Posts tagged with "humanity"

Emergency Meeting in Bogotá Demands Military Action in Gaza

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Today, a critical gathering is underway in Bogotá, Colombia—an emergency ministerial meeting where over 30 states are confronting one of the gravest moral tests of our time: the ongoing genocide in Gaza. As citizens deeply invested in American ideals of justice, freedom, and human rights, this moment demands our attention and active participation.

The Urgent Reality: Gaza’s Defining Test

For months, the world has witnessed an unfolding tragedy in Gaza. Indiscriminate bombing, mass displacement, starvation, and the systematic targeting of essential infrastructure have pushed conditions beyond description. What we are seeing is not merely conflict, but an ideological commitment to extermination, with reports of concentration camps now being built. Existing diplomatic efforts, sanctions, and condemnations, while significant, have proven insufficient to halt these atrocities.

This is where the Bogotá meeting, co-convened by the courageous leadership of Colombia and South Africa, becomes a pivotal opportunity. It’s a chance for states to move beyond rhetoric and towards decisive action.

Beyond BDS: The Imperative for Intervention

While boycotts, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) are vital tools of peaceful resistance, the scale of the crisis in Gaza now necessitates more immediate and protective measures. The experts convening in Bogotá understand this: military intervention, not as an act of war, but as a humanitarian imperative, is increasingly seen as the only realistic way to prevent the imminent extermination of the Palestinian population.

This isn’t about aggression; it’s about protection. It’s about breaking a suffocating siege to allow life-saving aid, enforcing a no-fly zone, disarming military infrastructure that perpetrates violence, and ensuring compliance with international law.

Why This Matters to American Culture and Society: Injustice Anywhere is Injustice Everywhere

For those of us who still believe in the soul of America—a nation founded on principles of liberty and justice for all—the events in Gaza are a stark mirror. Our nation’s foreign policy has a profound impact globally, and as engaged citizens, we have a moral obligation to advocate for policies that align with our deepest values. And what’s happening in Gaza, Palestine is a horrendous genocide and deliberate extermination of Semitic people against the will of We, the People beholden to the American Creed. 

The ongoing genocide challenges the very credibility of international law and the legitimacy of multilateralism. When the International Court of Justice’s warnings go unheeded, and when global bodies are paralyzed by vetoes, it falls to principled states and, crucially, to the collective conscience of humanity, to act. This is not just a Palestinian issue; it is a global moral emergency that tests the very fabric of our shared humanity.

The principle that “in injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere” resonates deeply with the American spirit of social justice and anti-war movements. It calls us to look beyond our borders and recognize our interconnectedness. Ignoring the suffering in Gaza diminishes us all and erodes the foundations of a just and peaceful world we aspire to build.

A Call to Action: Your Voice Matters

The states meeting in Bogotá need to hear from us. They need to know that citizens around the world, including those in America who value justice and peace, are watching and demanding action. This is where the email campaign becomes a powerful tool. By sending a clear, concise message to the representatives attending this crucial meeting, we can help build the confidence among states to take immediate and decisive military action to stop the genocide.

Staying active in the pursuit of justice means more than just sending an email. It means staying informed, engaging in dialogue, supporting organizations working on the ground, and advocating for foreign policy changes that prioritize human rights and de-escalation over conflict and oppression. It means embodying the spirit of freedom fighters who understand that true peace requires confronting injustice head-even when it’s uncomfortable or challenging.

Towards a More Just World: Ending All Wars

The crisis in Gaza is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the urgent need to push for a world where conflict is not the answer. Our pursuit of justice for Palestine is intrinsically linked to the broader goal of ending all wars and fostering a global environment of peace and cooperation. This requires a fundamental shift in foreign policy, moving away from interventionism and towards diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and the upholding of international law.

The Bogotá meeting is a stepping stone towards this larger vision. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate that collective action, driven by moral conviction, can challenge even the most entrenched injustices. Let us seize this moment to amplify our voices, demand accountability, and work towards a future where the horrors of Gaza are never repeated, and where injustice anywhere is met with a resounding commitment to justice everywhere.

Your “Need to Know” and “Take-away” points:

Need to Know:

  • An emergency ministerial meeting is taking place in Bogotá, Colombia, from July 15-16, 2025, with over 30 states attending.
  • The purpose of the meeting is to discuss emergency action to stop Israel’s genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza.
  • The situation in Gaza involves indiscriminate bombing, mass displacement, starvation, and the systematic targeting of infrastructure, with reports of concentration camps being built.
  • Existing diplomatic efforts and sanctions have been insufficient to halt the atrocities.
  • Military intervention is increasingly seen as the only realistic way to prevent the imminent extermination of the Palestinian population.
  • Such intervention would aim to break the siege, facilitate humanitarian aid, enforce a no-fly zone, disarm military infrastructure, and ensure compliance with international law.

Take-aways:

  • The Bogotá meeting is a pivotal opportunity for states to move beyond rhetoric and take decisive action.
  • While BDS is a vital tool, the scale of the crisis necessitates more immediate protective measures like humanitarian military intervention.
  • The events in Gaza challenge the credibility of international law and multilateralism.
  • As citizens invested in American ideals of justice, freedom, and human rights, we have a moral obligation to advocate for foreign policies that align with our values.
  • The principle “injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere” resonates with the American spirit of social justice and anti-war movements.
  • Active participation is demanded from citizens to advocate for policies that align with our deepest values.

Nikki Giovanni: A Legacy of Poetry, Power, and Social Justice in America

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“If now isn’t a good time for the truth, I don’t see when we’ll get to it.” ― Nikki Giovanni

Nikki Giovanni passed away quietly on December 9, 2024 at the age of 81 after fighting loudly for the historically oppressed and stitching together the tapestry of our humanity. Nikki Giovanni, a celebrated poet, writer, and activist, has left an indelible mark on American culture and literature. Her powerful words have resonated with readers for decades, addressing themes of social justice, identity, and the human experience. Giovanni’s unique voice and perspective have made her a beloved figure, particularly within the Black community.

In the wake of her passing, it seems as the world can now catch up to Nikki Giovanni’s earthly timeline to delve into her revolutionary life and work, exploring some of her most memorable teachings and the profound impact of her literary contributions. Through her poetry and prose, Giovanni has challenged societal norms, inspired generations of writers, and given voice to the marginalized. Her words continue to be a source of inspiration and empowerment, reminding us of the power of language and the importance of speaking truth to power.

“Why would there be a destination when life itself is a journey? You go not to get there but to be there.” ― Nikki Giovanni, Chasing Utopia: A Hybrid

Giovanni’s Revolutionary Work:

  • Social Justice and Equality: Giovanni’s work took on issues of racial inequality, discrimination, and the struggle for civil rights.
  • Identity and Self-Discovery: Her poems explore themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the complexities of navigating a multi-faceted world.
  • Love and Relationships: Giovanni’s writing delves into the intricacies of love, family, and human connection.
  • The Power of Language: Her work celebrates the transformative power of language and its ability to inspire change.

    Giovanni’s Challenge of Societal Norms Inspired Social Change:

    • Addressing Social Justice and Equality: Her poems and writings consistently confront issues of racial inequality, discrimination, and the struggle for civil rights. By highlighting these injustices, she forces readers to acknowledge and question the status quo.
    • Centering Identity and Self-Discovery: Giovanni’s exploration of themes of identity, particularly Black identity, and self-acceptance encourages individuals to embrace their authentic selves and challenge societal expectations.
    • Celebrating the Power of Language: Her work demonstrates the transformative power of language to inspire change, giving voice to the marginalized and challenging oppressive narratives.

    Through her powerful words and unwavering commitment to social justice, Giovanni’s work motivates readers to actively engage in the fight for a more equitable and inclusive American society.

    “We’ve got to live in the real world. If we don’t like the world we’re living in, change it. And if we can’t change it, we change ourselves. We can do something.” ― Nikki Giovanni

    Nikki Giovanni’s work holds significant importance within the Black community due to several factors:

    • Representation and Voice: Giovanni’s poems and writings often center Black experiences, providing a powerful representation of Black life, struggles, and triumphs. Her work gives voice to the experiences and perspectives of Black individuals, fostering a sense of validation and empowerment within the community.
    • Social Justice Advocacy: Giovanni’s unwavering commitment to social justice and equality resonates deeply with the Black community’s ongoing fight for civil rights. Her work serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for activism and change.
    • Cultural Affirmation: Through her exploration of Black identity, love, and relationships, Giovanni’s work celebrates Black culture and heritage, fostering a sense of pride and self-affirmation within the community.
    • Literary Inspiration: Giovanni’s unique voice and literary contributions have paved the way for generations of Black writers, inspiring them to express their own experiences and perspectives through poetry and prose.

    Overall, Nikki Giovanni’s work holds a place of profound significance in American history and within the Black community, serving as a source of inspiration, empowerment, and cultural affirmation. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the power of language and the importance of fighting for justice and equality. Her legacy is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to social justice and a shared humanity. Nikki Giovanni leaves behind an American blueprint of using our voices to create a more just and equitable world.

    Notable Quotes by Nikki Giovanni:

    • “Black love is Black wealth.”
    • “We must love each other and support each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains.”
    • “I am a Black woman, and I am proud.”

    Nikki Giovanni Speaks:

    marcus garvey_quote-epa front page feature

    POTUS, The Time Is NOW To Exonerate Marcus Garvey

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    BY JEANETTE LENOIR

    Dr. Julius Garvey made another plea for the exoneration of his father, The Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey. He says the push to clear his father’s name has been ignored during every administration since the exoneration movement started in the 1970s, including by the Obama administration when he thought they had a good chance to restore his father’s record and good name in Congress with help from the Congressional Black Caucus. Now, in his sunset years, the last living son of Marcus Garvey, a civil rights icon, staunch pan Africanist and Black freedom legend, is determined as ever to see this exoneration movement through.

    “Can we do it? We can do it. We shall do it!” his father once exclaimed to galvanize Black people all over the world to work for their own freedom and self-determination. “Any leadership that teaches you to depend upon another race, is a leadership that will enslave you.” – Marcus Garvey 

    This Black History Month, let us rededicate our efforts to request an official response from the White House and President Biden for a posthumous exoneration of the Rt. Honorable Marcus Garvey for his unjust persecution and imprisonment by the U.S. government in 1923.

    As time goes by, will President Biden and his administration finally hear the call to exonerate Marcus Garvey?

    Please join the movement and help exonerate Marcus Garvey: justice4garvey.org

    “God and nature first made us what we are, and then out of our own created genius we make ourselves what we want to be. Follow always that great law. Let the sky and God be our limit and eternity our measurement.” Marcus Garvey

    ePa Live

    ePa Live: LAUL Makes History & Improving How The LGBTQIA+ Community Is Portrayed In The Arts

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    This week ePa Live had another great guest lineup!

    Thank you for joining the conversation to hear from Los Angeles Urban League COO, Cynthia Mitchell Heard. She made history as LAUL’s first woman Chief Operating Officer. Also joining the talk is Gregory Q. Jenkins, President and CEO of Quentasia Studios, Inc. He discussed his mission to improve how the LGBTQIA+ community is portrait in the entertainment industry. We will also discuss George Santos denying his drag queen background and how his betrayal of truth affects the community he claims to be a member of.

    If you missed the livestream, no worries! Check it our below.  And, see you next Saturday at 2pm on ePa Live!

    the con men games

    Con Man Games: How Kevin McCarthy And George Santos Play In The Peoples House

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    BY JEANETTE LENOIR

     

    Today, Americans are being served a con man, #AsbestosSantos despite his blatant lies to steal an election in New York. Liar-elect George Santos, (If that’s truly his name) is slated to be seated as a bona-fide Member of Congress representing the 3rd Congressional District in New York, despite his blatant criminal acts and un-American behavior, including alleged money laundering and tampering with election spending and reporting. And anyone who thinks his half-assed apology during his Fox News interview where he claims his lies are “debatable” despite clear evidence of his incredible world-record lies, is remotely sincere… is more interested in stoking the fire that keep Americans divided on party lines.

    And Kevin McCarthy, who only wants enough votes to secure power and the Speaker title in The Peoples House, has remained dead silent on the egregiousness of this dangerous scam and con man because he wants his ill-gotten vote for Speaker. Regardless of party affiliation, the American people should be outraged at this deliberate burning of our flag by Kevin McCarthy and the Republican Party. The old adage, united we stand, divided we fall, has never been clearer and more significant than what we are witnessing in our political arena today, and in the aftermath of Trumpism.

    America is flaring up like a severe case of arthritis and some of our elected leaders only care about personal gains and power. We remain a country divided despite the manifestations of #45 that was the January 6th attack on the nation’s capital. A country divided on basic truths and principles rooted in a shared humanity is a country on the edge of a cliff. History is cyclical. And seating Liar-elect George Santos is no different than what the settlers did to the wild buffaloes to defeat Native Americans. The Republican Party is not working for We, The People. They’re working for themselves to construct an America that only serves the rich, corporations and special interest groups that only want to feed from the trough and the wealth generated by working class Americans and the immigrants they loath. Folks, we’re in big trouble. And seating George Santos despite the fact that he STOLE an election, amounts to awarding a con man for doing a fantastic job conning the people who elected him. And if that’s what Republicans call democracy, imagine what they consider humanity.

    In the meantime, Kevin McCarthy is so egregious with his silence and complicity on George Santos, the man has already moved into the Speaker’s Chamber despite the challenge he’s facing within his own party, including not having the votes necessary to become the next Speaker of the House. Imagine that. One can’t be shameful if they’re shameless. And that’s a dangerous precedent that produced the scum con man, George Santos.

    The cycle continues.