CALL, e-mail: Dave Wald (408) 243-4359,
david@cubasolidarity.net
(South Bay)
Juan Reardon (510)926-0917, juan@cubasolidarity.net
(East Bay)
March 29, 1998: Press Report From Cuba On the Conference
An Urgent Request For Your Support For...
The Cuban Humanitarian Relief Act: H.R. 1951
Legislation to lift the embargo on food and medicine !
"A Report From Two Borders To All Our Supporters"
May 13, 1997
402 West 145th, NY,NY 10031
tel 212/926-5757 fax 212/926-5842
PO Box 408130, Chicago, IL 60640-8130
tel 773/271-4817 fax 773/271-5269
-
White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles
phone 202/456-6797 fax 202/456-2883 -
Secretary of the Treasury Robert Rubin
phone 202/622-1080 fax 202/622-0073 -
and your Congressional representatives and senators
Capitol switchboard 202/225-3121 or 800-972-3524
Solidarity Computers Finally Reach Cuba
20 Sep 1996 08:13:49By Kristianna Tho'Mas
From: NY Transfer News Collective
- Via Workers World News Service Reprinted from the Sept. 26, 1996 issue
of Workers World newspaper
Members of Pastors for Peace arrived in Cuba Sept. 13 with a shipment of 435 computers in a challenge to the unlawful blockade against the people and the government of Cuba. The computers had all been donated by individuals and groups in the United States.
The struggle to get the computers to Cuba was a long and difficult one.
In January and February the U.S. Treasury Department stopped and confiscated the computers from volunteers as they tried to cross the border into Mexico and Canada. The government claimed that Cuba might use the computers for military purposes.
The Cuban government has from the start said the donated computers were to be used solely for a medical information network in emergency clinics and other priority institutions.
On Feb. 21 Lucius Walker, director of the New York-based Interreligious Foundation for Community Organization, and three other members of Pastors for Peace started a hunger strike that lasted 95 days. They demanded that the computers be released to be sent to Cuba.
A formula was finally worked out in which the computers were released to other religious organizations.
- END -
(Copyright Workers World Service: Permission to reprint granted if source is cited. For more information contact Workers World, 55 W. 17 St., NY, NY 10011; via e-mail: ww@wwpublish.com. For subscription info send message to: ww-info@wwpublish.com. Web: http://www.workers.org)
Computers For Medical Use In Cuba Finally Cross U.S. Border
Sept. 12, 1996
Produced by United Methodist News Service, official news agency of
the United Methodist Church, with offices in Nashville, Tenn., New York,
and Washington.
CONTACT: Joretta Purdue #451
WASHINGTON (UMNS) -- Nearly 400 low-grade computers were transported across the U.S.-Mexican border Sept. 11 on their way to Cuban health clinics and hospitals.
The United Methodist Board of Church and Society, acting for a consortium of religious associations, assumed custody of the computers, when they were released in two batches May 24 and June 14 by the U.S. Treasury Department.
Most of the computers had been seized at the border near San Diego Feb. 17. The others were intercepted at the U.S.-Canadian border and were being held in Vermont.
Return of the computers was sought through a 94-day fast led by the Rev. Lucius Walker, a Baptist who heads the International Foundation for Community Organization (IFCO) and Pastors for Peace. The fast ended when the computers were released in California May 14.
The Vermont batch, less than 40, were held longer because of a technicality and released June 14. This group was transported over the Canadian border Sept. 7.
Seven months of negotiation led to the return of the donated computers and permission to take them to Cuba, where they will support the United Nations' and Pan American Health Organization's INFOMED network, a medical information network.
In a statement issued Sept. 11, the Rev. Thom White Wolf Fassett said the board had "never applied for or requested a license from the Treasury Department for the computers." He has explained in the past that these donated, used computers are humanitarian aid and that some of the people involved with the gift have expressed the belief that application for a license would condone an embargo they vehemently oppose.
The Rev. Eliezer Valentin-Castanon, a member of the board staff, accompanied the shipment Sept. 11. He will work closely with the Cuban ecumenical council to monitor the computers' use.
The board holds title to the computers for religious groups that include the American Baptist Church/USA, National Ministries; the Episcopal Church; the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA; the Progressive National Baptist Convention; and the United Methodist Church's Boards of Church and Society and Global Ministries.
-- 30 --
9/15/96 From the San Jose Mercury News Wire Services:
Cuban President Fidel Castro spent three hours Saturday meeting members of a U.S. Cuba solidarity group who donated more than 400 computers to the communist ruled island. The computers, aimed at helping modernize Cuba's state health system were impounded by U.S. authorities last January at the U.S. border with Mexico. Several members of the Peace Caravan staged a hunger strike to protest the action and the computers were released in May
Copyright 1996 InterPress Service, todos los derechos reservados.
Distribucion mundial especial para la Red APC.
*** 14-sep-96 ***
Titulo: CUBA: Pastores por la Paz no se conforma con traer computadoras
LA HABANA, 14 sep (IPS) Tras ocho meses de encuentros con la justicia, manifestaciones frente a la Casa Blanca y ayunos por la vida, los miembros del movimiento ecumenico estadounidense Pastores por la Paz llegaron a Cuba cargados de computadoras y con nuevos proyectos.
''En la primavera de 1997 habra una nueva Caravana de la Amistad Estados Unidos-Cuba y continuaran hasta que cese el bloqueo'', dijo el reverendo estadounidense Lucius Walker en conferencia de prensa en La Habana.
Muy conocido en la isla por su participacion en las cuatro caravanas anteriores, Walker aseguro que las fuerzas que apoyan el bloqueo en su pais se estan debilitando mientras que las que se oponen a el se estan fortaleciendo.
''Las iglesias estan bien firmes en su postura de que el bloqueo esta contra la ley de Dios'', dijo el reverendo y recordo que, en un inicio, hasta donar biblias a Cuba podia ser sancionado por las leyes de Estados Unidos.
Las ''computadoras de la discordia'' llegaron finalmente a la isla este viernes, escoltadas por los promotores de esa ayuda mas un nutrido grupo de representantes del Consejo de Iglesias de Estados Unidos y de las iglesias metodistas, episcopal y bautista.
Segun la emisora cubana Radio Rebelde, tras una inspeccion tecnica los equipos seran entregados a la red electronica de informacion medica (INFOMED), para la cual estaban destinadas desde su donacion en varias ciudades de Canada y Estados Unidos.
El proyecto del Centro Nacional de Informacion de Ciencias Medicas cuenta con el apoyo de la Organizacion Panamericana de la Salud y pretende cubrir todo el sistema de atencion primaria cubano, incluyendo zonas poco accesibles.
Catalogado como una ''ayuda humanitaria'' por los miembros de Pastores por la Paz, el lote de casi 400 computadoras fue confiscado en la frontera de Estados Unidos con Mexico por violar las regulaciones del embargo comercial y financiero decretado contra la isla en los anos 60.
Las confiscaciones, matizadas con algunos encuentros violentos entre los agentes del orden y los religiosos estadoundenses, fueron realizadas el 31 de enero y el 17 de febrero y provocaron 94 dias de ayuno de cinco caravanistas.
Grupos de apoyo a Pastores por la Paz realizaron vigilias frente a la Casa Blanca, acciones de desobediencia civil en demanda de la devolucion de las computadoras en 30 ciudades estadounidenses. En varias ciudades estadounidenses se efectuaron ayunos en su apoyo.
Las caravanas se efectuan anualmente desde inicios de esta decada y en anos anteriores sus miembros fueron amenazados con penas de hasta 10 anos de prision y multas de hasta 25.000 dolares por llevar medicinas, alimentos y otros productos de primera necesidad a Cuba.
Hasta el caso de las computadoras, el momento mas critico fue en 1993 cuando un grupo de religiosos se declaro en huelga de hambre para lograr el paso por la frontera, entre Estados Unidos y Mexico, de un omnibus destinado al transporte de los ninos de una escuela cubana.
En solidaridad con los huelguistas, los miembros del Centro Memorial ''Martin Luther King Jr.'' de La Habana y otros voluntarios cubanos realizaron un ayuno de varios dias frente a la Seccion de Intereses de Estados Unidos en esta capital.
''Cada vez que se produce la confrontacion, prima la voluntad de la gente, como paso con el autobus escolar, y ahora, con las computadoras'', comento Walker y anuncio una mayor donacion humanitaria para 1997.
Tom Hansem, de Pastores por la Paz, vaticino a inicios de esta semana que las computadoras llegarian finalmente a Cuba gracias al amplio apoyo del Consejo de Iglesias y a la custodia oficial de la Iglesia Metodista estadounidense, cuyos sacerdotes sacaron permisos de exportacion.
Segun Hansem, ''el trabajo solidario con Cuba se dificulta en Estados Unidos en esta epoca de elecciones'', durante la cual se aprobo la llamada ley Helms-Burton, que refuerza el bloqueo y a la que califico de ''sinverguenzura increible''. (FIN/IPS/da/dg/ip/96)
Origen: Montevideo/CUBA/
[c] 1996, InterPress Third World News Agency (IPS)
Todos los derechos reservados
No puede ser reproducido, reimpreso o publicado en cualquier sistema o servicio fuera de las redes de APC sin permiso especifico de la agencia IPS. Esta limitacion incluye la distribucion via Usenet News, sistemas de "bulletin board", listas de correo electronico, medios impresos, radio y television. Por mas informacion, envie un mensaje a ips-info@igc.apc.org. Por informacion sobre reproduccion en medios impresos, radio o television, por favor contacte el coordinador de la agencia IPS: ipsrom@gn.apc.org.
The Fast Is Ended!!! The Computers Are Released!!!
The Struggle Continues!!!
Sun, 26 May 1996 00:42:46
At midnight on Friday, May 24, the 94-day "Fast for Life" officially ended when US Customs released 339 of the medical computers which they seized from IFCO-Pastors for Peace/INFOMED volunteers. The 35 computers which were seized in Highgate, VT, are expected to be released next week.
We have fulfilled the intent of the "Fast for Life" to continue until the release of the computers. Their release with the understanding that they are still to go to Cuba without a license, made possible the conclusion of the Fast. Though we continue the struggle to make sure the computers get to Cuba, you have made this victory possible!!
The computers were released to the official custody of the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church -- which shares the commitment of IFCO-Pastors for Peace to send the computers on to Cuba without requesting a license. The Methodist Board of Church and Society has hosted the Fasters for the last two months.
"We give thanks to God and to the hundreds of thousands of supporters who never gave up the struggle to free the computers," said Rev. Lucius Walker, as he ended his fast. "Our efforts have not been in vain, but much work remains. The new broad coalition which has grown around the Fast will keep working to send these computers on to Cuba. And as the coalition grows, we will keep working together to end the US blockade of Cuba and to address other injustices."
Fasters Jim Clifford, Lisa Valanti, and Rev. Walker broke their 94-day fast during a special service of thanksgiving at United Methodist Building in Washington, DC. The fast was ended by drinking rice broth, in the company of religious leaders, congressional aides and members of their support team.
The religious coalition which has committed to send the aid includes not just the UMC Board of Church and Society but also other national mainline denominations -- the Episcopal Church, the American Baptist Churches, USA/National Ministries, the Progressive National Baptist Convention, the General Board of Global Ministries of the UMC, and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church -- and the National Council of Churches. This is the first time that so many national denominations have entered into such an agreement, or have shown such clear support for direct action to challenge the blockade.
The Fast for Life campaign to win the release of the computers has led to a number of new and powerful achievements. Perhaps the most significant is the development of the multi-faceted broad based coalition which includes the above-named mainline churches, numerous labor and professional organizations, a broad range of Cuban-American groups, and more than 70 members of Congress. We'll have strong and challenging work to do in the days and months ahead to build and strengthen this coalition -- and it will have enormous power! Here's what we can do to keep moving forward:
KEEP CALLING THE TREASURY DEPARTMENT -- to assure that we'll be watching them until the computers are on their way to Cuba.
CALL YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPS ONE MORE TIME -- to thank them for helping make this victory possible, and to urge them to keep the pressure on! Many aides and Congresspeople have expressed their amazement at what we've been able to accomplish against seemingly insurmountable odds. They themselves have been empowered by what we've done: with our encouragement, they've been working together more closely on the issue of Cuba.
LET'S ALL SEND A SPECIAL LETTER OF THANKS TO CONGRESSMAN RANGEL AND HIS STAFF. Lucius Walker, on behalf of the Fasters, expressed "special gratitude for the committed work of Congress Charles Rangel, whose tireless advocacy helped seal this victory." Let's let him know how much we appreciate the power he brought to bear on our behalf - - and on behalf of the people of Cuba.
There are also many other members of Congress to whom we're grateful: Reps. Torres, Farr, Dellums and Woolsey, just to name a few. Let's let them know how much we appreciate their input into this victory, and encourage them to keep working with us.
KEEP CALLING THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL COMMITTEE -- to link the issue of Cuba with the coming elections. Don't allow the Democrats to take our votes for granted!
Our struggle is not yet over. We've had an incredible victory, our goals remain the same, to assure that the computers reach the hospitals and clinics of Cuba and an END TO THE EMBARGO!! Your work has and will made all this possible, CONGRATULATIONS!!! Earlier we sent a copy of a press release which was sent out today. Please feel free to use this is your local press work.
EMERGENCY ACTION ALERT FROM: IFCO-PASTORS FOR PEACE
May 19, 1996
YES, the Canadian computers were released to the custody of the United Methodist Church and taken across to Mexico on Friday night. They're on their way to Cuba.
YES, Brian Rohatyn broke his fast, on Day 87, once he had received confirmation that the Canadian computers were safely in Mexico. (We hear he drank about a half a gallon of barley/ rice/ potato broth that Sey'a cooked for him. Brian tells us he's completely committed to keep on struggling until all the computers are freed.)
YES, THE FAST CONTINUES; Monday is Day 90 for Lisa, Jim and Lucius. Their vital signs are strong, and their energy and commitment are stronger; and we all are confident that, with your strong and vocal help, we'll have the victory VERY soon.
FOR NOW -- WE WANT ONLY TO REMIND YOU OF THE PROPHETIC WORDS OF NELSON MANDELA. When apartheid was about to fall, Mandela said "This is no time to relax your efforts"
KEEP THE PRESSURE ON!! Keep doing everything you've been doing!:
Call: Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin (202) 622-1100;
White House Chief of Staff Leon Panetta (202) 436-6797;
Congressional Switchboard (202) 223~3121;
Democratic National Committee (202) 863-8000
"Que no caiga la fe, que no caiga la esperaranza.
(612)870-7121; (212) 926-5757
Fax: (612) 870-7109; Fax: (212) 926-5842
web page:
email: p4p@igc.apc.org or ifco@igc.apc.org
Fast For Life Celebrates The Beginning Of Victory!!
US Government Bows To Your Pressure To Release Canadian Aid To Cuba!!
Labor Leaders Visit Congress And Hold Press Conference In DC
EMERGENCY ACTION ALERT: Mon, 13 May 1996 11:30:20 +0000
Today, the US Government, in a dramatic turn of events, has agreed to release some of the 400 medical aid computers it seized on January 31 and February 17! Falling under the weight of intense national and international political pressure for the release of the humanitarian aid, the US Treasury Department said it would release the Canadian computers that were bonded for transport through the United States and destined for Cuba. US Government officials have indicated they will check the computers for damage, return the bond issued and clear the computers for immediate release to be transported to Cuba!!
This victory only highlights the contradictions that permit Canadian citizens to do what US citizens are prohibited. Brian Rohatyn, faster from Regina, Saskatchewan, stated, "As a good faith measure towards the members of the US Congress who have been working to achieve this resolution with the US Treasury Department, I have agreed that I will end my fast -when the Canadian computers are released and safely stored in Mexico for delivery to Cuba. I urge the US Government to serve justice to its own citizens by releasing the remainder of the computers as well."
We must remind the Clinton administration that we are not alone in our struggle to free the medical aid. The lion's share of the work in Congress has been undertaken by Rep. Rangel, with help from Dellums, Torres, Woolsey, Farr and 60 other members who have pushed for the release. WE URGE YOU TO CONTINUE TO CALL YOUR CONGRESSIONAL REPS. TO DEMAND that they voice their support for the release of the medical aid. You might want to remind them of 1 John 3:18 "Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth." They and you need to make those calls to Leon Panetta and Robert Rubin ASAP! We must keep up the pressure until the US computers are also released to go to Cuba.
- Keep Calling The Treasury. Contact Sec. Laurence Summers (202)
622- 2800 (Seems The Only Way To Get Mr. Rubin) And Leon Panetta At The
White House Switchboard (202)456-1414 (They've Disconnected His Direct
Line)
- Keep Calling The Democratic Party State Chairpersons, Especially In Swing States Where Clinton And The Party Need Your Votes; CA, KY, NJ, GA, IN, AZ, WI, NY, IL, MI, OH.
If the delays continue we intend to take our demands to the front entrance of the White House. We are asking clergy, laity, labor and community activists, all our supporters to come to Washington DC and stand with the fasters on a daily vigil in front of the White House. Let the White House know that there is no alternative but to gracefully release the remaining computers immediately. For more details on how to join the fasters and participate in civil disobedience, call 612-870-7121.
Labor Leaders Speak Out In Washington, DC
On Friday, May 10th in Washington, DC, Ignacio Meneses and other members of the US-Cuba Labor Exchange met with members of Congress and held a press conference at the local SEIU hall. The labor leaders called for support from union members across the US and Canada to demand the release of the medical aid. "The Fast for Life and the labor movement share many common bonds" said David Welsh, Executive Vice-President of the Bay Area Letter Carriers Union "Our brother Cesar Chavez showed that even though it took two and a half years on strike and a prolonged fast, the UFW were victorious. If you believe in what you're doing, you have to be able to go the distance."
THANKS FOR GOING THE DISTANCE WITH THE FAST FOR LIFE. WE'RE ROCKING WASHINGTON!!
Action Update: Thu, 9 May 1996 17:37:41 +0000
Fast Will Be On On NPR Morning Edition - Friday 5/10
On Thursday morning, a senior reporter for NPR's Morning Edition arrived unannounced at the Methodist building in Washington to interview Lucius Walker and the Fasters for Life.
According to correspondent Alex Chadwick, the interview will be aired on tomorrow's broadcast of Morning Edition, Friday morning, May 10th. Listen for it. If they fail to air the interview, perhaps a round of calls would be appropriate.
Scott Simon of Weekend Edition has also been in contact with the Fast through the media office and has stated that he is considering coverage during this weekend's broadcast.
In the weeks since callers to NPR were told that the editorial board had made a decision not to cover the Fast, NPR has been deluged with calls and letters from incensed supporters - and tomorrow morning, the Fast, on the 80th day, will receive national coverage.
As yet, none of the major networks nor the NY Times have shared news of this compelling story with either their viewers or readers, despite broad and constant coverage from local and regional newspapers and radio stations.
ABC-tel: 212-456-7777, fax: 212-456-2213
NBC-tel: 212-664-4444, fax: 212-362-2009
CBS- tel: 212-975-4321, fax: 212-975-1893
CNN-tel: 404-827-1511, fax: 404-827-1593
New York Times tel: 212-556-7356, 212-556-3690.
FAST FOR LIFE DAY 79 W/O FOOD Pastors for Peace an Action/Education Project of the Interreligious Foundation for Community Organization 1247 E St., SE * Washington, DC 20003 Tel: 202-544-3825 Fax: 202-544-3389 p4p@igc.apc.org jmellor@igc.apc.org Press Contacts/Beepers: Andrea Saenz - 202/886-5444 Jim Mellor - 917/433-0386
Fasters `Hunger For International Action, Seek To Broaden New Coalition Of Support For Cuba And Spark Global Pressure On Clinton Administration.
May 7, 1996
Week 11 - Surge In Momentum For Release Of Aid. International Action And Support Essential Now.
WEEK 11: The physical health of Lucius Walker, Lisa Valanti, Brian Rohatyn and Jim Clifford grows ever more fragile, yet, they remain firm in their commitment to continue their fast until the medical computers, seized en route to Cuba, are released by the U.S. government.
Your work, from throughout the U.S., Canada and the international community, has brought them close to a victory. Your phone calls, faxes, demonstrations and media work have built pressure upon the Clinton administration to the point where serious negotiations via congressional offices are under way. The outcome is not assured, but there has been visible progress.
Your work has also planted the seeds of a new coalition. This new mainstream and broadly-based coalition will work for, in the short term, the release of the computers, and in the long term, an end to the U.S. blockade and normalization of relations with Cuba. U.S. Congressional Representatives who have gotten behind the effort to release the computers have been joined by five national U.S. church denominations, moderate Cuban-American organizations and the American Public Health Association.
Pressure from the combined efforts of solidarity organizations throughout Canada and their Members of Parliament has forced the Foreign Ministry to actively seek the release of the humanitarian aid on behalf of Canadian faster, Brian Rohatyn.
In Washington last week, a delegation led by Charles Rangel (D-NY), representing more than 60 members of Congress, joined with national church and Cuba-American leaders to publicly proclaim their support. They called upon President Clinton to put aside election-year politics and free the computers for use in Cuban hospitals and clinics.
The general secretaries of the National Council of Churches, the Progressive National Baptist Convention, the United Methodist Church (General Board of Church and Society and General Board of Global Ministries), the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, and the director of National Ministries of the American Baptist Churches/USA committed their good offices to act as third party intermediaries for delivering the computers to Cuba without a license, once they are released by U.S. Customs.
Representatives of the Cuban-American Research and Education Fund, the Cuban-American Alliance, Casa de las America, Cubanos Contra el Bloqueo, the Alliance of the Cuban Community, the Cuban- American Committee for Peace also voiced their support for the efforts of the Fasters at Thursday's conference. Eloy Gutierrez Menoyo of Cambio Cubano, while unable to attend the press conference, expressed his full support for the Pastors for Peace campaign.
Rep. Rangel reported at the press conference that he was close to negotiating the release of the computers several times during the past two weeks, but each time officials "moved the goal posts." While he expressed frustration with the bureaucracy, he also expressed optimism that a resolution is still a very strong possibility. His commitment, without reservation, to see this process through gave renewed hope to the fasters.
This Broadly-Based Alliance Has Dramatically Increased Pressure On The Clinton Administration To Resolve The Fast And Release The Computers. Specific International Pressures Could Be Pivotal.
As the election nears, Clinton is seeking to redefine himself as the `foreign-policy president. His capitulation on his promise to veto the Helms-Burton Bill has already prompted Canada, Mexico, Caricom and the European Union to file formal protests, appealing the violation of international trade agreements and the infringement of their sovereignty.
Tell Clinton That His Foreign Policy Is Unacceptable!
- Seek Letters of Support from government officials, political parties,
church denominations, labor and community leaders for the Fast for Life,
demanding that President Clinton and Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin release
the seized medical computers.
Send copies to IFCO/Pastors for Peace.
- Organize calls to the U.S. embassy in your country and demand that the
Clinton administration release the computers and end the blockade of Cuba.
Organize demonstrations outside U.S. embassies.
- Seek coverage of the Fast in your local and national media. Recent U.S.
coverage includes Washington Post, Washington Times, New York Newsday,
Reuters, UPI, Religion News Service and many others.
- Send faxes to President Clinton at 202-456-2883 and to Treasury Secretary
Robert Rubin at 202-622- 0073.
Send e-mail to the White House at: president@whitehouse.gov
The Fasters Are Running Out Of Time. We Must Not Hesitate To Act Now! Please Forward, Distribute And Circulate Widely And Immediately!
From: "Pastors for Peace"
URGENT ACTION ALERT May 2, 1996
Members of Congress, Religious Leaders, Cuban Americans, and Health
Workers Press Hard for Release of Medical Computers for Cuba
CALL TREASURY SECRETARY RUBIN
A well attended Washington press conference heard members of Congress, religious leaders and Cuban American leaders pledge to press hard on the Clinton Administration to release medical computer s for Cuba. After months of a virtual news whiteout by the national media, supporters of the Fast for Life were encouraged by the media turnout, which included CBS, NBC, CNN, Univision, UPI, the Wa shington Times, the Washington Post, the New York Times, TV Marti (cia), Radio Havana, and others.
Representatives Charles Rangel (D-NY), Esteban Torres (D-CA), Sam Farr (D-CA), and William Coyne (D- PA) who are supported by over 60 members of Congress, appealed to President Clinton for compassion . Congressman Rangel, who noted that six national religious denominations have offered to deliver the medical computers to Cuba, said he is putting together a Congressional group which would attempt to facilitate the transfer of the computers. "Even if they decide to end their fast after 72 days, they should know that their battle would not be lost -- because we in Congress intend to take it u p." Rangel also lashed out at the recent tightening of economic sanctions against Cuba. "The Helms-Burton legislation is illegal and is unenforceable," he said.
A broad spectrum of religious and Cuban-American organizations also expressed their support for the demands of the Fast for Life. Dr. Joan Campbell, General Secretary of the National Council of Chur ches, representing 51 million believers, affirmed "the enormous accomplishments that the fast has achieved." She declared that religious leaders will work more closely with members of Congress to en d the blockade. Other religious leaders expressing their support were: Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett, General Secretary of the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church, Pres iding Bishop Edmund L. Browning of the Episcopal Church, Dr. Tyrone Pitts, Gen. Sec. of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Dr. Stan Hasty, Exec. Dir. of the Alliance of Baptists.
Among the Cuban American organizations which voiced their support were: Cuban American Research and Education Fund, Cuban American Alliance, Casa de las Americas, Cubanos Contra el Bloqueo, Alliance of the Cuban Community, Cuban Committee for Peace, and Cambio Cubano.
Speaking on behalf of the American Public Health Association, Diane Kuntz declared: "It is time to end this inhumane policy and cruel embargo -- this attack on the health of an entire population. The American Public Health Association salutes the fasters, who symbolize the conscience of America. We urge the Administration to release the computers, and we call on Congress to end its war on Cuba."
(See also the full text ofDiane Kunz' statement )
CONCENTRATE CALLS ON TREASURY SECRETARY RUBIN Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin -- 202/622-0190, fax: 202/622-0073
Tell him to release the medical computers for Cuba now!
you seen this story in the media lately?
Got an action update that people should know about? Send it to us !
Looking for previous action updates? You can find them at actold.html
Day 69 Of "Fast For Life" -- Next 24 Hours Critical
Thousands of Calls Needed Right Away On the 69th day of the Fast for Life, the highest levels of the Clinton administration are considering the release of 400 used computers destined for churches and hospitals in Cuba. The computers were seized on January 31 and February 17 by Treasury agents in San Diego, California. Four members of Pastors for Peace are in their 69th day without food trying to win the release of this important medical aid. It is possible that a decision will be made about the computers within the next 24 hours. The right wing sector of the Cuban-American community in Miami has begun to mobilize against t he release of the computers. Your phone calls and faxes, WITHIN THE NEXT 24 HOURS, will make a difference. Demand the immediate release of the medical computers for donation to Cuban churches and hospitals! En el 69 d!a del "Ayuno por la Vida," la administracicn del President Clinton esta considerando la devolucicn de las 400 computadores medicas para enviarlas a las iglesias y hospitales para el pueblo de Cuba. Las computadores m,dicas fueron confiscadas el 31 de enero y 17 de febrero por agentes del Departamento del Tesoro en San Diego, California. Cuatro miembros de Pastores por la Paz han pas ado cas! setenta dias sin comida solida para lograr la libertad de esta ayuda m,dica. Es posible que la administracicn va a tomar una decisicn sobre las computadores dentro de las proximas 24 horas. El sector derechista de la comunidad cubano-americana de Miami ha mobilizado en contra de la devolucicn de esas computadores. Sus llamadas, DENTRO DE LAS PROXIMAS 24 HORAS, pueden hacer una diferencia. Demanden la liberacicn immediata de las computadoras m,dicas para entregar al pueblo cubano! Leon Panetta, White House Chief of Staff 202-456-6797 Fax 202-456-2883 National Security Advisor Anthony Lake 202-456-9481 Fax 202-456-2883 (same as Panetta) National Security Staff Rob Malley 202-456-9141; 456-9146 Secretary of Treasury Robert Rubin 202-622-0190 Fax 202-622-0073
URGENT ACTION ALERT April 28, 1996 Day 68 of the Fast
National Security Council And Treasury Inundated By Demands To Release Computers
The IFCO-Pastors for Peace support network around the U.S. and internationally has flooded the White House comment line with phone calls demanding that the medical aid to Cuba be released. We need y u to make sure that the Treasury Dept., the State Dept. , the White House and the National Security Council are so busy taking calls from you and others around the country that their whole day is consumed with the "Fast for Life." The next few days are crucial! As Lucius, Lisa, Brian and Jim struggle to mai ntain their physical well-being, fighting exhaustion after losing an enormous about of weight, they are encouraged by your on-going efforts and counting on you to keep up the pressure.
With the support of more than 50 members of Congress in our efforts to deliver this aid to Cuban churches for use in hospitals and clinics throughout the island, it is also evident that your phone c lls to them have had an impact. Last week Rep. Charles Rangel came by the Wayside Chapel to offer words of support and give his full commitment to help resolve the situation. Your voices are being heard here in Washington. We must keep pushing. Don't s op making those calls until the medical aid has been re leased!
Your phone calls to the media have also been felt! ABC, CBS and NBC have told us they have received hundreds of phone calls. We need you to continue pressuring them into covering an inspiring news tory; not to wait until it becomes a tragedy. Your loc al efforts to reach out to the media are also important. Good examples of effective media outreach can be found in many cities with the work being done with local and nationally syndicated radio ta k shows. Try to set up a five or ten minute phone-in in terview with one of the fasters. In Rochester, NY the local support group organized a visit to the editor of the local newspaper and received a powerful editorial supporting the "Fast for Life" and condemning the current policy towards Cuba.
There have been two other important victories this past week. Last Wednesday at the Quadrennial General Conference of the United Methodist Church in Denver, approved a proclamation in support of the "Fast for Life". This resolution was introduced to the general body of the conference on the day that fellow Methodist Hillary Rodham Clinton addressed them. Also, on Friday, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lloyd Axworthy personally phoned Brian Rohatyn to assure him he is working actively with U.S. officials t o resolve the situation.
Your efforts are being heard and felt. We will win! At a time when it would be easy to sit on our hands after the passage of Helms-Burton, most of us are working hard for a victory against our gove nment's inhumane policy.
Keep up the pressure! The numbers to call are:
- Anthony Lake, National Security Advisor, (202) 456-9481; fax: 456-2883.
- Warren Christopher, Sec. of State, (202) 647-5291; fax: 647-7120.
- Robert Rubin, Sec. of Treasury, (202) 622-0190; fax: 622-0073.
The National Security Council has the authority to release our precious aid and we must demand that they do so.
Also, keep calling the following media outlets:
- ABC, NY (212) 456-7777 or in DC (202) 222-7777
- CBS, NY (212) 975-4321 or in DC (202) 457-4321
- NBC, NY (212) 664-4444 or in DC(202) 885-4200
- NPR, tel (202) 414-2000 fax (202) 414-3329
- CNN, tel (404) 827-1511 fax (404) 827-1593
- NY Times tel (212) 556-7356 fax (212) 556-3690
Faster Arrested At Treasury Demo
Hundreds Demand Release of Computers for Cuba
Wed, 24 Apr 1996 00:37:52 +0000 -- Day 64 of the Fast From: IFCO-PASTORS Phone: (612) 870-7121 or (212) 926-5757 Fax: (612) 870-7109Chanting SIXTY DAYS IS TOO LONG: SEIZING MEDICAL AID IS WRONG, more than 100 supporters of the Fast for Life demonstrated at the Treasury Department in Washington on Friday, demanding the release of 400 medical computers destined for Cuba. Five demonstrators at Friday s action were arrested after blocking the entrance to the Treasury Department. One of those arrested was faster Lisa Valanti of Pittsburgh, who has not taken solid food in 64 days. Valanti, along with Andrea Saenz of San Diego, Harriet Tanzman, Jim Mellor and Jaime Mendietta, a Cuban-American who lives in New York, were handcuffed and taken away by Secret Service police. The protesters were demanding that Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin release the computers for delivery to Cuba.
As the Fasters and their supporters work to increase pressure on the Administration, we need you to continue and intensify work you are doing. Due to all your thousands of calls the Treasury Department has installed a Pastors for Peace Hotline!! When you call Sec. Rubin s office to discuss the Fast for Life they transfer you to the Customs Dept., then you get transferred to a pre-recorded message about the seizure of the medical aid to Cuba, or if that line is busy you get to talk to one of the officers assigned to field the calls referring to Fast. Good work folks this is unprecedented! This could only have happened with your hard work. We need you to keep up the pressure. Activate your phone trees and support networks ASAP to call:
Anthony Lake, National Security Advisor, (202) 456-9481 tel 456-2883 fax. Warren Christopher, Sec. of State, (202)647-5291 tel 647-7120 fax. Don t let the person answering the phone transfer you to the White House comment line, tell them you want to leave an important urgent message for his assistant or speak to him personally. The National Security Council has the authority to release our precious aid, we must encourage them to do so.
Your Congresspeople and Senators. Ask them to call the Treasury Department and demand that they start a negotiation process to release the computers ASAP. Also urge your representative to call their contacts at the National Security Council to authorize the release of this needed shipment of humanitarian aid. You must convey the urgency of this matter (day 64 and counting). Leave a message for Ellen Bernstein about your efforts so we can send a delegation to meet with those who need more information or to thank those that have committed to make the call. Be sure you follow up and keep the pressure on them. Call the office in Minneapolis for more information about the visits and contacts that have already been made.
And last but not least, the media. Even the most doubtful have to wonder why the national media has not reported this compelling story. We have been sending faxes, calling and in most cases have even knocked on the doors of every major network and national paper here in Washington DC. When notable people such as Wayne Smith who generally have access to the Editorial pages of most major newspapers can not get a letter concerning the Fast for Life printed, everyone has to wonder, WHAT S UP?! We are asking you and your phone networks to focus on ABC, CBS and NBC. Call and ask them why they have not reported on this story, what are they waiting for? Invite them to come to the Wayside Chapel of Peace and Friendship at 100 Maryland Avenue NE, directly across from the Capital and adjacent to the Supreme Court. Their phone numbers are:
ABC, NY (212) 456-7777 or in DC (202) 222-7777
CBS: NY (212) 975-4321 or in DC (202) 457-4321
NBC: NY (212) 664-4444 or in DC (202) 885-4200We are optimistic but we can only win with your help. Keep us in your prayers and keep up the great work.
Demonstration at Treasury Department on Friday, April 19
EMERGENCY ACTION ALERT
Wed, 17 Apr 1996 18:51:29 -0700 (PDT) From: IFCO-PASTORS Phone: (612) 870-7121 or (212) 926-5757 Fax: (612) 870-7109Friday is Day 59 of Fast; 35th Anniversary of Cuban Victory at Bay of Pigs
Day Of Massive Phone Calling To Treasury Department
Supporters of the Fast for Life will demonstrate in front of the Treasury Department on Friday morning at 8:30 am to press our demand for the release of the 400 second-hand computers -- destined for use in Cuban hospitals and clinics as part of an on-line medical information system. The Treasury Department. is located at 1500 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, in Washington, DC, right next to the White House.
In calling for support for Friday's actions, IFCO-Pastors for Peace executive director Rev. Lucius Walker, Jr., said: "While our own government continues to be insensitive to the suffering and death of innocent Cuban women and children, the response of the international religious community indicates that they understand the importance of these medical computers as a moral and theological issue. This struggle is not just about freeing the computers; it's about responding to suffering and opening paths to reconciliation. Matthew 25 gives a mandate to believers to meet the needs of all who suffer, not just people who happen to be our own political persuasion. We call on President Clinton, as a man of faith, and his administration to separate themselves from the policy of war and death which is represented by the U.S. embargo of Cuba."
Aside from being Day 59 of the Fast for Life, Friday marks the 35th anniversary of the U.S. fiasco and Cuban victory at the Bay of Pigs. This CIA sponsored invasion of Cuba in April 1961 could be said to be the first action of "Brothers to the Rescue," whose founder was among the Cuban exiles who participated in that failed intervention. U.S. policy ever since has been based on the immoral and wrong-headed notion that Cuban socialism must be brought to its knees by punishing all 11 million Cubans until they scream "Uncle."
The four Fasters, Rev. Lucius Walker, Lisa Valanti, Jim Clifford, and Canadian Brian Rohatyn, have lost weight and strength, but remain determined. They have vowed to continue their nonviolent action until the medical computers are released. People from all around the United States and Canada are persevering in their unrelenting campaign to support the demands of the Fast for Life. Twenty-five people were arrested in civil disobedience actions in New York and San Francisco on Monday, April 15, and solidarity fasts are taking place in several cities, particularly Cleveland, which has maintained a daily fast for many weeks.
Growing Congressional concern is increasing the pressure on the Clinton administration, and Canadians continue to press their government to take a strong stand for the release of Canadian computers and modems. While national media coverage continues to be scarce in North America, recent visitors to Cuba report daily coverage of the Fast for Life on radio and television. Eleven million Cubans are watching with inspiration and hope.
CALL THE TREASURY DEPARTMENT ON FRIDAY, April 19th While the Fast for Life demonstrates outside the Treasury Dept., let's all keep the phones ringing inside, and next door as well. Canadians groups are focusing their calls on Exterior Minister Lloyd Axworthy.
Sec. of Treasury Robert Rubin: tel: 202-622-0190, 622-5300; fax; 202-622-0073
National Security Advisor Anthony Lake: tel:202-456-9481; fax: 202-456-2883
Canadian Exterior Minister Lloyd Axworthy: tel: 613-992-0312;fax: 613-996-3443
Ralph Goodale, Member of Parliment For Regina Wascana
Makes Promises To Regina Friends Of Cuba
Mon, 08 Apr 1996 10:01:48 -0600 (CST) From: grayda@Meena.CC.URegina.CAOn Saturday, April 6, 35 members and supporters of Regina Frineds of Cuba gathered at 5:00 a.m. at the home of Minister of Parliament, Mr. Ralph Goodale to silently protest the lack of action of the Canadian Government, specifically Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lloyd Axworthy, regarding the illegal seizure of twenty-six medical computers that were en route to Cuba as humanitarian aid.
Friends of Cuba member and Regina resident, Brian Rohatyn, is one of a group of file people entering their forty-seventh day of a "Fast for Life" to demand the release of the computers seized by American officials. Rohatyn's father, Brian Rands, also an active member of Regina Friends of Cuba, attended the early morning demostration. "We decided that something more had to be done. The fasters have devotd themselves to the cause and we've seen nothing to date from the Canadian Government by way of support."
The Regina Friends of Cuba had been attempting unseccussfully to reach Goodale in person for over ten days in order to obtain his public support for the fasters. Protesters were able to ascertain that Goodale was departing Saturday for a two week trade mission in Japan and quicly mobilized. Beth Clarke, one of the event organizers, stated, "by the time Goodale is back in Regina, it may be too late for Brian. We had to move promptly and get our message to our MP."
Eventually, Goodale spoke to a group representative at his front door and assured the protesters that government is paying close attention to the situation: "...there is no sympathy on the part of the Canadian Goverment for some extra-territorial conduct that he United States wrong-handedly engages in." Participants were satisfied with at least one committment from Goodale, "I will convey your concern to Mr. Axworthy and will ask him if it is possible for him or his department to indicate their position of support."
After Goodale was presented with a bottle of water and corn syrup, the fluids that the fasters are surviving on, participants dispersed, two and one half hours after they had arrived. We can only hope he comes trhough with his promises," stated Clarke, "we'll be paying close attention to him now."
Regina Friends of Cuba will continue to raise public awareness and support for the Fast for Life. The 5:00 a.m. demo and Goodale's promises were recorded on video tape. The tape will be sent to Canadian faster, Brian Rohatyn, in Washington, DC to assist with his meetings with the Canadian Embassy.
For more information, please contact Darlene Gray at 306-775-1848, Loretta Gerlach at 306-525-1419 or Brian Rands at 306-586-8805.
Day 50 of the Fast-- Step Up the Pressure!
Analysis and Action Alert
Wed, 10 Apr 1996 20:20:12 -0700 (PDT) From: IFCO-PASTORS Phone: (612) 870-7121 or (212) 926-5757 Fax: (612) 870-7109As the Fast for Life enters is 50th day, we write with a sense of great urgency. It is important that we review the significant accomplishments we have realized through the Fast for Life. It is also important, however, that we critically assess the work which is yet to be done. In spite of the accomplishments of the Fast, over $250,000 in medical aid remains in the hands of U.S. Customs. Our clear responsibility must be to wage a relentless struggle to free that aid.
From the outset, the White House, State Department and Treasury Department used stonewalling tactics to avoid serious discussions regarding the release of the computers. One of the most recent accomplishments of the Fast for Life is the opening of negotiations. Within the past two weeks our advocates in various Congressional offices have been able to open negotiations involving IFCO-Pastors for Peace, the National Security Council, the State Department and the Treasury Department.
The pace of these negotiations picked up this past week, largely because of the pressure brought by thousands of phone calls, hundreds of letters of support from around the nation and the world, and the advocacy of dozens of members of Congress. One indication of the torrent of calls: callers to Treasury are being asked to call Customs, who in turn transfer callers to a special record-o-phone set up for Pastors for Peace. (We recommend that callers insist on speaking to Secretary Robert Rubin or his representative.)
The struggle for the release of the medical computers is part of a larger struggle to end the U.S. embargo of Cuba. The recent passage of the Helms-Burton bill was certainly a setback, and has forced us to redefine effective strategies for work against the blockade. While the regulations for Helms-Burton have not yet been issued, it is clear that the bill removes the embargo from Presidential prerogative, and places U.S.-Cuba policy in the hands of Congress.
The Fast for Life provides a timely and dramatic opportunity for the entire Cuba solidarity movement to carry the struggle against the blockade to a new level, rather than retreating in the face of seemingly insurmountable advances by the right wing. One of the most important features of this new stage of work must be the aggressive escalation of our outreach to Congress. Consistent with that perspective, the Fasters and supporters of the Fast for Life have met with 50 Congressional offices since arriving in Washington. Forty of those Congressional offices have placed calls to State and Treasury urging a resolution to the Fast. During the Easter recess, solidarity groups in dozens of cities have met with Representatives in their home districts. And there are still opportunities for some meetings this week.
Many churches are supporting the Fast for Life. The General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church is providing office space and has allowed our Wayside Chapel of Peace and Friendship to be erected in their front yard, across the street from the Capitol building. Other church bodies have given outstanding support. These include the United Church of Canada, the Board of National Ministries of the American Baptist Churches, the Progressive National Baptist Convention, and many others.
Support continues to come from many quarters. These include the Partido Democratico Revolucionario (PRD) in Mexico, the Mayor of Pasadena, writer Alice Walker, film-maker Sydney Pollack, various Canadian Members of Parliament, former Nicaraguan president Daniel Ortega, Dennis Rivera of the National Health and Human Service Employees Union, and the San Francisco Labor Council (AFL-CIO).
Even in the midst of the hysteria created in Washington around the downing of two Cessna planes by the Cuban air force, a diverse group of Representatives, Senators, religious leaders and solidarity activists have come together to support the Fast for Life. This is very encouraging for the ongoing struggle against the embargo. With the passage of Helms-Burton, this could have been a time of despair for the movement. Instead it is a time of growth around new strategies.
Internationally, the Fast has inspired both grassroots and governmental support. As a direct response to the U.S. seizure of aid and the Fast for Life, over 1,000 computers have been donated to Cuba by European NGO's. Canadian MP's raised the issue of the Fast on the floor of Parliament. The PRD circulated a letter of support within the Mexican government.
International media coverage has been strong as well. Unfortunately, we can't yet say the same about media in the U.S. Notable exceptions have been reports on CNN and NPR's "Talk of the Nation," and articles in the Washington Post, the Chicago Tribune, the Los Angeles Times, the Milwaukee Journal, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, the San Diego Union Tribune and other newspapers. But overall, the hostile political climate whipped up against Cuba seems to have increased the cynicism of mainstream U.S. media. Nevertheless, we are hopeful that media coverage of the Fast will improve in the coming days. A number of interviews this week at the Wayside Chapel, combined with an aggressive press strategy that includes information about IFCO's grand jury subpoena and secret government documents that were leaked to Pastors for Peace, will probably result in more extensive coverage. It is important to be persistent with local media efforts as well. It is Day 50 of the Fast for Life!
As we finish Day 50 of the Fast, there is growing concern about the health of the four Fasters. A fifth Faster, Seya Sangari, was forced to end his fast last week after being confined to a wheel chair, unable to walk. He is recovering quickly and has been active in Fast support work in San Francisco. Doctors do not expect any long term complications for his health.
Lucius, Lisa, Brian and Jim want everyone to understand their determination to continue the Fast. "While we appreciate the concern of supporters around the country, we hope that everyone is spending ten times as much energy working against the embargo as they are worrying about us," said Jim Clifford.
Rev. Lucius Walker said, "When workers go out on a strike, you don't ask them to go back to work. You tell the management to negotiate in good faith. No struggle is easy, and the struggles that are significant are not without risk. This fast is not without risk, but the questions at stake are fundamental. Please have confidence in what we are doing, and use this fast to help bring an end to the embargo. We have undertaken this strategy with caution and good judgment and we think a victory is clearly possible."
Pressure on the Clinton administration is key to the resolution of the Fast for Life.
Meet with your Representatives and Senators. Encourage them to pressure the State and Treasury Departments to resolve the Fast, release the computers and end the embargo of Cuba. They should have all received a copy of the nine-minute Fast for Life video. Urge that they view it and respond with phone calls to State and Treasury.
Call or fax the following members of the Clinton administration with the same demands.
President Bill Clinton -- tel: 202-456-1111; fax: 202-456-2461;
email: president@whitehouse.gov
Sec. of Treasury Robert Rubin --tel: 202-622-0190; fax: 202-622-0073
Sec. of State Warren Christopher -- tel: 202-647-5291; fax: 202-647-7120
National Security Advisor Anthony Lake -- tel: 202-456-9481; fax: 202-456-2883.
Day 43 Of Fast For Life -- Fasters Growing Weak
New Chapel to be Built in D.C. -- New Support Arising!
Wed, 3 Apr 1996 00:38:30 +0000Palm Sunday marked day 40 of the Fast for Life. While the dedication of the Fasters is unshakable, their physical condition is of growing concern. Rev. Lucius Walker, Lisa Valanti, Seya Sangari, Brian Rohatyn and Jim Clifford spent the weekend with a physician undergoing intensive medical evaluation. The results of the most recent tests will be available on Monday and Tuesday of this week. The 65-year-old Rev. Walker has lost 34 pounds. All the Fasters are gaunt and listless.
David Welsh, executive vice president of the National Letter Carrier's Union. was hospitalized Friday, in day 24 of his companion fast in San Francisco. Doctors reported constrictions in his chest and shortness of breath. Saturday afternoon he was released from California Pacific Medical Center, having decided to discontinue the fast. Doctors advised that his condition could rapidly worsen in the context of a fast.
The Fast for Life started on February 21, after Treasury agents seized a shipment of medical aid destined for Cuban churches for distribution to medical facilities throughout the island. The Fasters moved to the nation's capital on March 29 after having spent 33 days in San Diego, California where the aid was confiscated. The move to Washington is intended to pressure Clinton administration officials to release the aid. Hundreds of supporters are participating in companion fasts and vigils in San Francisco, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Chicago, New York, Norfolk-Virginia, Columbus-Ohio, San Diego and throughout Canada and Latin America and Europe. These and other public actions will continue until the 400 medical computers are released to Cuban church organizations.
Fasters Attend Church With President Clinton
On Sunday, the Fast for Life celebrated Palm Sunday at Foundary Methodist Church, also attended by President Bill Clinton. During the passing of the peace, a supporter of the Fast, Juanita Rieloff, introduced herself to the President and made him aware of the presence of the Fasters in the church.
Vital Congressional Support Is Growing
The Fast for Life enjoys widespread support among members of Congress. Rep. Charles Rangel (NY) has taken the most visible role calling for release of the medical aid. At a Friday press conference sponsored by Pastors for Peace, he said, "Our pastors have said they are prepared, in may cases, to risk their lives, just to get an intelligent response to the questions: 'Can we bring medicine to the sick?' 'Can we do this in our nation's name without violating this cockamamie foreign policy?'" A "Dear Colleague" addressed to Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin is being distributed by Representative Lynn Woolsey (CA), together with Rep. Sam Farr (CA) and Rep. Ron Dellums (CA). Other congressional representatives who have shown support include Senator Paul Simon (IL), William Coyne (PA), Melvin Watt (NC), Jesse Jackson Jr. (IL) Esteban Rottes (CA) and Jerrold Nadler (NY).
Members of Congress are home this week. Make an appointment to meet with them. See action suggestions below.
Fast For Life Builds Chapel At Nation's Capitol
On Wednesday, the 43rd day of the Fast, a dramatic new public home will be created for the Fasters. The Wayside Chapel of Peace and Friendship, the makeshift tent chapel in which they lived and fasted for 34 days on the San Diego/Tijuana border, will be reconstructed and reconsecrated on the lawn of the Methodist Building, 100 Maryland Ave. NE. Its new location will be in full view of the Capitol Building, the Supreme Court, and the Senate Office Buildings. The Methodist building houses the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church and national offices of numerous other Protestant denominations and ecumenical agencies such as the National Council of Churches Washington Office.
This relocation of the Fasters' Wayside Chapel is fully supported by the General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) of the United Methodist Church. Dr. Thom White Wolf Fassett, General Secretary of the GBCS, said, "Current U.S. government policy toward Cuba violates the Charter of the United Nations, the policies of the Organization of American States (OAS) and the tenets of the Methodist Church. We support the goals of the Fast for Life, and in providing a home for the Wayside Chapel, we are expressing our corporate unity with the Fasters' action."
Support Blossoms From Many Quarters
The Fast for Life continues to receive support from many quarters. A letter from Walter Johnson, Secretary- Treasurer of the San Francisco Labor Council, AFL-CIO to President Bill Clinton states in part: "The San Francisco Labor Council for some time has been on record in support of the humanitarian efforts of Pastors for Peace, and for an end to the U.S. economic embargo of Cuba, which we view to be contrary to the interest of the workers and people of the United States."
A letter to Pastors for Peace from the Jewish Cultural Center of Miami Beach states in part: "We strongly urge our government to stop interfering with Pastors for Peace and other humanitarian organizations in making such deliveries, gladly donated by the American people, and demand the immediate lifting of the embargo against Cuba which impedes delivery of humanitarian aid to the children and elderly people of Cuba. We want to build friendship with the people of Cuba and not hardship and hostility."
Canadian Mobilization Grows
The seizure of Canadian computers and modems by U.S. Customs, and the fact that one of the Fasters, Brian Rohatyn, is a member of the Fast for Life have spurred a great deal of activity in Canada. Solidarity fasts, demonstrations, flotillas, mock trials, media coverage and parliamentary action have been spurred by people all across Canada, from Victoria, British Columbia, to Halifax, Nova Scotia, five time zones away. Most recently Members of Parliament have read public statements on the floor of the Parliament calling on Washington to release the computers, and calling on the Canadian government to directly intervene to demand the release of the medical computers.
For its part, the Canadian government seems to have its hands full with trying to convince the Clinton administration not to implement the Helms-Burton restrictions which affect the trade of third countries. Canada, Mexico, the European Economic Community, the Caribbean nations, Russia, and virtually all of Latin America have expressed their outrage and dismay at the passage of Helms-Burton. Last Friday, the Canadian Embassy in Washington received the Fasters for a discussion of their common concerns. Further action on the part of the Canadian government is expected soon.
Cubans Moved By Fast
On Monday night, the Martin Luther King Center in Havana held a beautiful event at the Casa de las Americas following a day of prayer and fasting at the Center. A packed auditorium watched the new video of the "Ayuno por la Vida," and listened to a representative of INFOMED, the President of the Ecumenical Council, and the President of Casa de las Americas, and nueva trova music by Vicente Felici. Speakers praised the sacrifice of "Los Pastores por la Paz," and condemned the U.S. policy toward Cuba.
Urgent Action Program -- Easter/Passover Week
Now is the Time to Shake the Tree!Pastors for Peace calls on all people who are concerned about the Fasters and who want to end the embargo of Cuba to turn up the pressure this week. With the Fasters on the doorstep of the government in Washington, and the Fast itself reaching a very critical point, now is the time for us to once again pull out all the stops. Three things are critical at this time: meetings with Congressional representatives, calls to the Clinton Administration, and calls and visits to local and national media. What has gone before has prepared the ground for what must take place this week. It's tree shaking time!
Meet With Your Congressional Representatives Now Ask For Fax Of Letter Responding To Misinformation
Most Senators and Representatives are in their home districts for the Easter break. Please meet with them if you can. Encourage them to pressure President Clinton, the Treasury Department and the State Department to release the seized medical computers and end the embargo of Cuba. Many Congressional representatives (as well as individuals) who have called or written the Treasury Department have been given answers that are little more than obfuscation and lies. Pastors for Peace is sending a three page letter to every Senator and Representative in an attempt to clarify matters with the light of truth and reason. This letter is available to all upon request and could be most useful if you will be meeting with your representative. Also, ask them if they have viewed the Fast for Life video which was sent to their office.
Calls To Administration Officials Very Important
Your telephone calls at this particular moment are absolutely critical. Please call the following key members of the Clinton administration today, and organize your committees and friends to do the same. Get a phone tree going, and make sure there are lots of calls going from your town demanding the release of the seized medical aid and an end to the embargo of Cuba.
Robert Rubin Secretary of the Treasury Phone: 202-622-5300, fax: 202-622-0073
or e-mail President Clinton at: president@whitehouse.govCall And Visit Your Local And National Media
Media coverage is also critical at this time. We must work hard to get coverage again where we have been covered before, and even harder to get coverage where there has not yet been any. Calls and visits to your local media this week might be fruitful (or actions which will get their attention). Many big city newspapers have bureaus in Washington. Encourage them to interview the Fasters. You may also wish to call important national media which should be covering this dramatic and profound story.
CNN - 404-827-1511
NPR - 202-414-2110
PBS - 703-998-2844
USA Today - 703-276-3647
New York Times - 212-556-7356
CBC Canada - 613-724-1200DAY 36 -- Fast For Life Approaches Washington
Phone Calls Now Will Turn Up the Heat
March 27, 1996On Monday the five members of the Fast for Life and their support committees left San Diego, headed for Washington, DC. As the Fast enters its sixth week, the Fasters want to put a human face in front of Washington decision-makers. Their presence in Washington absolutely must be reinforced by a massive phone calling campaign focussed on key Administration figures (see below).
The Fasters flew part way across the country in two groups, one traveling to Chicago and the other to Birmingham, Alabama. They are stopping in several cities to meet with supporters on their way to Washington. On Tuesday, the Chicago Religious Leadership Network received the Fast at a rousing and emotional public event. On Monday, in Birmingham a record solidarity crowd turned out to welcome the Fast. On Tuesday, a noon press conference in Atlanta was followed by an evening event in Charlotte, North Carolina.
"The travel is physically challenging, even though we rest between events," commented Rev. Lucius Walker. "But the warm outpouring of love has served to uplift our spirits, and we are determined to continue until the medical aid is released."
The Fast for Life began on February 21 after U.S. Treasury agents seized 400 medical computers destined for Cuban churches and hospitals. The computers would have formed part of INFOMED, an on-line medical information system that will connect every hospital and clinic on the island. The United Nations and the Pan American Health Organization purchased the principal server computers that form t he backbone of the system.
THE COMING DAYS WILL BE ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL Your telephone calls at this particular point in the struggle WILL have an impact. Please call the following key members of the Clinton administration today, and organize your committees and friends to do the same throughout the coming week. Demand the release of the seized medical aid and an end to the embargo of Cuba.
Robert Rubin, Treasury Secretary:
Phone: (202) 622-5300 or (202) 622-2000
Fax: (202) 622-0073 or (202) 622-2599President Bill Clinton:
Phone: (202) 456-1414 or (202) 395-3000
Fax (202) 456-2461
Email: president@whitehouse.govCongressional switchboard: (202) 225-3121
In addition, please contact your Senators and Representatives. Encourage them to put pressure on the four people listed above to release the medical aid and end the embargo. Congressional reps will be home next week. Call them this week to set up meetings next week. Congressional switchboard: (202) 225-3121
Fast For Life To Travel To Washington
Faster Collapses after 30 Days without Food
Longshoremen Tell Clinton to Release Medical Computers
March 21The Wayside Chapel of Peace and Friendship is moving to Washington, D.C. After 30 days of a fast at the San Ysidro border crossing -- with no response from Administration officials regarding 400 confiscated medical computers -- the five Fasters for Life will take their vigil to Washington. The Fasters and their support group will arrive in Washington, DC on Friday, March 29.
"We're going to Washington to see President Clinton," said the Rev. Lucius Walker, Jr., executive director of IFCO/Pastors for Peace. "We want to make sure this issue becomes a part of the national discourse during this election year. We will expose the cruelty and injustice of the seizure of our humanitarian aid." The Fasters will move to Washington in response to suggestions from communities nationwide that now is the time to move the Fast and its demands right to the doorstep of the White House.
"We move to D.C. with new strength, with optimism, with positive momentum, and with growing public support," said Rev. Walker. He commented on the success of the Fast during its time in San Diego. "This has been a time of winning broad public support. Here in San Diego/San Ysidro, we've made many new friends and supporters. Local churches have responded with great warmth to our mission. And momentum is building around the country. Companion fasts and vigils are taking place in at least ten different cities and thousands of calls have poured in to Washington."
The Fasters for Life will travel by caravan, starting from Chicago and Birmingham, Alabama, with visits to other fasters and companion vigils in ten different cities, press conferences and public events along the way. Many supporters of the Fast felt it was time to bring this popular struggle to a more visible arena. Rev. Dan Dale of the Chicago Religious Leadership Network explained, "We have been calling the White House, the Justice and Treasury Departments since the computers were seized, and they refuse to listen. There are people across the country that want to see these computers in Cuba. If we knock on their doors, they'll have to answer."
Faster Collapses After 30 Days Without Food
This morning at 5:00 am, Seya Sangari, a member of the "Fast for Life," collapsed outside of the Wayside Chapel of Peace and Friendship. Emergency medical personnel attended to Seya, but he refused to be hospitalized and chose to remain with the other Fasters at the San Ysidro border crossing. Seya is currently under the care of a doctor and nurse at the chapel, and his condition is being evaluated to determine whether he will join the other four Fasters on the road to Washington.
Sangari collapsed on the sidewalk in front of the chapel as he walked to the nearby public restroom. Emergency medical technicians, responding to a 911 call from Rev. Lucius Walker, were on the scene within minutes and placed him on a stretcher for transport to a local hospital. After checking his vital signs and taking a blood test, the ambulance crew agreed to leave Seya in the care of Pastors for Peace health professionals after he signed a release.
Longshoremen Tell Clinton To Release Medical Computers
The International Longshormen's & Warehousemen's Union (ILWU) sent a letter to President Clinton today protesting the government's seizure of 400 medical computers. The letter, signed by ILWU President Brian McWilliams, read, in part: "While we are naturally concerned about (the Fasters) well-being, we wholeheartedly support their efforts and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them to draw public attention to this grave injustice... The ILWU has long opposed the U.S. embargo of Cuba, and we believe that the Administration's support of the Helms-Burton (law) and the concomitant capitulation to right-wing fanatics has escalated hostilities into the danger zone. We cannot and do not accept the illogic that the U.S. can capture the hearts and minds of the Cuban people by punishing them in the name of democracy.
"Therefore, the ILWU joins millions of people in the U.S., Canada and throughout the world in condemning U.S. policy toward Cuba, in insisting that the Administration engage in meaningful dialog with Fasters for Life and other such organizations to obtain perspective that is sorely lacking, and to ultimately take whatever steps are necessary to rescind the embargo and bring peace between the United States and Cuba. In the meantime, the Administration must immediately stop interfering with outreach efforts by American citizens to the people of Cuba and permit the aforementioned shipment to proceed to its destination."
Calls To Washington Are More Important Than Ever
It is time to turn up the heat in Washington. The Clinton Administration has received thousands of calls demanding that they release the medical computers for Cuba, but they need to receive thousands more, to know that we are not going away. Call, fax, and e-mail the numbers below.
Ask your Congressional representatives to view the 9-minute video they received from Pastors for Peace last week. It shows the forcible seizure of the medical computers by U.S. Customs police, and contains persuasive interviews with members of the Fast for Life, and others. Then ask your Senator or Representative to sign the "Dear Colleague" letter being circulated by Representatives Lynn Woolsey,Ron Dellums and Sam Farr. For more information on this effort, including a list of likely Congressional supporters, contact IFCO-Pastors for Peace at 612-870-7121 or 212-926-5757.
Robert Rubin, Treasury Secretary:
Phone: (202) 622-5300 or (202) 622-2000
Fax: (202) 622-0073 or (202) 622-2599President Bill Clinton:
Phone: (202) 456-1414 or (202) 395-3000
Fax (202) 456-2461
Email: president@whitehouse.govCongressional switchboard: (202) 225-3121
DAY 25 OF "FAST FOR LIFE"
STRONG ACTIONS NOW WILL REAP REWARDS
March 16, 1996The newly signed Helms-Burton legislation is horrible foreign policy. Its passage, a knee-jerk reaction to the downing of two Cessna planes, exhibits the worst kind of political opportunism and a lack of thoughtful leadership on the part of the Clinton administration.
While continuing to prohibit U.S. corporations from doing business with Cuba, it provides a financial windfall to former members of the Cuban mafia who now reside in Miami. Previous owners of nationalized property will be able to sue, in U.S. courts, third country nationals who are investing in those properties. This right extends only to properties worth at least $50,000 at the time of nationalization, benefitting a small but economically powerful minority of Cuban exiles. The bill encourages out-of- court settlements, which will provide a windfall to litigants.
By adding the above-mentioned nationalized properties to the list of outstanding bilateral issues, the bill takes an important element of U.S. foreign policy out of the hands of our elected representatives and puts it in the hands of the right wing Cuban exile community. The Miami/New Jersey exile community will have effective veto power at future negotiations with Cuba.
It alienates 11 million Cubans by strengthening an embargo that uses food and medicine, along with all other goods, as political weapons. The point of the embargo is to cause pain and suffering, not the best way to make friends or bring about constructive changes.
It institutionalizes the embargo, making it more difficult to ever normalize relations with Cuba. The embargo is no longer "at the discretion of the President". An act of Congress is not required to make changes.
It alienates important European and hemispheric allies by extending U.S. law to third countries. Already Canada and Mexico have initiated a complaint process under the NAFTA accords. Russia, the European Economic Community (EEC) and the Caribbean nations (CARECOM) have also publicly expressed their opposition. The bill prohibits shareholders in companies that do business with Cuba from obtaining U.S. visas. This could extend to millions of people, tying up immigration officials in pursuits of dubious value.
It infringes on the constitutional right of U.S. citizens to travel. The legislation reinforces existing civil penalties of $50,000 for individual who travel to Cuba.
While passage of the Helms-Burton bill is a serious setback for U.S.-Cuba relations, it is not the end of the struggle to normalize relations and end the embargo. IFCO-Pastors for Peace and other will continue to directly challenge the immoral U.S. embargo of Cuba. Passage of the bill moves the Washington battle largely out of the President's office and into the halls of Congress.
At first glance (and perhaps an second and third) a Republican controlled Congress does not appear to be fertile ground. However, possibilities do exist. The vast majority of Congress does not understand the Cuba issue and relies on worn-out cold war rhetoric to justify indefensible policies. Slow, and often painful, education is the first step. This includes education about the size and political impact of the various constituencies that oppose the embargo. Several influential conservative commentators, and nearly every mainstream newspaper in the country, continue to oppose the embargo. These voices have the backing of the business community and their voices will continue to be heard.
We are now witnessing an interesting political phenomenon. Congress passed the Helms-Burton bill in a hasty reaction to unfolding events well before all the facts were known. This is a terrible way to devise foreign policy, and we are starting to see the inevitable reaction. National newspapers continue to editorialize against the embargo and criticize the passage of Helms-Burton. This reaction will grow as the practical implications of Helms-Burton become clear.
The solidarity movement, and in particular the "Fast for Life", is in a position not only to ride the wave of this reaction, but to provide leadership by action. This is a time to begin our next phase of work to end the embargo -- not a time to waste energy lamenting the passage of Helms-Burton. The "Fast for Life" has become a focal point for calm, reasoned and moral dialogue around the embargo. More and more, national media are looking to the Fast for a highly visible alternative to the right wing Cuban- American hysteria. The Fast can be an inspiring focal point for the solidarity movement.
We are already winning this battle with coordinated international actions on March 6 and March 22, thousands of phone calls and faxes to the Clinton administration, dozens of meeting with members of Congress, increased access to national and local media, and mobilizations by NGO's and government officials throughout Canada. If the solidarity movement continues to make a solid commitment to support the "Fast for Life", this battle is winnable.
AS THE FAST APPROACHES WEEK FIVE, THE FASTERS ARE HEALTHY and VERY DETERMINED, BUT NATURALLY THEIR BODIES ARE BEGINNING TO WEAKEN. THE CALL FOR ACTION BECOMES MORE PRESSING and URGENT. IFCO- PASTORS FOR PEACE ENCOURAGES SUPPORTERS AND PEOPLE OF CONSCIENCE TO DO THE FOLLOWING:
MARCH 22 DEMONSTRATIONS -- Friday, March 22, will be the 31st day of the fast. In the U.S., the fasters request demonstrations in front of federal building or occupations of Congressional offices. Internationally, we call for demonstrations in front of U.S. embassies/consulates, or other appropriate, creative actions. Thirty-one days is a long time to go with out food, and we encourage organizers to strongly consider civil disobedience tactics.
CALLS AND FAXES TO CLINTON ADMINISTRATION -- We encourage calls and faxes to the Clinton administration calling for an end to the embargo and release of the seized medical computers. Direct your messages to:
President Clinton 202-395-3000 or 456-1414 fax: 202-622-2599 Treasury Sect. Robert Rubin 202-622-5300 fax: 202-622-0073 Sec.State Warren Christopher 202-647-6575 or 647-4000 fx:647-1533
MEETINGS WITH MEMBERS OF CONGRESS With the passage of Helms- Burton, congressional meetings are important in both the short and long term. Each member of Congress received a video of the "Fast for Life" on Friday, March 15. Encourage them to watch this video, then to call Clinton and demand the release of the computers. Provide them with educational materials about the impact of Helms-Burton and the embargo, and encourage them to introduce and/or support legislation to end the embargo and to sign on to Dear Colleague letters supporting the Fast. If you can't meet, call your representatives at 202/225-3121.
SOLIDARITY FASTS - Solidarity fasts are already underway in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Cleveland, Norfolk-VA and other cities. Several cities, including Toronto, Winnipeg, Halifax, and Minneapolis are planing 24-hour fasts for March 22-23. Start your own fast for a day, a week or longer. Invite religious leaders, progressive activists, politicians, musicians and the media to visit with the fasters.
MEDIA WORK -- Contact your local media and encourage them to cover the "Fast for Life". Place calls to radio talk shows and discuss the Fast. Send your press releases to the following national media to encourage coverage:
CNN 404-827-1511 fax: 404-827-1593 NPR 202-414-2110 fax: 202-414-3329 PBS 703-998-2844 fax: 703-779-0775 USA Today 703-276-3647 fax: 703 2760-5527 New York Times 212-556-7356 fax: 212 556-3690 CBC Canada 613-724-1200 Canadian TV News 416 609-7400 fax:416-291-5337 Toronto Globe & Mail 416-585-5000 fax 58505085
"FAST FOR LIFE" VIDEO A brand new 9 minute video shows the violent seizure of medical computers by U.S. Customs, and interviews Rev. Lucius Walker and other members of the "Fast for Life". It is a very useful and dramatic tool for local organizing and media work To order, call 612-870-7121. The cost is $20. Please use the video to help raise funds to support the Fast. As we enter the fifth week, it is a diffcult time for the fasters, and also a difficult time financially supporting the necessary organizing around the fast. Please help however you can.
U.S. Law On Cuba Condemned
Source: San Francisco Chronicle News Service
Friday March 15, 1996Strasbourg-- The European Parliament condemned the United States Yesterday for its approval of a new law that seeks to outlaw foreign investment in Cuba.
The parliament asked the European Commission , the executive branch of the 15-state European Union, "to investigate the effects of the law on European business" and strongly considered challenging them "as a serious infringement of the GATT, World Trade organization (rules) and international law.
Baltimore Fast & Demonstration Planned for March 22
Thu, 14 Mar 1996 10:23:51 -0500
In Baltimore, Maryland on Friday, March 22, the Cuba sub-committee of the Central American Solidarity Committee, in solidarity with Pastors for Peace, will stage a fast and demonstration near the Fallon Federal building at Hopkins Plaza in downtown Baltimore. Several members will be fasting that day, and spending the noontime lunch hour in the centrally located plaza to publicize the ongoing fast of the members of Pastors for Peace, which at that point will be day #31, and to ask others to join in the demand for the return of the seized 400 computers, and the end of the illegal and immoral blockade against Cuba.
More volunteers are needed to participate in the group demonstration, and leafletting from 11-2 that day.
Contact the Progressive Action Center in Baltimore, 410-467-9388.
FASTERS FOR LIFE FARING WELL IN TWENTIETH DAY
Wed, 13 Mar 1996 01:04:35 +0000
Washington Post Finally Covers Fast for Life
Time to Step up Pressure on Congress, Administration
The five Fasters for Life are nearing completion of the twentieth day of their liquid-only fast, Their spirits are high and their physical health is remarkably good, despite inevitable weakening The high spirits of the Fasters are due in large part to the remarkable support they are receiving from around the United States, Canada and the world. Last Wednesday, March 6, there were demonstrations in nearly fifty cities worldwide. Rallies took place in thirty U.S. cities, all across Canada, and also in Mexico City, Guatemala City, Sao Paulo-Brazil, San Juan-Puerto Rico, San Sebastian-Spain, Frankfurt-Germany and Amsterdam,
Twenty-four hour "solidarity fasts" were initiated at several of the rallies, including Duluth, Minnesota, where twenty-five people fasted together, In Chicago, 250 religious leaders initiated a weekly Thursday fast, In San Francisco, two members of the Bay Area Friendshipment Committee began a long term fast.
U.S. Authorities Step Up Harassment
Last Thursday, March 7, U.S. Customs authorities and the San Diego police broke into a private storage locker and seized items being stored by Pastors for Peace, The items consisted of baby formula, crutches, medicines, spare parts and computer components that were to be sent to San Francisco. Treasury officials,who claim the computer components were headed for Cuba, have refused to meet with Pastors for Peace to discuss the matter.
"This new show of force by the Treasury Department is just one more indication of how far the US government is willing to go to keep us from reaching out peacefully with simple medical aid for our neighbors," commented Rev, Lucius Walker.
And today, March 11, San Diego police advised the Fast for Life that they will have to remove the colorful signs the group has posted along the fence of Highway 5 near the border. Since the police gave the group little time to apply for and receive a permit (by 4:00 pm today), there is a widespread feeling that it is yet another tactic to silence them.
Washington Post Article On Fast For Life
A large, generally positive article on the Fast for Life appeared today, Monday, March 11, It appeared on page 7 of the Washington Post. A photo of the "Wayside Chapel for Peace and Friendship," the border dwelling of the fasters, appeared with the article. This is a significant media breakthrough, since the Post isone of the more important U.S. newspapers, and is read in the White House, the Treasury Department, and every Congressional office.
Act Now To Carry Out This Urgent Action Program!
TURN UP THE PRESSURE ON WASHINGTON NOW! Contact your Congress person today. Ask them to contact President Clinton and Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin and request that the 400 computers seized from Pastors for Peace by U.S. Customs be released. Ask them to view the video they will be receiving from Pastors for Peace (see below). Call President Clinton yourself, and Sec. of the Treasury Rubin, and Sec. of State Warren Christopher. In this difficult political moment, neither Congress people nor the Administration will move on this issue without lots of pressure!
President Bill Clinton' (202) 456-1414 comment line); (202)395-3000 (inside); fax: (202) 622-2599
Sec. of State Warren Christopher: (202) 647-4000 (front desk); (202) 647-6575 (public information office)
Sec. of Treasury Robert Rubin: (202) 622-5300; fax: (202) 622-2599
Senators and Representatives in Washington: (202) 225-3121Demonstrate On March 22!
Friday, March 22, will be Day 31 of the Fast for Life, This will be a very serious moment for the Fasters, March 22 is also the day on which IFCO-Pastors for Peace has been ordered to appear before a Federal Grand Jury in Buffalo, New York with information on Friendshipment caravan organizing.
THIS IS A CRITICAL DAY FOR STRONG DEMONSTRATIONS, nationally and internationally. March 22 is just a week from Friday.Many groups are already making plans and mobilizing. Please join us, one and all! Venceremos!
Solidarity Fasts Are Powerful
Solidarity fasts, often for 24 hours, have been found to be a very powerful act of solidarity with the Fasters for Life. It puts people in touch with the deep spiritual commitment of the Fasters, It makes people more aware that the U.S. embargo of Cuba actually denies much needed foods and medicines to Cuban children and elders and others in need. This is a life and death issue, a powerful moral issue, not just a political struggle. Fasting,even for 24 hours, can communicate this strongly to self, family, church, community, and perhaps the media.
Video Available
A brand new 8 minute video of the Fast for Life will be available later this week. It will be delivered to every single Congressional office. Call your Senators and Representatives and ask them if they have watched this video. You may order a copy for your group to help with your ongoing organizing. Order your video from the Pastors for Peace office in Minneapolis: (612) 870-7121. And send a check or money order with $20.00 to Pastors for Peace, 610 W. 28th St., Minneapolis, MN 55408.
Fast For Life Needs Money Too!
Maintaining the Fast for Life and the international mobilization to secure the release of the medical computers for Cuba costs money. We are doing our best to keep the expenses as low as possible. But it is now incumbent upon us to do some emergency fundraising. IFCO/Pastors for Peace staff and volunteers will becalling all our "host city" organizations and asking them to join us in some substantial emergency fundraising.Likewise, supporters of the Fast for Life are asked to make generous, tax-deductible donations at this time.
IFCO-Pastors for Peace,
402 W 145th St, New York City, NY 10031
(212) 926-5757610 W. 28th St,Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 870-7121
Pastors For Peace In Its 16th Day Of Fast For Life
San Diego, March 7(RHC)-- Five members of the U.S.religious/solidarity group Pastors for Peace are in their 16thday of the "Fast for Life." Last month, volunteers on thePastors for Peace 6th Friendshipment caravan attempted to take 400 medical computers to Cuba to be used by hospitals and familydoctors. But U.S. Customs officials refused to allow the medicaldonation to pass into Mexico on its way to Cuba and confiscated the computers.
The fasters are camped out near the U.S.-Mexico border in SanYsidro, California. They are on a liquid-only fast until U.S.officials release the donation for delivery to Cuba. ReverendLucius Walker -- the Executive Director of the InterreligiousFoundation for Community Organization (IFCO) and the founder ofPastors for Peace -- is one of the five fasters. Radio Havana Cuba asked Reverend Walker why he and the four others feel determined to carry on with their "Fast for Life."
"As an African-American, I have the right to vote and access topublic accommodations because some people of previous generationsplaced their lives on the line and were willing to endure thewrath of the powers that be, to resist the racism of Jim Crow,as we call it. Women in the U.S. have the right to vote notbecause the Constitution originally granted it but because aprevious generation of women and men fought to end discriminationagainst women in voting. And the list goes on and on. The rightof workers in the United States to organize is because somepeople did exactly what we're doing. They placed their lives onthe line. So, what we are doing is simply paying a debt to ourforeparents because they laid their lives on the line in orderthat we might have access to more just treatment and equality. It just so happens that this is a foreign policy issue.
"In addition to the legacy of the struggle of which we arebeneficiaries, we are also responding to Cuba's sense ofinternationalism and the debt of gratitude and appreciation andlove Cuba has shown to the rest of the world."
Fast For Life In Eleventh Day
Sun, 3 Mar 1996 01:31:50 +0000
Join National and International Actions to Free the Medical Computers for Cuba As five fasters complete their eleventh day on a liquid only "Fast for Life" at the U.S.-Mexico border, spirits are high, but bodies are gradually feeling the effects. Unseasonably cold temperatures and unusual rainfall continue to complicate the already difficult task of the fasters. The "Wayside Chapel of Peace and Friendship," a temporary home made of plastic and canvas, keeps the fasters dry and offers some protection from the cold and wind. Despite the difficult conditions, the fasters are dedicated to continue their hunger strike until 400 medical computers are released from U.S. Customs. The computers will be donated to Cuban churches for use in the INFOMED system which will connect Cuban health centers to an on-line medical information system.
In recent days the fast has become a center of calm rationality and moral clarity, while President Clinton allows right wing Cuban-Americans to use provocative and militaristic actions to dictate our nation's foreign policy. The downing of two Cessna planes follows a history of terrorist attacks on Cuba that have been condoned by U.S. officials. Armed attacks on tourist centers and regular violations of Cuban airspace, including fly-overs of the capital of Havana, have been repeatedly reported to U.S. officials, with no resulting legal actions.
"We regret the loss of life in this incident," said Rev. Lucius Walker, leader of the Fast for Life, "as we regret the loss of thousands of Cuban lives caused by the U.S. embargo of Cuba. This incident is creating hysteria in Washington, and the impending passage of the Helms-Burton bill will strengthen an immoral embargo that causes suffering for eleven million Cubans. While the Fast for Life may be more difficult in this climate, it is all the more important to create a space for calm, reasoned and moral reflection on U.S. policies toward our neighbor. The fast will continue until our objectives are met."
IFCO-Pastors for Peace calls on people of conscience to participate in the following program of activities to put pressure on the Clinton administration to release the medical computers:
March 4-8 -- Urgent Effort against Helms-Burton legislation, this bill to tighten the U.S. embargo against Cuba will be voted on in both the House and the Senate as early as Tuesday, March 5. Clinton, caving into the right wing hysteria in Miami, has agreed to sign it into law. This is our last chance to let our representatives know we want them to vote against Helms-Burton. and to tell Clinton to veto it.
March 6 (day 15 of the Fast for Life) Demonstrations in front of Federal buildings and (U.S. embassies. Currently, 30 U.S. cities and 15 international demonstrations are confirmed.
March 22 -- Demonstrations in front of Federal buildings and Federal Courts. These demonstrations will focus on the Fast for Life and the grand jury subpoena served to IFCO that demands documents and testimony related to the fourth and fifth U.S.-Cuba Friendshipment caravans. The subpoena is an attack on the Cuba solidarity movement and an effort to cripple the work of IFCO-Pastors for Peace.
In addition to these scheduled events. IFCO-Pastors for Peace encourages supporters of the Fast for Life to continue with the following ongoing work:
Prayers, vigils, and solidarity fasts in the religious community The active involvement of the religious community, at regular worship services or in special vigils, will be a powerful and prayerful way to support the Fast for Life. Religious leaders and lay activists alike may consider fasting even for one day, and sharing that act of solidarity with their community. IFCO has prepared a bulletin insert. Contact them if you would like copies.
Media work Contact your local media and encourage them to cover the Fast for Life. Creative, aggressive media work may achieve results at this time. Some people are demonstrating outside of media outlets that don't seem to get the message any other way. Send your press releases not only to your local media, but also to selected national media (see below. If they hear from enough places around the country, maybe they'll realize they've got a national (international) story on their hands. Also, send copies of your press releases and flyers to Pastors for Peace. Some media "guerrillas" are calling local and national talk shows and mentioning the Fast for Life no matter `what the topic of the show might be. Other media elves have even suggested there's more than one way to get our story into the newspaper boxes. Getting a billboard donated, as happened in San Diego, or otherwise getting our message onto a billboard, might become a news story in itself And then there's the old tried and true: Call the reporters again and again, provide them with interesting information, cultivate their interest, and just don't let up until they are covering this important story as they should be. Make some media calls today.
Congressional work With the probable passage of the Helms-Burton bill, pressure on Congress becomes even more important. The bill codifies the embargo into U.S. law, thus making it impossible for future Presidents to ease or end the embargo without the Congress going along (including Helms, Burton, Torricelli, and others on Jorge Mas Canosa's payroll). Meet with your representatives and express your opposition to the bill. Ask them to support the Fast for Life and work to end the immoral embargo of Cuba. Encourage your representative to send a letter supporting the Fast for Life to President Clinton and Treasury Secretary Rubin. Please send copies of the letters to Pastors for Peace in Minneapolis. Senators and Representatives can be reached in Washington at 202/225-3151.
Call and fax President Clinton and Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin.
President Clinton:(202) 395-3000 (inside), 416-1414 (comment line); fax: (202) 456-2461
Secretary Rubin: (202) 622-1300; fax; (202) 622-2599Select from these national media outlets to send your press releases. Call them too If you like:
CNN:tel: (404) 827-1511; fax: (404) 827-1593
National Public Radio's All Things Considered; tel: (202) 414-2110; fax: (202) 414-3329
PBS's Jim Lehrer Newshour: tel: (703) 998-2844; fax; (703) 7?;9-0775
New York Times