peace march, has announced that Friday, Oct. 2, the
International Day of Nonviolence, is the start date for both its worldwide march and corresponding series of cultural, educational, and social events taking place in more than 100 countries to abolish nuclear weapons and reject violence of all kinds.
The march begins in Wellington, New Zealand with an international team of 25 marchers who will cross through Asia, Europe, Africa, and North and South America before reaching Punta de Vacas, Argentina, on January 2, 2010. The group will carry the Hiroshima Flame for the duration of the journey.
Launched by the international organization, World Without Wars, the World March has been endorsed by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, Jimmy Carter and other Nobel Peace Prize winners, Noam Chomsky, seven presidents, hundreds of world leaders, including President Obama's Kenyan grandmother and celebrities like Yoko Ono, Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, thousands of organizations and more than a million citizens.
Locally in Hong Kong endorsers so far include Elsie Tu, the prominent social activist, and former elected legislator; Ronnie Tong Ka-wah, the human rights legislator; and Earthwalker Paul Coleman, who walked all the way to Beijing from Hong Kong in a China Greening only to be denied access to the Olympic Games owing to bureaucratic excesses.
http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/
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WORLD MARCH PROGRAMS IN ASIA-OCEANIA
New Zealand
Complete details at:
http://www.fusecreative.co.nz/worldmarch/index.html
September 26, 2009
International team arrives in Auckland
The International team i.e. those doing the entire World March, will arrive in Auckland along with a number of mayors, celebrities and others participating in the New Zealand section. Join us to welcome them to New Zealand.
September 27 2009
Auckland Peace Walk Launch
Join the international team and celebrities for the launch of the Auckland Peace Walk – a walking route through the city visiting historic and contemporary peace heritage sites and monuments, ending at St Matthew-in-the-City, where Auckland was declared a Peace City on 23 September 2007.
September 28 2009
Tourist activities for International Team
The International Team enjoys some typical Kiwi tourist activities including a visit to Te Puia Thermal Village, Huka Falls, Taupo natural hot springs, a bungy jump at Gravity Canyon and a visit to Lindale agricultural centre and farm.
September 29/30 2009
Blessing at Rekohu (Chatham Islands)
The international team travels east to Rekohu – the first point in New Zealand to see the morning sun. There they will hold the World March opening blessing ceremony hosted by the Hokotehi Moriori Trust and commemorating the 500 year-old Moriori Peace Covenant.
October 1 2009
Civic reception Wellington
The international team and other visiting guests are welcomed at the Mayoral Chambers of Wellington – a declared Peace Capital and nuclear-weapon-free zone.
October 2 2009
World Peace March Starts
World Peace March starts from the Gandhi statue in front of the Wellington railway station and continues through key peace heritage sites in Wellington before heading off around the world.
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AUSTRALIA
SYDNEY
3rd October - 6pm Press Conference and Welcome Activity at Victoria Park, Broadway (next to the University of Sydney)
MAIN SYDNEY EVENT
4th October - 11 am arrival Peace gathering and the formation of the word "P E A C E" by participants on Bondi Beach (the south end), followed by a social gathering afterwards next to the Bondi Pavillion.
World March for Peace and Nonviolence Bondi Beach, Sydney, October 4, 11:00 am
Don't forget to change your clocks (daylight saving begins then)
5th October 10 AM - Farewell of the international team at Kingsford Smith International Airport
MELBOURNE
* Carlton Piazza/Argyle Square, Lygon Street, Carlton 2-4pm Saturday 3rd October
* Unitarian Peace Memorial Church, 110 Grey Street, East Melbourne if wet weather prevails
* Jonathon Welch's 150+ voice choir, speaker on meditation, and others (yet to be confirmed)
* Speakers for all aspects of "Positive Steps to Peace for self, family, community and The World"
* Longa Kanga Conga
* Face painting for children
* Bring a blanket to sit on and a lunch to munch on
The following are the speakers at Melbourne Event:
* Marco Inglessis, world environmentalist
* Francesca Izzo, international paediatrician
* Dr. Bill Williams, Director Med Assoc Prevention of Wars
* Susan Carew, international peace clown
* Marisol Salinas, racial harmony and justice activist
* Lilly Kitchen, meditation and peace practitioner
BUNDABERG, Queensland
A huge warm invitation to all who live in Bundaberg / Wide bay /Qld. An event is being organised for Oct 11.Further info & show of support in any shape way or form please contact:
Selina Williamson 0403 180 892
selinawilliamson@msn.com
many blessings on our journey to peace
CASTLEMAINE, Victoria
Castlemaine is 130 Km north west of Melbourne Victoria.
A Castlemaine March for Peace starting at Kaweka Park, entry in Hargraves Street where there are wattles planted by Japanese folk from Hiroshima - moving then to the Market Place and spelling out peace - concluding then on Agitation
Hill at the new war memorial/peace garden to conclude. Some singing at either end.
Timetable - 10 a.m. start, 10.30 Market Place, 11.00 a.m. conclude at Agitation Hill. 3rd October!
Rev Ken Parker will lead the March and Mayor Philip Schier will speak. All welcome to join for this brief interlude to reflect on Peace in the world,in the home and in community.
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Philippines - Manila
October 2: Mega Human Non Violence sign in Rizal High School.
5.10. Manila, Philippines
Arrival and social gathering with local World March team
6.10. Manila, Philippines - Activities in the metropolitan area of Manila:
8:00-10:00 Courtesy visit to Mayor of Pasig
10:30-12:00 Cultural event at Rizal Technological University
12:00-14:00 Symbolic March for Peace and Nonviolence
15:00-19:00 World March event at San Andres Sports Complex
16:00-20:00 Visit to the House of Representatives
7.10. The Philippines - Activities in other locations:
10:00-14:00 Events in Taguig
11:00-13:00 Events in Lucena City
Possibly participation in an event in Zamboanga City, Mindanao
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Malaysia
Highlights
6pm - 10pm
Street Festival at Jalan Bangkung with performances by Malaysian artists, exhibitions by NGOs, food stalls, and vendors.
8.30pm - 9pm
"Reclaiming the Night" Lantern Walk starting from Jalan Bangkung. Bring along your Lanterns/ Tanglungs and join us for this historic walk for peace and non violence!
9pm - 12am
Peace Dance at Leonardo's Wine Loft - Retro dance party. Come dressed in 60s and 70s style!
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Bangladesh
9.10. Dhaka
00:15 Arrival of Base Team members
9.10. Dhaka, Bangladesh
11:00-12:00 Press conference at Dhaka Reporters Unity
16:00-17:00 March on the streets, Press Club – TSC, Dhaka University
17:20-Cultural Event in TSC, Dhaka University
19:10-Coffee Meeting with different groups, University Teachers, NGO's and World March organizing people.
10.10. Departure of BT members
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Nepal - Kathamandu
10.10. - 11.10.
Representative of the Foreign Ministry, Anjan Sakya, welcomes Base Team at Airport
Events in Kathmandu
Joseph Higher Secondary School Letters Competition topic Peace and Non violence in Kathmandu.
Activity with "Shanti Malika" a federation to 18 different organisations, including: "Jagaran Nepal", "Mahila Surikchya Dabab Samuha" "Gramin Swastha sikchy sewa guthi", "A.B.C. Nepal" "Ihricon", "Dakxin Asia adabasi mahila manch", "Nagaric Awaz", "Mahila Kanun Bikash manch", "Sathi", "CIWIN Nepal","CAC Nepal","Mahila Margadarsan","Sap Nepal", "Didi Bahini", "Samanata","Insec", "Sancharica Samuha", and "Dalit Mahila Sangh".
Same in Panauti from Sarswati School.
Events in Nepalgunj
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Hong Kong
2 October 2009 - Unitarian Universalists Hong Kong supports World March for Peace and Non-violence with a discussion on the topic: "Non Violence, the Legacy of Gandhi"
Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Place: World Peace Cafe, 21-23 Tai Wong St, East Wanchai, Hong Kong Island
Language: English and Cantonese
Discussion materials:
Gandhi's Non-Violence http://www.socialchangenow.ca/mypages/gandhi.htm
Application of Non-violence http://mkgandhi.org/nonviolence/phil4.htm
Religion Vs. No Religion http://mkgandhi.org/nonviolence/gstruggle3.htm
Unitarian Universalists Hong Kong http://uuhk.org
World Peace Cafe http://worldpeacecafe.hk
Dim-Sum Discussion
October 2, 9am, Mui Wo, Lantau Island
Dim-sum breakfast celebration at Silver Restaurant. Discussion about the World March for Peace and Non-violence - open invitation.
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INDIA
11.10.09 - Delhi: Arrival of WM Team From Dhaka & Kathmandu
Around 15 Members
12.10.09 - Prayer Meeting at Gandhiji's Smrithi Rajghat
By all Team
12.10.09 - March on the Streets From Rajghat to 30 Jan. Marg, New Delhi
By all Team
12.10.09 - Meeting with NGOs and Leaders at Gandhi Smrithi, New Delhi
By whole Team
12.10.09 - Classical Music Programe - Delhi
12.10.09 - Press Meet, Delhi
The team will divide into four
13.10.09 - One team goes to Kerala
13.10.09 - Second team goes to Chennai with programme around Tamil Nadu
13.10.09 - Third team goes to Amritsar
13.10.09 - Reception of WM Team & Prayer Meeting at Golden Temple & blessing of the SGPC, Amritsar
13.10.09 - Visit to Border to hold joint Peace Ceremony and an Asking to end conflicts and for the establishment of permanent peace between the two Nations - Waghah/Atari.
Fourth team goes to Mumbai
13.10.09 - 11am, visit place where Gandhiji stayed - Manibhavan Mumbai
13.10.09 - 4pm, inauguration of Painting by Artist Francis Jhangir Art Gallery Mumbai
13.10.09 - 6pm get together at SP Jain Institute, Bhavans College, Andheri, Mumbai
14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS Kalina Campus, Mumbai
14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS University Campus, Churchgate, Mumbai.
14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS, Central Mumbai.
14.10.09 - 11am, get together with Cultural Leaders at Trichur Kerala
14.10.09 - 6pm Public Meeting, Trichur Kerala
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Pakistan
8th Oct, 2009 World March Guests will be received from Wagha Border, Lahore.
9.00 PM Dinner with World March, Guests in Food Street, Purani Anarkali, Lahore (Informal discussion)
9th Oct, 2009: 10.00am, Dialogue with Students of University of the Punjab
02.00pm, Dialogues with NGOs/Political Parties/Groups
05.00pm, Press Conference
09.00pm, Football Match (Flood Light)
10th Oct, 2009 11.00am, Departure for India (Leave from Wagha Border)
Note 1: Tentative, a few changes might be made; note 2: If Najam Sheraz confirms participation, we can organize in Punjab Football Stadium, otherwise it will be in Model Town, Lahore.
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16.10. South Korea
Peace Pilgrim at the Neutral Zone, Gangwha Island: Press conference, festival
Life Peace Forum in Seoul
October 17: Kobe, Japan, Frank Chase giving a talk on Space Weapons at Wantage Books.
17.10. South Korea and Japan
Seoul, South Korea:
Participatory events by organizations
Peace march for the children and youth at the conflict zone
Fukuoka, Japan:
11:00 Welcome exchanges and a short march with citizens
Hiroshima, Japan:
14:00 Entrustment Ceremony of Hiroshima-Nagasaki Protocol
18:00 Peace and Nonviolence appeal in Candle Message event
18.10. South Korea and Japan
Gangwon Province, South Korea:
Peace concert and events in the demilitarized zone
Kyoto, Japan:
15:00 Peace and Nonviolence appeal at an anti-war rally
19.10. South Korea and Japan
Seoul, South Korea:
Lunch meeting with the WM Korea committee
Confession and meditation for peace and reconciliation
Seoul Peace Statement
Tokyo, Japan:
17:00 Peace message and song exchanges with youth and citizens
20.10. Seoul, South Korea
Visit to the National Assembly
Peace Talk Forum
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World March for Peace and Nonviolence:
International film makers join hands to document peace (video)
Courtesy of pressenza.com
On October 2, 2009 through January 2, 2010, filmmakers from several countries will join the World March for Peace and Nonviolence to document the march for peace across the world.
The film documentary project intends to chronicle the World March as it passes through 98 countries in six continents. It would be a documentary intended to account the impact of the march across borders, touching on stories from communities, highlighting cultural perspectives and community efforts towards attainment of global peace. The three-month long endeavor will also document any cross-cultural encounters as well as the highs and lows of the marchers, the forums and celebrations along the way, capturing the messages of the people to the world.
More countries could still step up to the challenge to film the World March as it progresses across their lands. For now, here is the line-up of participating directors for this global project representing nine out of 98 countries.
Gabor Dettre will film in Hungary as well as support the other European directors.
Eduardo Gozalo will film the passing of the Middle East leg of the World March through Alexandria, Egypt and is forming a group of directors in Turkey.
Maher al Sabbagh will film in Syria, touching on the Muslim vision of nonviolence with the same approach of filming from the perspective of the Hindu culture, as emphasized by Hitesh Gusani.
Luis Mandoki will film in Mexico, Mario Pozzi-Escot in Peru, Fredrico Dueñas in Colombia, and Julia Vargas in Bolivia.
The directors will create their own scripts focused on their particular interests.
These documentaries will be combined in a sole documentary as a unified recording of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence which will be presented at international film festivals.
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Humanist Association of Hong Kong - Elections to Executive Committee
Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Financial Secretary, Secretary General; Assistant Secretary plus Department Heads according to interests, for example: Refugees & Migrant Workers, the Environment, Culture, Asia-Oceania Affairs, Press & Public Relations, etc - your choice.
All positions open.
Please inform this office before 8 October, 2009 of your intent to stand for an office. Voting in person by all interested persons 20 October, 2009, Open Air Café, rooftop, the Fringe, Central, Hong Kong. The list of candidates available at the table. In the new moment of our Association we would like to see a friendly informality that nurtures active participation in the affairs of Hong Kong. Aim: "Humanize Hong Kong"
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IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE HUMANIST MOVEMENT
Hello friends of the Humanist Movement.
Mailing list for the Humanist Movement:
worldmarch@humanism.org
We would like to encourage every member of the Movement to subscribe to the mailing list worldmarch@humanism.org.
This list will be our main communication means till January 2010, when it will be closed. All the old mailing lists of the Assembly, Councils, Co-ordination Bodies, etc. belonging to the previous stage will be closed soon.
All messages referred to the Movement and to the March will go through this list!
To subscribe, go to the website
http://worldmarch.humanism.org/list/
and register your name, surname, country of residence, and your email address.
A few minutes later you will receive an email to confirm your intention to subscribe to the mailing list and to confirm your email address.
If you wish to confirm your subscription to the mailing list, you should reply to that email by pressing "reply" with or without writing a message of your own. Doing so, you will remain already subscribed.
If you do not receive the confirmation email, try the process again or else send your data to muty@ciudad.com.ar or marco@makeko.com , and they will help you to subscribe.
This list will be operative till January 2010. During this period, the different mailing lists and email addresses of the organisms in formation will be made operative:
The Community mailing list:
info.lcmundial@gmail.com stating name, surname, and country of residence, expressing your willingness to join that mailing list.
Inquiries: juntaprommundial@lacomunidad.org.ar
Website of materials: http://lacomunidadmundial.blogspot.com/
Humanist Party International mailing list: hp-international@googlegroups.com
Exchange mailing list: hp-international@googlegroups.com
Registration: send an email to info.hp.int@gmail.com including name, surname and country of residence, expressing your willingness to participate in the mailing List.
Enquiries: epromo.ph@gmail.com
World without Wars and without Violence mailing list:
info-www@googlegroups.com
General mailing list (for information) : Hinfo-www@googlegroups.com
Registration: through: http://groups.google.com/group/info-www or by sending a message to admin.infowww@gmail.com
Exchange mailing list (for promoters): write a message to promo.eb.msg@gmail.com in Spanish or to wwwpromoteam@gmail.com in English. You should state your name, surname, country of residence and your email address.
Contact: wpt.www@googlemail.com
Convergence of the Cultures mailing list:
convergenceofcultures_world@convergenceofcultures.org
Informative mailing list:
convergenceofcultures_world@convergenceofcultures.org
Registration: Connect to:
http://www.convergenceofcultures.org
On this page web enter your name, surname, country of residence and your email address. After a few minutes you will receive an email to confirm your intention to subscribe to this list and to confirm your email address; if you want to confirm your subscription to the list, you will answer to that message with a Reply without adding anything else. With this you will already be inscribed.
Contacts: analiadellacasa@gmail.com and marco@makeko.com
World Centre of Humanist Studies mailing list
cmehumanistas@googlegroups.com
General list: cmehumanistas@googlegroups.com
Registration: web http://groups.google.es/group/cmehumanistas/boxsubscribe
Contact: equipopromotor@cmehumanistas.org
Website http://www.cmehumanistas.org
Thank very much,
Dario
World March for Peace and Non-Violence
Participation in the mailing list of the "World March."
· We also invite to this mailing list the supporters of the March who, while not belonging to the Movement, wish to support it actively so as to reach its maximum worldwide diffusion.
· The mailing list will be operative in different languages, and its objective is information and coordination of the different activities and initiatives that are being carried out regarding this joint action.
· To make the information of the March circulate through this mailing list will be made a priority.
· We propose that similar mailing lists are created in every country. Thus, whoever wishes so may subscribe to this list as well as to his/her own country mailing list.
If you want to participate in this mailing list, you should subscribe as follows:
Get in touch through: http://worldmarch.humanism.org/list/
In this website you should register your name, surname, country of residence, and your email address. A few minutes later you will receive an email to confirm your intention of subscribing to the mailing list and to confirm your email address. If you wish to confirm your subscription to the mailing list, you should reply to that email with a Reply. With it, you will remain already subscribed.
If you do not receive the confirmation email, try the process again or else send your data to Muty (muty@ciudad.com.ar) or Marco ( marco@makeko.com ), and they will help you to subscribe.
A strong hug,
Dario Ergas
Humanist Movement
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Overview of the Underpass - Silo and the Humanist Movement
By Tony Henderson
To speak of the Humanist Movement is to speak about a very open-ended urge from time past when people, us humans, started considering our core values as such, in an effort to understand more clearly what made us human as against another type of creature, horse for example, or whale.
Humanists are concerned with the bringing about of a society fitting humans that is harmonious, happy, egalitarian, just and progressive.
The term Movement points at a turning into the future of that investigation and effort and presumably a positive evolutionary development in the sense of better adaptation for humankind.
The deeper thinkers associated with this movement, those thinkers pertinent to certain epochs, to certain lands, were later called humanists - as against whatever other current was influencing human societies.
Harking back from today, in Europe, the most obvious humanist influences came at the time of the Renaissance, but further back in time, over in Arabia it was the likes of Abu-al-Ala al-Maarri (or Abu'l-'Ala al-Ma'arri) (973–1057), Arab writer and poet - see his "Quatrians..." who was noted as a humanist, distinguished by his hatred of injustice, hypocrisy, and superstition.
Long before that the Buddha had exhorted people to be rational, to be sensible and reasonable. He advised people to not waste time over distant matters like the origin and the end of the world, existence of God and an unchanging soul and so on, but to first attend to the immediate task of removing human misery.
The Chinese will reach back into their own history and will speak of Confucius, always the choice made when any thinking Chinese is asked for the first humanist of China.
It is this loosely knit humanist movement that was the target of the early Siloists in their endeavours to push, to nudge as it were, the set direction onto a course away from the abyss posited by the building of nuclear weapons, by the armies poised at the ready, by destructive and provocative invasions and annexed territories.
This realignment - away from the abyss and towards a happy life - is being accomplished by those so-intending protagonists that on the one hand are attending to the internal state of the so-engaged humans, the members of the Humanist Movement as it began to be called in the 1980s - previously it was simply the Movement - who by study and reflection are taking responsibility for their own ‘internal bomb of violence'. This source of suffering was built-in as a matter of course, over time, living in what was considered a normal life in a competitive, materialistic and aggressive industrial society - where even farming was gradually losing its local connections.
Also, on the other hand, simultaneously, by engaging in programs of change in proximate society to bring about a better life for other people, seeing our common need for a decent healthy environment, housing, life-long welfare, employment opportunities, security and all the usual ancillaries to a balanced life.
Fundamental to these latter efforts at transforming society, a doctrine was launched into the public domain, various aphorisms and seeds of ideas that are useful as references, ready for those moments when someone might want to get a better grasp on the situation ‘as is', in relation to ‘as could be'.
Forty years or so have passed since the launch of Silo's theme on surpassing suffering and by today multitudes of friends have taken part and a wide array of action fronts have sprang into activity. Formal organizations engaging with political and social issues are established and others of a more cultural dimension. These continue to act in the dynamics of the never-still human ferment today.
It is at this juncture that Silo has removed himself from that pivotal role of orientation of the entirety of the operation of our Humanist Movement, depositing Universalist Humanism, and leaving this flux of human life on planet Earth with the effects of that well-disposed nudge.
We bid him farewell and good fortune in his new prospects and of course shower him with our grateful thanks.
Meanwhile, the Humanist Movement careers on into the future at startling pace, the guidelines embedded in those who now take up the task of further nudging the avalanche-like progress of the human race, guiding it away from the darknesses, instinctively and intentionally bringing it toward the light.
http://www.silo.net/Index.php
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Remarks by US President Obama at the UN Security Council on Nuclear Non-Proliferation & Nuclear Disarmament on September 24, 2009
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
_____________________________________________________________________________
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL SUMMIT
ON NUCLEAR NON-PROLIFERATION AND NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT
United Nations Headquarters
New York, New York
THE PRESIDENT: The 6191st meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is before the Council in document S/Agenda/6191, which reads, "Maintenance of international peace and security, nuclear proliferation, and nuclear disarmament." Unless I hear any objection, I shall consider the agenda adopted. Agenda is adopted.
I wish to warmly welcome the distinguished heads of state and government, the General -- the Secretary General, the Director General of the IAEA, ministers and other distinguished representatives present in the Security Council chamber. Your presence is an affirmation of the importance of the subject matter to be discussed.
The Security Council summit will now begin its consideration of item two of the agenda. Members of the Council have before them document S/2009/473, which contains the text of a draft resolution prepared in the course of the Council's prior consultations. I wish to draw Council members' attention to document S/2009/463 containing a letter dated 16 September 2009 from the United States of America, transmitting a concept paper on the item under consideration. In accordance with the understanding reached earlier among members, the Security Council will take action on the draft resolution before it prior to hearing statements from the Secretary General and Council members. Accordingly, I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. Will those in favor of the draft resolution contained in document S/2009/473 please raise their hand? The results of the voting is as follows: The draft resolution is received unanimously, 15 votes in favor. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as Resolution 1887 of 2009.
I want to thank again everybody who is in attendance. I wish you all good morning. In the six-plus decades that this Security Council has been in existence, only four other meetings of this nature have been convened. I called for this one so that we may address at the highest level a fundamental threat to the security of all peoples and all nations: the spread and use of nuclear weapons.
As I said yesterday, this very institution was founded at the dawn of the atomic age, in part because man's capacity to kill had to be contained. And although we averted a nuclear nightmare during the Cold War, we now face proliferation of a scope and complexity that demands new strategies and new approaches. Just one nuclear weapon exploded in a city -- be it New York or Moscow; Tokyo or Beijing; London or Paris -- could kill hundreds of thousands of people. And it would badly destabilize our security, our economies, and our very way of life.
Once more, the United Nations has a pivotal role to play in preventing this crisis. The historic resolution we just adopted enshrines our shared commitment to the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. And it brings Security Council agreement on a broad framework for action to reduce nuclear dangers as we work toward that goal. It reflects the agenda I outlined in Prague, and builds on a consensus that all nations have the right to peaceful nuclear energy; that nations with nuclear weapons have the responsibility to move toward disarmament; and those without them have the responsibility to forsake them.
Today, the Security Council endorsed a global effort to lock down all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years. The United States will host a summit next April to advance this goal and help all nations achieve it. This resolution will also help strengthen the institutions and initiatives that combat the smuggling, financing, and theft of proliferation-related materials. It calls on all states to freeze any financial assets that are being used for proliferation. And it calls for stronger safeguards to reduce the likelihood that peaceful nuclear weapons programs can be diverted to a weapons program -- that peaceful nuclear programs can be diverted to a weapons program.
The resolution we passed today will also strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. We have made it clear that the Security Council has both the authority and the responsibility to respond to violations to this treaty. We've made it clear that the Security Council has both the authority and responsibility to determine and respond as necessary when violations of this treaty threaten international peace and security.
That includes full compliance with Security Council resolutions on Iran and North Korea. Let me be clear: This is not about singling out individual nations -- it is about standing up for the rights of all nations who do live up to their responsibilities. The world must stand together. And we must demonstrate that international law is not an empty promise, and that treaties will be enforced.
The next 12 months will be absolutely critical in determining whether this resolution and our overall efforts to stop the spread and use of nuclear weapons are successful. And all nations must do their part to make this work. In America, I have promised that we will pursue a new agreement with Russia to substantially reduce our strategic warheads and launchers. We will move forward with the ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and open the door to deeper cuts in our own arsenal. In January, we will call upon countries to begin negotiations on a treaty to end the production of fissile material for weapons. And the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in May will strengthen that agreement.
Now, we harbor no illusions about the difficulty of bringing about a world without nuclear weapons. We know there are plenty of cynics, and that there will be setbacks to prove their point. But there will also be days like today that push us forward -- days that tell a different story. It is the story of a world that understands that no difference or division is worth destroying all that we have built and all that we love. It is a recognition that can bring people of different nationalities and ethnicities and ideologies together. In my own country, it has brought Democrats and Republican leaders together -- leaders like George Shultz, Bill Perry, Henry Kissinger, and Sam Nunn, who are with us here today. And it was a Republican President, Ronald Reagan, who once articulated the goal we now seek in the starkest of terms. I quote:
"A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. And no matter how great the obstacles may seem, we must never stop our efforts to reduce the weapons of war. We must never stop until all -- we must never stop at all until we see the day when nuclear arms have been banished from the face of the Earth."
That is our task. That can be our destiny. And we will leave this meeting with a renewed determination to achieve this shared goal. Thank you.
In accordance with the understanding reached among Council members, I wish to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than five minutes in order to enable the Council to carry on its work expeditiously. Delegations with lengthy statements are kindly requested to circulate the text in writing and to deliver a condensed version when speaking in the chamber.
I shall now invite the distinguished Secretary General, His Excellency Ban Ki-moon, to take the floor.
#####
WORLD MARCH PRESS RELEASE
SUPPORT FOR OBAMA IN SUSPENDING THE ANTI-MISSILE SHIELD
Today, the 17th September 2009, with just a few days to go before the start of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, US President, Barack Obama, has announced the suspension of the anti-missile shield project in central Europe, better known as "star wars".
It is a very important gesture of détente and peace by President Obama and we want to highlight it and applaud it around the world. We support all efforts of the US President to advance towards global nuclear disarmament.
We applaud the courage of the Czech people who have sustained the fight against the defence shield through recent years maintaining their opposition to the Defence project with protests, marches, hunger strikes and all forms of non-violent struggle. We recall the denunciation by Jan Tamas, leader of the non-violent movement against the bases in the Czech Republic when he explained that this is not a defensive project but rather an offensive one because it would allow nuclear attacks to be launched leaving an enemy unable to respond, something that would oblige Russia to start an arms race.
This gesture by President Obama shows that a great moral strength is being born to confront the violence of global economic powers and the power of the military-industrial complex that today operate out of the control of nation states.
We celebrate this news and we invite Barack Obama to support the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, something that has already been done by almost 20 National Presidents and Governments of the World.
Rafael de la Rubia, International Spokesperson of the World March
President of World without Wars
www.marchamudial.org
www.mundosinguerras.org
rafael@mundosinguerras.org
Tel: +34 665827072
#####
Burma - 20 September 2009
At least 110 political prisoners released - (Mae Sot – Thailand)
The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma) (AAPP) can confirm that so far 110 political prisoners have been released from 23 different prisons in Burma.
The 110 released include 38 members of the National League for Democracy, including 3 MPs; 20 women; 11 former political prisoners; 4 monks; 4 journalists; 10 members of the Human Rights Defenders and Promoters Network; 6 members of the 88 Generation Students; and 1 lawyer.
On the evening of September 17, 2009 in Rangoon, state-run MRTV carried a news bulletin announcing that 7,114 prisoners were to be released "on humanitarian grounds."
Tate Naing, AAPP Secretary +66(0)89-899-7161
Bo Kyi, AAPP Joint-Secretary +66(0)81-324-8935
U Aung Myo Thein - Assistant Association for Political Prisoners (Burma)
Contact: info@aappb.org, info@fbppn.net
Web: http://www.aappb.org, http://www.fbppn.net
####
Latest World March for Peace and Non Violence newsletter:
http://www.theworldmarch.org/index.php?secc=boletin
#####
Stay in touch, join one of our Forums, participate!
Asia-Pacific:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/asianforum/
Hong Kong:
http://groups.google.com/group/HongKongNodeAsiaPacificForum?hl=en
Hong Kong Lantau island:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LantauForum/
Bangladesh:
http://www.bangladeshhumanistforum.org/
Nepal:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nepalhumanistforum/
#####
Twitter - tonyhen
go to twitter.com - sign on and follow tonyhen - simple
#####
The News Agency for Peace and Nonviolence
Ref: Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency
Dear Director or Editor in Chief:
With this letter, we intend to introduce PRESSENZA IPA, an International Press Agency that specializes in news and information related to the subject of Peace and Non Violence.
PRESSENZA - INTERNATIONAL PRESS AGENCY seeks to provide a renewed atmosphere of human understanding and cooperation and expand the broadcasting space that focuses events, persons and initiatives who promote Peace and Non-Violence.
Moreover, during this Year, the main focus of Pressenza will be the complete covering of the World March for Peace and Non Violence, an international event which will cross the whole planet and already counts on the support of thousands of personalities, institutions and organizations, among them several Nobel Prices.
We invite you to be our Partner, subscribing to our Agency and reproducing our material. Also suggesting material of your own, which could be useful from the optic of Peace, Disarmament and Non Violence. This is an opportunity to help in building a new worldwide consciousness of peace and understanding, so necessary in this very delicate historical moment.
The entire contents of our news can be used by our subscribers for free, provided the source is mentioned.
You will also find additional information about our Agency at http://www.pressenza.com/main/aboutUs and about the World March for Peace and Non Violence at http://www.theworldmarch.org/
Please, do not hesitate to contact us, at info@world.pressenza.org
Sincerely,
Mrs. Silvina Sotelo
On Behalf of the Department of International Relationships
Pressenza International Press Agency
http://world.pressenza.org/
#####
The Humanist Association of Hong Kong newsletter - Asia-Pacific.
Want to receive this newsletter among friends of the new universalist humanism regularly? Email: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk
Humanist Association of Hong Kong, membership fee HK$50 a year, due each January.
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.
FEEDBACK
TONY HENDERSON, editor/correspondent
My phone (852) 29840094
G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
E-mail: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk
Web: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/
- among friends of universal humanism
Vol II, Number 26 - September 2009
**********************************************************
Page 1 - EDITORIAL
Page 1 - World March for Peace and Non-Violence
Page 2 - World March for Peace and Non-Violence programs in Oceania and Asia
Page 7 - International film makers join hands to document peace march
Page 7 - Important message to members of the Humanist Movement
Page 7 - Humanist Association of Hong Kong - Elections to Executive Committee
Page 8 - Contact details for the organisms of the Humanist Movement
Page 9 - Overview of the Underpass - Silo and the Humanist Movement
Page 10 - Obama - UN security council summit
Page 12 - World March supports Obama suspending anti-missile shield
Page 13 - Burma - At least 110 political prisoners released
Page 14 - Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency
Page 14 - Contact information
Editorial,
The World March for Peace and Non Violence is at the forefront of the activities of the Humanist Movement and its organisms. We provide links to the March's various Internet portals so you can have a quick meander among the sites and see for yourselves what is taking place - far too much to give in synthesis in this little newsletter. However, we do provide a rough guide to the various events that will spring up on the passage of the World March Base Team across Asia as the team leave Oceania.
The Humanist Movement is undergoing a radical transformation and anyone wanting to join our ranks had better now proceed via one of the organisms, all details below.
Here in Hong Kong we have our Humanist Association, founded in the same moment as the Humanist Parties worldwide, therefore we are committing to join the federation of humanist parties under the International Humanist Party title. We are revamping our executive committee as well in concert with these changes. Do consider becoming an active member of this committee, see below for details.
Also included here is an accolade to Silo as he steps aside from any role directly influencing the Humanist Movement, where, in the past, he has played a pivotal role.
The most recent speech by President Obama at the UN was significant and reflects our priorities as seen in the campaigns we are waging against nuclear weapons. For this reason we repeat his words here, as a reminder to all of us engaged in the efforts to achieve this urgent need.
Tony Henderson
Editor
World March for Peace and Non-Violence
"So that the voices of millions who yearn for peace can be heard as they call for the end of war and all forms of violence."
Begins in New Zealand October 2, 2009 and concludes in the South American Andes Mountains, January 2, 2010.
World Without Wars - and without violence
International co-ordinator Rafael de la Rubia - rafael@marchamundial.org http://www.worldmarch.info/
http://blog.theworldmarch.org/
http://world.pressenza.org/
http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/
World March for Peace and Non Violence
The world's first 93-day, six- continent peace march, has announced that Friday, Oct. 2, the
International Day of Nonviolence, is the start date for both its worldwide march and corresponding series of cultural, educational, and social events taking place in more than 100 countries to abolish nuclear weapons and reject violence of all kinds.
The march begins in Wellington, New Zealand with an international team of 25 marchers who will cross through Asia, Europe, Africa, and North and South America before reaching Punta de Vacas, Argentina, on January 2, 2010. The group will carry the Hiroshima Flame for the duration of the journey.
Launched by the international organization, World Without Wars, the World March has been endorsed by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, Jimmy Carter and other Nobel Peace Prize winners, Noam Chomsky, seven presidents, hundreds of world leaders, including President Obama's Kenyan grandmother and celebrities like Yoko Ono, Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, thousands of organizations and more than a million citizens.
Locally in Hong Kong endorsers so far include Elsie Tu, the prominent social activist, and former elected legislator; Ronnie Tong Ka-wah, the human rights legislator; and Earthwalker Paul Coleman, who walked all the way to Beijing from Hong Kong in a China Greening only to be denied access to the Olympic Games owing to bureaucratic excesses.
http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/
#####
WORLD MARCH PROGRAMS IN ASIA-OCEANIA
New Zealand
Complete details at:
http://www.fusecreative.co.nz/worldmarch/index.html
September 26, 2009
International team arrives in Auckland
The International team i.e. those doing the entire World March, will arrive in Auckland along with a number of mayors, celebrities and others participating in the New Zealand section. Join us to welcome them to New Zealand.
September 27 2009
Auckland Peace Walk Launch
Join the international team and celebrities for the launch of the Auckland Peace Walk – a walking route through the city visiting historic and contemporary peace heritage sites and monuments, ending at St Matthew-in-the-City, where Auckland was declared a Peace City on 23 September 2007.
September 28 2009
Tourist activities for International Team
The International Team enjoys some typical Kiwi tourist activities including a visit to Te Puia Thermal Village, Huka Falls, Taupo natural hot springs, a bungy jump at Gravity Canyon and a visit to Lindale agricultural centre and farm.
September 29/30 2009
Blessing at Rekohu (Chatham Islands)
The international team travels east to Rekohu – the first point in New Zealand to see the morning sun. There they will hold the World March opening blessing ceremony hosted by the Hokotehi Moriori Trust and commemorating the 500 year-old Moriori Peace Covenant.
October 1 2009
Civic reception Wellington
The international team and other visiting guests are welcomed at the Mayoral Chambers of Wellington – a declared Peace Capital and nuclear-weapon-free zone.
October 2 2009
World Peace March Starts
World Peace March starts from the Gandhi statue in front of the Wellington railway station and continues through key peace heritage sites in Wellington before heading off around the world.
#####
AUSTRALIA
SYDNEY
3rd October - 6pm Press Conference and Welcome Activity at Victoria Park, Broadway (next to the University of Sydney)
MAIN SYDNEY EVENT
4th October - 11 am arrival Peace gathering and the formation of the word "P E A C E" by participants on Bondi Beach (the south end), followed by a social gathering afterwards next to the Bondi Pavillion.
World March for Peace and Nonviolence Bondi Beach, Sydney, October 4, 11:00 am
Don't forget to change your clocks (daylight saving begins then)
5th October 10 AM - Farewell of the international team at Kingsford Smith International Airport
MELBOURNE
* Carlton Piazza/Argyle Square, Lygon Street, Carlton 2-4pm Saturday 3rd October
* Unitarian Peace Memorial Church, 110 Grey Street, East Melbourne if wet weather prevails
* Jonathon Welch's 150+ voice choir, speaker on meditation, and others (yet to be confirmed)
* Speakers for all aspects of "Positive Steps to Peace for self, family, community and The World"
* Longa Kanga Conga
* Face painting for children
* Bring a blanket to sit on and a lunch to munch on
The following are the speakers at Melbourne Event:
* Marco Inglessis, world environmentalist
* Francesca Izzo, international paediatrician
* Dr. Bill Williams, Director Med Assoc Prevention of Wars
* Susan Carew, international peace clown
* Marisol Salinas, racial harmony and justice activist
* Lilly Kitchen, meditation and peace practitioner
BUNDABERG, Queensland
A huge warm invitation to all who live in Bundaberg / Wide bay /Qld. An event is being organised for Oct 11.Further info & show of support in any shape way or form please contact:
Selina Williamson 0403 180 892
selinawilliamson@msn.com
many blessings on our journey to peace
CASTLEMAINE, Victoria
Castlemaine is 130 Km north west of Melbourne Victoria.
A Castlemaine March for Peace starting at Kaweka Park, entry in Hargraves Street where there are wattles planted by Japanese folk from Hiroshima - moving then to the Market Place and spelling out peace - concluding then on Agitation
Hill at the new war memorial/peace garden to conclude. Some singing at either end.
Timetable - 10 a.m. start, 10.30 Market Place, 11.00 a.m. conclude at Agitation Hill. 3rd October!
Rev Ken Parker will lead the March and Mayor Philip Schier will speak. All welcome to join for this brief interlude to reflect on Peace in the world,in the home and in community.
#####
Philippines - Manila
October 2: Mega Human Non Violence sign in Rizal High School.
5.10. Manila, Philippines
Arrival and social gathering with local World March team
6.10. Manila, Philippines - Activities in the metropolitan area of Manila:
8:00-10:00 Courtesy visit to Mayor of Pasig
10:30-12:00 Cultural event at Rizal Technological University
12:00-14:00 Symbolic March for Peace and Nonviolence
15:00-19:00 World March event at San Andres Sports Complex
16:00-20:00 Visit to the House of Representatives
7.10. The Philippines - Activities in other locations:
10:00-14:00 Events in Taguig
11:00-13:00 Events in Lucena City
Possibly participation in an event in Zamboanga City, Mindanao
#####
Malaysia
Highlights
6pm - 10pm
Street Festival at Jalan Bangkung with performances by Malaysian artists, exhibitions by NGOs, food stalls, and vendors.
8.30pm - 9pm
"Reclaiming the Night" Lantern Walk starting from Jalan Bangkung. Bring along your Lanterns/ Tanglungs and join us for this historic walk for peace and non violence!
9pm - 12am
Peace Dance at Leonardo's Wine Loft - Retro dance party. Come dressed in 60s and 70s style!
#####
Bangladesh
9.10. Dhaka
00:15 Arrival of Base Team members
9.10. Dhaka, Bangladesh
11:00-12:00 Press conference at Dhaka Reporters Unity
16:00-17:00 March on the streets, Press Club – TSC, Dhaka University
17:20-Cultural Event in TSC, Dhaka University
19:10-Coffee Meeting with different groups, University Teachers, NGO's and World March organizing people.
10.10. Departure of BT members
#####
Nepal - Kathamandu
10.10. - 11.10.
Representative of the Foreign Ministry, Anjan Sakya, welcomes Base Team at Airport
Events in Kathmandu
Joseph Higher Secondary School Letters Competition topic Peace and Non violence in Kathmandu.
Activity with "Shanti Malika" a federation to 18 different organisations, including: "Jagaran Nepal", "Mahila Surikchya Dabab Samuha" "Gramin Swastha sikchy sewa guthi", "A.B.C. Nepal" "Ihricon", "Dakxin Asia adabasi mahila manch", "Nagaric Awaz", "Mahila Kanun Bikash manch", "Sathi", "CIWIN Nepal","CAC Nepal","Mahila Margadarsan","Sap Nepal", "Didi Bahini", "Samanata","Insec", "Sancharica Samuha", and "Dalit Mahila Sangh".
Same in Panauti from Sarswati School.
Events in Nepalgunj
#####
Hong Kong
2 October 2009 - Unitarian Universalists Hong Kong supports World March for Peace and Non-violence with a discussion on the topic: "Non Violence, the Legacy of Gandhi"
Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Place: World Peace Cafe, 21-23 Tai Wong St, East Wanchai, Hong Kong Island
Language: English and Cantonese
Discussion materials:
Gandhi's Non-Violence http://www.socialchangenow.ca/mypages/gandhi.htm
Application of Non-violence http://mkgandhi.org/nonviolence/phil4.htm
Religion Vs. No Religion http://mkgandhi.org/nonviolence/gstruggle3.htm
Unitarian Universalists Hong Kong http://uuhk.org
World Peace Cafe http://worldpeacecafe.hk
Dim-Sum Discussion
October 2, 9am, Mui Wo, Lantau Island
Dim-sum breakfast celebration at Silver Restaurant. Discussion about the World March for Peace and Non-violence - open invitation.
#####
INDIA
11.10.09 - Delhi: Arrival of WM Team From Dhaka & Kathmandu
Around 15 Members
12.10.09 - Prayer Meeting at Gandhiji's Smrithi Rajghat
By all Team
12.10.09 - March on the Streets From Rajghat to 30 Jan. Marg, New Delhi
By all Team
12.10.09 - Meeting with NGOs and Leaders at Gandhi Smrithi, New Delhi
By whole Team
12.10.09 - Classical Music Programe - Delhi
12.10.09 - Press Meet, Delhi
The team will divide into four
13.10.09 - One team goes to Kerala
13.10.09 - Second team goes to Chennai with programme around Tamil Nadu
13.10.09 - Third team goes to Amritsar
13.10.09 - Reception of WM Team & Prayer Meeting at Golden Temple & blessing of the SGPC, Amritsar
13.10.09 - Visit to Border to hold joint Peace Ceremony and an Asking to end conflicts and for the establishment of permanent peace between the two Nations - Waghah/Atari.
Fourth team goes to Mumbai
13.10.09 - 11am, visit place where Gandhiji stayed - Manibhavan Mumbai
13.10.09 - 4pm, inauguration of Painting by Artist Francis Jhangir Art Gallery Mumbai
13.10.09 - 6pm get together at SP Jain Institute, Bhavans College, Andheri, Mumbai
14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS Kalina Campus, Mumbai
14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS University Campus, Churchgate, Mumbai.
14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS, Central Mumbai.
14.10.09 - 11am, get together with Cultural Leaders at Trichur Kerala
14.10.09 - 6pm Public Meeting, Trichur Kerala
#####
Pakistan
8th Oct, 2009 World March Guests will be received from Wagha Border, Lahore.
9.00 PM Dinner with World March, Guests in Food Street, Purani Anarkali, Lahore (Informal discussion)
9th Oct, 2009: 10.00am, Dialogue with Students of University of the Punjab
02.00pm, Dialogues with NGOs/Political Parties/Groups
05.00pm, Press Conference
09.00pm, Football Match (Flood Light)
10th Oct, 2009 11.00am, Departure for India (Leave from Wagha Border)
Note 1: Tentative, a few changes might be made; note 2: If Najam Sheraz confirms participation, we can organize in Punjab Football Stadium, otherwise it will be in Model Town, Lahore.
#####
16.10. South Korea
Peace Pilgrim at the Neutral Zone, Gangwha Island: Press conference, festival
Life Peace Forum in Seoul
October 17: Kobe, Japan, Frank Chase giving a talk on Space Weapons at Wantage Books.
17.10. South Korea and Japan
Seoul, South Korea:
Participatory events by organizations
Peace march for the children and youth at the conflict zone
Fukuoka, Japan:
11:00 Welcome exchanges and a short march with citizens
Hiroshima, Japan:
14:00 Entrustment Ceremony of Hiroshima-Nagasaki Protocol
18:00 Peace and Nonviolence appeal in Candle Message event
18.10. South Korea and Japan
Gangwon Province, South Korea:
Peace concert and events in the demilitarized zone
Kyoto, Japan:
15:00 Peace and Nonviolence appeal at an anti-war rally
19.10. South Korea and Japan
Seoul, South Korea:
Lunch meeting with the WM Korea committee
Confession and meditation for peace and reconciliation
Seoul Peace Statement
Tokyo, Japan:
17:00 Peace message and song exchanges with youth and citizens
20.10. Seoul, South Korea
Visit to the National Assembly
Peace Talk Forum
#####
World March for Peace and Nonviolence:
International film makers join hands to document peace (video)
Courtesy of pressenza.com
On October 2, 2009 through January 2, 2010, filmmakers from several countries will join the World March for Peace and Nonviolence to document the march for peace across the world.
The film documentary project intends to chronicle the World March as it passes through 98 countries in six continents. It would be a documentary intended to account the impact of the march across borders, touching on stories from communities, highlighting cultural perspectives and community efforts towards attainment of global peace. The three-month long endeavor will also document any cross-cultural encounters as well as the highs and lows of the marchers, the forums and celebrations along the way, capturing the messages of the people to the world.
More countries could still step up to the challenge to film the World March as it progresses across their lands. For now, here is the line-up of participating directors for this global project representing nine out of 98 countries.
Gabor Dettre will film in Hungary as well as support the other European directors.
Eduardo Gozalo will film the passing of the Middle East leg of the World March through Alexandria, Egypt and is forming a group of directors in Turkey.
Maher al Sabbagh will film in Syria, touching on the Muslim vision of nonviolence with the same approach of filming from the perspective of the Hindu culture, as emphasized by Hitesh Gusani.
Luis Mandoki will film in Mexico, Mario Pozzi-Escot in Peru, Fredrico Dueñas in Colombia, and Julia Vargas in Bolivia.
The directors will create their own scripts focused on their particular interests.
These documentaries will be combined in a sole documentary as a unified recording of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence which will be presented at international film festivals.
#####
Humanist Association of Hong Kong - Elections to Executive Committee
Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Financial Secretary, Secretary General; Assistant Secretary plus Department Heads according to interests, for example: Refugees & Migrant Workers, the Environment, Culture, Asia-Oceania Affairs, Press & Public Relations, etc - your choice.
All positions open.
Please inform this office before 8 October, 2009 of your intent to stand for an office. Voting in person by all interested persons 20 October, 2009, Open Air Café, rooftop, the Fringe, Central, Hong Kong. The list of candidates available at the table. In the new moment of our Association we would like to see a friendly informality that nurtures active participation in the affairs of Hong Kong. Aim: "Humanize Hong Kong"
#####
IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE HUMANIST MOVEMENT
Hello friends of the Humanist Movement.
Mailing list for the Humanist Movement:
worldmarch@humanism.org
We would like to encourage every member of the Movement to subscribe to the mailing list worldmarch@humanism.org.
This list will be our main communication means till January 2010, when it will be closed. All the old mailing lists of the Assembly, Councils, Co-ordination Bodies, etc. belonging to the previous stage will be closed soon.
All messages referred to the Movement and to the March will go through this list!
To subscribe, go to the website
http://worldmarch.humanism.org/list/
and register your name, surname, country of residence, and your email address.
A few minutes later you will receive an email to confirm your intention to subscribe to the mailing list and to confirm your email address.
If you wish to confirm your subscription to the mailing list, you should reply to that email by pressing "reply" with or without writing a message of your own. Doing so, you will remain already subscribed.
If you do not receive the confirmation email, try the process again or else send your data to muty@ciudad.com.ar or marco@makeko.com , and they will help you to subscribe.
This list will be operative till January 2010. During this period, the different mailing lists and email addresses of the organisms in formation will be made operative:
The Community mailing list:
info.lcmundial@gmail.com stating name, surname, and country of residence, expressing your willingness to join that mailing list.
Inquiries: juntaprommundial@lacomunidad.org.ar
Website of materials: http://lacomunidadmundial.blogspot.com/
Humanist Party International mailing list: hp-international@googlegroups.com
Exchange mailing list: hp-international@googlegroups.com
Registration: send an email to info.hp.int@gmail.com including name, surname and country of residence, expressing your willingness to participate in the mailing List.
Enquiries: epromo.ph@gmail.com
World without Wars and without Violence mailing list:
info-www@googlegroups.com
General mailing list (for information) : Hinfo-www@googlegroups.com
Registration: through: http://groups.google.com/group/info-www or by sending a message to admin.infowww@gmail.com
Exchange mailing list (for promoters): write a message to promo.eb.msg@gmail.com in Spanish or to wwwpromoteam@gmail.com in English. You should state your name, surname, country of residence and your email address.
Contact: wpt.www@googlemail.com
Convergence of the Cultures mailing list:
convergenceofcultures_world@convergenceofcultures.org
Informative mailing list:
convergenceofcultures_world@convergenceofcultures.org
Registration: Connect to:
http://www.convergenceofcultures.org
On this page web enter your name, surname, country of residence and your email address. After a few minutes you will receive an email to confirm your intention to subscribe to this list and to confirm your email address; if you want to confirm your subscription to the list, you will answer to that message with a Reply without adding anything else. With this you will already be inscribed.
Contacts: analiadellacasa@gmail.com and marco@makeko.com
World Centre of Humanist Studies mailing list
cmehumanistas@googlegroups.com
General list: cmehumanistas@googlegroups.com
Registration: web http://groups.google.es/group/cmehumanistas/boxsubscribe
Contact: equipopromotor@cmehumanistas.org
Website http://www.cmehumanistas.org
Thank very much,
Dario
World March for Peace and Non-Violence
Participation in the mailing list of the "World March."
· We also invite to this mailing list the supporters of the March who, while not belonging to the Movement, wish to support it actively so as to reach its maximum worldwide diffusion.
· The mailing list will be operative in different languages, and its objective is information and coordination of the different activities and initiatives that are being carried out regarding this joint action.
· To make the information of the March circulate through this mailing list will be made a priority.
· We propose that similar mailing lists are created in every country. Thus, whoever wishes so may subscribe to this list as well as to his/her own country mailing list.
If you want to participate in this mailing list, you should subscribe as follows:
Get in touch through: http://worldmarch.humanism.org/list/
In this website you should register your name, surname, country of residence, and your email address. A few minutes later you will receive an email to confirm your intention of subscribing to the mailing list and to confirm your email address. If you wish to confirm your subscription to the mailing list, you should reply to that email with a Reply. With it, you will remain already subscribed.
If you do not receive the confirmation email, try the process again or else send your data to Muty (muty@ciudad.com.ar) or Marco ( marco@makeko.com ), and they will help you to subscribe.
A strong hug,
Dario Ergas
Humanist Movement
#####
Overview of the Underpass - Silo and the Humanist Movement
By Tony Henderson
To speak of the Humanist Movement is to speak about a very open-ended urge from time past when people, us humans, started considering our core values as such, in an effort to understand more clearly what made us human as against another type of creature, horse for example, or whale.
Humanists are concerned with the bringing about of a society fitting humans that is harmonious, happy, egalitarian, just and progressive.
The term Movement points at a turning into the future of that investigation and effort and presumably a positive evolutionary development in the sense of better adaptation for humankind.
The deeper thinkers associated with this movement, those thinkers pertinent to certain epochs, to certain lands, were later called humanists - as against whatever other current was influencing human societies.
Harking back from today, in Europe, the most obvious humanist influences came at the time of the Renaissance, but further back in time, over in Arabia it was the likes of Abu-al-Ala al-Maarri (or Abu'l-'Ala al-Ma'arri) (973–1057), Arab writer and poet - see his "Quatrians..." who was noted as a humanist, distinguished by his hatred of injustice, hypocrisy, and superstition.
Long before that the Buddha had exhorted people to be rational, to be sensible and reasonable. He advised people to not waste time over distant matters like the origin and the end of the world, existence of God and an unchanging soul and so on, but to first attend to the immediate task of removing human misery.
The Chinese will reach back into their own history and will speak of Confucius, always the choice made when any thinking Chinese is asked for the first humanist of China.
It is this loosely knit humanist movement that was the target of the early Siloists in their endeavours to push, to nudge as it were, the set direction onto a course away from the abyss posited by the building of nuclear weapons, by the armies poised at the ready, by destructive and provocative invasions and annexed territories.
This realignment - away from the abyss and towards a happy life - is being accomplished by those so-intending protagonists that on the one hand are attending to the internal state of the so-engaged humans, the members of the Humanist Movement as it began to be called in the 1980s - previously it was simply the Movement - who by study and reflection are taking responsibility for their own ‘internal bomb of violence'. This source of suffering was built-in as a matter of course, over time, living in what was considered a normal life in a competitive, materialistic and aggressive industrial society - where even farming was gradually losing its local connections.
Also, on the other hand, simultaneously, by engaging in programs of change in proximate society to bring about a better life for other people, seeing our common need for a decent healthy environment, housing, life-long welfare, employment opportunities, security and all the usual ancillaries to a balanced life.
Fundamental to these latter efforts at transforming society, a doctrine was launched into the public domain, various aphorisms and seeds of ideas that are useful as references, ready for those moments when someone might want to get a better grasp on the situation ‘as is', in relation to ‘as could be'.
Forty years or so have passed since the launch of Silo's theme on surpassing suffering and by today multitudes of friends have taken part and a wide array of action fronts have sprang into activity. Formal organizations engaging with political and social issues are established and others of a more cultural dimension. These continue to act in the dynamics of the never-still human ferment today.
It is at this juncture that Silo has removed himself from that pivotal role of orientation of the entirety of the operation of our Humanist Movement, depositing Universalist Humanism, and leaving this flux of human life on planet Earth with the effects of that well-disposed nudge.
We bid him farewell and good fortune in his new prospects and of course shower him with our grateful thanks.
Meanwhile, the Humanist Movement careers on into the future at startling pace, the guidelines embedded in those who now take up the task of further nudging the avalanche-like progress of the human race, guiding it away from the darknesses, instinctively and intentionally bringing it toward the light.
http://www.silo.net/Index.php
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Remarks by US President Obama at the UN Security Council on Nuclear Non-Proliferation & Nuclear Disarmament on September 24, 2009
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
_____________________________________________________________________________
REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
AT THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL SUMMIT
ON NUCLEAR NON-PROLIFERATION AND NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT
United Nations Headquarters
New York, New York
THE PRESIDENT: The 6191st meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is before the Council in document S/Agenda/6191, which reads, "Maintenance of international peace and security, nuclear proliferation, and nuclear disarmament." Unless I hear any objection, I shall consider the agenda adopted. Agenda is adopted.
I wish to warmly welcome the distinguished heads of state and government, the General -- the Secretary General, the Director General of the IAEA, ministers and other distinguished representatives present in the Security Council chamber. Your presence is an affirmation of the importance of the subject matter to be discussed.
The Security Council summit will now begin its consideration of item two of the agenda. Members of the Council have before them document S/2009/473, which contains the text of a draft resolution prepared in the course of the Council's prior consultations. I wish to draw Council members' attention to document S/2009/463 containing a letter dated 16 September 2009 from the United States of America, transmitting a concept paper on the item under consideration. In accordance with the understanding reached earlier among members, the Security Council will take action on the draft resolution before it prior to hearing statements from the Secretary General and Council members. Accordingly, I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. Will those in favor of the draft resolution contained in document S/2009/473 please raise their hand? The results of the voting is as follows: The draft resolution is received unanimously, 15 votes in favor. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as Resolution 1887 of 2009.
I want to thank again everybody who is in attendance. I wish you all good morning. In the six-plus decades that this Security Council has been in existence, only four other meetings of this nature have been convened. I called for this one so that we may address at the highest level a fundamental threat to the security of all peoples and all nations: the spread and use of nuclear weapons.
As I said yesterday, this very institution was founded at the dawn of the atomic age, in part because man's capacity to kill had to be contained. And although we averted a nuclear nightmare during the Cold War, we now face proliferation of a scope and complexity that demands new strategies and new approaches. Just one nuclear weapon exploded in a city -- be it New York or Moscow; Tokyo or Beijing; London or Paris -- could kill hundreds of thousands of people. And it would badly destabilize our security, our economies, and our very way of life.
Once more, the United Nations has a pivotal role to play in preventing this crisis. The historic resolution we just adopted enshrines our shared commitment to the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. And it brings Security Council agreement on a broad framework for action to reduce nuclear dangers as we work toward that goal. It reflects the agenda I outlined in Prague, and builds on a consensus that all nations have the right to peaceful nuclear energy; that nations with nuclear weapons have the responsibility to move toward disarmament; and those without them have the responsibility to forsake them.
Today, the Security Council endorsed a global effort to lock down all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years. The United States will host a summit next April to advance this goal and help all nations achieve it. This resolution will also help strengthen the institutions and initiatives that combat the smuggling, financing, and theft of proliferation-related materials. It calls on all states to freeze any financial assets that are being used for proliferation. And it calls for stronger safeguards to reduce the likelihood that peaceful nuclear weapons programs can be diverted to a weapons program -- that peaceful nuclear programs can be diverted to a weapons program.
The resolution we passed today will also strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. We have made it clear that the Security Council has both the authority and the responsibility to respond to violations to this treaty. We've made it clear that the Security Council has both the authority and responsibility to determine and respond as necessary when violations of this treaty threaten international peace and security.
That includes full compliance with Security Council resolutions on Iran and North Korea. Let me be clear: This is not about singling out individual nations -- it is about standing up for the rights of all nations who do live up to their responsibilities. The world must stand together. And we must demonstrate that international law is not an empty promise, and that treaties will be enforced.
The next 12 months will be absolutely critical in determining whether this resolution and our overall efforts to stop the spread and use of nuclear weapons are successful. And all nations must do their part to make this work. In America, I have promised that we will pursue a new agreement with Russia to substantially reduce our strategic warheads and launchers. We will move forward with the ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and open the door to deeper cuts in our own arsenal. In January, we will call upon countries to begin negotiations on a treaty to end the production of fissile material for weapons. And the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in May will strengthen that agreement.
Now, we harbor no illusions about the difficulty of bringing about a world without nuclear weapons. We know there are plenty of cynics, and that there will be setbacks to prove their point. But there will also be days like today that push us forward -- days that tell a different story. It is the story of a world that understands that no difference or division is worth destroying all that we have built and all that we love. It is a recognition that can bring people of different nationalities and ethnicities and ideologies together. In my own country, it has brought Democrats and Republican leaders together -- leaders like George Shultz, Bill Perry, Henry Kissinger, and Sam Nunn, who are with us here today. And it was a Republican President, Ronald Reagan, who once articulated the goal we now seek in the starkest of terms. I quote:
"A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. And no matter how great the obstacles may seem, we must never stop our efforts to reduce the weapons of war. We must never stop until all -- we must never stop at all until we see the day when nuclear arms have been banished from the face of the Earth."
That is our task. That can be our destiny. And we will leave this meeting with a renewed determination to achieve this shared goal. Thank you.
In accordance with the understanding reached among Council members, I wish to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than five minutes in order to enable the Council to carry on its work expeditiously. Delegations with lengthy statements are kindly requested to circulate the text in writing and to deliver a condensed version when speaking in the chamber.
I shall now invite the distinguished Secretary General, His Excellency Ban Ki-moon, to take the floor.
#####
WORLD MARCH PRESS RELEASE
SUPPORT FOR OBAMA IN SUSPENDING THE ANTI-MISSILE SHIELD
Today, the 17th September 2009, with just a few days to go before the start of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, US President, Barack Obama, has announced the suspension of the anti-missile shield project in central Europe, better known as "star wars".
It is a very important gesture of détente and peace by President Obama and we want to highlight it and applaud it around the world. We support all efforts of the US President to advance towards global nuclear disarmament.
We applaud the courage of the Czech people who have sustained the fight against the defence shield through recent years maintaining their opposition to the Defence project with protests, marches, hunger strikes and all forms of non-violent struggle. We recall the denunciation by Jan Tamas, leader of the non-violent movement against the bases in the Czech Republic when he explained that this is not a defensive project but rather an offensive one because it would allow nuclear attacks to be launched leaving an enemy unable to respond, something that would oblige Russia to start an arms race.
This gesture by President Obama shows that a great moral strength is being born to confront the violence of global economic powers and the power of the military-industrial complex that today operate out of the control of nation states.
We celebrate this news and we invite Barack Obama to support the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, something that has already been done by almost 20 National Presidents and Governments of the World.
Rafael de la Rubia, International Spokesperson of the World March
President of World without Wars
www.marchamudial.org
www.mundosinguerras.org
rafael@mundosinguerras.org
Tel: +34 665827072
#####
Burma - 20 September 2009
At least 110 political prisoners released - (Mae Sot – Thailand)
The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma) (AAPP) can confirm that so far 110 political prisoners have been released from 23 different prisons in Burma.
The 110 released include 38 members of the National League for Democracy, including 3 MPs; 20 women; 11 former political prisoners; 4 monks; 4 journalists; 10 members of the Human Rights Defenders and Promoters Network; 6 members of the 88 Generation Students; and 1 lawyer.
On the evening of September 17, 2009 in Rangoon, state-run MRTV carried a news bulletin announcing that 7,114 prisoners were to be released "on humanitarian grounds."
Tate Naing, AAPP Secretary +66(0)89-899-7161
Bo Kyi, AAPP Joint-Secretary +66(0)81-324-8935
U Aung Myo Thein - Assistant Association for Political Prisoners (Burma)
Contact: info@aappb.org, info@fbppn.net
Web: http://www.aappb.org, http://www.fbppn.net
####
Latest World March for Peace and Non Violence newsletter:
http://www.theworldmarch.org/index.php?secc=boletin
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The News Agency for Peace and Nonviolence
Ref: Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency
Dear Director or Editor in Chief:
With this letter, we intend to introduce PRESSENZA IPA, an International Press Agency that specializes in news and information related to the subject of Peace and Non Violence.
PRESSENZA - INTERNATIONAL PRESS AGENCY seeks to provide a renewed atmosphere of human understanding and cooperation and expand the broadcasting space that focuses events, persons and initiatives who promote Peace and Non-Violence.
Moreover, during this Year, the main focus of Pressenza will be the complete covering of the World March for Peace and Non Violence, an international event which will cross the whole planet and already counts on the support of thousands of personalities, institutions and organizations, among them several Nobel Prices.
We invite you to be our Partner, subscribing to our Agency and reproducing our material. Also suggesting material of your own, which could be useful from the optic of Peace, Disarmament and Non Violence. This is an opportunity to help in building a new worldwide consciousness of peace and understanding, so necessary in this very delicate historical moment.
The entire contents of our news can be used by our subscribers for free, provided the source is mentioned.
You will also find additional information about our Agency at http://www.pressenza.com/main/aboutUs and about the World March for Peace and Non Violence at http://www.theworldmarch.org/
Please, do not hesitate to contact us, at info@world.pressenza.org
Sincerely,
Mrs. Silvina Sotelo
On Behalf of the Department of International Relationships
Pressenza International Press Agency
http://world.pressenza.org/
#####
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