“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
– Margaret Mead
December 2023: CAPA Year End Appeal
There is no denying that 2023 has been a challenging year for organizations and activists, like those of us at CAPA, who expend human capital and the green kind to causes of peace and planet.
We accept that our endeavor to advance diplomacy and to advance solutions for a more just and sustainable world require long-term effort and are often generational in scope.
Whether it is in the realm of peace or planet, it is incumbent on each of us to do what we can for the sake of all life on earth and for the earth herself.
The Israel-Hamas war has strained relationships and friendships within our communities and the humanitarian catastrophe and unimaginable suffering of the residents of Gaza grows more dire with every passing day.
The Russia-Ukraine war, though not as frequently on the front page, continues to divide the peace movement and the suffering on both sides of the conflict worsens with the winter.
The recent COP28 climate summit which took place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) brought new international commitments to address the climate crisis, attain renewable energy goals, and slow the planet’s record warming–but it also brought increased skepticism by activists who have heard these same promises go unfulfilled before, and who noted the presence of some 1,300 fossil fuel lobbyists at the summit. And the harmful growth of the Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) industry has only continued to expand under the Biden Administration.
And yet – if not for us, and scores of organizations like ours – there would be NO voice to counter the dominant narrative that the first impulse for resolving differences ought to be lethal force or to counter the military arms manufacturers and fossil fuel lobbies that undermine our efforts on peace, diplomacy and the climate crisis to gain further profits for their shareholders.
Will you give now to help work for the world we believe is possible?
You can read the CAPA Board’s Year End Message here!
December 8th – Picket for Gaza at Boeing Building!
Weapons made and sold by the Boeing corporation are used by Israel’s government on the civilian population of Gaza, where tens of thousands are being killed. Join CAPA in collaboration with PSL Chicago, Palestinian Assembly for Liberation, and friends for a picket at the Boeing Building in Chicago to call out this corporation which is profiting from death and destruction.
We will be making noise, drumming, displaying banners and art, and speaking out to interrupt business as usual and call attention to Boeing’s crimes against humanity. Weapons companies must realize that there will be no peace for them as long as their products are being used to kill and harm. 
WHEN: Friday, Dec. 8th, 2023 @ 4:30 PM
WHERE: 100 North Riverside Plaza, Chicago
December 7th : Chicago Chanukah for Ceasefire in Gaza
We need a ceasefire now, an end to the siege on Gaza, freedom for all being held captive, and a commitment to equality, justice, and lasting peace for everyone. Join IfNotNow Chicago to light Chanukah candles, mourn for the dead, and “rededicate ourselves to fighting like hell for the living.” 
IfNotNow are a movement of American Jews organizing to end U.S. support for Israel’s apartheid system and demand equality, justice, and a thriving future for all Palestinians and Israelis.
WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 7th, 2023, 7 – 8:30 PM
WHERE: Welles Park, 2333 W Sunnyside Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
December 1st – CAPA LOYOLA, SJP Loyola, and Dissenters present: United for Palestine Fundraiser and Gathering
CAPA LOYOLA, Students for Justice in Palestine Loyola, and Dissenters Loyola invite you to “United for Palestine,” a fundraiser and gathering on Loyola’s Edgewater campus, on Friday, Dec. 1st, 2023. Join with community members and activists in solidarity to call for the safety and rights of Palestinians in light of the current genocide brought by Israel’s government (with U.S. government support) in Gaza. All proceeds go to the Palestine Red Crescent Society.
WHEN: Dec. 1st, 2023, 6 PM
WHERE: Loyola Univ., Damen Student Center, Multipurpose Room: 6511 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60626
November 16th – Protest the American Petroleum Institute
CAPA is joining a coalition of activists and organizations in Chicago to protest the American Petroleum Institute (API) conference this Thursday, November 16th at 4:30PM. This is an opportunity to allow more Chicago residents to make connections between the extreme weather and flooding we experienced this summer and the need to combat the global climate crisis!
API is a lobbying organization for oil and gas companies such as BP, Shell, Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and many more. The front group plays a crucial role in maintaining profits for and preventing the regulation of the fossil fuel companies most culpable for the global climate crisis. API should not be allowed to host their conference in Chicago unopposed!
We will be gathering to tell the oil and gas industry that the fossil fuel era must end! Here are the details:
Our Demands
- Tell Hyatt to cancel API’s Chicago conference – No more support for fossil fuel criminals.
- Tell Big Oil and Gas to stop developing new fossil fuel projects and wind down existing infrastructure.
- Make Big Oil pay for their crimes and fund a just transition to a clean energy future.
- Create clean energy jobs, build sustainable housing, develop better public transit, and retrofit schools with green technology.
Date, Time, Location
- Thursday, November 16th
- 4PM: Meet up at Cermak and Prairie (near the Hyatt)
- 4:30PM: March together for rally and presser on public property at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place (2233 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago IL 60616)
November 13th: “Silent Fallout” Film Preview
WHEN: November 13th at 6PM
WHERE: Lake Street Church (607 Lake Street, Evanston IL 60201)
A group of Nagasaki atom-bomb survivors will visit Evanston’s Lake Street Church on Monday evening, November 13th, to discuss a new documentary film, “Silent Fallout,” which describes the ongoing effects of atomic radiation – even today – in the United States and around the world.
The documentary, which has not yet been released to the general public, examines the impact of hundreds of atomic tests, first at Los Alamos and then across the globe, in sending radioactive materials into our atmosphere. It focuses particularly on an unusual study of 320,000 baby teeth in the St. Louis area. Another focus is the continuing but invisible presence of air-borne radiation. As the film’s director, Hideaki Ito says, “We have chosen to live in radiation.”
The film’s assistant producer, Rieko Tomomatsu, will be in attendance to make comments and answer questions.
The event includes a light meal and is open to the public. We will show the film in the church’s parlor, followed by discussions with the Nagasaki delegation. It is sponsored by Chicago Area Peace Action, Lake Street Church, and DePaul University.
November 12th: Armistice Day, the Chicago Lawyer Who Banned War, and Why Wars Keep Happening
WHEN: November 12th at 1:30pm
WHERE: Sulzer Regional Library (4455 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago IL 60625)
Join CAPA, Veterans for Peace, and the new Illinois chapter of World BEYOND War for a speaking event with David Swanson to commemorate Armistice Day, learn about the Chicago lawyer who banned war, and discuss why wars happen.
We are excited to have Swanson speak on this topic to the general public and to welcome veterans as our special guests. Veterans will respond to the talk and Swanson will also respond to Q&As.
David Swanson is an author, activist, journalist, and radio host. He is executive director of World BEYOND War and campaign coordinator for RootsAction.org. Swanson’s books include War Is A Lie and When the World Outlawed War. He blogs at DavidSwanson.org and WarIsACrime.org. He hosts Talk World Radio. He is a Nobel Peace Prize Nominee. Swanson was awarded the 2018 Peace Prize by the U.S. Peace Memorial Foundation. He was also awarded a Beacon of Peace Award by the Eisenhower Chapter of Veterans for Peace in 2011, and the Dorothy Eldridge Peacemaker Award by New Jersey Peace Action in 2022.
November 8th: China: Confrontation or Cooperation?
WHEN: November 8th from 5pm to 7pm
WHERE: Great Room, Northwestern University (600 Haven Street Evanston, IL 60208)
Are we on the road to war with China? Can the U.S. work with China to address climate change before it’s too late? Is Chinese economic growth and political influence a threat to the United States?
Join us for “China: Confrontation or Cooperation?” as we address these questions, and talk about the opportunities that exist to build a more stable relationship between the U.S. and China. Panelists include Jake Werner, Ian Hurd, and Melissa Macauley.
Attendees are invited to join us for refreshments and socializing starting at 5pm CT. The event will begin at 6pm CT.
This event is co-sponsored by the Weinberg College Center for International and Area Studies at Northwestern University, Chicago Area Peace Action, and the Quincy Institute.
November 4th: Evanston – All Out for Palestine!
WHEN: Sat., November 4th, 2023 at 1pm
WHERE: Fountain Square, 1601 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
Join CAPA this Saturday, Nov. 4th at 1 PM with partners ESPCAR (Every Single Person Committed to Anti-Racism), Students for Justice in Palestine-Northwestern University, and Jewish Voice for Peace — as we rally for ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid, and an end to occupation!
Palestine’s civilian population in Gaza is dying in massive numbers due to bombing by Israel’s Defense Forces. People are being told to evacuate, then the evacuation routes are bombed. Hospitals and public spaces for civilians are being systematically attacked. Electricity, food, water, and other essentials are cut off in an even more intense continuation of the decades-long blockade of Gaza.
These actions do not bring anyone safety, and can only bring more death and destruction. Despite U.S. polls showing widespread support of ceasefire, most U.S. government officials support sending even more weapons to Israel’s Defense Forces. People everywhere are rising up to call for change and demand ceasefire NOW!
This local action is occurring in solidarity with a historic National March on DC for Palestine, the largest ever such gathering in the U.S.:
⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇ ⬇
Join people across the world in this moment to call out for ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid, and an end to occupation!
October 29th: Climate Hope Event!
WHEN: October 29th from 2pm to 4pm
WHERE: Arrington Lagoon Picnic Shelter (1647 Sheridan Road Evanston, IL 60201)
If you’re having feelings about climate change—whether it’s despair, anxiety, or something else— come find community and inspiration at our first Climate Hope event! This family friendly, all-ages event will have art, music, games, and more. Hear directly from people and organizations in the community that are facing climate change through fashion, youth advocacy, composting, and more!
Do you have climate art that you want to share? We welcome your pictures, songs, and readings at our open mic which will start at 3pm. If you have eco-actions or activities that community members can participate in please bring them.
October 24th: The Ukraine, Israel-Palestine Wars
WHEN: October 24th from 6pm to 7pm
SPEAKERS: Anatol Lieven and Phyllis Bennis
Initially conceived as a webinar about the Ukraine War, its geopolitical impacts, and possibilities for peace, the similarly murderous and geopolitical earthquake of this October Gaza War has led us to change our title and format. Anatol Lieven, of the Quincy Institute, and Phyllis Bennis, of the Institute for Policy Studies, will update us on these wars’ development, diplomacy, increasingly interrelated geopolitical implications, and possible paths to greater peace and justice.
Please plan to join us for this virtual webinar, spread the word as you can, and do all that you can for peace and justice!
October 21st: Chicago Marches for Palestine
Join the Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine and other partners on Saturday, October 21st to march in solidarity with Palestine — to stop the U.S.-backed genocide which Israel’s government is carrying out as we speak. Join our calls for a ceasefire now and end to the occupation!
October 7th: Forum with Elmer “Ka Bong” Labog
Join us on Saturday, October 7th for a labor forum with Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) organizer, Elmer “Ka Bong” Labog. Ka Bong is the Chairperson of KMU, an independent and democratic labor center promoting genuine and anti-imperialist trade unionism. He has been a labor organizer since the 1970’s under Marcos Sr’s Martial law and he continues to organize to this day as attacks on workers and unions in the Philippines worsens.
WHEN: October 7th from 1pm to 4pm
WHERE: United Electrical Workers Hall, 37 S Ashland.
This forum will also be a fundraiser to support the speaking tour and to directly support organizers in the Philippines!
October 7th: Let Cuba Live!
Join CAPA and friends in person on October 7th for an inspiring session with activists demanding: “Let Cuba Live”! – organized by the Chicago Liberation Center, Party for Socialism and Liberation, Cuba-Venezuela Solidarity Committee, Chicago Cuba Coalition, and Chicago ALBA.
WHEN: October 7th from 6pm to 9pm
WHERE: United Electrical Workers Hall, 37 S Ashland.
Hear young people from multiple organizations speak about their recent trips to Cuba. They will be sharing eye-witness accounts of the dire situation the country faces due to being put on the State Sponsor of Terrorism List by the United States. We will have petitions to sign to get them off the list and to Break the Blockade. The goal is to get 1,000,000 people to sign and present them to the White House on December 8th!
#OFFTHELIST
OCTOBER 5TH, 2023: ……. CAPA’s 44TH ANNUAL BENEFIT: “Threats to Democracy: How We Rise Up and Resist”! (<–CLICK HERE for full event description and recording)
Join us on Thursday, October 5th, at 6:00 P.M. to attend this gala event as we reunite with old friends, meet stimulating new ones, and explore a deeply fundamental issue that affects Americans of all ages, incomes, ethnicities and political leanings.As we witness the rollbacks of protections embedded in the landmark Voting Rights Act, the attacks on LGBTQ rights, and the fascist assault on freedom of thought in our public schools and libraries, we are deeply concerned whether or not this 236-year-old experiment in constitutional democracy can survive. We are now less than 20 years away from the most significant demographic shift in U.S. history, when the U.S. becomes a minority-majority nation. Will we live up to the ideal of “with liberty and justice for all” and truly mean all, not just the privileged few with the right skin color?
CAPA‘s issues of nuclear abolition, preventing catastrophic climate disruption, and shifting resources away from the war machine and to the good of people and planet are inextricably linked to our overall worldview of the pursuit of MLK’s Beloved Community. As imperfect as this United States remains, it still holds the tools to live up to the rhetorical ambition of its founding creed – if only we have the courage and commitment to fight for that vision.
In addition to our panel, we will enjoy a delicious dinner catered by Curt’s Cafe 🌮🌮🍽️🍽️ and celebrate the important work of CAPA’s Student Network, our Climate and Foreign Policy Working Groups, and invite attendees to share their passions and insights among fellow peacebuilders. See you there!
——–
September 24th – October 8th, 2023: Banner Drops for Peace in Ukraine!
On sunny days from September 24th through October 8th, Chicago Area Peace Action will be organizing highway banner drops around the city behind the messages: “Our War Money Kills Ukraine – Not One Penny More” and “Biden: No-One Wins When this War Goes Nuclear.” We will provide our expertise and four 20-foot banners which we’ll need teams of volunteers to hang, monitor and then remove on weekday AM and PM rush hour shifts when the weather promises to be clement, and possibly also on weekend shifts from noon-3pm. We’d like this to be the start of an ongoing banner campaign until the war is over, and only a part of Chicago’s response to the overlapping national weeks of action that have been called to protest the proxy NATO-Russia war in Ukraine (and of course the grave accompanying risk of nuclear war) by Roots Action and the Peace in Ukraine Coalition.
We’ll be monitoring the weather and contacting our volunteers approx. three days ahead in hope of organizing shifts on the most clement bannering days! Weekday shifts will be AM Rush 7-10am and PM Rush 4-7pm, while weekend shifts will be noon – 3pm.
If you’re interested in participating, SIGN UP HERE!
——–
SEPTEMBER 23rd, 2023: Never Again, Never Forget! – 51st Anniversary of Martial Law in the Philippines
SEPTEMBER 16th, 2023: NO 2 APEC Info Session at Edgewater Library!
No To APEC! People Over Profit! — Learn about the No 2 APEC (APEC = Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation) campaign to resist disastrous U.S.-led neoliberal trade policies in the Asia-Pacific region. Find out about the resistance to APEC and the mass mobilization which will be culminating this November!
WHEN: Sat. Sept 16th, 2023 from 2-4 P.M.
WHERE: Edgewater Library, 6000 N Broadway, Chicago IL 60660
Click here to RSVP!–> tinyurl.com/ChiNo2APEC2023 
SEPTEMBER 15th, 2023: “End Fossil Fuels” Chicago Action!
Our action will include stops at key locations to bring attention to groups supporting fossil fuel usage: Kluczynski Federal Building to demand President Biden declare a Climate Emergency/End the Fossil Fuel Era; Chase Bank to demand an end to fossil fuel financing; and the Army Corps of Engineers office to call for an end to fossil fuel infrastructure. We’ll incorporate music and a variety of voices into our action, and we hope you’ll join us! 
- WHEN: Friday, Sept. 15th, 2023, 4:00-6:00 P.M.
- WHERE: Starting at 310 S State St, Chicago, IL 60604 US
Click here to RSVP!–> http://bit.ly/915chicago
SEPTEMBER 13-17th, 2023: The Golden Rule Ship Arrives in Chicago! 🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊
Wed., Sept. 13th:
- 🎤 – 10:30 A.M.: Press Conference – Montrose Harbor, 601 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613.
- 🧺 – 12 NOON: Picnic in Park; Montrose Harbor “Moonrise” area.
- 📽️ – 6-8:30 P.M.: Golden Rule Presentation: Oak Park Library, 834 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60301.
Thu., Sept. 14th:
- 📽️ – 4:30-5:30 P.M.: Golden Rule Presentation: School of the Art Institute, 112 S Michigan Ave, Chicago IL, 60603.
- 📽️ – 7-8:30 P.M.: Golden Rule Presentation: Lake Street Church, 607 Lake St, Evanston, IL 60201.
Fri., Sept. 15th:
- 🏛️ – 9-10 A.M.: Golden Rule Presentation: National Teachers Academy CPS, 55 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL, 60616.
- ⛵ – 12-3 P.M.: Golden Rule Boat Tours. 601 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613. (Pier in front of Corinthian Yacht Club – call Kiko at 808-895-3743 on arrival)
- 🌍 – 4-6 P.M.: Golden Rule Crew joins the Chicago Global Climate Strike March: Pritzker Park, 310 S. State Street, Chicago.
Sat., Sept. 16th:
- ⛵ – 9 A.M.-12 Noon: Golden Rule Boat Tours. 601 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613. (Pier in front of Corinthian Yacht Club – call Kiko at 808-895-3743 on arrival)
- 🏛️ – 1 P.M.: Golden Rule Crew visits National Veterans Museum, 4041 N Milwaukee Ave 2nd floor, Chicago, IL 60641.
Sun., Sept. 17th:
- 🪘 – 11 A.M.-1 P.M.: “End the Nuclear Age” Peace Gathering @ Henry Moore Sculpture, Univ. of Chicago, 5625 S Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL.
- 🍕 – 6-9 P.M.: Farewell Reception, NEIS Conference Room, 3411 W. Diversey, Chicago. Pizza and beverages provided, $10 suggested donation (no one turned away). RSVP: neis@neis.org!
Endorsing orgs: ANSWER Coalition, Black Alliance for Peace Chicago, Chicago Area Peace Action, Nuclear Energy Information Service, Veterans for Peace/ Golden Rule
AUGUST 27th, 2023: Museum of Science and Industry: BETTER WITHOUT BOEING!
Join CAPA in solidarity with the Dissenters’ Boeing Arms Genocide (BAG) campaign for an anti-militarism field day😎⛳️☀️🍧🪁🥇outside the Museum of Science and Industry on Sunday, August 27th 1-4 PM! — The MSI is a space for learning, but also a site of violence — the MSI has taken money from war profiteer Boeing and displays Boeing machines inside.
Join BAG in exposing this complicity, and talking to neighbors about anti-militarist, liberated futures! We’ll have community-building games and activities that are kid-friendly🎨, including coloring pages, skits, and workshops to expand our imaginations.
And don’t forget to CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE “No Boeing Drones” PETITION!
#MSIBetterWithoutBoeing #BoeingArmsGenocide!
***** CAPA is Growing… and we need your help! *****
With the generous support of an all-volunteer board, the energy brought by various working groups, and a single paid staff position – our Organizing and Advocacy Director – a post currently occupied by the intrepid Charles Johnson, CAPA has provided invaluable information on the many challenges inherent in our struggle to achieve a more peaceful and equitable society.
We have grown our CAPA board this year, bringing on 6 new committed members. They represent a broad cross section of talent and lived experience. This board growth positions us well for increased activity, but if we are to continue to amplify your voice in the public square, it is clear that we now must augment our staff capacity. We will be hiring an assistant to the Organizing and Advocacy Director and are currently interviewing for this new part-time position.
We are launching a special-purpose fundraising campaign with a modest goal of $15,000 to fund the first year of this all-important position. We are so very fortunate to have a small group of generous supporters offering a matching grant of $7,500 to help us get to this goal quickly. Thus, every single dollar you contribute to the campaign will be DOUBLED by their generous matching grant. Please consider one of the following donation levels:
- Never Doubt that A Small Group of Committed Individuals…- $1000
- Building a Mighty Movement – $500
- If You Water Them, They Will Grow – $250
- Planting Seeds of Peace – $100
- My Uniquely Personal Level of Support – $
Please click here to help us Grow!
AUGUST 19th, 2023: Malaya Chicago Presents: “Makabayang Sining Para Sa Inang Bayan – People’s Art for the Motherland”
Makabayang Sining Para Sa Inang Bayan – People’s Art for the Motherland! Join CAPA in solidarity with Malaya Chicago for an art show about the struggles and aspirations of the Filipino people. We will highlight the issues of forced migration, human rights, sovereignty, and democracy in our homeland. Our art show is a fundraiser to send Malaya members to the @malayamovement National Assembly in New York, Sept 16-18. We will accept sliding scale donations at the door.
WHEN: August 19, 2023 – Program: 1pm, Exhibit: 10am-7pm
WHERE: Counterfit collective, 1333 W 18th St, Chicago, IL,
Featured artists: Ashley Dequilla, Elisha-Rio Pineda Apilado, Michael Oliveros, Marilou Mariko Carrera, Cristiano Jay Smason, Andi Muriel
& More!
Art on flyer by @andi_makes
–POSTPONEMENT NOTICE:–
Thank you to our many registrants and sponsors of the event listed below, “China: Confrontation or Cooperation,” originally planned for August 9th. We are temporarily postponing this event – please stay tuned for updates as we look to reconvene this important conversation soon!
…………………………………………………………………..
AUGUST 9TH, 2023: “CHINA: CONFRONTATION OR COOPERATION?”
–> CLICK HERE TO REGISTER! 🕊️🕊️🌏🌏
WHEN: Wednesday, August 9th, 2023 — Doors open 6pm CT
WHERE: (IN PERSON EVENT) — Chicago Temple, 77 W. Washington St, Chicago, IL, 60602
AUGUST 5TH, 2023: “HIROSHIMA: HISTORY OR PRELUDE?”
Join us as we mourn the 78th anniversary of the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of Japanese civilians and the birth of a terrible new age in the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Today’s nuclear weapons are immeasurably more deadly and threaten near-complete human extinction if ever used. As we observe the apocalyptically reckless rhetoric and strategies emerging from our nation’s capital, we are compelled to ask, “Did the nuclear detonations of 1945 teach an important lesson of warning, or were they but a prelude to another disastrous stumble into the Fog of War?”
The tipping points are all around us: Our nation’s inability or refusal to bring the proxy war in Ukraine (an escalating conflict with a nuclear-armed rival) to a negotiated resolution; Our swift ramp-up to an unwinnable war with nuclear-armed China in the South China Sea; U.S. Senators compounding the past’s disastrous errors with demands for a Pacific version of NATO. Our nation sleep-walks a path that leads toward an unthinkable nuclear confrontation – unless we wake it up.
Join us on August 5 as we rally both to remember our past and warn of a future whose grim likelihood barely catches the gaze of mainstream media or government. If we are to shift the discourse, it must be from the bottom up: Blinded by self interest and the immense profits of military dominance, our leaders will not see until we make them.
We look forward to seeing you on the 5th of August.
Speakers include:
Yuki Miyamoto, DePaul University nuclear ethics professor and daughter of an atomic bomb survivor
Kathy Kelly, Board President, World BEYOND War, and multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominee
Jupiter Brown of Party for Socialism & Liberation Chicago
Laura Hein, Professor of Japanese History and former History Dept. Chair, Northwestern University
Michael Lynn, National Board Member of Peace Action
…………..
- When: Saturday, August 5th, 2023 – 11 A.M. CT
- Where:⛲⛲Fountain Square, 1601 Sherman Ave, Evanston IL, 60202
Cosponsored by: ANSWER Coalition, Black Alliance for Peace, Buddhist Peace Fellowship, Chicago Area Peace Action, Chicago Committee Against War & Racism, Fox Valley Citizens for Peace and Justice, Neighbors for Peace, Party for Socialism & Liberation, World BEYOND War
JULY 13TH, 2023: “FINDING HOPE IN THE CLIMATE-PEACE-DISARMAMENT NEXUS”
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER! 🕊️🕊️🌱🌱💧💧🌏🌏
Session I: Region: Americas/Europe/Africa/Middle East
Date: July 13, 2023, Time: 11:00 AM -12:30 PM CST
UPDATE: This event has been postponed until further notice — please stay tuned for additional updates. Thank you for your solidarity with the people of Jenin!
JULY 7TH, 2023: Jenin Resists – Chicago Protest in Solidarity with Palestine
In the first week of July, 2023, Israel attacked the Palestinian refugee camp on Jenin. At least 12 Palestinians have been murdered during the raid and hundreds have been wounded. In response to the violence, thousands of Palestinians were evacuated from Jenin, and resistance groups in the camp began a defensive campaign.
Palestinians across historic Palestine showed solidarity with multiple forms of resistance. The occupying force has left homes, streets, hospitals, religious sites, and general infrastructure in Jenin demolished — but the residents have not been beaten. Celebrations of their resistance are occurring right now across Palestine as Israel retreats. Long live the resistance!
Join the Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine on Friday at 2pm outside the Israeli Consulate – 500 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60661. Stand in solidarity with the people of Jenin and demand an end to US aid to Israel’s military.
- WHEN: Friday, July 7th, 2023 at 2:00 P.M. CT
- WHERE: 500 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL, 60661
JULY 3RD, 2023: Free Julian Assange — Assange Defense Chicago, CAPA, PSL, and partners drop 6 Banners in Chicago!
On July 3rd, 2023, Julian Assange’s birthday, Chicago activists hung banners to declare that “Journalism is not a crime” —
Julian Assange is still being silenced and imprisoned for revealing U.S. war crimes. Join the call to free Julian Assange and call out U.S. crimes of war, capitalism, and hegemony!
JUNE 28TH, 2023: Dr. Seth Darling Presents: “The Climate Crisis: WATT’s Next for Energy?”
CLICK HERE TO RSVP! 🌱🌱💧💧🌱🌱💧💧
- 🌱 Adapting: Strategies involving resilient infrastructure and urban planning to help communities withstand and recover from extreme weather events.
- 🌱 Geoengineering: Innovative technologies which respond to Earth’s systems, and consideration of strategies to remove CO2 from the atmosphere.
- 🌱 Decarbonization: Transitions to a low-carbon economy through renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation.
Bring your climate-justice curiosity and experience as we consider various scientific and technical approaches; participants are encouraged to share their top ideas, questions, and concerns in the discussion to follow!
- WHEN: Wednesday, June 28th, 2023 from 6:30 – 8:00 P.M.
- WHERE: Evanston Public Library – Community Room, 1703 Orrington Ave., Evanston IL, 60202
JUNE 9TH, 2023: End the Era of Fossil Fuels! – Street Action
CLICK HERE TO RSVP! 🎵🎵🎨🎨📢📢🎵🎵🎨🎨📢📢
WHEN: June 9th, 2023 at 11:00 AM.
WHERE: 230 S. Dearborn, Chicago, IL 60602 US
JUNE 4TH, 2023: 4th Annual Love Memorial
Please show some love on JUNE 4TH 2023 as Nita’s Love Train hosts the 4th Annual Love Memorial. Nita’s message:
“!! Between September 11th 2022 and TODAY! 97 black and brown youth , aged 0-24 years old, have lost their lives to violence or tragedy in Chicago! Please join us on June 4th, 2023 (THIS SUNDAY) WE WILL REMEMBER ALL OF THEM ! We will say their names, light candles remember them, release lanterns, and even drop a few tears!
“Also, I will be giving out free love and baby supplies so if your nearby and need some FREE diapers, baby formula , wipes, etc please stop by.❤️ Share this when you see it, especially if you love someone who’s name is on this list, even if you can’t come your share is support! If I’ve forgotten a name , please excuse me I research myself ,and inbox me the name so I can add it.”
🦋🕊️🦋🕊️🦋🕊️🦋🕊️🦋🕊️🦋
@nitaslovetrain @gkmc18 @herchicago @ronniemanworld
JUNE 3RD, 2023: People’s Hearing on Police Crimes and the Injustice System!
Gather with us in solidarity with the Chicago Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression for a “People’s Hearing on Police Crimes and the Injustice System” — Saturday, June 3rd, 2023, 3pm at Gorham Methodist Church!
We will hear testimony from people affected by police crimes and connect with efforts in our local communities to demand justice. This is an important opportunity to continue the struggle for justice in this new stage where we now have directly elected District Councils and a Mayor accountable to the movement.
This is the fourth such hearing that CAARPR has organized, to amplify voices of survivors and families at the heart of the movement for community control of the police and the Campaign to Free Incarcerated Survivors of Police Torture (CFIST). Join as as we share directly with District Council members and organize to take action in our districts. We hope to see you there on June 3rd!
When: Saturday, June 3rd, 2023 from 3-7 P.M. CDT
Where: Gorham Methodist Church, 5600 S. Indiana Ave., Chicago IL, 60637
MAY 24TH, 2023: Peace in Ukraine – Petition Delivery to Legislators!
CLICK HERE to read the petition
Join CAPA and partners for this action led by CODEPINK, to hold legislators accountable for pursuing diplomacy and stopping warfare in Ukraine and around the world. Join us in delivering this petition to legislators in the Chicago area on May 24th, 2023!
Contact capa@chipeaceaction.org to join us!
MAY 11TH, 2023: Peace in Ukraine Teach-in!
Hosted by CAPA, Black Alliance for Peace, CODEPINK, Party for Socialism & Liberation, and partners. Join us for an in-depth discussion where all are welcome to share and learn together. Featuring presentations on the history of the conflict, the role of African nations, options for ceasefire and negotiations, and more. We will have pizza, drinks, and conversation. See you there!
CLICK HERE TO RSVP! 🍕🍕🍕
WHEN: – (CDT)
WHERE: Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church
600 W Fullerton Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614, U.S.
MAY 10TH, 2023: Divest Chicago from the War Machine – Open Meeting at Spoke & Bird Cafe!
Light refreshments will be provided, and the cafe has great food, coffee, and other beverages. Everyone is welcome to join!
☕☕☕☕☕
MAY 3RD, 2023: WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY! 🎥🎥🎞️🎞️📰📰📢📢
JOIN CAPA and co-sponsors Assange Defense Chicago and CODEPINK for “PRESS FREEDOM, JOURNALISTS, AND WHISTLEBLOWERS”: an online panel discussion on how our right to expose the truth and express political dissent is under attack in the U.S.
- WHEN: Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023, 7:00pm to 8:30pm CDT
- WHERE: Online — REGISTER HERE
The United Nations has designated Wednesday, May 3rd as World Press Freedom Day. This presents an opportunity to focus attention on the current perilous state of press freedom and freedom of expression in the U.S. as exemplified by the continued persecution of Julian Assange, and also by the recent indictment of members of the Uhuru Movement for their political activity and speech.
We have brought together a panel of speakers uniquely qualified to discuss these critically important issues affecting the future of our democracy. The Panel:
- Kevin Gosztola, journalist and author of “Guilty of Journalism; The Political Case against Julian Assange”
- Jamie Kalven, journalist, founder of the Chicago-based Invisible Institute, and co-author of “A Worthy tradition: Freedom of Speech in America”
- Leonard Goodman, lawyer, columnist, adjunct law professor at DePaul University Chicago, and founder of the Leonard C. Goodman Institute for Investigative Reporting.
- The moderator for the event will be Michael Klonsky, a longtime Chicago political activist, host of the podcast “Hitting Left Radio”, and writer of “Mike Klonsky’s Edu/POL” on Substack.
See you on Wednesday, May 3rd for this timely event!
APRIL 22ND, 2023: Breaking the Chains Through Verses of Freedom
JOIN CAPA and friends for this event hosted by IL-CHEP to provoke thought and stimulate interest in the plight of mass incarceration in the U.S. and the need for higher education in prison programs to combat recidivism and build minds resulting in transitioning from imprisonment to being a productive member of society.
5:30-6:30 PM — Resource fair to provide additional information to the general public, advocates and system impacted people with reentry support organizations and resources.
6:30-8:00 PM — Spoken Word Artists & Performance
8:00-9:30 PM — Open Mic
–Drinks and appetizers will be served–
See you on April 22nd!
APRIL 6TH, 2023: ITHAKA FILM SCREENING
JOIN CAPA and friends in support of the campaign to free Julian Assange! 🎥🎥🎥🎥🎥🎥🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️🎞️📰📰📰📰📰📢📢📢📢📢📢
Don’t miss the chance to attend the exclusive screening of the movie 𝙄𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙖 about Julian’s family’s search for justice followed by an in-person Q&A with renowned Chicago human rights lawyer, Flint Taylor, and Julian Assange’s father (John Shipton) and brother (Gabriel Shipton). Click here to watch the trailer.
- WHEN: Thursday, April 6th @7:30pm
- WHERE: The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 3519 N Clark St. Suite C301 Chicago
Click here to buy your tickets!
Tickets are on sale now! Get your tickets early for this historic event.
CAPA Student-Led Peace Summit 2023
“Fighting the War Machine: in Chicago and Beyond”
WHEN: Saturday, April 1st, 2023, from 10A.M. – 4 P.M.
WHERE: Loyola University, 1050 W Sheridan, Chicago, IL 60660
CLICK HERE FOR FREE REGISTRATION!
Throughout this past year’s news cycle, one of the major events commonly covered has been the war in Ukraine. Although it may have been the most highlighted, this conflict is just one of many ongoing violent catastrophes around the globe. From Palestine to Yemen, from El Salvador to right here in Chicago, the international war machine continues to destroy people’s lives.
Such militarism is often framed as “just” and “necessary,” while communities around the world know it is anything but. This is why Chicago Area Peace Action’s Student Network is hosting a peace summit that will help organize, empower and educate activists from all backgrounds and experience levels so we can band together and demand global peace!
Planned workshops include:
- Chicago Youth Organizing Against Violence and War
- Ending War on Palestine
- Ending War on Yemen
- Ending the War in Ukraine
- Uniting the Left, Locally and Globally
- And more! Check out our full Peace Summit page here!!
MARCH 21ST: STOP DIRTY BANKS!
Join CAPA Climate Group and partners for a National Day of Action on March 21, 2023 – 3.21.23! Together we demand banks stop funding climate chaos. 📢📢💃🏾💃🏾💃💃🪧🪧🎵🎵
- WHEN: Tuesday, March 21, 2023, 11am – 1pm CDT
- WHERE: 10 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60603
Over the past year, thousands have taken the Banking on Our Future pledge to close our accounts, cut up our credit cards, and boycott Bank of America, Chase, Citibank, and Wells Fargo if they don’t move their investments out of fossil fuels. On 3.21.23, we gather to show the strength of our movement!
You don’t need to be a cardholder to participate––we need people of all backgrounds and means to make visible the connection between cash and carbon. Bring your friends, energy, and creativity!
FUND PEOPLE’S NEEDS, NOT THE WAR MACHINE!
SATURDAY, MARCH 18TH, 11 A.M. CENTRAL @ THE WRIGLEY BLDG, 400-410 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Join CAPA in solidarity with CODEPINK, ANSWER Coalition, the People’s Forum, and friends in Chicago to protest on the 20th anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. The demonstrations will make connections between the human and financial toll of U.S. militarism at home and abroad. Key demands include:
- End the $100 Billion in arms shipments to Ukraine
- End NATO
- Stop the permanent war economy that funnels trillions of dollars away from jobs, education and health care
- Negotiations now! The people of the U.S. are not interested in the possibility of nuclear war nor the Pentagon’s policy of “weakening Russia.”
- No to war with China!
See you on March 18th! 
JOIN CAPA LOYOLA and the Feminist Forum on Thursday, March 16th for an in-person Build a Blanket event!
All blankets will be donated for the use of Chicago residents at shelter facilities throughout the city.
- WHEN: Thursday, March 16th, 2023, from 4-6 P.M. CT
- WHERE: 206 Cuneo Hall; 6430 N Kenmore Ave, Chicago, IL 60626
Learn how to create a blanket with us as we gather to prioritize community care, as part of a larger discussion on resources for all and housing as a human right. See you on Thursday March 16th!
Join CAPA in solidarity with CODEPINK on International Women’s Day 2023 as we come together to discuss the core values and missions of a feminist foreign policy, what we as feminists need to do in the ongoing rise of violence, hatred and environmental crisis and how we can engage locally and globally to stand in solidarity with one another.
We will have a series of webinars throughout the day to engage online with our local and global communities. By registering for this event, you will get a link to all three webinars!
1.) Morning Webinar 9am PST/11am CST/12pm EST – IWD Kick off, discussing what events are happening, online actions and any tool kits to use for the day, speeches from global voices
2.) Midday webinar 2pm PST/4pm CST/5pm EST – online action we can do together during the webinar, speeches from global voices
3.) End of day webinar 6pm PST/8pm CST/9pm EST- reflections from the day, with live reflections and recorded speeches from national voices, plug ongoing actions and events to continue to follow!
FRIDAY, MARCH 3RD, 2023: GLOBAL CLIMATE STRIKE!
- When: Friday March 3, 2023, from 2-4 P.M. Central
- Where: 610-30 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60606 US
On March 3rd, at 2 PM Central, environmental activist organizations from the upper Midwest will be joining forces at the next Global Climate Strike in downtown Chicago! Organized by Fridays for Future Chicago and others.
Join us to demand an end to Fossil Fuel Financing at BP Headquarters at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Building and at the Chase Tower! We will be starting at Heritage Green Park and ending at the Kluczynski Federal Building, with an amazing lineup of speakers, activities, and environment-oriented music playlists to energize our voices calling for change.
See you in the streets!
VICTORY! 🎊🎊🎊🎊🎊🎊🎊 (AND MUCH MORE WORK AHEAD!)
Join us in celebrating a historic step forward for public safety in Chicago: the election of police district councils which will give our communities control over how and to what extent policing occurs. Due to years of organizing by local groups like Chicago Alliance for Racist & Political Repression and others, ECPS-backed candidates won in a majority of districts!
The Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) ordinance that created the councils and the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability (CCPSA) follows a decade of organizing spurred by the 2012 killing of 22-year-old Rekia Boyd by Dante Servin, an off-duty police detective. Years of struggle followed, culminating in the creation of ELECTED, not appointed, police district councils. In all, 66 community members are elected, with 3 members from each of 22 police districts.
Many who organize for peace and justice believe these police district council elections are a watershed moment for systems of public safety in the U.S. Long-time Chicago organizer Frank Chapman states in this Fightback News article: “The district council elections in February 2023 will make the greatest democratic advance in the right of the people to determine their own public safety based on their long-standing quest for freedom, justice, and equality.”
So help us celebrate this moment, and follow the work of the new police district councils to transform community safety in Chicago!
CAPA is excited to raise awareness of a historic step forward for public safety in Chicago: the election of police district councils which will give our communities control over how and to what extent policing occurs. As explained in this Chicago Reader article:
“After decades of struggle by thousands of people who organized, marched, petitioned, prayed, and collectively clamored for the right to have a say in how their communities are policed, on February 28th, voters will elect 66 people to serve on police district councils across the city.
“The battle for community control of the police has been waged for more than a half-century. Deputy chairman Fred Hampton and the Black Panther Party sparked the first push in the late 1960s. In the decades since, organizers have won incremental concessions, leading to [policing oversight boards]. None of the people serving on them were democratically elected. The police district councils will be elected. Three councilors will serve in each of the city’s 22 police districts for four-year terms.”
The Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) ordinance that created the councils and the CCPSA is the result of a decade of organizing spurred by the 2012 killing of 22-year-old Rekia Boyd by Dante Servin, an off-duty police detective. Years of struggle followed, leading to modest gains. The Chicago Reader explains further:
“Everything changed in 2020, as protests of the murder of George Floyd by then-Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin swept the nation. In Chicago and elsewhere, the rebellions (and the police response to them) turned into a long, hot summer. In its midst, the Grassroots Alliance for Police Accountability and the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression formed a coalition, Empowering Communities for Public Safety.
“With thousands of ordinary people at its back and in the streets, the coalition negotiated the language of the ECPS ordinance with the mayor. It passed in 2021.”
Many movement leaders believe these elections are a watershed moment for systems of public safety in the U.S. Long-time Chicago organizer Frank Chapman states in this Fightback News article: “The district council elections in February 2023 will make the greatest democratic advance in the right of the people to determine their own public safety based on their long-standing quest for freedom, justice, and equality.”
Early voting begins on Thursday, January 26th at the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners supersite, and on Monday, February 13th in all 50 wards. Jump to police district council candidates here. Make sure you and your networks are tuned in to this moment of transformation!
FRIDAY, 24TH, 2023: “DEFUSE NUCLEAR WAR” ACTIONS NATIONWIDE!
Marking the one-year anniversary of the current war in Ukraine, on Feb. 24th, join with others in the Defuse Nuclear War coalition to call on the United States to LEAD WITH DIPLOMACY instead of escalation to end the war. Defuse Nuclear War co-sponsors and organizers are participating today in cities across the U.S., taking action in person, on line, and on the phone. CAPA and local partners are calling for online messages and a massive phone call-in to Congresspeople today. Please see the actions below!
☎️☎️☎️☎️☎️☎️☎️☎️📢📢📢📢📢📢📢📢📢
……Action #1: SEND MESSAGE – Tell Congress to investigate the sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline.
……Action #2: SEND MESSAGE – Tell Congress to lead with diplomacy, not escalation.
……Action #3: SEND MESSAGE – Tell Congress to invest in people, not nuclear weapons.
……Action #4: CALL – Call Congress requesting a public statement in support of a ceasefire and peace negotiations:
- Congressional Switchboard: (202) 224-3121
Sample script: “My name is ______ and I’m calling from zip code __ to request you issue a public statement in support of a ceasefire and peace negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Please vote no on more weapons to escalate the war. I would like to receive a response on whether or not you plan to release a public statement. Please reach me at my phone number, ______. Thank you.”
WHY AND HOW TO END THE WAR IN UKRAINE — February 15th, online, 7-8:30 P.M. Central
CHECK OUT PANELIST AND ATTENDEE RESOURCES!
Please join us online on Wednesday, February 15th, 2023 at 7 P.M. Central, for a webinar and discussion, “Why and How to End the War in Ukraine” – organized by Chicago Area Peace Action and co-sponsored by Black Alliance for Peace, Chicago Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression, Chicago Area Peace Action DePaul, Chicago Committee Against War & Racism, CODEPINK, Independent Progressive Alliance, Jewish Voice for Peace, Massachusetts Peace Action, North Carolina Peace Action, Party for Socialism and Liberation, RootsAction, and World BEYOND War.
Featuring presentations by Marcy Winograd of CODEPINK, Jacqueline Luqman of Black Agenda Report, and retired Col. Lawrence Wilkerson, we will focus specifically on the WHY and HOW of ending this war.
Hundreds of thousands dead, countless more wounded, millions displaced, and Ukraine – the “breadbasket” of Europe and the world – ravaged by a senseless and needless war, yet our elected political leaders in the U.S, aided and abetted by a compliant mainstream media and a feckless Congress, pursue an evermore dangerous escalation in a conflict where no one wins and everybody loses.
The invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces a year ago shocked the world, but the roots of the conflict go back years. The US/NATO and Russia face-off over Ukraine has produced an ongoing disaster that has global ramifications risking, at worst, a nuclear Armageddon, while currently causing shortages of food, fuel and other basics throughout the region and beyond. An immediate stop to the supply of arms, a ceasefire, and negotiations based on realistic expectations by all sides could be the multipart plan to bring peace to Ukraine and the European continent.
Furthermore, we need to bring an end to the unrelenting geopolitical brinkmanship and pursuit of global hegemony. We need to stop spending trillions on weapons of war and on U.S. military forces stationed around the globe. We need an urgent pivot toward tackling the existential problems of climate change, environmental degradation, and the economic inequality prevailing in populations in our own country and around the world.
It is up to US, all of us who believe in peace, justice, and equality, to unite and demand that this war end!
See you on February 15th!
FEB. 8TH, 6 P.M. CENTRAL ONLINE – “IT’S TIME TO BUILD A SUPRANATIONAL SYSTEM OF GOVERNANCE”
JOIN CAPA in attending an educational event online, Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 at 6 P.M. central: “It’s Time to Build a Supranational System of Governance: An Indispensable Foundation for Peace,“ featuring Sovaida Ma’ani Ewing and hosted by Peace Action New York State and Upper Hudson Peace Action!
Against the backdrop of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, escalating great power tension, and the growing climate crisis, there exists an enduring vision and roadmap for global justice and peace. Some of the world’s greatest minds have shared this inspiring vision. This timeless idea is about creating a supranational system of global governance.
On February 8th at 6 pm CDT, we will join our friends at Upper Hudson Peace Action and Peace Action New York State in discussing this powerful plan to realize world peace with Sovaida Ma’ani Ewing, a world renowned author, speaker, and international lawyer. Ms. Ewing is also the founding director of the Center for Peace and Global Governance (CPGG) and has published five books on world peace and global governance.
We hope to see you there!
SUNDAY, JAN. 29TH, 2023, 11-2 P.M. Central, Loyola Red Line Stop: CANVASS WITH BOEING ARMS GENOCIDE to Stop IL from Funding a Boeing Drone Facility!
Boeing Arms Genocide will be hitting the pavement on Sunday, Jan. 29th, to tell the community about the soon-to-open military drone facility in IL — and what we can do to stop it!
We will provide a canvassing training with all the necessary info on the campaign and materials. All you need to bring is yourself and your passion for stopping Boeing’s ongoing militarism in IL communities, which destroys lives around the world. We are organizing to tell Gov. Pritzker that IL taxpayer resources can be better spent on life-affirming projects that uplift rather than destroy communities.
See you on Jan. 29th!
SATURDAY, JAN. 28TH, 2023, 10 A.M. – 5 P.M. Central, online: INT’L PEOPLE’S TRIBUNAL ON U.S. IMPERIALISM!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER! (Note: to watch online, you may be directed to subscribe to the People’s Forum youtube page–>)
After two years of dedicated organizing, the People’s Forum are excited to officially announce the launch of the International People’s Tribunal on U.S. Imperialism: Sanctions, Blockades, and Economic Coercive Measures. This project is a first ever international effort to build systems of accountability—rooted in global cross-movement solidarity—both within and outside of the law, to challenge the violence of imperialism through sanctions. With an impressive group of internationally renowned jurists from across the world, we interrogate sanctions not from the perspective of those who enforce them, but from the perspective of those most impacted by them, namely the peoples of Asia, Africa, and South America.
This initial half-day forum will take place as a hybrid event offered in-person and online. The in-person offering is located at 320 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018, hosted by an international coalition of over 30 organizations. Overall, the Tribunal will last for approximately six months and will conclude with a closing event hosted by the Simón Bolívar Institute in Caracas, Venezuela in July 2023.
Co-sponsors include: Al-Awda, Alliance for Global Justice, ANSWER, Black Alliance for Peace, CODEPINK, COLAP, CPK, Committee of Anti-Imperialists in Solidarity with Iran, Foundation Franz Fanon, IADL, Institute Simon Bolivar, National Lantern Guild, Palestinian Alternative Revolutionary Path Movement, Samidoun, Sanctions Kill, Tricontinental, and more.
SATURDAY, JAN. 21ST, 2023, 12-5 P.M. Central: “REDUCING THE THREAT OF NUCLEAR WAR” CONFERENCE
The 2023 “Reducing the Threat of Nuclear War” Conference will be held virtually on Saturday January 21st, 12-5P.M. Central. This annual gathering is one of the major national conferences addressing this acute problem.
Given the tragic events in Ukraine, tensions with China over Taiwan, and provocations from North Korea, we need to accelerate effort toward clear analysis, peaceful resolutions and nuclear disarmament. The subtheme this year will be “The Social and Economic Costs of the Nuclear Weapons Buildup”. Particular attention will be given to the destructive effect of excessive weapons spending on human needs. Attendees will also be able to choose one Breakout in the first set (2 P.M. Central) and one in the second set (3:30 P.M. Central).
Breakouts Group I (2:00 – 3:00 pm):
- (A) Advancing Back from the Brink -Dr. Joseph McCabe (GBPSR); Dr. Ira Helfand (PSR); Jeremy Love (Back from the Brink). Reporter Susan Entin.
- (B) Resisting a New Cold War with China: John Ratliff (Mass Peace Action); Joseph Gerson (Campaign for Peace, Disarmament and Common Security); Wei Yu (CodePINK). Reporter-Steve Gallant
- (C) Cutting Budgets for Nuclear Weapons– David Borris (CAPA); Paul Shannon (AFSC); Savannah Wooten (People over the Pentagon); Sayre Sheldon (WAND); William Hartung (Quincy Institute). Reporter-Louise Coleman
- (D) Addressing the Housing Crises: Build Homes Not Bombs: Jodie Evans (CodePINK); Michael Kane (Alliance of HUD Tenants); Savina Martin (Mass Poor Peoples Campaign); State Rep Mike Connolly; Sr. Linda Bessom ( Pax Christi). Reporter Drew King.
- (E) No Wars No Warming: Vernon Walker (CREW-350MA); Ed Aguilar (CPA-PA); Rosalie Anders (MAPA); Teddy Ogborn (CodePINK). Reporter-Pat Hynes
- (F) Promoting Nuclear Disarmament in the Congressional Progressive Caucus and Progressive Organizations – Elaine Scarry (CPDCS); Jackie Cabasso (Mayors for Peace); Vicki Elson (NuclearBan.us); Russell Freedman (PDA); Cherrill Spencer (WILPF); Reporter-Cynthia MacBain.
- (G) Supporting Veterans: Bonnie Gorman (Veterans for Peace and MAPA); Gerry Condon (Veterans for Peace); Roger Quindell (WI Vets for Peace); Jim Anderson (PANYS). Reporter-Mike Van Elzakker
- (H) Contacting Young People Advocating for Peace. Alex Neilly (Northeastern University); Peter Bergel (Oregon); Christian Ciobanu (Nuclear Age Peace Foundation); Roni Zahavi-Brunner (PANYS); Calla Walsh (MAPA); Alan Robock (Rutgers). Reporter Merri Ansara
Breakouts Group II (4:30 – 5:30 pm):
- (I) Interplay of Racism and Militarism at Home and Abroad: Rosemary Kean (MAPA); Liz Bejjalieh (CAPA); Vaughn Goodwin (MA PPC); Jeff Klein (Dorchester People for Peace); Reporter –Bonnie Gorman
- (J) Promoting the TPNW within the US – Timmon Wallis (Nuclear Ban -US); Dave Pack (Peace Action Kansas City); Sally Jones (PANYS); Molly McGinity (IPPNW);Ray Acheson (WILPF). Reporter Kathy Malley-Morrison
- (K) Promoting Peace Between the Koreas – Colleen Moore (Women Across the DMZ); Mike van Elzakker (MAPA); Seung Hee Jeon (New England Koreans for Peace). Reporter-Joseph Gerson
- (L) Pressing for Negotiations in Ukraine – Marcy Winograd (CODEPINK); Susan Mirsky (MAPA); Cole Harrison (MAPA); Frances Jeffries (Rotary). Reporter- Danaka Katovich
- (M) Divestment and Direct Action focused on the Nuclear Weapons industry – David Swanson & Greta Zarro (World Beyond War); Rev. Paul Dordal (PA); Susi Snyder (Don’t Bank on the Bomb); Shea Lebow (CodePINK); Bill Glassmire (Corvallis Divests from War). Reporter- Paul Shannon.
- (N) Working with Nurses, Public Health Professionals and Healthcare Workers -Fund Healthcare not Warfare. Dr. Bob Gould (APHA); Sandy Eaton (MassCARE); Anne Cheney (APHA Peace Caucus); Cate Henning (MAPA); Katie Murphy (Mass Nurses Assoc); Martin Fleck (PSR). Reporter – Peter Bergel.
- (O) Campus Education and Organizing- Invest in Minds not Missiles. Prof. Bob Redwine (MIT); Roni Zahavi-Brunner (PANYS); CAPA Student; Luissa Vahedi (Am Public Health Assn); Reporter-Steve Slaner.
- (P) Promoting Peace in Municipal and State Legislatures; MA State Rep Carol Doherty; Sen. Jamie Eldridge (Mass Legislature); Tara Currie (Brooklyn for Peace ); Dennis Carlone (Cambridge City Council); Reporter– Cherrill Spencer.
- (Q) Engaging Communities of Faith /Promoting Pope Francis’ Encyclical -Mike Moran (Pax Christi); Keith Harvey (AFSC); Sofia Wolman (Inside the Sun); John Bach (Cambridge Quakers). Reporter- Peter Metz
FRIDAY, JAN. 20TH, 2023, 12-12:30 P.M. Central: “BIDEN: DECLARE A CLIMATE EMERGENCY”
Join us Join us! January 20th 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM at 230 S. Dearborn Street, in honoring the life of movement leader Joye Braun by Demanding Biden Stop fossil fuel projects & Declare a Climate Emergency!
This year, our movement and our world lost Joye Braun, a true warrior and force of nature. In her honor, we are participating in a nationwide mass day of action on January 20th to push the President to take bold climate action. We will be holding it live and digitally! For the Digital, click here. Please share them on your platforms. Watch for our posts to share or retweet.
For the in-person event, we will be at the Kluczynski Federal Building for a quick Action and photo op, live tweeting @Potus telling him Declare a Climate Emergency and Stop Line 5!
MONDAY, JAN. 16TH, 2023, 10 A.M.-1 P.M. Central: BUILDING THE BELOVED COMMUNITY
- Our friends at the Institute for Nonviolence Chicago are holding a community-building event on Monday, January 16th, 2023 from 10 A.M.-1 P.M. Central, at 819 N. Leamington Street. There will be a two-hour introduction to Dr. King’s Principles and Steps of Nonviolence, then putting the beloved community into action by assembling essential items for distribution in the community.
See you there!
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s peace activism can inspire people of all backgrounds to seek radical peace through dismantling U.S. militarism, poverty, and racism — more urgent than ever in 2023.
Several local faith-based communities will gather to honor Dr. King’s legacy on Sunday, January 15th at 3 P.M. Central, for the 2023 MLK Interfaith Community Worship Service, held at Faith Temple Church of God in Christ, 1932 Dewey Ave, Evanston.
Co-Sponsors include: Second Baptist Church, Unitarian Church of Evanston, First United Methodist Church, Lake Street Church, Faith Temple Church of God in Christ, Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation, 1st Congregation Church, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, St. Mark;’s Episcopal Church, Northminster Presbyterian Church, Grace Lutheran Church, Beth Emet the Free Synagogue, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Christ Temple Baptist Church, Ebenezer AME Church, Bethel AME Church, New Hope CME Church, First Church of God Christian Life Center, Evanston Church of God, Bethany Baptist Church of Christ, Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Including a special presentation to the Reparations Stakeholders Authority of Evanston.
Please join CAPA and friends on Thursday, January 12th, 2023 from 7:00-8:30 P.M. Central for a virtual event hosted by Roots Action, as we celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.: “DIPLOMACY IS THE PATH TO PEACE.”
A key focus will be this statement by Dr. King during his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize speech: “I refuse to accept the cynical notion that nation after nation must spiral down a militaristic stairway into the hell of thermonuclear destruction.”
Featuring: the Reverend Dr. Liz Theoharis, Pastor Michael McBride, Judith LeBlanc, Dan Ellsberg, Khury Petersen-Smith, David Swanson, Norman Solomon and Hanieh Jodat.
See you there!
CELEBRATE WITH US!
Please join CAPA in celebrating a victory for IL gun legislation — IL has passed a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines!
The Protect Illinois Communities Act is the result of hard work from groups like People for a Safer Society, IL Alliance to Prevent Gun Violence, Moms Demand Action, March for Our Lives, Everytown, One Aim IL. Groups like these who lead on this issue are calling out to celebrate. 🎊🎊🎊🎊
“This moment is the result of the dedication and leadership of hundreds of survivors, advocates and organizations that lent their voice to this fight to help enact what is now one of the strongest pieces of gun safety legislation in the country,” said Protect Illinois Communities Chair and President Becky Carroll.
“We now live in a state that cares more about children than guns.” -Rachel Jacoby of March for Our Lives. Follow the work of IL gun violence prevention groups!
The Protect Illinois Communities Act, or House Bill 5471, had recently passed both the IL House and IL Senate and was signed into law by Governor Pritzker.
“Illinois joins other states with the strongest assault weapons ban in the nation sending the message that lives are valued over guns,” said state Rep. La Shawn K. Ford (D-Chicago).
“Gun violence anywhere is a threat to wellbeing everywhere. In Illinois, lawmakers, advocates, and gun violence survivors stood together and worked for decisive, protective change,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.
Read more about the news here!
CAPA is happy to announce a recent breakthrough from our friends at People for a Safer Society:
Update and Action Items! — We went to Springfield and were HEARD!
The Illinois House has passed the Protect Illinois Communities Act, with some changes. While high-capacity magazines were redefined as holding 12 or more rounds (as opposed to 10) and the age restrictions were dropped — most of the bill remains intact. You can read about it here. Now the debate moves to the IL Senate.
What can YOU do?
1.) Call and email YOUR IL State Senator to encourage a YES VOTE on The Protect Illinois Communities Act! Here’s how:
EMAIL: Click to send your IL State Senator an email
CALL: Click here to find your State Senator and their phone numbers. The senators listed below especially need to hear from constituents.
Senator John Curran -41st District
Senator Napoleon Harris – 15th District
Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton – 24th District
Senator Linda Holmes – 42nd District
Senator Patrick Joyce – 40th District
Senator Eric Mattson – 43rd District
Senator Steve Stadelman – 34th District
Senator Doris Turner – 48th District
Please use a personalized version of this script:
- “Hello, my name is _______, and I am a constituent in your district. I am calling to encourage you to vote YES for the Protect Illinois Communities Act. I believe this commonsense legislation takes simple steps to curb gun violence throughout our state.
- “By banning future sales of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, we will be eliminating the weapon most often used in mass shootings.
- “By tackling gun trafficking, we can curb the flow of guns into Illinois, which accounts for half of the guns used in crimes in our state.
- “By extending the length of firearms restraining orders from 6 months to a year, we can allow difficult situations the time they need to resolve before they become deadly.
- “Please vote YES for this legislation and be a part of the solution for gun violence in Illinois.”
2.) Be on the lookout for witness slip information coming soon!
Thank you for taking action to reduce gun violence in IL!
Dear CAPA Members and Friends,
We start the new year with some good news! The Biden Administration is proposing and implementing stricter rules to reduce methane emissions from oil and gas installations. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking the lead on this important initiative by requiring mandates for regular inspections at all oil drilling sites to monitor their methane emissions.
The EPA has also ruled that oil and gas operators must monitor 300,000 of the country’s largest well sites on a quarterly basis to detect and fix leaks. In addition, the EPA will create a program to detect the biggest methane-emitting sites using government data or remote advanced technology so that operators can detect leaks quickly and repair them faster. The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will support these new rules by significantly increasing the financial penalties on oil and gas locations who have allowed leaked methane to occur. The EPA is expected to finalize these rules by early 2023 after receiving input from hearings that will take place this month.
This is where you come in!
We encourage you to send your written comments to the EPA by clicking below. Here is a draft of suggested comments. You can use all or part of this draft or develop your own based on the information provided above.
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR COMMENTS!
Thank you for raising your voice to the EPA in your comments. This is a major step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We must outnumber the industry voices at these hearings. Let’s do it for our children and our grandchildren.
Join the CAPA Climate Group in taking action to protect the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, which is currently under attack in Illinois!
From our friends at Illinois Environmental Council: “Radical campaigns to ban— that’s right, ban— local clean energy projects in Illinois have picked up steam, and we need your help to stop them. We fought for nearly three straight years to pass the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, aka CEJA. Just as the many benefits we’ve been excited about are beginning to take effect, we must band together to defend the progress we’ve made toward our clean and equitable future.
“The IL General Assembly must take swift legislative action to defend CEJA and stop these bad-faith attack campaigns before it’s too late. Please help us build support to end these bans by asking your legislators to support legislation that does the following:
- removes overburdensome local bans and siting regulations
- prioritizes protections for endangered species and natural areas
- encourages good conservation practices at clean energy sites”
Click here to contact your legislators in support of local clean energy projects!
CONTACT US
If you would like more information about CAPA, or would like to volunteer or intern for CAPA, please contact us by email or phone.
