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I am sitting on the floor of a phone booth, so the police will not make me stand and blog. Lisa from C-ville is standing in front of it, hoping I will not be noticed.

I have never seen anything like this one, folks.

There are HUNDREDS of people lining the hallway to John Conyers' office. Cindy and a few others are inside, speaking to the staff, we assume. But the scene is incredible--people have come from all over the country to deliver the message that we can not tolerate illegal actions and an unConstitutional government.

Richard has the camera and many photos--but he is up close and I cannot get to him. But we promise you photos as soon as possible.

I will update this as I can...

But hello to all from the center of democracy! We are taking it BACK.

Oh--and CALL!

Phone Chairman Conyers at 202-225-5126 and ask him to start the impeachment of Dick Cheney; and phone your own Congress Member at 202-224-3121 and ask them to immediately call Conyers' office to express their support for impeachment. Your Congress Member might be one of the three needed, not just to keep impeachment activists out of jail but to keep this nation from devolving into dictatorship.

THE PHOTOS:

Entering the Building

Delivering the Message Outside

cont. below the fold:

Arianna Huffington recently appeared as a featured speaker at the Chautauqua Institution, a truly amazing piece of enlightened American history located in western New York that for well over a century has been a highly influential artistic, cultural, civic, and educational resource for people from all walks of life -- so much so that the name of the original venue became a definitive term for an entire national movement. Erica Erwin of The Erie Times-News had this to say about Ms. Huffington's remarks at the original Chautauqua this week:

CHAUTAUQUA, N.Y. -- In the 1950s, Edward R. Murrow revolutionized the news.

Today, bloggers are changing the way we read and receive the news -- but that doesn't mean traditional media outlets like television or newspapers are dying.

Arianna Huffington, co-founder and editor of HuffingtonPost.com, one of the most linked-to and cited blogs on the Internet, delivered that message to the nearly 3,000 people who gathered to hear her speak at the Chautauqua Institution on Wednesday.

"The whole debate over print or Web, print or TV, it's really obsolete," Huffington said. "It's going to be a hybrid future."

Huffington's 30-minute speech, "Edward R. Murrow Would Be a Blogger: How the Internet Revolution is Changing News, Politics, and the Way We See the World," was part of the institution's weeklong examination of the news.

Mobile is a sultry place, friendly but languid spot along the Gulf, with antebellum houses and great shrimp. I'm here for a dance conference, but President Bush is stopping off here today, and so we just had to come on down to share some feelings with him.

So what we have here at the moment is a bunch of modern dancers and some Vets for Peace, with attitudes.

Bush is here for a fundraiser for Jeff Sessions. It's $1000 a plate. So the local guys have a message to kick things off:

More local color to come...

My friend Kayakbiker checked in on and photographed a Youth-Run Encampment Against the War in front of the state capitol in St. Paul, MN. The event was a collaboration by Youth Against War and Racism (YAWR), Veterans for Peace, Miltary Families Speak Out (MFSO), and Socialist Alternatives.

A series of remarkable events:

Saturday morning: Oprah Winfrey spoke at the Howard University graduation; she was inspiring, compelling, and full of integrity. But the graduation itself was a total unadulterated joy. I sat in front of the divinity students and that was a heart-and-soul-filled experience, as they wept and gave witness, and hugged each other, grateful for the journeys they had taken together. It was a commencement and we all felt it.

As I have said before, there is Washington and there is DC. This morning was all DC. We all sang "Lift Every Voice" (Oprah sang too) and she spoke directly to the students graduating, telling them "As we climb, we must also lift."

Oprah wept when she received the accolades of the Howard community and turned to face the crowd, so proud of her, so much in awe of her, and so ready to hear from her. This was family, and I was touched to be present.

Today's Washington Post carries my impressions of her nonverbal style but I will give you a preview: I was transported.

And then it was off to the Code Pink House, where there are more women, from more places, and more anticipation than I would have predicted.

Desiree cooks for the peace troops

A sampling of comments:

Midge: "OK, I'm inspired by all the women who have come from across the country and I feel we have won the battle already. We're a snowball, rolling downhill and there's no stopping the energy of the mothers!"

Barb Cummings from San Diego: "It's been a rough week but on the other hand, there are some new people coming out. We met with the MoveOn folks in California and told them they have to start with impeachment. We gave them the message that WE are moving on and in the direction of being more relevant. They got the message."

Lori, who spent Thursday night in the DC jail for looking like she was about to unfurl a banner after a hearing had ended: "Though it's been a tough week personally, I look at all of these people here and all of the new people I've met and it reminds that the grassroots are growing and that makes me hopeful. I'm not the only Hoosier here anymore, for one thing! And the young girls here are so right on with their messages--why they want to end this wear. I'm inspired by Diane Wilson and Faith Flippinger. There is so much power in solidarity."

Diane Wilson: "I know I never get too far ahead of myself. Because I'm a fisherwoman and I've been on the water all my life, I have a faith in things unseen. The energy of the universe is an ally, and then when I do something I have a total faith that all I have to do is have a commitment and a faith and it will work. Things are going to happen. People can just create action. And that's why I'm hopeful. If I had only rational mind I'd have given up a long time ago."

It's the women, isn't it? Women take responsibility for cleaning up the mess again. Moms from all over the country are flocking to DC, and our house is going to be full this weekend too. I hope every Mom here, or everyone who has a Mom here will celebrate the awesome power of a mother protecting her children, her community, and her country from harm caused by stupidity. Because that is what it is going to take!

We must, as Julia Ward Howe wrote back in the day, RISE UP. So feel those stirrings inside you to speak loudly, write passionately, or engage in actions that STOP WAR NOW.

Gael Murphy at last year's celebration

This year, we are ready with a plan and some great focus!

Welcome to today's live blog about the expanding body of knowledge and understanding about the threats to women from a growing range of environmental insults, and how grassroots groups, physicians and scientists and bold public officials are fighting to solve these problems.

Today's event is one of Teresa Heinz's many lifelong commitments to making our planet a better place to live for women, children--and men.

Photo of T. by D. Grieser

Jeff Lewis, this morning, photo by C. Halushek

Teresa, concerned and hopeful, photo by C. Halushek

Steve Curwood, telling it like it is, photo by C. Halushek

Dorett, liveblogging

Tyrone Hayes, PhD

More than 2,000 participants are gathered here today in beautiful downtown Pittsburgh to hear the latest science and solutions from world leaders in studying women's health and the environment.

We'll be live blogging from the floor all day, bringing you critical new ideas and information from the speakers, plus special one-on-one interviews with speakers and with activists from Boston to Seattle.

Tuesday's climate-change debate between current Senator Kerry and former Speaker Gingrich got a big raise for everybody involved.

It raised awareness of the urgent need to deal with the science of global climate change in a responsible manner.

It raised questions of why smart people from both sides of the issues can't work together more often to find mutually-acceptable solutions to common problems.

It raised the bar for reasonable, rational, respectful discourse between persons from different partisan political parties.

It raised eyebrows on the part of pundits who had been predicting a 'smackdown' but got a hug fest instead.

It raised the hopes of those who believe progressive politics is finally on the rebound in America.

And it raised the hackles of arch-conservatives who bitterly accused their erstwhile standard-bearer of selling out to those terrible tree-hugging leftists.

(I especially liked that last side effect -- sorry, über-right wingnuts, but the science is real and even Gingrich is going green these days. Deal with it.)

John Kerry and Newt Gingrich are debating the government's role in dealing with global climate change this morning at 10 am EDT, and enviromentally-minded netizens will be blogging about it in real time.

The debate, hosted by New York University’s John Brademas Center for the Study of Congress, will take place in the Russell Senate Office Building and will be broadcast live by C-Span and simultaneously webcast at http://c-span.org.

As TheHill.com notes, this event ought to be a thinking-man's matchup well worth watching:

Kerry, who bowed out of the 2008 presidential race earlier this year, has been dubbed an “environmental champion” by the non-partisan League of Conservation Voters. His website touts a long record of fighting for the environment. He and his wife Teresa Heinz Kerry also recently wrote This Moment on Earth, which addresses climate change and preserving the environment.

"Newt’s a guy who has spent a lot of time wrestling with climate change and the environment. He reads about it, he teaches about it, he writes about it,” Kerry said Thursday. “We don’t see eye to eye about everything, obviously, but that’s what makes for a good debate.

“As a father, when someone tells me that within the next decade, if we don't deal with global warming, our children and grandchildren may deal with global catastrophe, that tells me I damn well better do whatever I can to help make Washington deal with this responsibly,” Kerry added. “We need these good old-fashioned debates and forums and discussions to get everyone thinking creatively on both sides of the aisle.”

[snip]

“America should focus its energy policy in four areas,” Gingrich writes on his website. “Basic research for a new energy system, incentives for conservation, more renewable resources, and environmentally sound development of fossil fuels.

“The lengthy process of environmental planning must be made more efficient and cost effective,” he adds.

Kerry also noted he hopes this debate will keep climate change in the forefront of Americans’ minds.

“This is an issue of incredible importance to everyone’s lives, and we need to do big and small things every day to draw attention to the problem as well as the solutions. Al Gore has done a phenomenal job with his movie,” he added. “You do what you can to build the dialogue.”

Various progressive political posters will be giving the play-by-play and commenting on what they see and hear from Kerry and Gingrich on Kerry's blog this morning.

The more voices and the more different points of view that are represented in live-blogging discussions of this sort, the better the quality of the resulting discourse.

So stop by the Kerry blog and join the live-blogging thread there, and/or add your own live-blogging comments to this DCP blog thread during the debate as well.

It's scheduled to run from 10 am through 12 noon EDT, and there may be Q&A sessions afterwards, so there'll be plenty of time to put your two cents in at both locations.

________________________________________________________________________________________

As a John Kerry supporter prior to the last election, I was fortunate to become involved in his campaign so early that I was once given a "4JKB4IA" button as a gift. I wore that button last night when I heard John and Teresa talk about their book, "This Moment on Earth," and John recognized it immediately.

Preparations

The oatmeal and coffee are cooking, Eva Cassidy is singing "An American Tune", and we are getting ready for The March.

The lineup of speakers promises to be significant and inspiring. We will, at least, call in some comments to our DCP compadres, but we will also try to blog a little throughout the day as we can.

Richard:

After weeks of global warming grace, winter has finally come to Washington to greet the first major peace march since Bush announced his intention to escalate the war in Iraq. And with two aircraft carrier groups circling menacingly in the Persian Gulf, and Bush's increasingly Iraq-like rhetoric about Iran, marchers have a double-duty. Anyone who comes to town thinking that Iraq is the primary issues should start listening harder. Unbelievable though it might seem with the Democrats having just seized control of the legislative branch on a wave of anti-Iraq war sentiment, close observers of U.S troop movements are increasingly convinced that Bush intends to strike Iran, the Congress, the American people and the rest of the civilized world be damned.

If you can't be here, be sure to sign up for Monday's call-in day. CALL.

Juan Torres:

Juan and Cindy at last month's event at the White House

"I feel excited and nervous and happy because we have a different energy than two years ago. Now, after November, we feel supported as parents who have lost children. I have a lot of energy and I think I could run the march!"

Sean Penn

Jane Fonda

Larry making signs for setadeadline.com

Dennis Kucinich pounds the podium for peace!

The Code Pink Crowd this morning

The crowd from my height (5 ft. 1"!)

The DU/JK gals at our house

JR and globalvillage viewing photos

Geoff Millard is here...

Hello from the Alfishawy Care: the People's Media Center in D.C. where Jodie Evans is greeting us with the news that Sean Penn may stop by...

There is a BUZZ in DC, as buses arrive and folks wander around, ready to speak truth to power.

We have folks in this room from Minnesota, Philadelphia, Chicago, Phoenix, Sonoma CA. Downstairs The World Can't Wait folks are putting together signs. We have food, music, warmth, and MEDIA.

Ryme, who runs the People's Media Center, says she wants a mike in everyone's hands. People need to BE THE MEDIA, as we say.

Today Code Pink ran a press conference in which they put the names of many of the 650,000 Iraqi people on pairs of shoes in a 6 by 6 foot plexiglass box. The sight was awesome. (no photos yet, but here is an example)

There are, purportedly, people here representing almost all the 435 Congressional districts. The room is filling up and there are no chairs left.

I cannot tell you all how hopeful it is in here. We are seeing energy and focus in ways that we have not seen in...

YEARS.

Photos from yesterday's actions:

Cindy Sheehan listening to the names of young people killed in Iraq

Candy, a music educator from Sacramento CA, reading names

Cindy Sheehan and Jose Torres support each other; both Gold Stars parents

Juan Torres was a CPA who was dealing with financial matters at the Bagram base in Afghanistan when he was shot in the shower one night. The Army called it a suicide but his father believes he was murdered because of activities he discovered at the base.

Casey Sheehan, killed in Baghdad on April 4, 2004, Age 24

Alex Arredondo, whose father Carlos was so overcome with grief when he heard of hhis son's death he tried to set himself on fire, killed at age 20. Carlos, Alex's father, now goes around the country with an exhibit about his son's life and those of several others killed in order to prevent other parents from experiencing that kind of grief.

Photos, dates of death, ages of young people killed in Iraq across the front of the White House, where the new Democratic leadership is meeting with President Bush to develop the next phase of the invasion. We hope that they have heard us, but perhaps we need to do and say more yet.

The scene in front of the White House, circa 6 pm last night.

Nonny and Truth have indicated that they have already sent their messages in to Congress. As members of a (nominal) democracy, what can citizens do to make sure the leaders of this country understand the will of the people? What IS the will of the people? Do we have the will to do what needs to be done? What will you do today?

_____

New photos:

The opening of the protest earlier today in Upper Senate Park

Marietta holding a white rose; one was delivered to new Members today, in memory of the White Rose Society and with hope for peace.

David Swanson speaking about the dea that the Dems ought to hire the peace movement to run its press conferences...Rahm didn't get the memo however ;)

John Nicholls waiting to speak at the National Press Club

Gore Vidal speaks

There is a lot going on in the next month and we at the DCP would like to inform you and encourage you to voice your own concerns in ways that can build on the following events:

Come to Washington on January 2nd, 3rd, and 4th:

Lafayette Park) Participants will be reading the names of the soldiers KIA in Iraq and setting up a visual. They have invited the Congressional Out of Iraq Caucus to join in.
http://tinyurl.com/y6zh5l

Jan 4
12pm Rally sponsored by World Can't Wait at Upper Senate Park (Delaware & Constitution, just north of the Capitol)
http://tinyurl.com/y4m2w7

7pm National Press Club Impeachment Forum sponsored by World Can't Wait, open to the public:
529 14th Street Northwest (one block east of the White House)

Speakers to Include:
Cindy Sheehan,
John Nichols of the Nation,
Michael Ratner of the Center for Constitutional Rights,
Debra Sweet of World Can't Wait
MC: David Swanson of AfterDowningStreet, Democrats.com
With a special recorded message from Gore Vidal
http://tinyurl.com/y4m2w7

________________

Take Action in Your Own Towns

1. If you can't join the folks in Washington, you can print out the information sheet they'll be using there and take it to your own Congressmember's district office:
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/investigations

2. Collect signatures on petitions, especially in front of your Congress Member's offices.

http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/petition

3. Join a Congressional District Impeachment Committee to help send a message to your Representative:

http://www.democrats.com/cdic

4. Pass resolutions in your town or city, state, political party, or labor union:

http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/resolutions

________________

March and Lobby in Washington on January 27th, 28th, and 29th

Come to Washington, D.C., on January 27. Join in the march for peace being organized by United for Peace and Justice, and impeachment events on January 28th being planned by Progressive Democrats of America.

Make appointments now to meet with your Congressmember on January 29th to talk about impeachment and peace. Get organized with others in your Congressional District.

_________

Sign Up for Lobby Day Now

Register now for the UFPJ Congressional Advocacy Day (lobby day) January 29, 2007

Register Here:
http://www.unitedforpeace.org/modinput4.php?modin=121

Plan to spend three days in D.C. On Saturday, march. On Sunday, take part in workshops and training sessions on peace and impeachment. Meet with fellow activists from your state and congressional district and prepare for Monday. On Monday, educate your Congress Member and Senators on two things:

1. Funding for this war.
2. Investigations of the justification for and conduct of this war.

_________

We are sure there are other creative activities that citizen activists and journalists can think of to do. We want to encourage everyone to not only build on and participate in the activities listed above, but also to make a difference at the neighborhood level, where democracy really flourishes. Let us all know what you can and will be doing as the new year opens!

"You win some. You lose some. And then there's that little known third category." - Al Gore -

Meet the new Congressman-elect from the Great State of Texas

Ciro Rodriguez

Last evening, in the last Congressional race of the 2006 cycle, Democrat Ciro Rodriguez beat the pants off of Republican Henry Bonilla, bringing the total number of seats gained by the Democrats in the US House of Representatives to 31.

But the Ciro Rodriguez story is not about Democrats versus Republicans for me. It's about the power of the people.

Remember how the Ciro story got going? It got started on Daily Kos, and Ciro's opponent in the Democratic primary, Henry Cuellar's people called it a one day story. THAT'S how this began. And Ciro lost that primary, but he never put away his campaign signs, and then next time out, he won, and went on to beat Bonilla last night.

Now, it's no secret that the DCCC pumped beaucoup bucks into the race in that last couple few weeks. That's not my point. My point is that a year ago, the DCCC would have been scratching their collective whatevers, and looking around that room with dazed blank facial expressions if someone had raised the name of Ciro Rodriguez. Back then, we would have had a response of yawning, not fawning.

No, the point here is that the PEOPLE brought Ciro forward as a candidate. The PEOPLE raised money through Act Blue pages, organized phone banks, reached out to fellow voters and in general worked their asses off for a guy that they believed might not win, but deserved a chance to compete. And they gave him enough support to bring him within striking distance of Bonilla, so that the DCCC would back him in the closing days.

THAT is power. And that is only ONE of the lessons to be taken from this story.

Here's another lesson from this story: Ciro Rodriguez won by nine points. In ALL of the Dec. 5, 2006 polling, Ciro was down by nine points. Let's all remember that the next time we see a poll that looks bad for a candidate that you support and it's a week out from an election.

And here's what I think is the most important lesson. Many political types, unfamiliar with what real political blogging is about, talk about the miracle of political blogging as the ability to raise money over the internets. How much money Howard Dean raised in small donor money is often cited. And yes, that was interesting then, and in this last cycle, that has become an even more formidable weapon in the PEOPLE'S arsenal than in the 2004 cycle.

But no, that was not the miracle of the Dean story.

The miracle of the Dean story was that complete strangers, from across the country, to across the world, talked to each other about politics and what mattered to them for the first time in a very long time. The miracle of the Dean story, is that complete strangers invited other complete strangers into their homes, their work and their lives. All for a political cause. All to take action. All of them, intent on making their voices heard and using some part of their lives in service to making the world a better place.

Now THAT is a miracle. And it's a miracle that the people can make happen.

More of that, please.

I have been so embedded in Camp Democracy that I have had little time to share with all of you the details, much less the highlights. But today, the tents come down, the equipment is stored, and everyone moves on to the next phase.

And I have some things to say.

First of all, this was a very challenging project, because many who enthused early on found fault as the planning evolved. Democracy is messy. In the absence of positive clear-headed decision-making by the many, efficiency tends to take over and not everyone feels "heard". It reminded me of past group efforts, including the JK Campaign, and I spent a small amount of time reminding my fellow organizers about the six phases of a project:

1. Enthusiasm
2. Disillusionment
3. Panic
4. Search for the Guilty
5. Punishment of the Innocent
6. Praise and Honors for the Non-Participants

We had amazing moments, and large crowds at times. The highlights I witnessed are below, but the major theme definitely came from Arun Gandhi, Mahatma's grandson:

Arun often ends his discussions about his grandfather by telling the parable of a King who wanted to know how to bring about world peace. His advisors told him to travel to an old wise man who may have the answer. So the King made the long journey and asked the old wise man how to bring about world peace. In response, the sage placed a single seed of wheat in the King’s palm. The King was too embarrassed to ask the meaning of this and so returned to his kingdom with the seed and placed it in a small gold box. Still unable to determine its meaning he finally asked one of his learned advisors its meaning. The advisor explained that peace begins like a small seed, but it cannot grow if it is kept locked away. True peace begins in the heart, but inner peace must be transferred into the world. It must be planted so it can grow.

Camp Democracy opens in less than one week, on Tuesday, September 5th!

Read about our press conference at the National Press Club on Tuesday, August 29th and all of the amazing speakers lined up for Camp Democracy.

We still need volunteers. Please ask everyone you know to sign up.

Tabling only costs $25 per day. Why not set up a table with your information?

Here are free rooms and rides.

If you can send a bus and need help paying for it, ask us at:
david@davidswanson.org

If you need help filling it, post it on the board.

You can help spread the word about Camp Democracy with the tools found on this page, including a local event guide, a sample press release, Email announcements, flyers, posters, web banners, audio of a public service announcement, a student activism kit, and a short blurb for newsletters.

Dress for success. You cannot buy shirts at Camp Democracy, but you can buy them beforehand.

Please make an appointment with your Congress Member in Washington on September 19th and join us for a day of lobbying, preceded by a day of training on September 18th.

Do you ever wish you knew how to create podcasts? Or Op-eds? Or could sing loud and clear directly to Congress?

Do you ever think about what it would be like to be with thousands upon thousands of people who decide to return this country to a democracy by making their presence known in Washington DC? Folks like Cindy Sheehan, Howard Zinn, performing artists, musicians, writers, peace activists, veterans, blue-collar workers, immigrants...

Do you feel called to do something more than read and talk about the current wars, abuses, and loss of human and civil rights?

Do you have wisdom and/or skills to share?

Do you want to inspire others? Do you want to BE inspired?

HAVE YOU HAD ENOUGH YET?

If these questions make your heart beat a little faster, you need to make your plans NOW for September 5-21 and beyond. Come to the National Mall in Washington DC for Camp Democracy.

We're not talking about another rally or march here. We're talking about bringing people together to learn the skills we need to make democracy work for everyone. And along the way, we'll celebrate the spirit that moves us with music and dance and theater.

Camp Democracy's multi-day events are a chance to learn about democracy in a whole different way.

We especially encourage everyone to come during September 9-11, when workshops will abound and follow-up plans will be made. September 11 is, in addition to the fifth anniversary of 9-11, the 100th anniversary of Gandhi's nonviolence movement and we will be honoring the tenets of nonviolence that day through workshops, music, dance, and films. Come and learn how to actively create peace and justice.

And then, please stay and help us make it happen, or go home and make it happen. The time is now, and the vehicle is US.

http://www.campdemocracy.org/

Oncall and Vic regaling Kay with tales of online politics...

It was a lovely afternoon at Fern's when suddenly, a loud whistle pierced the din in the bar.

The room was invaded by seven men in bright red devil suits, led by a guy in armor with a sword. The Vulcans had arrived.

Vulcans

The Vulcans are a St. Paul tradition, born of the Winter Carnival. They are mischievous merry-makers and civic-minded individuals who enjoy meeting the community members. Today they met the DCP.

We got to hold the "Sword of Mars". The GREAT Sword of Mars. (Eat your heart out, Larry)

The Vulcans carry on a tradition that began in 1886, when town leaders decided to prove to the nation that humans could survive in Minnesota year-round. (Apparently, liquor helps.) And in fact, it worked. People actually LIVE here.

Jean and Vic, for example, our beautiful hostesses.

The Vulcans were enthralled with the DCP, believing in the value of community, helping your neighbor, and defending your country. We had scintillating conversations about grassroots activism and volunteerism. We have lots of advice from them for the progressive forces.

To keep warm, or to emphasize their points, they play with fire:

Vi and Karen are impressed...

And then, oh joy, we got to ride the Vulcan FIRE TRUCK:

That's Vic on the left, me, Karen (NoisyDem), above her is Oncall, with Vi and Suz, ummm, driving?

They have their own website too.

The household is awakening; perhaps like the rest of America, perhaps not.

Coffee is brewing and discussions are already happening. What do we need to be doing, as the DCP and as individuals, to turn this horrific ship around?

Dick pondering and writing

Vic in her element

Suz reading--plotting? Where will she freeway blog next?

We do not need to recount the myriad of issues and concerns we all share. What we need to do is to discuss the myriad of actions, both online and locally, that we feel need to be taken in the next six months.

Each of us will take turns outlining some thoughts in the comments section of this thread and we ask each of you to add your own. Please feel free to put links to articles and news items in the previous thread so we can also keep up with the day's news. But let's keep this thread for the day-long conversation of the next six months.

CALL IN:

1:00pm Saturday Eastern
12:00 noon Central
11:00am Mountain
10:00am Pacific

218-936-6666

press 2

Access code: 160214#

We need your voice.

Yesterday morning we woke up early, determined to speak some truth to power. We arrived at ABC News a little after 8, and almost immediately Senator Lugar arrived. He was cordial but obviously in a hurry to get inside.

A little later George Stephanopoulos came outside and was quite supportive and sweet to us. He said he would stop by Lafayette Park. He understood why we are doing this action. Lots of good eye contact.

We waited around for Sen. Lugar to come out and engaged in discussions with the cameramen and a few security and police who came by to question us. One guy told us we were blocking the sidewalk (we had left an aisle for folks to walk) and we pointed out that the CAMERAS and MICROPHONES were actually blocking the sidewalk. But in all cases, when we said that we were people who had not eaten in six days, opposition and confrontation melted. People tend to look down, to think, and to become very different. It touches people in a very personal and ethical place to see others deliberately choosing not to eat for a cause.

Dick Gregory told us that a fast is spiritual and I think that is what he meant.

Sen. Lugar came out eventually (we could see him sitting inside and we held up a sign saying "We just want to talk to you").

Toby Blome, who had actually run into and met briefly with Sen. Lugar spoke with him at some length. He was telling her he would not change his position and would not meet with us, but what she was saying did seem to affect him. We followed him to his car after he gave his statement to the press and it did appear he could not look at us at all.

Toby Blome and Sen. Lugar discuss the war

Fasters Join in the Media Moment

We headed over to CBS to see if Sen. McCain and Sen. Dodd were available. Sen. McCain did his protion by remote, but Sen. Dodd came out and gave a very strong sound bite against the war. He called Iraq "a mess" and said the troops need to come home very soon.

He approached me immediately afterwards and we had a warm and useful discussion. He said "Bless you" about our fast, and agreed to meet with us. I gave him some information.

And then we headed back to Lafayette Park for another day of spirit and longing.

Sen. Dodd seems to have been fasting too. He feels for me.

I am giving him a press release that's about the U.S. testing missiles and sending them from Vandenburg AFB in CA towards Korea. I am asking him to look into this and to encourage the Senate to do so with him.

ANNOUNCEMENT: I will be suspending my fast for a few days while I head to NYC to begin rehearsals. I will resume it while I am in DC. Suz has offered to fast in my stead, and she will be doing so in her hometown. Suz is the only person, right now, committed to fasting in her town and she plans to take it public. She will need a lot of support, as it is much harder to do this alone. Suz, I send you lots of love and the support of all fasting here in Washington DC.

Redford Talks About the Apollo Alliance

The Backbone Project folks take the Chain Gang through the space (Condi looks familiar, no?)

Hillary Clinton was forceful! Not entirely for troops coming home yet, but forceful...

Nancy Pelosi voted against the war...she reminded us

Fire in that eye!

JK and his sidekick, the ever-lovely Marvin

Russ Feingold reasons and shares the truth.

Just got off the phone with Karen. Our crew is working to overcome networking problems at the Hilton and will post new threads on today's events later today.

Today's highlights will include the addresses by Senators Russ Feingold and Barack Obama.

So stay tuned...

Carol Sharick is a mom, an administrative support staffer at a small liberal arts college, a blogger, and a local activist.

Here at the DCP we know her dry sense of humor and level-headed commentary. She was selected by the progressive community as the best entrant in Campaign for America's Future "What is a progressive?" contest.

Here is her winning entry:

“A progressive is someone who understands that it is the people of our country who make it great, and unless we take care of the people first, we'll never be successful in maintaining our greatness. Taking care of the people means providing healthcare for everyone. It means keeping the environment clean, safe and preserved. It means great schools and great jobs. It means improving the lives of families, rather than lining the pockets of big business, or big politicians. It means taking care of each other here, and around the world. We're all in this together.”

Carol is sitting next to me at the Bloggers' Row table. She is here as a special guest of Take Back America. We talked...

Hot on the heels of our coverage of The Yearly Kos Convention in Las Vegas, we are continuing our reporting of the best political happenings.

Watch this space for our first live blogpost from convention, opening this morning in Washington, DC.

In the meantime, I hear Dick is hanging out, waiting for Robert Redford to stick his head in the door. Poor Dick--he gets all the crappy assignments, doesn't he?

[Editor's note: The Congressional Progressive Caucus held an ad hoc public hearing on Capitol Hill today addressing the question: Would war with Iran help or hurt U.S. national security?]

Rep. Barbara Lee opens the session by reminding us that she proposed HRes 82, which disavows pre-emption as a foreign relations approach. She proposes that we are heading towards pre-emption with Iran. Iran is heading towards a quagmire and "This is not an administration that can be trusted".

She points out no oversight hearings have been held on pre-emption on Iran and ask "how can we force these to happen? We want the truth told, in keeping with our Constitutional responsibilities."

The goal for today: Prevent another misguided war and address pre-emption.

Members and speakers: Rep. Lynne Woolsey

Members who are here: Manuel Becerra, Jim McDermott, Chris Van Hollen, Rush Holt, Jan Schakowsky, Steve Rothman

First speaker:

Professor Samantha Power

Professor Power is Former Executive Director of the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy and author of the widely acclaimed, thought-provoking book entitled “A Problem from Hell: America and the Age of Genocide.” She will address: The Use of Force and Key Questions About the Bush Doctrine of Preemptive Warfare in the Post 9/11 World. Pulitzer for nonfiction, Books Critics Nonfiction and Council on Foreign Relations.

She is talking about pre-emption in the context of genocide. She wrote a book about the major responses of the US to genocide over the 20th century. The response has generally been one of apathy.

How many saw the NY Times cartoon showing a protest, with a two-sided sign; one side said "Get out of Iraq" and the other side said "Get Into Darfur"...Well, that's what we see over and over.

She makes four points:

1. On the non-use of force in service of our values: Lessons of 20th C. genocide: looking at it allows us to isolate how we act when "mere" values are at stake, and otherwise -- the toolbox we have of diplomacy, denunciation, prosecution, coalitions, sanctions, etc., stays shut. Exceptions occur when the nexus of international and domestic political costs (Darfur and Balkans are examples), but in any case the response is both spasmodic and reactive. Eventually, the hammer comes down. Also, historically there has been no domestic political price for early response. Weakness begets weakness politically.

2. American power: In the old days we measured power by stash; the GNP, military and economic power. The Republican party does not know that true power is measured in influence. Credibility counts as well. Power is measured by competence also--Katrina response affects the perception of the US's competence around the world. They also see we cannot finish what we set out to do. We need to recalibrate our words and reframe.

3. It's not just us -- that is, issues of competence and legitimacy -- there's a void on the international stage right now -- the welfare of humans need to be taken seriously. The Khaddafi article in New Yorker - Khadaffi's son was asked about what they would do without an army if Egypt attacks them". His response: "Why should Libya have an army; the US will defend us." Meanwhile, there are no takers for protection forces in Darfur.

Today in front of the White House, we have soothing rain, bright sun, rainbows, and heart-filled spirits, or spirit-filled hearts, or filled spirit-hearts...

You get the picture. In case you don't:

Photo by Sam Utne / Spectral Q
The aerial image was designed by John Quigley and organized by CODEPINK: Women for Peace, hundreds of mothers, grandmothers and their families send a Mother's Day message to the White House: Mom says NO WAR.

(That's my body; on the right side of the "y" in "says"; Dick is the bottom of the "s" in that word, and Larry is the very end of the "r" in "WAR"! But you could all tell that, right?)

Rev. Yearwood talks about the links between Katrina and Iraq. His message: we have to conquer racism first.

Dahlia Wafsi shares what it is like in Basra when rockets are flying by you--from the British headquarters

Andy Shallal fed everyone--amazing job!

Everyone in front of the White House just an hour ago.

Iraq War Veterans Speak Out

Can you find Dharma's Mom in this photo?

Medea Benjamin leads us in a rousing "I Ain't Gonna Study War No More"

An almost full moon rises over the heart-filled circle in front of the White House.

We will be going back soon. It's remarkable. Hope these photos help you touch this moment.

GETTING READY

THE DRESS SAYS IT ALL

JILL SOBULE? WARMING UP

JODIE, MEDEA, AND GAEL GET IT GOING

It's a gorgeous day and the Mall is packed. Finally, an issue everyone can get behind. The crowd is diverse and international.

Here is the first person we ran into:

That's Elie Wiesel, holocaust survivor and spokesperson against torture.

"As a Jew, I'm here because when we needed people to help us, nobody came," Wiesel, the 1986 Nobel Peace Prize winner, told the applauding crowd. "Therefore, we're here."

Music is playing, the kids are off taking photos and getting local color--we will check in here as we can.

We've all been here before, but perhaps not quite so soberly or aware. David Swanson is being interviewed on WPFW, and he is telling Verna Avery Brown that today is about "putting a face on the war".

Are we ready to see those faces?

Keep coming back and we'll discuss it.

The organizers planned for 5000 but 40,000 filled the streets, and not a single arrest was made. It was life-changing to experience this and to know that this was happening all over the country. These photos help speak for me. If our country is inclusive enough to reject the Sensenbrenner bill, I could feel patriotic for the first time in awhile. This also taught me alot about the true meaning of family values. We have so much more than we realize in this country, and there is enough for all. Wedges are driven between us, but warfare and pay raises to CEOs dwarf what it would cost for all of us to have a decent standard of living. I am so proud to live in a multicultural nation of hard-working people, a nation of immigrants, a place where people can still dream.

Many of you know that I continually encourage us to act publicly. There are a number of reasons for this, despite the occasional feeling that it is a lonely chest-beating dance:

It makes those who act feel like we are doing SOMETHING, no matter how small, as Howard Zinn continually reminds us.

It encourages others who merely watch and lets them know they are not alone.

It emboldens some to act in even smaller ways but it begins a journey for them.

It sends a message to the powers-that-be that people are not really asleep and we are paying attention.

Also, that we are armed with the truth.

So it is with renewed hope that I share the following announcement from Code Pink:

Dear CODEPINK Activist,

Mother's Day is often seen as if through a soft-focus lens -- a sentimental day of cards and flowers and frills. It has a surprisingly radical history, however. Just as International Women’s Day, March 8, started as a day for women to rise up for peace and justice, so did Mother’s Day in the US begin with Julia Ward Howe’s inspirational 1870 Proclamation against the carnage of the Civil War:

Arise then...women of this day! Arise, all women who have hearts!… Our husbands will not come to us, reeking with carnage, For caresses and applause. Our sons shall not be taken from us to unlearn All that we have been able to teach them of charity, mercy and patience. We, the women of one country, Will be too tender of those of another country To allow our sons to be trained to injure theirs." From the voice of a devastated Earth a voice goes up with our own. It says: "Disarm! Disarm!

Julia goes on to exhort women to leave their homes and gather for an “earnest day of counsel” to figure out how “the great human family can live in peace.” It’s time to take Julia’s words to heart and bring them to fruition in the world. Bouquets of spring flowers may be lovely, but lasting peace is the greatest way to honor all mothers -- past, present and future. Read the rest of Julia's Proclamation here.

Join us this Mother's Day weekend, May 13-14, in Washington DC as we gather for a 24-hour vigil outside the White House. Bring your mother, your children, your grandmother, your friends, your loved ones. Come for the whole vigil (4pm Saturday to 4pm Sunday) or for a few hours! We’ll sing, dance, drum, bond, laugh, cry and hug. We’ll write letters to Laura Bush to appeal to her own mother-heart, and read them aloud. We’ll discuss new ideas for ending the war and building peace. In the final two hours, from 2-4pm on Sunday, we’ll be joined by some amazing celebrity actresses, singers, writers--and moms. For more information and a schedule of events to help you plan your trip, check out the Mothers' Day page on the CODEPINK website. If you can’t join us, you can create or join a Mother's Day activity in your own community. For ideas to help you plan an action check out the resources section of the Mother's Day page.

And whether you’re in the US or overseas, please consider writing a letter to Laura Bush to ask her how she, as a mother, can continue to support a war that is leaving scores of American and Iraqi mothers bereft. Send your letters to laurabush@codepinkalert.org, we’ll deliver them en masse; we'll also take the most compelling letters and turn them into a book, “Letters to Laura.”

Let’s make this Mother’s Day, May 14, one where we heed Julia Ward Howe’s original call to action. Let’s come together to build the world we want for our children --and our mothers.

******

Of course, men and those who are NOT mothers can consider participating in these actions -- we all HAD mothers. Think about 5 million PARTICIPANTS in this 24-hour project. Think about doing whatever you can do to deliver your personal point of view to the White House.

It's a democracy, as long as we say it is, and as long as we ACT within it.

All photos by Dick Bell and Karen Bradley.

Ann Wright, "Hope comes from your feet."

Dr Entisar Mohammad Ariabi told us about how many doctors have been killed and how many have left Iraq, leaving a huge gap in medical care, especially for women.

HR 4437 is a bill that was protested by thousands yesterday at the Capitol. Learn more about its lovely provisions here: http://tinyurl.com/fsndp

The Democracy Cell Project is reporting live from the Capitol, and will be doing so all evening.

WASHINGTON D.C.-Live Blogging the SOTU, and the Alternative SOTU happenings around Washington DC from today's activities and the plans for the evening events.

Karen is reporting in to us right now.

She is standing directly front of the Capitol. A cold wind is blowing in Washington tonight. Interestingly enough, there are about 14 FEMA trucks between the protesters and the Capitol itself. It's possible, though hard to believe, that these trucks somehow got lost on their way to provide relief in Louisiana, for what other purpose could they be here, when help is still so desperately needed there?

It's sadly heartwarming to see that flags are flying at half-mast in observance of the death of civil rights icon Coretta Scott King. To the program tonight for the Alternative SOTU, we have added a bagpiper who will be playing Amazing Grace at the beginning of the event, to honor Mrs. King's memory.

Right now nationally known performers Chris Chandler and David Roe are setting up the and sound checking their instruments. They will be contributing spoken word and musical performances this evening, along with geurilla poets, jazz musicians, folk musicians, a few tap dancers (and you thought they were all tap dancers in Washington were members of Congress, busily answering corruption charges), along with The Rhythm Workers Union, who will be bringing in the "mother drum ship". We're not quite sure what a "mother drum ship is", but it is certain to be more interesting than watching Mrs.Sob Sister Alito in the gallery sitting with the self-styled Laura "I AM a Desperate Housewife" Bush.

Earlier today, Karen wandered through many alternatives to the State of the Union. One highlight of the afternoon was the large "Impeach Bush" sign being driven around the neighborhood, courtesy of The Velvet Revolution.

Gold Star Mother Cindy Sheehan is doing many events today and Karen has run into her several times, and can report that it's much warmer in Venezuela than Washington, in more ways than one.

As the day wore on, it became clear that more people than ever before, are coming out of their homes and into the street to protest this president's policies and the lies and deceptions he and his administration have used to sell them to an unwitting, and sadly, and unquestioning public. But the public of years before, is not the public this administration will be facing this evening. The public is sending this President a message-his popularity is at 39% for a reason. People are angry, dissatisfied, and remember the sixteen words from the State of the Union of two years ago. And they remember that they were lied to. And the anger and the questions have just begun.

The limosines are beginning to arrive, carrying the scions of political power once more behind the gates, and away from We the People. But not for long.

Evening has fallen in Washington, and the perfume of dissent is sweeping briskly through the air.

Written and reported by Karen B. and Casey Morris, The Democracy Cell Project

[Editors Note: Cross-posted at The Daily Kos. There will be live blogging of the SOTU this evening beginning at 8:45 here on The Democracy Cell Project Blog, and in the IRC Chat Room. Please come join us.]

KAREN WILL BE LIVE BLOGGING GORE'S SPEECH BEGINNING AT NOON (EST).

CSPAN will also be showing the broadcasting the event live:

The American Constitution Society and the Liberty Coalition host a speech by Fmr. Vice Pres. Al Gore at the DAR Hall in Washington. Gore speaks about the limits of executive power, the issue of monitoring domestic communications and the authorization of the use of torture in the war against terrorism.

Please join us for this event on the blog or in the IRC chatroom.

Blog item written by Casey Morris and Suz Krueger.

David Swanson

Cliff Kindy and Kevin Zeese

Lila Rajiva

John Judge

I was late to our Town Hall event because I had a houseful of guests, so unfortunately I missed Congressman Jim McDermott. I did arrive in time to see the giant "Backbone" puppet exiting the Seattle Labor Temple. A woman asked me, "Is there a giant Backbone around the corner?" and I replied "Yes, I just saw one." I was quite familiar with the Giant Spine from Vashon Island, WA, having seen it around locally at various events and also at the DNC Convention, Summer 2004. Each vertebrae contains a plank for a progressive platform, and awards are given to political figures (and courageous citizens). I was glad to join the colorful procession (complete with percussion) and we carried the Backbone like some kind of crazy political Chinese dragon! We went first to KIRO (Fox outlet) and then to KOMO, and when no one came to the door, we taped our Letter to the Editor of each paper, with demands for media transparency and balance. We did this in the shadow of the Space Needle.

For more information, see http://www.backbonecampaign.org. (The Backbone Campaign is a grassroots effort to embolden citizens and elected officials to stand up for progressive values. We are expanding the political dialogue by providing creative tools for citizens and the progressive movement. The backbone symbolizes an interlocking agenda, a coalition, and the personal courage necessary to fight for a future worthy of our children.)

Here I sit, in a Cosi's in Northern Virginia, with an incredible group of activists from After Downing Street, the World Can't Wait, Progressive Dems and other groups, talking about the full array of actions coming up over the next few months. This is the belly of the beast, and the energy and commitment to turning this country around is palpable.

We are about to hear John Murtha. I will update this piece as I can.

Just a reminder to everyone here: the DCP is a place to teach and learn about democracy and democratic (small "d) practices and principles. All comments in that direction are appreciated.

Check today's front page to see how you can get involved with bringing our country back. You are empowered to speak truth to power, and to act in concert with others. Let's go.

*****

I just walked around this now-VERY-packed room to ask people what they hope to hear tonight. Responses:

Lois: "I want to hear we are getting out quickly." Jug: (her husband): "I want to hear from a strong Democrat." They are from Wyoming.

Tom and Elaine from Virginia: "We want to hear that Murtha has support from Congress."

Jack from Alexandria: "That Dems in Congress can begin the groundswell of resistence--getting out of this damnable war."

Susan from Virginia: "I want to hear what he saw in Iraq. He's been there."

Mary from Virginia: "I want to know why there are no young people here. This is about a war and they are affected."

John, in a wheelchair, a Catholic Worker: "I want to hear about the U.S withdrawing from Iraq."

Stan, from Falls Church: "I want an action plan. What is he going to do? dates? strategy?

David Swanson: "The best would be that these two Congressman support ending the occupation completely: no permanent bases, no rescue forces, no concessions to the idea that illegal occupation is acceptable. If I'm REALLY lucky--step out in support of holding the Bush Administration responsible; support Rep. Conyers' House Resolution 635."

Yesterday I ran into the FEMA protest at the corner of Independence and 1st. Led by the Rev. Yearwood, the determined group headed down the street towards the House Office Buildings.

Several were Hurricane Katrina survivors and the Rev. gathered them around for a prayer once they arrived at the HOB.

He said, "FEMA has made a disaster of disaster relief. Don't turn the Gulf Coast into Disneyland. Fix the water, the lights, the hospitals."

He said, "Point relief, not fingers."

I have heard the Rev. Yearwood on a number of occasions lately, and he is a pretty powerful and impassioned speaker. Today it occurred to me just how committed he is. His voice can ring and it can chill. He is a poet and a soul catcher, a fighter and a minister of peace. Keep your eye (and ear) out for him; he will be traveling around the country soon.

The next meeting was a planning meeting with several groups for a mobilization in late April. Questions abound and are not answered yet: should there be one action in one place or in several places across the country? Should it be focused on the entire Bush administration, Congress, or one issue, or many issues, all of which are intertwined and inform each other?

What becomes clear to me as I attend and listen and share my own perspectives is that so many of us are aching for a solution. It is painful to see the loss of freedoms, the arrogance, the spin, and especially the lies that are told in support of a regime that seems to be doing its best to eliminate democracy. But it is heartening to hear that, even though we may not all be on the same page all the time, that tactics and strategies are only part of the picture. The picture also includes passion, attention, formidable knowledge, and a breadth of concerns. I was touched, as I listened to the discussions today, that so many of us care about so many of us.

I was raised in a geeky family. In terms of popular culture, this meant that we eagerly awaited the announcement of the winners of the Nobel Prizes with the exact same eagerness as we watched the beautiful, the breathless and the tearful accept an Academy award or the Miss America crown.

As an adult, I still eagerly await the announcement of the Nobel Prize winners, but now I also eagerly await their Nobel lectures. I crave more insight into these exceptional minds. Sometimes, it's the first time we get such access, and often it is the only time.

So when Harold Pinter was selected earlier this year as the winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, I thought, "Well, that's going to be one damn interesting lecture." I thought that because I have long been a fan of Pinter's work. His literary work to be sure, but I mean his other work. His political work. I felt certain that this would be the thrust of his speech. And the man did not disappoint.

If you wish to hear the lecture for yourself, click here, and follow the link for high or low band-width. You will need RealPlayer. If you wish to read the text, click here.

For those that wish to do neither, I will hit a few of the highlights below of his lecture, titled, "Art, Truth, and Politics".

It was a chilly but beautiful day and a good day to help save the environment.

My friend Bert has just put up a diary at Kos which shows people in Minneapolis braving the cold to do just that, at DailyKos.com. See here the global march organizer's site (UK). Karen has had this on the front of the DCP site, with local events: http://3dec2005.org/United-States. (See also Climate Change Protests Worldwide).

Protesters from 32 countries united for the first whole-earth demonstration to fight global warming. This protest coincided with the 10-day UN conference in Montreal, which will set the new plan once the Kyoto Treaty expires in 2012.

The march in downtown Montreal was the largest. The London protest passed the offices of Tony Blair, Exxon Mobil, to the American and Australian embassies and there was an address by George Monbiot. Similar protests were held from Helsinki to Seoul.

In US, fuel-efficient cars rallied round the White House. In New Orleans, there was a "Save New Orleans" street party in the French Quarter. Other US events were held from Boston to LA. 600,000 Americans signed a petition to urge the Bush Administratoin to help slow global warming.The Arctic Inuit demanded action to save their ice caps.

Other countries that participated:
Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Peru, Phillipines, Portugal, Romania, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, Uganda, United States, Venezuela.

The Conference in Montreal has represntatives attending from 189 countries and much time will be spent trying to persuade America, a huge per capita polluter and consumer, to join up. The US did not ratify the Kyoto treaty, even though 35 industrialized nations did, and Britain has backslid on its commitments despite being a big industrial polluter, producing 25% of carbon emissions. Australia is another isolate nation who will not play along. By 2050, China and India are projected to be the biggest polluters, so the new plan needs to include them in a proactive way.

As the Independent reports, there is a long way to go.

"Even the original Kyoto agreement is failing to meet expectations. In 11 European Union countries emissions have grown, not shrunk. In Japan, emissions are nearly 18 per cent above target while in Canada - host of this week's meeting - the gap is almost 30 per cent."

"Despite hopes among the Canadian and EU delegations, led by the British presidency, that the Bush administration can still be coaxed into the talks process, Washington has already bluntly ruled out any new commitments - pointing instead to a voluntary undertaking to cut greenhouse emissions by 18 per cent by 2012."

"Instead the only proposal creating a buzz around the conference building this week was the idea, championed by Papua New Guinea, for wealthy countries to pay developing nations to preserve rainforests by not cutting down trees. The loss of tropical forest accounts for 20 per cent of carbon emissions by reducing the amount of carbon dioxide filtered from the air."

from TruthOut reprint:

"If he (Bush) thinks (Hurricane) Katrina was bad, there are a lot worse hurricanes on their way if he doesn't change his policy," Britain's former Environment Minister Michael Meacher told demonstrators outside the US embassy in London.

Health experts at the UN conference said Friday that global warming is responsible for as many as 150,000 deaths annually around the world.

In my own area (Pacific NW), global warming may be devastating, as we lose mountain snows that bring us water.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2001857961_warming14m.html

We're one year old today!!! Exactly one year ago today, the Democracy Cell Project opened for blog business and Dick Bell welcomed us all with these words...

Every day, we will be here for you, to help and guide you when you have problems, and to learn from your own organizing efforts, whether you have setbacks or successes.

Please take some time out today to look back on this past year and tell us what has worked well, what hasn't worked so well, and what the DCP has meant to you.

The limos had to sneak up the side alley--he skulked out and into the AEI building...

Code Pink had a banner...and the media responded.

Gael Murphy read the letter you may have signed at http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/chalabi

And last, but not least, OUR PRESIDENT and VICE-PRESIDENT at the American Enterprise Institute. Wave hello, kids!

After uploading the earlier photos, I returned just in time to see everyone lined up along the alleyway. Gael was giving Chalabi a piece of her not inconsiderable mind...

And then they were coming out, they jumped in the cars and came past us--all except for the black limo that went back down the alley to 18th Street...Wave goodbye, kids!

Here are two preparatory articles I'd like to share, one old and one new, but then scroll down to the "drink ideas" section and start brainstorming for tomorrow night when the indictments have come down.

In August 2003, I sent my husband and son to Shoreline Community College in Seattle to hear a panel which included Ambassador Joe Wilson, since I could not get back here in time to attend. It was there that Wilson made the now-famous comment about "frog marching" Rove out of the White House. We've waited two years and it could finally happen! Here is investigative reporter Ric Anderson's account from the Seattle Weekly, from that time:

http://www.seattleweekly.com/features/0543/051026_news_josephwilson.php

Last night, I once again missed Ambassador Joe Wilson in Seattle, almost on the eve of the indictments, because I attended the Green Lake vigil for the 2000th death in Iraq. Here is the account from The Stranger, our other weekly, by Eli Sanders, who I consider my surrogate for this time.

Ezcerpt:

I had gone to the blogs first thing when I awoke too. When I didn't find news of any indictments—Karl Rove was still a free man? Scooter Libby too?—I thought about calling Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald and confessing to the crime myself, just to relieve the tension. Inside the penthouse suite, the man who triggered what has become the political suspense thriller of the moment—one that has sucked in not only my companion and me, but also most everyone I know—was signing copies of his book, The Politics of Truth, for the suede, silk, and cashmere set of liberal Seattle. People told him over and over: "Thank you so much." They were thanking him for writing an Op-Ed in the New York Times in July of 2003, titled "What I Didn't Find in Africa."

Now on to the drinks, which will be served at the Indictment Party at a local establishment downtown, but this is an idea which could work anywhere and we deserve it!

THE JUDITH MILLER, so strong you'll forget where you ever heard the name Valerie Plame (or, if you actually heard the name as "Valerie Flame," and wrote it down in your notebook that way, making it hard to claim you remember nothing, this drink will cure you of any inconvenient memories of who told you to write the name down that way in the first place).

THE FITZGERALD, a straight shot of Irish whiskey, in honor of our straight-shooting special prosecutor.

THE SCOOTER SHOOTER (AKA The Scooter Shooter), which will of course involve Tequila.

THE GEORGE W BUSH, a nonalcoholic beer followed by "a Texas-sized shot of straight whiskey."

THE VALERIE FLAME, a flaming shot of a fancy, sophisticated, and currently top-secret substance.

As you can see, some of our drinks are still in the conceptual stages. If you have ingredient suggestions or ideas for other drinks ("The Ambassador" Joseph Wilson anyone?) post them here.

Last night we found ourselves at a remarkable event: a planning session with Code Pink, Military Families Speak Out, United for Peace and Justice, DC Antiwar Network, the World Can't Wait's Travis Morales, Cindy Sheehan, Ann Wright, and others, all sitting around a big table at Busboys and Poets (currently THE social destination for the antiwar/peace movement in DC!).

Andy Shallal puts his head together with Cindy Sheehan

I'm not reporting on the meeting so much as sharing what we are all learning as we go along (for specifics on the outcome of the meeting, see the press advisory on the front page of this website).

It is never easy for organizations to work together, and each representative has to go back to the home organization for final approval of joint efforts. But the process was instructive and worth sharing.

Ann Wright and Travis Morales

We began (after introductions, and cheers for Ann Wright's shout-out from the Congressional gallery last week to Condileeza Rice) by setting the goals for the week: Cindy spoke eloquently about the meaning of the 2000th American death. Others brought up the Iraqi dead, the wounded, and the fact that George Bush would be having a session today with spouses and wives of dead soldiers; and that became the focus for today's actions.

We discussed the need for a beginning, middle, and end to each day and for the overall four day event.

The people present had tons of ideas about ways to drive home the messages; the challenge became to sequence those ideas in a way that amplified the messages and did not undercut them with clever but divergent concerns. It is so easy for progressives to be all-inclusive, but we need to adhere to the discipline of assuring that just the right messages get out and that messages are not stumbling over each other.

It felt rather like being in the room with a lot of artists--beginning with brainstorming all the images and ideas for a work, then the more difficult process of sequencing those ideas, losing some along the way that really belong in another work, adding new ones as the particular moments become clearer.

Over the years I have found collaborative work requires patience, perspective, clear guiding principles, and good souls. Last night we had all that, and it was good.

Christine and her brand-new Code Pink t-shirt

What is going on in your towns this week? How can you help to amplify and make visible the work that is going on in front of the White House?

As commentor Spinnaker noted below in the previous thread, Lindsay Beyerstein of the blog, Majikthise, held a fundraiser a short time ago so she could travel to Texas and cover the Tom DeLay perp walk and arraignment.

Having reached her fundraising goal, Lindsey was at the event yesterday and has posted her photo gallery and Amanda's account of the proceedings on her (sic) blog here.

Aside from Tom Delay's maniacally beaming mug shot, I have yet to see any other photos of this historic event in any of the major news outlets. Nice work, Lindsay, and thank you for giving us the insider's view.

Listening intently, yesterday

A few hours ago, in front of the White House, The World Can't Wait protesters sponsored a press event on the theocratic takeover of the U.S government.

Speaking today were:
Rev. Luis Barrios, assistant clergy at the City University of New York
Rev. Phil Wheaton, Episcopal co-pastor, Community of Christ, Washington DC
Rev. Graylon Hagler, Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, Washington DC

Rev. Wheaton and Rev. Barrios

I spoke with them, asking some of the questions that I thought bloggers might want to ask:

Me: Rev. Barrios, what will the actions of worldcantwait.org accomplish?

The misty air cleared just as the van pulled up to the curb at the spot we used to call "Monica Beach". There were the members of the fourth estate, sitting under their umbrellas, waiting...waiting...numbingly bored...

Out jumped several...condoms. The condoms began chanting "Some things should never leak!".

Led by Carrie and Gail, the condoms ambled around and the press were all over them like a rug.

Several others distributed condoms:

Everyone seemed to enjoy the event, including the press, but especially the people exiting the courthouse. I would, in general, describe the mood as *suddenly gleeful*. Thanks to Code Pink, The League of Pissed Off Voters, and the Ruckus Society, many minds were saved today from total dissipation and annoyance at having to sit around and wait for the small-minded to emerge and refuse to answer questions.

In these dark days, we need a moment of levity, a glimpse of sunnier days to come, and some laughs. Thanks, Neocondoms!

Share with us our part of the world

There are so many things we are looking at here at DCP: the daily corruption that becomes more and more apparent, our concern for the next Supreme Court nominee, and two wars that grow increasing deadly and unnecessary. Stop for a moment on this beautiful fall afternoon and look around you. The trees are starting to turn here in our part of the world, back East they are in their full glory. It's time for all those great fall fairs and events. It is there, in shared community, that the best of America shines. It is this shared community that makes all the work of democracy worthwhile.

We'd like to share with you a few pictures of the biggest event in our state. At great cost to his golf game ABQJohn took these pictures of the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. It’s the largest event of its kind in the country. Founded in 1972 it has grown into one of the most famous events in ballooning. This year we play host to two major races for gas balloons, which fly higher and faster than the hot air balloons. The balloons are spectacular, with many individuals and corporations attempting to outdo the next one for the biggest, most colorful designs. There's Smoky the Bear, the Wells Fargo stagecoach, and, for the first time this year, the world's largest can of dog food, Alpo of course. Enjoy, and take the time to enjoy the shared community in your part of the country.

Posted by Ladytechie

Last night Cindy Sheehan spoke at the University of Maryland--a large community of diverse opinions on every issue.

But this semester, there appeared a small cohort of student activists who understand what it takes to create change and bring justice to our country.

Monday night, they slept outside, in the rain (subsequent pre-timed sprinklers went off, adding to the overall cooling effect)in an act of solidarity with Cindy and the Crawford peacemakers.

Suz and I spent the afternoon at the Peace Festival site, at the corner of 17th and Constitution, helping the staff and volunteers of Operation Ceasefire set up the stage and tents for Saturday and Sunday’s activities. Well, we were very encouraging to those who were doing the heavy lifting anyway!

We first ran into Tina, who was serving up food for the volunteers:

From Victoria:

Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (D-CA) issued a statement this morning calling on members of Congress to devise a plan to bring the troops home from Iraq.

The hearing is meant to begin the process of creating a roadmap for peace in Iraq. It is not meant to endorse any one exit strategy, but to break the silence on Capitol Hill surrounding this subject.

The hearing room is packed and many members of the media are in attendance. I was initially directed to the overflow room, but wanted to be in the hearing room itself. After calling Congresswoman Woolsey's office, her staff kindly directed me to the hearing room. As soon as I arrived, the Congresswoman's Director of Communications, Susannah Cernojevich, approached me and escorted me into the hearing room so I could take photographs (to be posted later). I'd like to thank her for her help.

I arrived in time to hear DCP supporter, Andy Shallal, giving testimony on the reality in Iraq during the occupation. He recounted the details of the kidnapping of his fourteen year old nephew, gas shortages, housing problems, security issues, lack of electricity and jobs. Andy says if you ask an Iraqi what the most important issues are facing the country, he will NOT tell you it's writing a brilliant constitution.

Mr. Shallal continued his testimony by discussing the concept of winning the hearts and minds. He pointed out the critical difference between crushing the insurgency and diffusing the insurgency, concluding that a plan to engage the leaders of the insurgency in dialogue would lessen their ability to recruit new members.

More to come...

If I were to characterize today’s gathering outside the White House, by identifying one single cause, one single thing that has made these Americans angry, I’d be hard pressed to do so. There are a lot of different people here today, and they are here for a lot of different reasons.

Many of them are motivated by the massive governmental failure that the world witnessed with the Katrina disaster.

The crowd gathers

It’s clear that some people here also see the Katrina debacle as yet another blow to the already reeling masses of American “have-nots.” It has been a banner year for the have-nots. They have taken hit after hit from the haves and have-mores that are the President’s self-identified base.

“SHAME ON BUSH,” the crowd screams. “FIRE BROWN!” “IMPEACH BUSH”

Signs ask “Where Does the Buck Stop?” Good question, that…

Today is the day that the real work begins. Summer is over, and we are all back to work. Even Congress has a full agenda.

Here at the DCP, we have a full agenda as well. Let's update:

1. Several of us are working in various capacities to help out Katrina victims. Let's get those boxes off to Houston, Covington, Gulfport, Biloxi--wherever they can do the most good. Keep the donations going to Veritas' colleagues. http://www.cgmahq.org/

2. Barbara Lee's Resolution of Inquiry (Iraq War lies) has 61 members of Congress already signed on. This includes at least one Republican. A vote in committee will come between Sept. 6 and Sept. 15. Whether or not your Member serves on the International Relations Committee, they can sign on to co-sponsor the Resolution. They come back to work on Tuesday. You can call them first thing!
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/?q=node/902

3. It is not too late to write Letters to the Editor or even Op-Eds for your local newspaper. Keep these short and to the point; back up any claims with serious reliable information. Suggested topics: global warming and the Kyoto Agreement, depletion of coastal wetlands and the effects on hurricane and other storm damage, the role of governance in our lives, why President Bush should listen to Cindy Sheehan, etc.

George Bush may want to take a quick vacation somewhere, anywhere, from September 24-26, unless he wants to spend the weekend surrounded by what is shaping up to be the most important demonstration against the Iraq War since he launched the invasion.

The energy was almost palpable at tonight’s meeting of the United for Peace and Justice mobilization for September 24-26. More than two-thirds of the people present were there for the first time, ready to staff up a rich series of marches, concerts, rallies, festivals, and civil disobedience.

[Ed. Note: Bumping this up so we can add to it throughout the day and keep thinking about follow-up]

Note how often in this century we have been surprised by the sudden emergence of a people's movement, the sudden overthrow of a tyranny, the sudden coming to life of a flame we thought extinguished. We are surprised because we have not taken notice of quiet simmering of indignation, of the first faint sounds of protest, of the scattered signs of resistance that, in the midst of our despair, portend the excitement of change. The isolated acts begin to join, the individual thrusts blend into organized actions, and one day, often when the situation seems most hopeless, there bursts onto the scene...a Movement.

People are practical, they want change but feel powerless, alone, do not want to be the blade of grass that sticks up above the others and is cut down. They wait for a sign, from someone else who will make the first move, or the second. And there are intrepid people who, at certain times in history, take the risk, that if they make that first move others will follow quickly enough to prevent their being cut down. And if we understand this, we might make that first move.
Howard Zinn (via NativeTexan)

*************

So many wonderful stories and photos from Wednesday night--we featured Washington, Albany, and Crawford, but there are many more to share. Here are a couple more:

I just came from the Green Lake segment of the Seattle vigils. There were probably about 300 of us there & 500 at Gasworks Park. When we started, it was sundown & we saw the trees, ducks & fishermen sillhouetted against the lake. Friends met friends, made new friends and as it got darker we lit our candles & walked the three miles around the lake. We were everyone from babes in strollers to elementary kids with handmade signs (such as "less bush, more trees" to skaters to boomers to people my mom's age (mid-70s), all with candles.

The highlight for me was when about 50 people started singing "The Star Spangled Banner" at the top of their lungs, but using only the lyrics "Stop the War, Stop the Waaaaar....Stop the War, Stop the War..Stop the Waaaar..Stop the War, Stop the War, Stop the War. Stop the war stop the war stop the war stop the war stop the waaaaar stop the war, stop the war stop the waaaaar" .. you get the idea. I hadn't seen anything sung with such fervor since Tax Day 2002 when Michael Moore sang the entire Canadian National Anthem at Shoreline Community College.

I ran into a couple of therapists I used to work with, both of whom voted for Bush in 2002 and who are now peace activists - then Josh & Sterling, with whom I "recruited" voters in the gay bars last summer & with whom I'll work again this Sat. and Sun. at Hempfest (don't laugh - we'll be seriously working at the grassroots and voter registration booths).

[Editor's Note: Art has always been a powerful medium for political expression and remains so, perhaps now more than ever. As such, the Democracy Cell Project is pleased to announce a new Saturday morning feature, "Art and Politics". Each Saturday morning, we wil be presenting an item of political expression in art we have discovered or has been brought to our attention. Since we would like to present a range of items, we would also ask your participation. If you come across something that would fit here, please send it to casey@democracycellproject.net. You can submit a blurb with it or not. If we publish it, we will be sure to give you credit for submission. Thank you. ]

This week's submission is from a British graffiti artist, Banksy, who is painting murals on The Wall being built by Israel. Whether you believe that Israel has every right to build this wall for self-defense and to secure its borders, or think the wall is illegal, as some courts have opined, there is little doubt that it is stirring feelings in the region.

This is one artist's acting on his feelings. Some of his work is submitted here. For a tour of his online gallery, please click here.

Window on the West Bank

Indicating why he undertook the trip from London, where he made his name as a 'guerrilla' artist, Banksy's website says the West Bank barrier is "the ultimate activity holiday destination for graffiti writers".


Escapism

(Conversation reported on www.banksy.co.uk)

Soldier: What the f*** are you doing?
Banksy: You'll have to wait until it's finished. Soldier (to colleagues): Safety's off

Unwelcome intervention

Banksy also records on his website how an old Palestinian man said his painting made the wall look beautiful. Banksy thanked him, only to be told: 'We don't want it to be beautiful, we hate this wall. Go home.'

Indy's story of Crawford, with pics:

What took place in Crawford, Texas on August 17, 2005 was nothing less than a profound spiritual experience. All who attended were warm, giving, sincere and deeply moved by the convergence of such great compassion, empathy and understanding.

The only distraction from the whole reverent procession was the mob of reporters, photographers and camera personnel from around the globe…and as one young woman whispered into my ear, seeing my dismay at the ensuing melee, “This is a small price to pay to have Cindy’s voice heard.”

There are no words one can use to adequately describe these moments in time…for time itself seemed to stand still…frozen within a field of human emotion…one could feel the energy as though this communion of souls had transcended this world in reaching out to the fallen.

This was not about publicity…it was about connection. Reaching out with understanding and wisdom in the hopes that all may see the futility of war and injustice we have allowed our nation to impose upon our world.

Front page, The Albany Times Union, Albany, NY, by Danielle T. Furfaro

ALBANY -- The blocks-long procession of protesters walked slowly and silently down Madison Avenue on Wednesday night, heads bowed and hands shielding the flames of small white candles, remaining quiet even when an occasional heckler shouted angrily.

The more than 400 people who gathered at Washington Park and then marched to the Empire State Plaza were among hundreds of thousands who gathered around the country Wednesday evening to show their support for Cindy Sheehan, the mother of a soldier killed in Iraq who has been holding her own vigil outside President Bush's Texas ranch. Sheehan, who says U.S. troops should be pulled out of Iraq, wants Bush to explain why her son, Casey, had to die.

"We get up every morning, listen to the news and hear how many were killed the day before and we worry like crazy," said Michael Gecewicz of Albany. His son Justin, a Marine, has already seen combat in Afghanistan and is scheduled to be deployed to Iraq.

"This is terror for the military families," Gecewicz said.

Those who attended the Albany event, organized by MoveOn.org and various anti-war groups, came from all walks of life. There were ex-military men who had served in Vietnam, mothers whose children are serving in Iraq, and citizens who said they have simply had enough of the "lies and deception" of the Bush administration.

"This country is not controlled by the citizens. It is controlled by the military complex," said 50-year-old Chuck Nasmith of Wynantskill, who held up a large American flag with a peace sign instead of stars. "We need to end this war and get jobs and health care for the people who need it."

There were several signs peppered throughout the crowd, bearing slogans such as "Moms For Peace," "Meet With Cindy" and "He Died for Bush's Lies," which had a picture of Casey Sheehan.

Iraqi native May Saffar, who came to the United States 12 years ago, told the crowd how she initially supported the war, but that the regular horror stories from her family still living in Baghdad convinced her the conflict was wrong.

"This war didn't bring us freedom and democracy," said Saffar, 40, of Clifton Park. "It replaced the terror of Saddam with the terror of the United States."

Across the street from the protesters stood two veterans holding a sign reading "Support Our Troops." They said they felt the need to counter what the anti-war protesters were saying because they feared it would send the wrong message.

"Rather than see them as heroes, they are going to become discredited and dishonored," said Terry O'Neill, a 57-year-old Vietnam veteran from Sharon Springs.

His companion, 53-year-old Paul Dunphy of Schoharie, who said he was severely injured serving in Vietnam, said he feels Bush did his duty by already speaking to Sheehan once several months ago.

"How many times does he have to meet with the person?" Dunphy asked.

But Casey Morris, a member of the Democracy Cell Project, who also was at the protest, said Bush is disrespecting the grieving mother by leaving her waiting outside his ranch while he vacations.

"The President meets any number of times with people who have given large campaign contributions," Morris said. "Cindy has given the largest contribution of all, her first-born."

Locally, protests also were held in places such as Glens Falls, Chatham and Hudson. In Saratoga Springs, more than 300 people paraded down Broadway.

"Since Bush came to power, I've watched a really radical change in American politics take place," said Bradley Russell, 33, who took part in the Saratoga Springs protest and plans to travel to Crawford later this week to hold vigil alongside Sheehan. "She is our Rosa Parks, standing up and saying what everyone else is thinking. Those questions will not stop coming."

By Danielle T. Furfaro, The Albany Times Union

The cellphone rang--it was Fe. Listen to THIS, I said, as I held the phone up.

400 people were singing "We Shall Overcome", with lighted candles, in front of the White House.

The media were there--I expect we will see a little more about these more than 1800 vigils across the country over the next few days.

I was interviewed by Germans, French-Canadians, NBC and Dana Milbank of the Washington Post. We shall see how they process what we said!

The evening began with the lighting of hundreds of candles inside clear plastic cups.

As we gathered across from the White House, the sun lowered and the candles glowed. I began by reading Elizabeth Edwards' letter. The cameras came in closer as I read those words of support.

We had a little silence.

The New York Times is giving some nice coverage to the National Black Theater Festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Here is a small sample. You can read more here.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Aug. 3 - An estimated 60,000 people, nearly all of them black, descended on Winston-Salem this week for the six-day National Black Theater Festival. The event, held every two years here since 1989, is a showcase for black theaters, a networking opportunity for black performers and playwrights and an extended-family reunion of sorts for the fans and celebrities who return time after time from New York, Los Angeles, Newark and Dayton, Ohio.

As the festival, which has a budget of $1.5 million, has grown in this city of nearly 200,000, so has its audience, and organizers estimated that $15 million would be pumped into the local economy. Visitors and local residents could choose from 40 productions, ranging from musicals like "The Jackie Wilson Story (My Heart Is Crying, Crying ... )," about the Detroit rhythm-and-blues singer; to an after-hours show, "Herotica," performed by 3 Blacque Chix, a trio of middle-aged women who talk about sex; to the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "Topdog/Underdog" by Suzan-Lori Parks; to a variety of solo shows.

In a grievous oversight, however, The New York Times failed to make special mention of supremely talented actress and DCP crew member Fe Bongolan, who is appearing at the festival in a production of the Medea Project, Theater for Incarcerated Women.

We hope they correct this error soon.

Yesterday I was invited to observe a gathering of progressive interns in the Capitol. Representatives Dennis Kucinich and Lynne Woolsey spoke to them, along with several representatives of progressive organizations:

Malia Lazu of Cities for Progress

Erika Smiley of Jobs with Justice

David Swanson of After Downing Street

Amy Isaacs of Americans for Democratic Action

The Reverand Lennox Yearwood of the HipHop Caucus

Rep. Kucinich got the meeting off to a passionate beginning by telling the interns that they are already having an impact on the future of democracy just by working inside the walls of Congress.

"It all seems pretty dark now," he said. "We are at war without reason. But we are called upon hold up the light of hope and human dignity and freedom."

"Don't get pulled into pessimism, or the sheer density of Washington. It is divisive here, but that is not how we sustain the world. The pageant of democracy begins when young people come into it and breathe new life into it."

"The country is alseep. The answer is in you."

As I looked around the room, eyes were wide open. SOmeone asked, "Are you going to run again?" He is not sure; he thinks he will at some point. But, he pointed out, the most important reason to run is to influence the debate; to make a difference; to wake people up.

(This is a story from Saturday's events--I am putting it up now because A. It is fun, and B. We need some cheer and creative ideas as we battle along!)

Our old friends, the Billionaires for Bush were also at the Rockefeller Plaza event.

Dr. DeBooks tells me "someone has to do it." (referring to his name) He introduces me to young Al Lowance, a trust fund brat with brand new cufflinks.

I ask them about the Downing Street Minutes, and what effect they think they might have on future economic concerns. "We are thrilled," says the good Dr. "We wanted to look for any course to war. The DSM are an example of our minority rights. Someone needs to stand up for the need to go to war on any pretext, and to lie, steal, and cheat as needed."

Al adds, "We are very grateful to our fellow billionaires on the corporate board at NBC for protecting our rights by staying silent."

DeBooks points out "Look, we came off our yachts to show solidarity with the wealthy 1%. We are a minority too!"

Reporting live from Rockefeller Center--this is Karen. The job just doesn't get any better...

Greetings!

I was unable to blog directly from the Labor Temple but kept my eyes and ears open and rushed home via the first bus possible, to upload my photos and get on-line! (I'll also be cross-posting at http://www.democracycellproject.net,
http://www.backbonecampaign.org & http://www.silencedmajority.blogs.com)

I had always intended to read the Downing Street Memo in full but hadn't completed the task, so the skit - sponsored by the Backbone Campaign - was stunning in its overt plotting behind the backs of the British & American people. The readers wore the costumes and nametags of Jack Straw, Geoff Hoon and other British dignitaries/Neocons.

Tony Blair was played by a puppet that looked like something between a poodle and a lamb.

Bob Fertik opens the event...

Liz Holtzman tells the truth...

Randi Rhodes rolls her eyes, listening to Liz...

Rep. Hinchey on fire...

Randi Rhodes honors Liz Holtzman...

smirkingchimp.com and BobGeiger.com enjoy Randi...

It is a beautiful day in New York City and the mood at Rockefeller Center is upbeat. Everyone seems to understand that this event is part of a long haul--a serious campaign to tell the truth about our government. Individuals with signs and fliers are speaking with tourists and the conversations are substantive.

I am in NYC. Last night, my friend Luis wore a t-shirt that read "We deserve the government we allow." We sat in Central Park and saw the Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company move through memory, speaking and evoking truth and hope.

One small section was about the peroneus, a muscle along the side of the leg, and the use of the "peroneus strike", a method of torture. Bill T. made the connection between joyous moving in community and abuse of each other as humans quite clear.

What will we humans choose? Life and community? Or death and dissolution?

Today is the third anniversary of the Downing Street Minutes.

Today we can ALL help. There are events, live blogging, and disseminating information to the media and we can each do our part!

Over 350 events are planned!
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org

If you are participating in an event, you are encouraged to do more than participate:

BE THE MEDIA!

If you would like a password that will allow you to post reports on the http://www.afterdowningstreet.org website, please send us your name, Email address, and which event you'll be attending or hosting.

Otherwise, simply Email reports as soon as you can tomorrow to david@davidswanson.org

Via Atrios:

Larry Johnson to give Democrats radio address tomorrow morning. Transcript:

"Good morning. I'm Larry Johnson, an American, a registered Republican, a former intelligence official at the CIA, and a friend of Valerie Plame.

I entered on duty at the CIA in September 1985 with Valerie. We were members of the Career Trainee Program. Senator Orin Hatch wrote the letter of recommendation for me which I believe that helped open the doors to me at the CIA.

From the first day we walked into the building, all members of my training class were undercover, including Valerie. In other words, we had to lie to our family and friends about where we worked. We could only tell those who had an absolute need to know where we worked. In my case, I told my wife.

"People are angry", MoveOn's Tom Matzzie told a reporter, as we walked up to the White House today. A larger crowd than expected had taken time off work and made a point of stopping by the brief, but spirited demonstration that was taking place.

We chanted and marched and agreed with each other that Karl Rove needs a pink slip. One showed up:

Our friends at AfterDowningStreet.org are hoping for a large turnout on July 23, as well as more events:

Forty Events on July 23rd

Mourn the Losses, Learn the Truth, and Investigate the Lies

There are currently 40 events planned around the country for Saturday, July 23, the three-year anniversary of the famous meeting on Downing Street. It's definitely not too late to make it 41. Early next week we'll announce these events to the media.

Sign Up to Attend an Event

Sign Up to Host an Event

Get Resources for Your Event

Dramatic Readings of the Downing Street Minutes
These minutes make a nice one-act play, and performing it helps people understand what went on at the meeting.

Here's a straight version.

Here it is with humor added.

Information on a DVD of the Downing Street Minutes.

TakeBackTheMedia.com has a 5-hour 2-DVD set containing the complete hearings and rally in Washington, D.C., on June 16, 2005. This includes every bit of the hearings and the rally, plus Congressman Conyers' delivery of a
letter and 560,000 signatures to the White House, plus interviews of some leaders of the AfterDowningStreet.org coalition. http://web.takebackthemedia.com

News from Downing Street
Cindy Sheehan, on the Mike Malloy Show, talks about her meeting with Bush http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/?q=node/685

Joseph Wilson on Bush Crowd: "A Real Threat to Our Republic"

[Editor's Note: This item was first published this morning, but I have moved it up to the top because I would like it to get further exposure. Having said that, when you finish here, please drop down a thread and check that thread out as well, as it has equally interesting material and comments on it as well. Thanks.]

Last week I learned that George W. Bush would arrive in Minneapolis right after I flew in on my "red eye." My friend Bert (Vets for Peace) asked if I wanted to help "greet" him during my layover here.

Of course, I accepted.

After he picked me up at the airport, we headed to the State Capital in St. Paul where we assembled under the rotunda for a rousing rally and Bert and I did our "paparazzi" thing with our cameras. We then jumped onto a bright yellow schoolbus with Minnesotans for Social Security, a nonpartisan group, and headed to the suburb of Maple Grove, wearing bright yellow t-shirts that said "Hands Off Social Security."

Direct from Karen,

I'm standing here outdoors at the Cannon Building. Boxes with ONE MILLION signatures on petitions are everywhere:

The three people I can see right now are Sen. Hillary Clinton, Rep. Nita Lowey, and Congresswoman Louise Slaughter. All are from N.Y.

There are also a number of adorable children carrying signs.

[Editor's Note: Karen posted this on the last thread and is asking for help from all of you here at the DCP. I moved it to a blog post because we don't have alot of time to get the job done. Thanks for your help and the help of any kids you may know.]

From Karen: I received this in my e-mail today from the group, "Hands Off Public Broadcasting." I am very excited that the fight continues. But I need your help and the help of any kids you know. How to help is at the bottom of this blogpost.

**Norwegian proverb, thanks to NonnyO

If you look closely at that face, you can see the eyes of a man who has spent 41 years standing up to bullies. It is the face of John Conyers, and he is standing at the White House gate, and he is delivering the names of 560,000 of us to the current administration.

He is tired and his voice is raspy. But he is full of steel and joy as well. Next to him are Maxine Waters, Barbara Lee, Sheila Jackson Lee, and they are looking at each other in a quiet, prescient moment.

We all wait.

Two perfectly dressed and coifed young staffers arrive at the gate and take the petitions. They are slightly sullen, as if they have been interrupted from something FUN to come and take this refuse and deal with it. We watch as they bring it all into the guardhouse. We can see them in there, talking. What to do? This is clearly unprecedented.

No one enters the gate. It remains locked.

Today at the Rainbow Push conference I witnessed a stunning event that moved me to tears.

I have heard people say progressives have no passion or conviction, but they were NOT present to hear the TRUTH spill forth from Maxine Water's lips. She offered up A COMPLETE INDICTMENT of BUSH and his administration: each and every person within his administration. And after months of listening to the smears of the propaganda networks, this was particularly inspiring.

Congresswoman Waters was asked to speak about the United States' image in the world. She answered MORE than was asked! And she started by talking about the American people. She said, "The American people are not angry enough. They don't understand what this administration has done. I have watched the media worry about the truths that our chairman has said this week, but Howard Dean forgot to tell you--your president is a liar."

The Always Enterprising Sparrow called in from Chicago to report on the Rainbow Push Coalition Annual Conference she is attending:

I walked in as Jesse Jackson was talking about building a coalition among Asians, Latinos and African-Americans. He wants more grassroots organizations. People need to learn Spanish; they are offering free Spanish lessons at the Rainbow Push Coaliton headquarters in Chicago.

There are several issues that are key to coalition-building, including health care, education, labor, and civil rights. People must come together to guarantee the constitutional right to vote. In 2000, Jackson said, "The third rail is the civil rights rail. Neither party wants to touch the third rail because you can get electrocuted. But the third rail is the one that keeps the train going." Today, Jackson heavily suggested opening up that “third rail”.

Jackson also announced a massive march in Atlanta August 6. The focus will be on collective bargaining rights and other civil rights.

I am very excited.

Most people who know me, tell me I am difficult to recognize in this state, as it tends to look like my normal state, which is generally happy. This is why I am excited--here's the partial list of people I talked to during the TBA Conference about the DCP who will be helping us on various projects in the weeks and months to come:

Howard Dean from this morning:

Casey asks the questions:

Sen. Edwards telling her about Elizabeth: "She's doing great!"

Sen. Edwards listens intently:

And on fire during his speech:

The energy here is as fiery as John Edwards' face reflects. It is palpable and passionate.

We continue to speak about our wonderful activists--YOU--and everyone we tell about the DCP understands immediately that we must grow this idea. The five minutes a day for democracy suggestions always involve what we have been doing: writing to the media and writing to Congress. But even beyond that, people understand the potential for an online community to spread the truth, promote justice, and bring back democracy.

There is a warm feeling about being with so many like-minded folks--but we keep telling the stories of Truth Shall Prevail and oncall and Indy and marc and Mark and DiAnne and Marjorie G. and April and all of us...because this is what democracy looks like!

We have dragged ourselves homeward, after a successful day. Having a bowl of candy and our very cool postcards makes a difference!

Suz explains it all...

Dick ran into an old friend, Greg Moore, who does voter education for the NAACP. He enjoyed telling him about the DCP community and how effective a tool the internet can be in building skills on a national level.

Matt and I talked with the lovely and feisty Donna Brazile:

And the Backbone guys finally got their backbone:

Dick also had a moment with good friends and fellow warriors Ron Rosenblith and Richard Parker (Ron was an advisor to John Kerry back in the day, and Richard is the author of the biography of John Kenneth Galbraith):

At the dinner, Richard spoke about John Kenneth Galbraith, saying "He was right back then and he is right now." He introduced Jamie Galbraith, who accepted an award from the Campaign for America's Future on behalf of his father.

The most inspiring moments of the day were Jamie's statements about his father and what he feels we should be focusing on:

1. Voting rights
2. Peace
3. Truth

So much is at stake right now. It is good to be among the rational, reasonable, and progressive. Tomorrow we hear from Howard Dean and John Edwards--and our surprise is revealed. Please join us; please chime in. We need your voices.

Night, All.

Today we begin our coverage of the Take Back America conference here in Washington DC. Your representatives are Casey, Fe, Suz, Matt, Victoria, Karen, and Dick, with additional help from Barry and Barry's son, Cory, who will be videotaping us as we help aggegrate and advance a return to democracy.

dwahzon (Ann), Marianne, Mark, DiAnne, ABQ John, and others will be working from home to keep the site going and the conversation flowing while we attend.

To follow the schedule, go here. Many "stars" of progressive politics will be present. Go here to read about these. And there will be online video here.

We plan to cover as much as we can for all of you, but we will also be promoting the model we have been developing here at the DCP: Real people doing what we can, as we can. Edge-to-edge actions. A national (international at times!) conversation. The notion of cells interconnecting and creating a large organism that breathes and works from the heart.

We will bring you photos (check the front page, as the photo there will change throughout the day), short reports, and exciting news tidbits. In turn, we ask YOU to post your questions, concerns, advice, etc. from "the field".

We have a SPECIAL surprise coming up--WATCH THIS SPACE for the announcement!

From all of us in Washington today--we love, respect, and care about you all--even those of you we know read, but do not post! We know you are all working hard in your own communities, as we are in Washington today.

The choir will sing out loud these next few days!

FIRST PHOTO:

Vic and Dick

Matt

CASEY RUNS INTO ANTONIO

[Editor's Note: Please send this to all of the college students you know and ask that they forward it to their friends. Thanks.]

Now that they’ve completed their filibuster on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, the students at Princeton University are inviting their fellow students across the nation to pick up the filibuster torch.

As Senators contemplate changing Senate rules to ensure passage of a few radical nominees, students across America are encouraged to start a filibuster of their own. Starting at noon, TODAY, young Americans are going to make their voices heard.

More information on how to start a filibuster can be found at here . Created by Princeton students, the site gives you all the details on how to start talking and keep talking to bring attention to the unprecedented use of the “nuclear option.”

The filibuster is a tool that enables the minority to have a voice in policy making. Don’t let Republicans in Congress destroy this valued part of our system of checks and balances.

Visit www.filibusterfrist.com and find out what your campus can do.

We just got through a panel discussion on how to integrate the technological with the content development for a website. We'll be adding some thoughts from this session to the Forum--Tool Kit soon.

Meanwhile, here is Casey with one of her heroes:

Casey and I are sitting here and looking at various models of connectivity and cellularity. We are hearing about campaigns--how useful the viral nature of the internet can be to convince and demonstrate commitment to a cause.

We will be on and off all day, sharing ideas with all of you--so please write back to us and we can bring a DCP perspective to this event.

Happy Monday! It's an important week and we can all work together to bring change...

UPDATE: LIVE BLOGGING FROM THE FILIBUSTER FRIST EVENT, WASH,DC
11:26AM UPDATE FROM KAREN:

Rush Holt is reminding us that the House of Representatives is there to provide the representation from across the country and that the Senate is constructed to allow the protection of the rights of minorities.

Senator Jon Corzine is now speaking. Rough transcription: " Make sure that the rights of minorities are respected in this country, that every voice is respected. Senator Schumer talked about the differences between NY and WY, 6 million vs 600,000; both have 2 senators. This was put into place to protect right of minorities in every part of this country. ...We are grateful to these students who are standing up and protecting our rights... and maybe missing a few exams."

Congressman Frank Pallone from NJ spoke next; the Princeton filibuster was the topic of conversation on the floor of the House. 7 Representatives spoke out about the filibuster and mentioned the Princeton students.

He said that members of Congress don't believe that the American people care about the filibuster.

ACTION PLAN: Sounds like we need a major wakeup call to ALL members of Congress letting them know we care about the filibuster. Friends, neighbors, co-workers... everyone needs to fax, email or phone and let Congress know that the filibuster is essential to our form of government and that messing with it will not be tolerated.

To find out who you Congressmember is, click here and enter your zip code. You will be able to find all of your contact information for them there as well. For information on who your Senator is, and how to contact him/her, please click here.

The buses have pulled up and the students' 26 hours in front of the Capitol are about to come to an end. It's up to us to carry on with the spirit they've shown us all.

Please honor the committment of the Princeton students with a call, fax or letter to your elected official today and tell them to preserve the filibuster.

UPDATE: LIVE BLOGGING FROM THE FILIBUSTER FRIST EVENT, WASH,DC
11:11AM UPDATE FROM KAREN:

Congressman Rush Holt from NJ was addressing the students. Some counter-demonstrators showed up and started chanting "Up & down". The Fristibuster students chanted back "Checks & Balances".

Then they quieted down when Senator Chuck Schumer from NY began to speak. "... checks & balances, our constitution, is in danger if they invoke the nuclear option..."

Karen also ran into Ari Rabin-Havt from the Kerry Blog.

Also CSPAN cameras are there now but haven't yet verified what or when they would be broadcasting.

Good Morning from slightly overcast DC, where the Princeton students have been going all night long. You can check in on them at their site.

From last night:

I talked with several of the people there about participatory democracy. First of all, know that, like the DCP, there is a wide range of political affiliations among this group. Several say they are Republicans, concerned abut the loss of the minority voice when the pendulum inevitably swings back the other way. Several are Independents, and many were motivated originally by Howard Dean.

Matt is one of the local DC people who was there becuse he was inspired by Dean. He worked hard in the primaries because "I can't leave it up to everybody else." "After Dean lost, it just didn't make sense to stop."

Jen said she didn't get involved until AFTER the 2004 election. "I was totally shocked that Kerry didn't win," she said. She realized she had to get out there and do something. She is a Georgetown Law student, and she suggested the DC trip for the filibustering Princeton students; something they had already been considering.

"Through rain, exams, and dead of night... since April 26th!"
(on the Filibuster Frist website)

Today concludes the 15-day extravaganza in front of the Frist Center at Princeton University. The intrepid kids have been highlighting:

Beowulf in Old English
Readings from "Where the Sidewalk Ends" and US Weekly, while shaving moustache
The entire 'Q' section of Webster's Collegiate Dictionary
Prof Wilczek reading from Einstein's classic papers
The Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Revelation, and Psalms
Improvisational literary interpretation of The Pet Goat
Reading of 3500 digits of pi
Proof of Godel's Incompleteness Theorem
Impromptu rant about how "we're not on anybody's food chain" and "this is 'community action'"
Prof Sam Wang reading from his own work on brain evolution as measured by looking at cerebrotypes and Frankfurt's "On Bullshit"
Poetry in Hindi, and excerpts from Gandhi's autobiography
Congressman Rush Holt reading Aesop's fables
(Go HERE for more!)

Today is the last day, however. Are they giving up? No way. Early tomorrow they head south, to Washington DC, to join student groups from local campuses here in front of the Capitol, where they will continue the Fristibuster for 26 hours. The last hour will be filled by Senators.

Just a little reminder for everyone:

Per CNN, the President's rare, unusual, hardly ever done, once-a- yearish-if-he-feels-like-it press conference has been rescheduled from its original time of 8:30PM-EDT, to 8:00PM-EDT.

Tonight, on the IRC (CHAT ROOM), we will be deconstructing the frames (and maybe a few other things...people..) that President Bush will be using tonight in his attempt to bolster his Social Security debacle.

Join us after 8 pm EST. Discussions and blogging will ensue.

We WELCOME new participants! You have to download a small piece of java software if you do not already have it. The link is provided on the DCP Live Chat page.

If you have trouble logging in, please let the tech staff know HERE.

When last we left our hero for the day, he was waxing eloquent on paybacks for rule-breaking. As in "just retribution".

He continued by pointing out that, interestingly enough, Iraq HAS the filibuster (part of the Democracy delivery package we brought to them, along with...never mind...another story to come). And the filibuster exists there for the same reason as it does here. Al breathed life into Isaiah: "Come, let us reason together."

But we cannot reason, he pointed out, because we are in CRISIS.

(nonverbal moment--watch for it on C-Span later tonight--beautifully timed comic shrug).

WMD--a crisis. Social Security--a crisis. And now federal judges--a crisis. At the end of Clinton-Gore, he pointed out, there were 103 vacancies on the federal courts--the nominees for most blocked by the Republican leadership. Now there are 47. And President Bush has not sent nominees for most of them.

From Karen:

Key tidbits, hot off the Press, beating the wire services:

He was fabulous. The first person who spoke was Sarah Landon, MoveOn member from Baltimore MD, with her ten year old daughter. She stated that the reasons that she wants to stay active are for her daughter's future, our country's future, and as a Mom, she teaches her daughter NOT TO BREAK THE RULES. She introduced Al Gore.

Gore began his speech with a story about how, in the year 2000, the majority did not rule, and that even when we don't like the rules, we are a country of rules, not men. However, what is happening now, he called, "crass partisan decisions". He quoted Aristotle on the virtues of respect for the Rule of Law.

He stated, "If either party is seduced by a lust for power, we lose freedom and democracy." He continued with citations of Hamilton and Madison's writings regarding the independence of judges.

The key message of his speech came next--The reason the Founding Fathers gave the decision about federal judges to the Senate is because the Senate is the repository of deliberative and reflective decision-making. The six-year terms allow for the depth of discussion necessary for a reflective frame of mind, consideration and deliberation to advise and consent, because Federal judges are for life.

Gore said he spoke today, "not as a Democrat, but as an American, to protect the role of Senators from both parties." He then moved into anecdotes of the current leadership's statements from the past, comparing them to their statements now.

Most importantly, he raised the topic of how some right-wing Republicans (most recently at a Washington DC conference called, "Confronting the War on Judicial Faith") have openly discussed defunding and disenfranchising the courts and judges with whom they disagree. He quoted Edwin Vieira's citation of Stalin in a public speech regarding how best to manage the "problem" of judges--"no man, no problem". As a result of death threats to judges such as Viera suggests in his remarks, the judiciary has now become fearful of retribution by the members of the extremist Fristian right wing of the Republican party. After a long and steadying silence, Gore thundered with all due seriousness, "HOW DARE THEY...". The audience erupted into applause and a standing ovation following this remark.

Gore continued, "The Founding Fathers and their forebears escaped despots who would have dominion over out pocketbooks and our souls...Religious freedom is a precious entity, and not a tool to divide and conquer."

He told us that "laws are human creations with our informed consent. Any who act without consent, act unjustly."

He quoted Robert Bolt, author of A Man For All Seasons. The charater, Sir Thomas More speaks to his son-in-law, who had said to him, "No law stands before God". In answering this statement, Gore reminds us of More's reply:

"And when the last law was cut down, and the devil turned on you, where would you hide?"

To be continued...

After Kerry failed to trounce Bush on election night, I didn't think I'd ever go to the Westin Ballroom in Seattle again. Today, however, I played hookie from work to see seven powerhouse women Senators talk to one thousand very enthused people (the majority of them women). They talked to us about our Democratic values and the need to empower more women to take part in government and and for all of us to fight hard for what we believe in. We saw the following Senators:

Senator Barbara Boxer, California
Senator Maria Cantwell, Washington
Senator Mary Landrieu, Louisiana
Senator Blanche Lincoln, Arkansas
Senator Barbara Mikulski, Maryland
Senator Patty Murray, Washington
Senator Debbie Stabenow, Michigan

Pat Wright of the Total Experience Gospel Choir sang "The Star Spangled Banner" and there was not a dry eye in the room. The Senators spoke in succession and had us completely riveted for almost two hours. They planned then to move on to a Town Hall meeting about Social Security, then to fly to Michigan to do the same sort of presentation. Senators Murray and Boxer had just returned from the middle east and were still jet-lagged.

Tonight, at the H2O restaurant, Washington welcomed Howard Dean to the DNC. THe crowd was huge, the energy high, and the attendees mostly new to politics. It was very cool.

I first met Deanna, a military wife, who was attending alone, but who managed to hold up her cellphone during Gov. Dean's speech so her son could hear. She was attending because she is concerned about the draft. Howard did not disappoint her--he came out far more integrated and focused than the last time I saw him in person--just over a year ago. He is more certain of himself and assured of his viewpoint.