DC Metro Action is a listing of local actions, entertainment, volunteer opportunities and the occasional rant on a wide range of socially just issues.
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Action of the Day Many of these action alerts are found on the listservs and websites of organizations listed in our "Act Locally" section (Left).
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
East Timor – What's Going On?
Four years after becoming independent, East Timor is again in the world's media. As violent conflict continues, the government has invited international troops to avert increased chaos and casualties. Is the poorest country in Asia on the verge of losing the independence, democracy and peace that its people won after decades of costly struggle?
The situation is complex – massive unemployment, historical rivalries, military schisms, ethnic conflicts, governance failures, post-traumatic stress, political agendas, misdirected international "aid" and past UN decisions all play a role. But it can be resolved.
Attend a discussion with João da Silva Sarmento, coordinator of the East Timorese Student Solidarity Council, an editor for the leading Timorese newspaper Suara Timor Lorosa’e and a researcher and board member at La’o Hamutuk, the Timor-Leste Institute for Reconstruction Monitoring and Analysis. João is currently studying linguistics at the University of Hawaii.
DC Metro Action is published by Michael Schlesinger, a 32-year veteran of electoral and issue organizing who is committed to social justice and to increasing participation in the political process.
All original content (C) 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 Michael Schlesinger
