Dayak seek solidarity
ADELAIDE — Thirty people heard representatives of the Dayak people of Kalimantan here on February 14. They have been touring Australia to raise awareness of the effects of the mining activities of Rio Tinto and Aurora Gold and to ask for solidarity from Australia.
The mines have wreaked havoc on the environment and livelihoods of the Dayak people. Andreas Udang of the Yayasan Bina Sumber Daya NGO fears for the survival of the 12 villages in the concession area of the PT Kelian Equatorial Mine, which allows mining for 18 years.
A meeting was held with Rio Tinto at which it was agreed that there would be ongoing dialogue. A meeting with Aurora is scheduled in Perth. Community Aid Abroad is campaigning to pressure Rio Tinto and Aurora to institute a code of practice in their mines in underdeveloped countries.
Workers First benefit
MELBOURNE — More than 70 people gathered at the Lord Newry Hotel last week for a benefit concert in support of the Workers First team in the upcoming Australian Manufacturing Workers Union elections. Supporters heard Frank Fairley, Workers First candidate for AMWU state secretary, speak on the campaign. Singer Peter Hicks performed. The benefit raised around $800 for the campaign.
One Nation opposed
BLACKTOWN — Nearly 50 demonstrators gathered outside the Blacktown Bowling Club on February 17 to show their opposition to One Nation party policies. About 25 gathered inside to hear an organiser from One Nation. Local demonstrators came from Korea, India, Australia and the Philippines. Further speak-outs against racism are planned for western Sydney.
'Women's rights are everybody's business'
NEWCASTLE — "Women's rights are everybody's business" is the theme of this year's Newcastle International Women's Day. The theme was chosen by the IWD collective to highlight that all people will benefit from the liberation of women and that everybody has a role to play in supporting the struggle for women's rights.
The collective is woman-only collective but is calling on men to march on the day. The march is demanding freedom from racism, sexism and homophobia; the right to employment, education and child-care; freedom from violence and harassment; and the right of women to control their own bodies.
After a long march through the city centre to the Newcastle shore, there will be speakers, entertainment and stalls. Women representing the Aboriginal community, young women and disabled women will speak. Check page 27 for details.