UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR BY DANCEWATER
02/26/18 DOCUMENTARY SHOWING AT NORTH ASHEVILLE LIBRARY
Documentary screening of “13th” will be on Monday Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. This Oscar nominated documentary is described as “Powerful, infuriating, and at times overwhelming … and will get our blood boiling and tear ducts streaming” by the New York Times. Contact North Asheville Library for more information.
02/26/18 COFFEE AND CONVERSATION ON SLAVE SPIRITUALS TO CIVIL RIGHTS AT MHU
Around Here: Coffee and Conversation, which begins Monday, February 26 at 3:30 p.m. Complimentary coffee and cookies will be provided. The first conversation will be “A History of Spreading the Gospel through Music: From Slave Spirituals to Civil Rights,” with professor David Gilbert, author of “The Product of Our Souls: Ragtime, Race, and the Birth of the Manhattan Music Marketplace” (UNC Press, 2015). This event is free of charge and open to the public. For more information, please call (828) 689-1115 or email lweinstein@mhu.edu.
02/26/18 DOCUMENTARY ON AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY IN BLACK MOUNTAIN
Our Movies and Meanings film series continues with “Brother Outsider.” As we celebrate African-American History month, the life and work and words of Bayard Rustin are as important as any other in celebrating the history of African-Americans and the valiant leaders of the Civil Rights Era. This film does a brilliant job of telling his story. “Brother Outsider” captures the full extent of Rustin's complex, 60-year career as an activist. The film contains rare archival footage, including impassioned debates between Rustin and Malcolm X as well as Rustin and Stokely Carmichael. In later years, Rustin continued to champion human rights — including gay rights — in campaigns around the globe. As King aide and former U.N. ambassador Andrew Young recalls in the film “His commitment to justice was always very strong and very consistent. It was easier when he had allies like Martin Luther King and A. Philip Randolph, but when they were gone, he didn't stop.” The film “Brother Outsider” relies on Rustin's extensive FBI records as a form of narration, which become chilling commentaries on the government's political surveillance programs. In a 1948 FBI report, for example, American diplomats suggested that “a prominent American Negro should tour India to counteract the unfavorable impression made by Rustin.” Whatever the circumstance — beaten, accused, shunned or celebrated — Rustin embraced the struggle with fearless dignity. “Brother Outsider” is an exuberant film about a passionate and tireless human being. Date is Monday February 26th. Potluck at 6:30 pm and film screening at 7:30 pm. Suggested donation is $7 - $10. Location is White Horse, Black Mountain in Black Mountain, NC. For more information, call (828) 669-0816 or email whitehorseblkmtn@gmail.com.
02/26/18 ASHEVILLE SURG WEEKLY MEETING
Asheville SURJ Weekly Monday night meetings: 6:30-8:30pm at the UU Congregation (1 Edwin Place, corner of Edwin & Charlotte), downstairs main building. Every Monday, all are welcome to gather with others seeking to stay accountable in the work of dismantling white supremacy within themselves and the spheres they work, play, and live in. First Mondays are focused on exploring SURJ's Core Values and how we go about the work of moving from ally to accomplice in this work. Second Mondays are focused on a Calling In session where we brainstorm and role-play difficult situations and conversations around confronting racism and white supremacy, in ourselves and others. Third & Fourth Mondays are focused on Education with each topic being looked at nationally one week and then local impacts the following week. We are beginning this series with a focus on issues relating to Housing. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com. Specific dates & topics below: Feb. 26: Redlining (local Asheville history)
02/27/18 INDIVISIBLE ASHEVILLE MEETING
At this month’s general meeting we welcome Kelly Garvy, founder of ‘Kill The Bill’, who’ll speak with us about what’s going on in the NC General Assembly (NCGA) in Raleigh and what we can do to get involved and help ensure that our legislature works for the citizens of North Carolina, not against us. Indivisible general meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month. Each month we’ll give updates on recent and future actions and highlight opportunities to get involved, and we’ll also focus on learning more about our elected representatives in Raleigh and Washington, or hearing from candidates who are seeking election, or learning more about a particular issue, or sharing tools for active engagement. Hope to see you there. General meetings are open to all. If you have suggestions for future meetings, let us know: email info@indivisibleavl.org. Time is 6 to 7:30 PM and location is Pack Memorial Library Auditorium at 67 Haywood Street in downtown Asheville.
02/27/18 LIVE STAKING WITH FRENCH BROAD RIVERKEEPER
The French Broad Riverkeeper and Mountain True are combating sediment pollution by planting live-stakes along eroding river banks. Time and location TBD. Sign up at mountaintrue dot org for updates or to register.
02/27/18 ASHEVILLE SURJ DO!SCUSSION
ASURJ Do!scussion: Tuesdays, 10-11:30am in the backroom of Firestorm, Road in Asheville. A safe space to come together and talk about issues relating to dismantling white supremacy and confronting racism with a focus on what we can do to make a change, in ourselves, our communities, and beyond. All are welcome. Led by Matilda Bliss. ASURJ Do-Session: Tuesdays, noon-2pm, at a member’s residence. Meet us at 11:45 at Kairos West (right below Firestorm) and walk with us down there. This is a weekly space to do something to support accountability partners in their work. Letter-writing, list-making, social media work are just a few examples of what we will do to show up for racial justice Tuesday at the Do-Session. Bring your laptop and phone and help us out. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com.
02/27/17 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON
Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace.
02/27/18 LUNCH AND LEARN ON THE HOUSING CRISIS
Lunch & Learn: Housing Crisis. Pisgah Legal Services is dedicated to alleviating poverty in Western North Carolina. We see clients everyday who don't have access to affordable, safe, or stable housing. Join Pisgah Legal's Housing and Community Economic Development teams for a lunch session to learn more about the housing crisis and landlord/tenant law. We will share ways that Pisgah Legal staff and volunteers are affecting change and impacting lives, and how you can plug in. February 27th, 2018 from 12 - 1:30 pm at Tuton Hall at Trinity Episcopal Church at 60 Church Street in Asheville. Suggested Donation: $10/person. RSVP to nora@pisgahlegal.org. Lunch from Green Opportunities will be provided. Space is limited, please RSVP to Nora Frank by February 20th.
02/27/18 WORLD AFFAIRS GREAT DECISIONS SERIES
World Affairs Council Great Decisions Series at UNC Asheville continues on February 27th with a talk on “Media and Foreign Policy” with Jake Greear, adjunct instructor in Western Carolina University’s Political Science and Public Affairs Department. The World Affairs Council of Western North Carolina will begin its Great Decisions 2018 series, with six talks at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights in February and March at the Reuter Center at UNC Asheville. This series is part of the national Great Decisions Program, America’s largest grass-roots discussion program on world affairs. The Great Decisions Program, which began in 1954, is the flagship program of the non-partisan, non-governmental Foreign Policy Association. The program’s goal is to discuss, debate and learn about international affairs, national security and U.S. foreign policy. These lectures are presented in partnership by the World Affairs Council, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC Asheville (OLLI), and the university’s Department of Political Science. Admission to World Affairs Council presentations at UNC Asheville is $10 for the public; free to members of the World Affairs Council and UNC Asheville students. For more information, contact olli@unca.edu or 828.251.6140.
02/27/18 VOTER REGISTRATION DRIVE IN WAYNESVILLE
We have a *delicious* opportunity to support voters. We'll be attending ‘Pancake Day’ on Tues., February 27, at First United Methodist Church (566 Haywood St., Waynesville, N.C. 28786) to help voters take the first step to the ballot in 2018 — making sure they're registered to vote. Served between 6:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. Don't miss this chance to enjoy pancakes and help voters! If you have questions, call Edward Peters at 828-216-3430 or email edward@democracy-nc.org.
02/27/18 HEALTHCARE FOR ALL - WNC EDUCATIONAL FORUM
Healthcare for All-WNC presents an educational forum: “Healthcare for All – Good for Business.” Tuesday, February 27, 2018 7:00 – 8:30 PM at A-B Tech Ferguson Auditorium, 340 Victoria Road in Asheville. Admission is free. Doors open at 6:30 PM. Four speakers will discuss the benefits of universal healthcare from business and medical perspectives. For more information visit healthcareforallwnc.wordpress.com. Business leaders speak on benefits of universal healthcare. David J. Steil -- CEO MicroTrap Corporation, former Republican PA state legislator and Gus Vickery,MD -- Owner Vickery Family Medicine and Vijay Kapoor -- Member Asheville City Council, Owner The Kapoor Co. Special guest appearance by Dr. Carol Paris, President of Physicians for a National Health Program. Contact AB Tech for more information.
02/27/18 DOCUMENTARY “CHASING CORAL” IN ASHEVILLE
Movie Night for "Chasing Coral” will be on Tuesday, Feb 27th, 7-8pm, Doors at 6:30. Location is The Collider (4th floor of the Wells Fargo building) at Suite 401, 1 Haywood Street in downtown Asheville. Doors Open at 6:30pm, Film starts at 7pm. In partnership with the Asheville chapter of Citizens' Climate Lobby, The Collider will screen the documentary “Chasing Coral” telling the story of a team of divers, photographers and scientists who set out on a thrilling adventure to document the disappearance of the world's coral reefs. Refreshments provided by Oskar Blues Brewery. The screening will be followed by a discussion led by Steffi Rausch, lead organizer for the Asheville chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. This event is free with a suggested donation of $10 per person; $20 per family. Contact Asheville Citizens' Climate Lobby at asheville@citizensclimatelobby.org for more information.
02/27/18 WORKERS ASSEMBLY IN ASHEVILLE
Asheville Area Workers’ Assembly – Tuesday, February 27. Hosted by Raising Wages NC and Just Economics of WNC, The Workers’ Assembly is scheduled for February 27th, 5:30-8:30 pm at Congregation Beth HaTephila. It will celebrate the history of worker organizing in NC, engage with efforts to raise wages, educate through the collective wisdom of local workers, and mobilize to build power for working people in the Asheville area. Food, childcare, and interpretation provided. Carolina Jews for Justice .
02/28/18 AUTHOR EVENT FOR ASHEVILLE CITY SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
Nikole Hannah-Jones: “Ending Racial Inequity in Our Schools: What Actually Works.” Time is 7:00 pm-8:30 pm and location is Lipinsky Hall - Auditorium. Writing for The New York Times Magazine, investigative journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones has won the Peabody, George Polk and National Magazine Awards for her reporting on segregated housing and schools, the black experience in America and racial inequality. Her current project is a book on school segregation titled The Problem We All Live With, and her talk will be titled “Ending Racial Inequity in Our Schools: What Actually Works”. Proceeds of this event will benefit for the Asheville City Schools Foundation. Tickets are $25; $75 for the talk and a 6 PM special reception. To purchase tickets over the phone, please contact Rebecca Abide at 828 - 350 - 6174. For information about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Copland Rudolph at 828 - 350 - 6139 or by email at copland@acsf.org. This event is sold out.
02/28/18 BLACK HISTORY MONTH LECTURE SERIES AT AB TECH
Community Voices Lecture Series Beginning at A-B Tech. A-B Tech is launching a Community Voices lectures series that will be kicked off with Black History Month presentations. Black History Month lectures will include presentations by Oralene Simmons and Nicole Townsend in February. Simmons will discuss the work of the Martin Luther King Jr. Association at 3 p.m. on February 7. Townsend will discuss “Colorism and its Implications for the African American Community” at 3 p.m. on February 28. Future lectures include topics for Women’s History Month in March and other issues impacting our community throughout the academic year. All Community Voices events are free and open to the public. Location is Ferguson Auditorium at the Asheville campus of AB Tech. Contact AB Tech for more information.
02/28/18 WOKE WEDNESDAY EVENT
The lowdown - Mark your calendars. It is time for Woke Wednesdays. Hosted at The Block off biltmore (39 South Market Street in Asheville) and co-curated by Asheville’s own Cynde Allen and Cortina Jenelle, we hope to create an event that brings together local artists, activists, leaders and changemakers to share about their human experience and build conscious community with creative mediums such as spoken word, improv, music and visual art. Woke Wednesdays was specifically created to highlight voices from the black, brown, and LGBTQ communities. We begin the night by honoring our youth voices with an opening performance by youth Slammer. Then a spoken word, poetry or theater showcase by a local artist. Following that hour set, the floor opens up for open mic for those that want to share (calling on the elders) – sign up available at the beginning of each event. Then, dance your heart out with DJ Phantom Pantone playing the latest in electronic dance music from around the world. Doors open at 7 PM. First ten early birds get in free. $4 cover, all proceeds go to the artists. Call 828-254-9277 for more information.
02/28/18 AUTHOR EVENT AT FIRESTORM BOOKS & COFFEE
“Transforming Hate” Author Event at Firestorm Books & Coffee. Wednesday, February 28th at 6 pm. Location is 610 Haywood Road in west Asheville. Join Asheville resident, Clarissa Sligh, for a reading of her most recent book, “Transforming Hate: An Artist’s Book.” About the book: One’s life sometimes collides with moments in history, causing it to be altered dramatically by external change. Transforming Hate: An Artist’s Book sheds light on our individual roles in history, as witness and as participant, how we each influence decisions about who gets to have rights and who is marginalized in our society. Making this book, “I had to face my own terror and fear and the ways it made me feel safe if I averted my eyes or did not look too closely at our dominant narratives about our history and identity.” How can we begin to talk about what separates us? Clarissa Sligh is an internationally acclaimed and highly awarded artist, writer and educator. She is known for her compelling photo-text images, artists’ books, and text-based installations exploring richly layered concepts such as identity, politics, social justice, memory, and history. Contact Information: Firestorm Books and Coffee (828-255-8115)
02/28/18 BLACK HISTORY MONTH LUNCHEON AND SPEECH
Black History Month Luncheon Features Prof. Darin Waters. In observance of Black History Month, Leadership Asheville Forum (LAF) will present Dr. Darin Waters as the featured speaker at its Critical Issues Luncheon on Wednesday, February 28, 2018. The program at the Country Club of Asheville is open to the public; reservations are required no later than Feb. 23 (RSVP: nwilliam@unca.edu). Buffet service begins at 11:45 a.m., the program at 12:15 p.m. The cost is $25 for LAF members, $30 for non-members. Prof. Waters’s family roots in western North Carolina date back more than 150 years, and he will speak on “Life Beneath the Veneer: Reflections on the Early History of African Americans in Asheville and Western North Carolina.” An assistant professor of history and special assistant to the chancellor at UNC Asheville, Waters teaches courses in American history, North Carolina and Appalachian history, African American history, and Latin-American history. He is also a recognized expert in the history of race relations in the United States and Latin America. In addition to his academic work, Dr. Waters co-hosts the “Waters and Harvey Show” on Blue Ridge Public Radio. He currently serves as a member of the North Carolina Historic Markers Commission, and on the boards of the National Blue Ridge Heritage Area, the Thomas Wolfe Memorial of Historic Asheville, and the NC Civil War History Center. He received his doctorate from UNC-Chapel Hill. LAF’s February 28th Critical Issues Luncheon will be held at the Country Club of Asheville, 170 Windsor Road. Food Service begins at 11:45 a.m.; the program begins at 12:15 p.m. Tickets are $30; $25 for LAF members. Please RSVP by Friday, February 23 to Nancy Williams at nwilliam@unca.edu or 250-2353 (email preferred).
03/01/18 INTERFAITH PEACE CONFERENCE AT LAKE JUNALUSKA
Meeting the Other: Can We Talk?. March 1 - 4, 2018. The Interfaith Peace Conference at Lake Junaluska strives to advance the work of reconciliation and peace. Represented by a coalition of Jewish, Christian, Muslim and other religious traditions, the event features workshops, music, prayer and lectures. At the 2018 conference we will demonstrate the art of building bridges of Godly love and participating in holy conversation. We can agree to disagree with civility and respect while upholding the core values of our various traditions. Juliane Hammer, Ph.D., serves as an associate professor and Kenan Rifai Scholar of Islamic studies at UNC-Chapel Hill. She specializes in the study of American Muslims, contemporary Muslim thought, women and gender in Islam, and Sufism. Trained in the study of Islam, languages, and pre-modern as well as modern Muslim societies, her scholarly trajectory has taken her from research on Palestinian women and diaspora and return experiences through a decade of work on American Muslim communities intersecting with women, gender and sexuality in contemporary Muslim contexts. She is the author of “Palestinians Born in Exile: Diaspora and the Search for a Homeland” (2005) and “American Muslim Women, Religious Authority, and Activism: More Than a Prayer” (2012), as well as the co-editor of “A Jihad for Justice” (with Kecia Ali and Laury Silvers, 2012) and the “Cambridge Companion to American Islam” (with Omid Safi, 2013). Hammer is one of the keynote speakers at the Interfaith Peace Conference, which takes place March 1-4 at Lake Junaluska. Program Fee: $150/person. Student Program Fee: $60/person. Contact Lake Junaluska at 828-452-2881 or information@lakejunaluska.com for more information, including how to register.
03/01/18 SIERRA CLUB MEETING
Engaging with Conservatives on a Bipartisan Climate Solution -- Thurs, Mar 1, at 7 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation,1 Edwin Place in Asheville. Come learn how you can engage positively with your legislators and conservative friends and relatives on the issue of climate change. Learn what terms to avoid and what language to use to actually reach areas of agreement. The same lessons can be used to lobby elected officials who may be skeptical of climate change. Free and open to the public. Sierra Club meetings now on Thursdays. Steffi Rausch, lead organizer for the Asheville Chapter of the Citizens Climate Change Lobby (CCL) will share how you can engage positively with your legislators and conservative friends and relatives on the issue of climate change. Learn what terms to avoid and what language to use to actually reach areas of agreement. The same lessons can be used to lobby elected officials who may be skeptical of climate change. Citizens Climate Lobby (CCL) is a non-profit, non-partisan international organization with 80,000 members worldwide that focuses on empowering and educating citizens to engage respectfully with their legislators on the issue of climate change as well as pushing for a bipartisan solution on the federal level. A big part of CCL’s outreach is reaching out to people with differing views to help bridge the partisan divide on the issue of climate by finding common ground between us. CCL works towards keeping a respectful bipartisan dialogue that is supported by a bipartisan advisory board that includes conservatives, liberals, scientists, and military. CCL’s proposed solution is called Carbon Fee & Dividend and has been adopted in various forms by four countries around the world, including Canada recently. It is a revenue-neutral, market-based, national alternative to regulations and the most effective, least intrusive, and government-free solution possible that will put more money back into the pockets of low to middle income households while growing our economy, jobs, and GDP. Top economists say it is the best and easiest way to fix a carbon market failure and incentivize producers and consumers to lower their carbon consumption while not regulating how they do this. For more information, call Judy Mattox at 828-683-2176 judymattox@sbcglobal.net. [There is no evidence that Carbon Fee & Dividend would actually work.- dancewater]
03/01/18 LECTURE AT UNCA
Dr. Christine Darden to deliver UNCA’s Parsons Lecture. Dr. Christine Darden, a leading mathematician, data analyst, and aeronautical engineer for NASA, will deliver the annual Parsons Lecture beginning at 7 PM on Thursday, March 1 in Lipinsky Auditorium. Dr. Darden’s story was one of the researchers whose stories were told in “Hidden Figures; The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race” (2016). She went on to become an internationally known expert in sonic-boom minimization, and an influential women of mathematicians and engineers at NASA in the mid-20th century. In 2007, she retired as a member of the senior staff at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Dr. Darden will share her personal story, From Monroe to NASA, including her growing up in Monroe, NC, attending Allen High School in Asheville, and her 40-year career at NASA. UNC Asheville’s annual Parsons Lecture is funded through an endowment from a mathematics alumnus in honor of Professor Emeritus of Mathematics Joe Parsons. The goal of the lecture is to bring to Asheville a nationally renowned mathematician able to communicate mathematical concepts and use with a general audience. Dr. Darden’s lecture is free and open to everyone. For more information, contact Sheryl Donaldson in UNC Asheville’s Department of Mathematics, at sdonalds@unca.edu or (828) 251-6556, or visit math.unca.edu.
03/01/18 DISABILITY DAY OF MOURNING AT UNCA
Disability Day of Mourning - March 1, 2018. As part of a nation-wide Day of Mourning, disability rights advocates in the local community and UNC Asheville will be holding a vigil on Thursday, March 1st, 2018 to honor the lives of disabled people murdered by their families and caretakers. Please join us. This event is open to all members of the UNCA and local community. Time is 10 AM to 1 PM.
03/01/18 NATIVE AMERICAN STUDENT ASSOCIATION PANEL AT UNCA
UNC Asheville's Native American Student Association - NASA - is sponsoring a panel event free and open to everyone, at noon on Thursday, March 1, in Karpen Hall, Laurel Forum, and provides this description: “The Remember the Removal Ride” is an annual event between the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The three week, 950-mile bike journey retraces the northern route of the trail of tears, starting at New Echota in GA and ending in Tahlequah, OK (the capitol of the Cherokee Nation and the United Keetowah Band). The panelists will share their experience and do a Q/A. Contact for this event: American Indian & Indigenous Studies Program at ladcock1@unca.edu or 828.251.6961.
03/01/18 THEATRICAL PRODUCTION AT UNCA
The play “Welcome Home, Jenny Sutter” tells the story of a US Marine finding a way to heal from her war experiences, reintegrate into society and rejoin her family. “Welcome Home, Jenny Sutter,” Julie Marie Myatt’s play about a Marine veteran who has lost a leg in the Iraq War and is struggling to reintegrate into civilian and family life, will be presented by Theatre UNCA in UNC Asheville’s Belk Theatre, with performances at 7:30 p.m. on March 1-3, and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, March 4. Tickets are $12 general admission; $10 for military veterans/seniors/UNC Asheville faculty; $7 students and OLLI members. The play will be performed at 7:30 PM on March 1, 2, and 3 and at 2 PM on March 4.This is at Belk Theatre at UNCA. Visit drama dot unca dot edu for more information and for tickets.
03/02/18 INTERFAITH PEACE CONFERENCE SPECIAL SESSION AT UNCA
This year part of the Interfaith Peace Conference will take place at UNC-Asheville. Individuals who are not attending the full Interfaith Peace Conference program may attend just the Friday afternoon UNC-Asheville special session is available for a fee of only $10. UNC-Asheville students can attend the sessions for free, but online registration is requested so we have the appropriate resources available on the day. Those who have already registered for the Interfaith Peace Conference do NOT need special tickets to this event, as the UNC-Asheville special sessions are already included in the program fee. Time is 3 to 5 PM. Contact Lake Junaluska at 828-452-2881 or information@lakejunaluska.com for more information, including how to register.
03/05/18 ASHEVILLE SURG WEEKLY MEETING
Asheville SURJ Weekly Monday night meetings: 6:30-8:30pm at the UU Congregation (1 Edwin Place, corner of Edwin & Charlotte), downstairs main building. Every Monday, all are welcome to gather with others seeking to stay accountable in the work of dismantling white supremacy within themselves and the spheres they work, play, and live in. First Mondays are focused on exploring SURJ's Core Values and how we go about the work of moving from ally to accomplice in this work. Second Mondays are focused on a Calling In session where we brainstorm and role-play difficult situations and conversations around confronting racism and white supremacy, in ourselves and others. Third & Fourth Mondays are focused on Education with each topic being looked at nationally one week and then local impacts the following week. We are beginning this series with a focus on issues relating to Housing. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com. Specific dates & topics below:
Mar. 19: Urban Renewal (big picture/national history)
Mar. 26: Urban Renewal (local Asheville history)
03/05/18 EXHIBITION AT MARS HILL UNIVERSITY
Collaborative Exhibition: Artist Connie Bostic and MHU Women’s Studies. March 5 @ 10:00 am - 4:00 pm. Connie Bostic’s artwork focus is on women – young girls to women – and vulnerability and concerns about their sexuality. Her images contain symbols referencing her views as an 80-year-old mother and grandmother. (She has three daughters and three granddaughters.) This is a collaboration with Dr. Ann M. Peiffer and the MHU Women’s Studies Program. Bostic’s work will serve as a springboard for several conversations on campus that will discuss gender expectations, women’s health, violence against women, and identity development. In addition, our art therapy program will be hosting an opportunity for patrons to make art in response to Bostic’s work. Mars Hill University. Until March 13, but not open every day. This is at Weizenblatt Gallery, at 79 Cascade Street in Mars Hill.
03/06/18 CURRENT EVENTS BOOK CLUB
Join host Bruce Roth for a lively discussion on topics of current interest including war and peace, the economy, the environment, and other hot political topics. “When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir” by Patrisse Khan-Cullors is this month’s selection. Time is 7 PM, contact Malaprops for more information.
03/06/18 WORLD AFFAIRS GREAT DECISIONS SERIES
World Affairs Council Great Decisions Series at UNC Asheville continues on March 6th with a talk on “The Defense Budget and Global Engagement Priorities” with retired Air Force Major General Richard Devereaux, who is now executive vice president for Texzon Technologies. The World Affairs Council of Western North Carolina will begin its Great Decisions 2018 series, with six talks at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights in February and March at the Reuter Center at UNC Asheville. This series is part of the national Great Decisions Program, America’s largest grassroots discussion program on world affairs. The Great Decisions Program, which began in 1954, is the flagship program of the non-partisan, non-governmental Foreign Policy Association. The program’s goal is to discuss, debate and learn about international affairs, national security and U.S. foreign policy. These lectures are presented in partnership by the World Affairs Council, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC Asheville (OLLI), and the university’s Department of Political Science. Admission to World Affairs Council presentations at UNC Asheville is $10 for the public; free to members of the World Affairs Council and UNC Asheville students. For more information, contact olli@unca.edu or 828.251.6140.
03/06/18 DOCUMENTARY FILM ON NO DAPL PROTESTS AT FIRESTORM
Tuesday, Mar 6th @ 6:00pm. Black Snake Killaz: a #Nodapl Film Screening. Join community members for a free screening of “Black Snake Killaz” a new film from Unicorn Riot. This will be followed by a discussion, including information on resistance to the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. “Black Snake Killaz" is a feature-length documentary film about the resistance to the Dakota Access Pipeline. This film explores actions taken by water protectors to stop the construction of the oil pipeline and highlights actions taken by law enforcement, military, and corporate mercenaries to quell the months-long protest. “Black Snake Killaz” timelines the historical events that unfolded in Standing Rock throughout 2016 and brings you the raw experience from many frontline actions to protect the water. Although the Dakota Access Pipeline is completed, the impact of the movement will be long-lasting. As fossil fuel extraction projects continue to impact some of the most vulnerable communities throughout the United States of America, the importance of the water protectors story grows. Location is Firestorm at 610 Haywood Road in west Asheville. Contact them for more information.
03/06/18 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS CIVICS 101
The League of Women Voters of Asheville-Buncombe County, Pisgah Legal Services, and Children First/Communities in Schools have joined together to present Civics 101. This series provides an opportunity for any community to learn about the roles and decision-making processes of our local governments and how citizens can advocate and get their voice heard. This 4 week program will take place Tuesdays in March at the Arthur Edington Center from 6:00 – 7:30 pm. Come to one or all sessions. Tuesday, March 6, 2018 will focus on Asheville City Government. Presenters are Jaime Matthews- Assistant to the City Manager; Dawa Hitch – Director of Communications and Public Engagement; and Keith Young – Councilman of City of Asheville. Tuesday, March 13, 2018 will focus on Buncombe County Government. Presenters are Kathy Hughes – Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners and Al Whitesides – County Commissioner – District 1. Tuesday , March 20, 2018 will focus on Justice Resource Center & Family Justice Center. Presenters are Tiffany Iheanacho – Justice Resource Center Coordinator; Julie Klipp-Nicholson – Family Justice Center Coordinator; and Honorable Susan M. Dotson-Smith – District Court Judge. Tuesday, March 27, 2018 will focus on Advocacy Training. Presenter will be Pisgah Legal Services. Light fare and refreshments will be provided. Spanish interpretation is available. Please contact us by February 28th for childcare services. For more information or questions, contact civics101@lwvab.org or 828-333-0393.
03/06/18 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON
Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace.
03/06/18 ASHEVILLE SURJ DO!SCUSSION
ASURJ Do!scussion: Tuesdays, 10-11:30am in the backroom of Firestorm, Road in Asheville. A safe space to come together and talk about issues relating to dismantling white supremacy and confronting racism with a focus on what we can do to make a change, in ourselves, our communities, and beyond. All are welcome. Led by Matilda Bliss. ASURJ Do-Session: Tuesdays, noon-2pm, at a member’s residence. Meet us at 11:45 at Kairos West (right below Firestorm) and walk with us down there. This is a weekly space to do something to support accountability partners in their work. Letter-writing, list-making, social media work are just a few examples of what we will do to show up for racial justice Tuesday at the Do-Session. Bring your laptop and phone and help us out. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com.
03/06/18 GOSPEL CALL TO PEACE AND RECONCILIATION
St. Eugene's Catholic Church is hosting a series of talks on Peace. The Parish Lenten Mission, “A Journey Toward Peace” will be led by Marie Dennis, co-president of Pax Christi International , the global Catholic peace movement, and previously director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns. Marie Dennis holds a masters degree in moral theology from Washington Theological Union. A lay woman, a mother of six and a grandmother, she is author or co-author of seven books, including Oscar Romero: Reflections on His Life and Writings and St. Francis and the Foolishness of God, as well as being a contributing editor to Sojourners magazine. Among her many accomplishments was her service on the White House Task Force on Global Poverty and Development. She will be speaking from 7-9 pm at St. Eugene Church at 72 Culvern Street in north Asheville on topics that are close to the hearts of everyone involved in seeking a just peace for the whole world. All are welcome. Contact Tricia Hynes at triciahynes@gmail.com for more information.
03/06/18 AUTHOR READING AT MALAPROPS
A reading by author, Elizabeth Osta, from her book “Saving Faith: A Memoir of Courage, Conviction and a Calling.” An honest & personal story of her 9 years as a nun, teacher and activist in the 60s & 70s. Osta gracefully takes the reader through her personal response to the changing American landscape after JFK, the 1964 Rochester race riots, and the rise of 2nd wave feminism. Local pastor, Guy Sayles, will interview Elizabeth as part of this program. This is on Tuesday, March 6th at 6:00 p.m. Where: Malaprop’s Book Store at 55 Haywood Street in Asheville. Call 828-254-6734 for more information.
03/07/18 CONVERSATION ON PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Please join the Western North Carolina faith leaders at a special coffee and conversation with Marie Dennis, co-president of Pax Christi International, on Wednesday, March 7 from 10 AM to Noon at the Parish of St. Eugene Social Hall in north Asheville. Our gathering will focus on how as Christians we can work towards peace in the Middle East, especially in Palestine where Christians have been forced to flee the land where Jesus walked, and where everyone suffers from the lack of justice and peace. Marie Dennis holds a masters degree in moral theology from Washington Theological Union. She was previously director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns and has filled many roles as a worker for justice and peace. She is author or co-author of seven books, including “Oscar Romero: Reflections on His Life and Writings” and “St. Francis and the Foolishness of God.” We also invite your justice and peace ministries leaders to join us. RSVP: St. Eugene Peace and Justice Ministry at hynes.tricia@yahoo.com or 828-275-6008.
03/07/18 VOTER REGISTRATION TRAINING
It's not too soon to prepare for the 2018 elections. Join us for a Voter Registration Training on March 7 at 6:30 PM in Asheville. This will be a non-partisan voter registration training. We'll review how to register someone to vote and send you home with your own Voter Registration packet. Trainings are free and open to any group. Light snacks and coffee will be provided. Wednesday, March 7, 6:30-8 PM at the YWCA of Asheville (185 S. French Broad Avenue in Asheville). For more information, including how to register, please contact Darlene Azarmi at (828) 216-3430 or darlene@democracync.org.
03/07 JUSTICE, PEACE AND THE CARE OF CREATION
St. Eugene's Catholic Church is hosting a series of talks on Peace. The Parish Lenten Mission, “A Journey Toward Peace” will be led by Marie Dennis, co-president of Pax Christi International , the global Catholic peace movement, and previously director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns. Marie Dennis holds a masters degree in moral theology from Washington Theological Union. A lay woman, a mother of six and a grandmother, she is author or co-author of seven books, including Oscar Romero: Reflections on His Life and Writings and St. Francis and the Foolishness of God, as well as being a contributing editor to Sojourners magazine. Among her many accomplishments was her service on the White House Task Force on Global Poverty and Development. She will be speaking from 7-9 pm at St. Eugene Church at 72 Culvern Street in north Asheville on topics that are close to the hearts of everyone involved in seeking a just peace for the whole world. All are welcome. Contact Tricia Hynes at triciahynes@gmail.com for more information.
03/08/18 WAR NO MORE: THE PATH TO NONVIOLENCE
St. Eugene's Catholic Church is hosting a series of talks on Peace. The Parish Lenten Mission, “A Journey Toward Peace” will be led by Marie Dennis, co-president of Pax Christi International , the global Catholic peace movement, and previously director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns. Marie Dennis holds a masters degree in moral theology from Washington Theological Union. A lay woman, a mother of six and a grandmother, she is author or co-author of seven books, including Oscar Romero: Reflections on His Life and Writings and St. Francis and the Foolishness of God, as well as being a contributing editor to Sojourners magazine. Among her many accomplishments was her service on the White House Task Force on Global Poverty and Development. She will be speaking from 7-9 pm at St. Eugene Church at 72 Culvern Street in north Asheville on topics that are close to the hearts of everyone involved in seeking a just peace for the whole world. All are welcome. Contact Tricia Hynes at triciahynes@gmail.com for more information.
03/08/18 LIVE STAKING WITH FRENCH BROAD RIVERKEEPER
The French Broad Riverkeeper and Mountain True are combating sediment pollution by planting live-stakes along eroding river banks. Time and location TBD. Sign up at Mountain True dot org for updates or to register.
03/08/18 HENDERSONVILLE GREEN DRINKS
Learn about current environmental issues with regional guest speakers and like-minded people. This is a monthly event and everyone is welcome. You don’t have to drink at Green Drinks. This is from 5:30 to 7 PM and held at the Black Bear Coffee at 318 North Main Street in Hendersonville. This month Hendersonville Green Drinks welcomes Adam Warwick, the Fire and Stewardship Manager for the Nature Conservancy’s Southern Blue Ridge Program in Asheville. Fire has shaped Southern Appalachian forests for thousands of years and has a natural role in our forest ecosystem. However, highly effective government wildland fire suppression programs have led to a dramatic decline in fires, and in many cases, have left us with unhealthy ecosystems. We were offered a glimpse of Southern Appalachian fire potential in the Fall 2016, which culminated with the Smokies’ Chimney Tops 2 Fire that claimed 14 lives, and was one the largest natural disasters in Tennessee’s history. Land managers across the Southern Blue Ridge are working together through the Southern Blue Ridge Fire Learning Network to use controlled burning to restore and maintain natural areas that traditionally experienced wildland fire. Contact Devon Hathaway at 828-258-8737 ext 214 or outings@mountaintrue.org for more information.
03/08/18 OUR VOICE PRESENTATION IN ASHEVILLE
Join Our Voice for an evening with Elizabeth Smart on Thursday, March 8th at 7 pm at AB-Tech’s Mission Health Conference Center Tickets are $25 / $10 for Students / $100 for a VIP ticket that includes access to a champagne reception with Elizabeth Smart immediately following the public address. All proceeds benefit Our Voice, Asheville and Buncombe County’s rape crisis and prevention center. Elizabeth Smart is an internationally recognized survivor and a leader supporting all people impacted by sexual violence. In 2002, and when she was 14 years old, Elizabeth was abducted from her home in Salt Lake City and held prisoner for 9 months. Now she is an outspoken survivor, acclaimed author and advocate for victims and their families. Her Asheville address will focus on hope and healing after trauma. North Carolina First Lady, Kristin Cooper will join us for our event and take the stage to introduce Elizabeth Smart. Joining the First Lady with introductions will be N.C. Senator and Our Voice Advocate Terry Van Duyn. Special Musical Performance by Kat Williams. Doors open at 6:15, program begins at 7 PM. Location is AB Tech Mission Health Conference Center at 16 Victoria Road in Asheville. Contact Our Voice at (828) 252-0562 or their website for information on how to obtain tickets.
03/09/18 DOCUMENTARY “BURNED” IN ASHEVILLE
Environmental & Social Justice Film, “Burned”, Friday, March 9th, 7 PM, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Asheville at One Edwin Place in north Asheville. On Friday, March 9th, we are screening an important new environmental documentary “BURNED: Are Trees the New Coal?” It tells the little-known story of the accelerating destruction of our forests for fuel, and probes the policy loopholes, huge subsidies, and blatant green washing of the burgeoning biomass power industry. You may be interested to know this is happening globally, including in North Carolina. The film follows a dedicated group of forest activists, ecologists, carbon scientists, and concerned citizens who are fighting to establish the enormous value of our forests, protect their communities, debunk this false solution to climate change, and alter energy policy both in the US and abroad. “What we're up against is that our economic system values forest destruction over forest protection, and at the end of the day that's what we have to change” said Danna Smith Executive Director, Dogwood Alliance. There is no charge for viewing the film. Donations are welcome. For more information, contact Norman at mnpopi@icloud.com or 612-860-6628.
03/10/18 CLIMATE ADVOCACY TRAINING IN HENDERSONVILLE
Come to our Hendersonville Climate Advocacy Training or invite someone nearby. This is on Saturday, March 10, from 10 AM-1:30 PM. Location Kaplan Auditorium at the Henderson County Library at 301 N. Washington Street in Hendersonville. Learn proven ways to speak effectively and powerfully about climate solutions to friends, neighbors, business leaders, and elected officials. The session is free and will teach citizens the nuts and bolts of building political will and affecting change in positive, constructive ways. The workshop will include a mini-lobbying training and will help start the Hendersonville Chapter of CCL. Please RSVP. Please email lucybutlerslp@gmail.com with any questions and a link to the registration website.
03/10/18 VOTER REGISTRATION TRAINING
It's not too soon to prepare for the 2018 elections. Join us for a Voter Registration Training on March 10 at 10:00 AM in Asheville. This will be a non-partisan voter registration training. We'll review how to register someone to vote and send you home with your own Voter Registration packet. Trainings are free and open to any group. Light snacks and coffee will be provided. Saturday, March 10, 10 AM - 12 PM at the YWCA of Asheville (185 S. French Broad Avenue in Asheville). For more information, including how to register, please contact Darlene Azarmi at (828) 216-3430 or darlene@democracync.org.
03/10/18 RESTORE RICHMOND HILL PARK WORK DAY
Help restore Asheville’s only forested park. MountainTrue has worked for the past six years to restore Asheville’s only forested park, Richmond Hill. A favorite of dog walkers, mountain bikers and disc golf fans, the park has unfortunately become overrun with non-native invasive plants which can harm our canine companions and crowd out native species. Join us for our next Richmond Hill Restoration Work Day on March 10. We hold workdays at Richmond Hill Park on the second Saturday of every month. This is on Saturday, March 10 2018 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Other info: be sure to wear long sleeves and pants as well as closed-toed shoes to this event. Bring a snack and water. We will provide all other equipment necessary. We ask that you leave your pets at home for this work day. Contact Mountain True with any questions.
03/11/18 WNC GREENS BOOK CLUB MEETING
The book we will be covering is “This Is an Uprising,” by Paul and Mark Engler. It is an incredibly informative, powerful, inspiring and timely book. We’re excited to dig even deeper into the book with the chapter and like-minded individuals outside of our group. By analyzing the characteristics, including successes and failures, of contemporary non-violent social movements and actions, the book serves as an invaluable guide to individuals and groups committed to making change in today’s complex socio-political landscape. It’s approachable, relevant and immediately applicable. This year is one of growth and outreach for the WNC Greens. But…we’re also always searching for opportunities for direct action. When those opportunities arrive, we want to be educated, organized, efficient and effective. This book club is a large part of that process. We hope you’ll join us and invite friends, as we are always interested in meeting and networking with like-minded people. “This Is an Uprising” Book Club Discussion – Session #1 – Sunday, March 11, 2018 6PM – Habitat Brewing and Commons (we’ll cover roughly the first half of the book). “This Is an Uprising” Book Club Discussion – Session #2 – Sunday, March 25, 2018 6PM – Habitat Brewing and Commons (2nd half – final lessons and applications). Contact Ben at williamsonb@ashevilleschool.org for more information.
03/11/18 DOCUMENTARY FILM IN ASHEVILLE
Jewish Voice for Peace, Asheville chapter, presents a film screening of the documentary Hebron, by Palestinian filmmaker and now Asheville resident Yousef Natsha, on Sunday, March 11, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. at The Block off Biltmore at 39 South Market Street in downtown Asheville. The screening of the 40-minute film will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with the filmmaker and other community members. Jewish Voice for Peace’s southern regional organizer will be in attendance to share information on the organization and additional ways people can support human rights in Palestine. Free, donations accepted. For more information, contact JVP.Asheville@gmail.com.
03/12/18 ASHEVILLE SURG WEEKLY MEETING
Asheville SURJ Weekly Monday night meetings: 6:30-8:30pm at the UU Congregation (1 Edwin Place, corner of Edwin & Charlotte), downstairs main building. Every Monday, all are welcome to gather with others seeking to stay accountable in the work of dismantling white supremacy within themselves and the spheres they work, play, and live in. First Mondays are focused on exploring SURJ's Core Values and how we go about the work of moving from ally to accomplice in this work. Second Mondays are focused on a Calling In session where we brainstorm and role-play difficult situations and conversations around confronting racism and white supremacy, in ourselves and others. Third & Fourth Mondays are focused on Education with each topic being looked at nationally one week and then local impacts the following week. We are beginning this series with a focus on issues relating to Housing. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com. Specific dates & topics below:
Mar. 19: Urban Renewal (big picture/national history)
Mar. 26: Urban Renewal (local Asheville history)
03/12/18 PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRATS OF BUNCOMBE COUNTY
Progressive Democrats of Buncombe County will meet on Monday, March 12 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Location is Buncombe County Democratic Party HQ at 951 Old Fairview Road in Asheville. Doors open by 6:15 for sign in and conversation. Meeting begins promptly at 6:30. Join us as we host a meet and greet for Democratic County Commissioner candidates. The purpose of Progressive Democrats is to encourage candidates and motivate voters while promoting the most progressive parts of the DNC platform: campaign finance reform, clean energy policy, universal healthcare, and much more. Come join us and help to turn NC Blue. Contact Kris Kramer at pdobPRESIDENT@gmail.com for more information.
03/13/18 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON
Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace.
03/13/18 ASHEVILLE SURJ DO!SCUSSION
ASURJ Do!scussion: Tuesdays, 10-11:30am in the backroom of Firestorm, Road in Asheville. A safe space to come together and talk about issues relating to dismantling white supremacy and confronting racism with a focus on what we can do to make a change, in ourselves, our communities, and beyond. All are welcome. Led by Matilda Bliss. ASURJ Do-Session: Tuesdays, noon-2pm, at a member’s residence. Meet us at 11:45 at Kairos West (right below Firestorm) and walk with us down there. This is a weekly space to do something to support accountability partners in their work. Letter-writing, list-making, social media work are just a few examples of what we will do to show up for racial justice Tuesday at the Do-Session. Bring your laptop and phone and help us out. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com.
03/13/18 WORLD AFFAIRS GREAT DECISIONS SERIES
World Affairs Council Great Decisions Series at UNC Asheville continues on March 13th with a talk on “China and America: the New Geopolitical Equation” with Julie Snyder, who worked for 30 years with the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce. The World Affairs Council of Western North Carolina will begin its Great Decisions 2018 series, with six talks at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights in February and March at the Reuter Center at UNC Asheville. This series is part of the national Great Decisions Program, America’s largest grass-roots discussion program on world affairs. The Great Decisions Program, which began in 1954, is the flagship program of the non-partisan, non-governmental Foreign Policy Association. The program’s goal is to discuss, debate and learn about international affairs, national security and U.S. foreign policy. These lectures are presented in partnership by the World Affairs Council, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC Asheville (OLLI), and the university’s Department of Political Science. Admission to World Affairs Council presentations at UNC Asheville is $10 for the public; free to members of the World Affairs Council and UNC Asheville students. For more information, contact olli@unca.edu or 828.251.6140.
03/13/18 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS CIVICS 101
The League of Women Voters of Asheville-Buncombe County, Pisgah Legal Services, and Children First/Communities in Schools have joined together to present Civics 101. This series provides an opportunity for any community to learn about the roles and decision-making processes of our local governments and how citizens can advocate and get their voice heard. This 4 week program will take place Tuesdays in March at the Arthur Edington Center from 6:00 – 7:30 pm. Come to one or all sessions. Tuesday, March 13, 2018 will focus on Buncombe County Government. Presenters are Kathy Hughes – Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners and Al Whitesides – County Commissioner – District 1. Tuesday, March 20, 2018 will focus on Justice Resource Center & Family Justice Center. Presenters are Tiffany Iheanacho – Justice Resource Center Coordinator; Julie Klipp-Nicholson – Family Justice Center Coordinator; and Honorable Susan M. Dotson-Smith – District Court Judge. Tuesday, March 27, 2018 will focus on Advocacy Training. Presenter will be Pisgah Legal Services. Light fare and refreshments will be provided. Spanish interpretation is available. Please contact us by February 28th for childcare services. For more information or questions, contact civics101@lwvab.org or 828-333-0393.
03/13/18 ASHEVILLE BUNCOMBE NAACP MEETING
Asheville-Buncombe County NAACP will hold its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Hill Street Baptist Church at 135 Hill Street in Asheville. The March program will feature Buncombe County District Attorney Todd Williams. Since taking office in 2014, he has been actively involved in creating the Child Advocacy Center, Family Justice Center, Justice Resource Center, Juvenile Misdemeanor Diversion Program, Veterans’ Treatment Court, Buncombe County’s first DA-led expungement clinic, and new first-offender, and drug diversion programs. All these programs focus on placing non-violent offenders on a path to employability and recovery without the stigma of a criminal conviction. For more information, email 4ward2getherCall2Action@gmail.com.
03/15/18 PANEL DISCUSSION ON FUTURE OF NANTAHALA AND PISGAH NATIONAL FORESTS IN SYLVA
March 15, 22, 27 & 29 - The Future of the Nantahala-Pisgah National Forests: An Expert Panel Event Series. In the interest of ensuring that the next 15 year management plan for our national forests is one that reflects our interests and priorities, MountainTrue is hosting this panel discussion to engage in constructive dialogue about working toward the common goal of a win-win forest management plan. Join the conversation. March 15 - Sylva, NC, Jackson County Public Library at 310 Keener Street in Sylva. Time is 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm. Contact Susan Bean at 828.258.8737 x 216 or susan@mountaintrue.org for more information.
03/16/18 CLIMATE CITY IN ASHEVILLE
“Welcome to Climate City”: March 16-25. The weekends before and after ClimateCon 2018 – adding up to a full 10-day period – a community component called “Welcome to Climate City” will provide an immersive experience for all conference attendees to enjoy the soul of vibrant and eclectic Asheville, North Carolina. Expect museums, galleries, restaurants, breweries, shops, and attractions to feature climate-related events of their own, resulting in a conference experience like no other. ClimateCon 2018 includes The Business of Climate Forum, a summit for students and young professionals, an innovation showcase demonstrating climate solutions and products, and 10 days of climate-focused community events. ClimateCon is an important opportunity for forward-thinking leaders to interact directly with innovators. Collectively we can address the products, services, and information needed for better business decision-making in the face of climate change. Contact The Collider for more information.
03/16/18 WORKSHOP ON BEYOND PRIVILEGE FROM OLLI
Friday, March 16 from 1-2:30 p.m. “Beyond Privilege” is a workshop with Rev. Michael Carter, interfaith minister and anti-racism trainer. Free and open to everyone. Registration is required; call (828) 251-6188 to register or for more information. This presentation is part of OLLI at UNC Asheville's More Than a Month series. The series is organized by OLLI's Inclusion Committee, which promotes inclusion of people from diverse backgrounds in all OLLI programs and partners with people from diverse backgrounds to offer culturally rich programs, activities and events. The committee has planned “More Than a Month” programs to address issues of race and inclusion locally and nationally, with the understanding that we want to address these issues more than once a month. These programs are designed to provide meaningful ways to understand and respond to the issues of race that continue to divide us and to define our civic and political discourse. Contact OLLI - Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNC Asheville at olli@unca.edu or 828.251.6140 for more information. Location is probably the Reuter Center, but check with them to be sure.
03/17/18 MOUNTAIN TRUE STREAM MONITORING TRAINING
Mountain True stream monitoring training on Saturday, March 17, 2018 @ 9:00 AM. Location is Blue Ridge Community College, 180 West Campus Drive in Flat Rock. Bugs tell you a lot about the health and vitality of our rivers and streams. That’s why MountainTrue volunteers sample aquatic macroinvertebrates, or aquatic insects, to test for water quality. Register for our Spring training by March 15 at Blue Ridge Community College to learn how you can become a Stream Monitoring Information Exchange (SMIE) volunteer, and how to collect and identify bugs, record data and use sampling equipment. Both new and returning volunteers are welcome! Must register - contact Regina Goldkuhl at 828-692-0385 ext. 1001 or email wqa@mountaintrue.org for instructions on how to register. Also contact her with any questions.
03/19/18 CONFERENCE AT THE COLLIDER
ClimateCon 2018 is North Carolina's first conference on the business of climate, where business and science professionals will come together to explore innovative climate solutions and business opportunities. ClimateCon will be held in the vibrant mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, with its developing reputation as “Climate City,” hosted by The Collider, a nonprofit center of innovation for a changing climate. The centerpiece of ClimateCon 2018 is The Business of Climate Forum, an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs & forward-thinking organizations. The Business of Climate Forum is March 19-21. The main event of ClimateCon 2018 is The Business of Climate Forum, where attendees can expect a collaborative experience with a wide variety of business and science professionals who come together to advance the development of data-driven products and services. We'll help you identify potential uses and needs for climate adaptation and resiliency. Tickets are $699 – $999. The Collider is at 1 Haywood Street in downtown Asheville. Refunds up to 30 days before event. We’re now offering early-bird tickets to The Business of Climate Forum for $699 (a $300 savings). We hope you’ll join us this March and help uncover innovative solutions for climate change. Contact The Collider for more information or tickets.
03/19/18 NOTORIOUS HBC (HISTORY BOOK CLUB)
Join host and Malaprop’s bookseller Patricia Furnish to discuss a range of books across different periods of history. We’re creating a book club that tackles the challenging subjects, hence “Notorious.” This month’s pick is “The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism” by Edward E. Baptist. Time is 7 PM. Contact Malaprops for more information.
03/19/18 ASHEVILLE SURG WEEKLY MEETING
Asheville SURJ Weekly Monday night meetings: 6:30-8:30pm at the UU Congregation (1 Edwin Place, corner of Edwin & Charlotte), downstairs main building. Every Monday, all are welcome to gather with others seeking to stay accountable in the work of dismantling white supremacy within themselves and the spheres they work, play, and live in. First Mondays are focused on exploring SURJ's Core Values and how we go about the work of moving from ally to accomplice in this work. Second Mondays are focused on a Calling In session where we brainstorm and role-play difficult situations and conversations around confronting racism and white supremacy, in ourselves and others. Third & Fourth Mondays are focused on Education with each topic being looked at nationally one week and then local impacts the following week. We are beginning this series with a focus on issues relating to Housing. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com. Specific dates & topics below:
Mar. 19: Urban Renewal (big picture/national history)
Mar. 26: Urban Renewal (local Asheville history)
03/20/18 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON
Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace.
03/20/18 ASHEVILLE SURJ DO!SCUSSION
ASURJ Do!scussion: Tuesdays, 10-11:30am in the backroom of Firestorm, Road in Asheville. A safe space to come together and talk about issues relating to dismantling white supremacy and confronting racism with a focus on what we can do to make a change, in ourselves, our communities, and beyond. All are welcome. Led by Matilda Bliss. ASURJ Do-Session: Tuesdays, noon-2pm, at a member’s residence. Meet us at 11:45 at Kairos West (right below Firestorm) and walk with us down there. This is a weekly space to do something to support accountability partners in their work. Letter-writing, list-making, social media work are just a few examples of what we will do to show up for racial justice Tuesday at the Do-Session. Bring your laptop and phone and help us out. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com.
03/20/18 LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PRESENTS CIVICS 101
The League of Women Voters of Asheville-Buncombe County, Pisgah Legal Services, and Children First/Communities in Schools have joined together to present Civics 101. This series provides an opportunity for any community to learn about the roles and decision-making processes of our local governments and how citizens can advocate and get their voice heard. This 4 week program will take place Tuesdays in March at the Arthur Edington Center from 6:00 – 7:30 pm. Come to one or all sessions. Tuesday, March 20, 2018 will focus on Justice Resource Center & Family Justice Center. Presenters are Tiffany Iheanacho – Justice Resource Center Coordinator; Julie Klipp-Nicholson – Family Justice Center Coordinator; and Honorable Susan M. Dotson-Smith – District Court Judge. Tuesday, March 27, 2018 will focus on Advocacy Training. Presenter will be Pisgah Legal Services. Light fare and refreshments will be provided. Spanish interpretation is available. Please contact us by February 28th for childcare services. For more information or questions, contact civics101@lwvab.org or 828-333-0393.
03/24/18 COMMUNICATION THAT WORKS - WORKSHOP IN ASHEVILLE
Building Bridges Across Divides; Communication That Works! Ethical Humanist Society of Asheville, Peace & Earth Committee of Asheville Friends Meeting, and Steps2peace are excited to welcome you to register for our second day-long training in living and practicing Nonviolent (Compassionate) Communication and Consciousness. Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a communication of connection rather than division, of authenticity and honest (even scary) self-expression, not fake pretense for the sake of the appearance of harmony. It is about finding your own voice and hearing others' voices. We are creating connections that value every person's humanity. Our facilitator, Roberta Wall, is now in the Middle East for six weeks where she is diving deeply into using Nonviolent Communication to build bridges among peoples – not just between the Israelis and Palestinians, but also between religious and secular people, and different groups and political affinities within each society. Time is 10 AM to 4 PM. Location is Friends Meeting House at 225 Edgewood Road in Asheville. Refund policy is refunds up to 7 days before event. Cost is $100. We want this workshop to be accessible to everyone in the community so please don't be shy and inquire about a scholarship, if you need one, directly to Roberta at info@steps2peace.com. You can pay by credit card at the Event Brite website, contact Karen at kayzey@gmail.com for information on how to do this. Also contact Karen for more information. To pay by check: Make your check payable to EHSA. Please add a notation that it is for NVC and mail to: Jim Tobin, EHSA Treasurer, 20 Stonebridge Drive, Asheville, NC 28805. Please note: All requested fees are suggested contributions. Contact Karen at kayzey@gmail.com for more information. All donations go to Roberta’s travels to the Middle East for NVC work there. Further information will be sent after you register.
03/24/18 SOUTHEAST REGIONAL CONFERENCE BY CITIZEN’S CLIMATE LOBBY
2018 Southeast Regional Conference will be on March 24th & 25th at The Collider at 1 Haywood St, Ste 401, in downtown Asheville. Calling all climate advocates across the Southeast and beyond to converge in Asheville for the first greater Southeast Regional Conference. We will have a weekend full of education, skill-building and strategy and you will leave encouraged and inspired to advance federal climate legislation. The theme for the conference is “Walk a mile in their shoes.” Hear from card carrying Republicans on why they support climate action and learn how you can get your conservative neighbor to jump the fence. Learn about the intersection of climate change and climate justice and the importance of bringing all voices to the table. Ever wondered why folks in coal country haven’t embraced environmentalism? Maybe it’s us, not them. Come listen to retired coal miner Nick Mullins, of Breaking Clean, share how to effectively communicate climate change in coal country. What does climate change mean for main street? Come hear Sara Peach of the Yale Climate Connection share what she has learned from her reporting across the US on how climate change will impact us and the people we love. Registration fees are Early Bird Registration (through March 11): $55; Regular Registration (March 12-21): $75; Student Registration: $20. Registration Deadline is March 21. Asheville Citizens' Climate Lobby .
03/25/18 WNC GREENS BOOK CLUB MEETING
The book we will be covering is “This Is an Uprising,” by Paul and Mark Engler. It is an incredibly informative, powerful, inspiring and timely book. We’re excited to dig even deeper into the book with the chapter and like-minded individuals outside of our group. By analyzing the characteristics, including successes and failures, of contemporary non-violent social movements and actions, the book serves as an invaluable guide to individuals and groups committed to making change in today’s complex socio-political landscape. It’s approachable, relevant and immediately applicable. This year is one of growth and outreach for the WNC Greens. But…we’re also always searching for opportunities for direct action. When those opportunities arrive, we want to be educated, organized, efficient and effective. This book club is a large part of that process. We hope you’ll join us and invite friends, as we are always interested in meeting and networking with like-minded people. “This Is an Uprising” Book Club Discussion – Session #1 – Sunday, March 11, 2018 6PM – Habitat Brewing and Commons (we’ll cover roughly the first half of the book). “This Is an Uprising” Book Club Discussion – Session #2 – Sunday, March 25, 2018 6PM – Habitat Brewing and Commons (2nd half – final lessons and applications). Contact Ben at williamsonb@ashevilleschool.org for more information.
03/26/18 SPRINGFEST SPEAKERS AT UNCA
The keynote speakers for UNC Asheville Springfest will be Audrey and Frank Peterman on Monday, March 26 in the Humanities Lecture Hall at 7:00pm. About the Petermans: With their last child graduating from college, Audrey and Frank Peterman embarked on a road trip around the country to “discover America.” Traveling 12,000 miles across 40 states from Florida to Washington State, they were transformed by the stunning natural beauty, history and culture protected in our National Parks and forests. Shockingly, they saw less than a handful of Americans of Hispanic, Asian, African or Native American heritage enjoying the Great American outdoors, or working in them. Recognizing that this problem stemmed from a lack of information, misconceptions and latent fears about being in the woods, the Petermans resolved to become a catalyst for change.
03/26/18 ASHEVILLE SURG WEEKLY MEETING
Asheville SURJ Weekly Monday night meetings: 6:30-8:30pm at the UU Congregation (1 Edwin Place, corner of Edwin & Charlotte), downstairs main building. Every Monday, all are welcome to gather with others seeking to stay accountable in the work of dismantling white supremacy within themselves and the spheres they work, play, and live in. First Mondays are focused on exploring SURJ's Core Values and how we go about the work of moving from ally to accomplice in this work. Second Mondays are focused on a Calling In session where we brainstorm and role-play difficult situations and conversations around confronting racism and white supremacy, in ourselves and others. Third & Fourth Mondays are focused on Education with each topic being looked at nationally one week and then local impacts the following week. We are beginning this series with a focus on issues relating to Housing. For more details on any and all ASURJ meetings, email avlsurj@gmail.com. Specific dates & topics below:
Mar. 19: Urban Renewal (big picture/national history)
Mar. 26: Urban Renewal (local Asheville history)
03/27/18 VETERANS FOR PEACE VIGIL - BECAUSE THE WARS STILL GO ON
Every Tuesday, Veterans for Peace Chapter 099 holds a vigil at Vance Monument in downtown Asheville. Time is 4:30 PM. This has been happening since 2002. No matter the weather, no matter if it falls on a holiday, they are out there standing for peace.
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ONGOING EVENTS
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MONDAY
Asheville SURJ weekly meeting at 6:30 pm at UU Congregation in Asheville, downstairs
TUESDAY
Veterans for Peace have a weekly vigil at 4:30 PM at Pack Square, Vance Monument
SURJ Discussion at Firestorm Coffee & Books at 610 Haywood Road in west Asheville. 10 AM-11:30 AM. Followed by Do!sessions from 11:30-1:30 PM.
Rally at historic Courthouse in Hendersonville at 5 PM on the first Tuesday of the month. Organized by the Progressive Organized Women.
Gathering of people who like to stitch and otherwise puncture the status quo at 68 Haywood Street Outdoor Space at 9 AM.
Socialism! The Reading Group is at 6 PM at Firestorm on the second Tuesday of the month.
WEDNESDAY
Haywood Peace Vigilers have a weekly vigil at 4 PM at Haywood County Courthouse in Waynesville
French Broad Riverkeeper has a paddle-n-plant to prevent sediment erosion most Wednesdays and Saturdays. Registration required at anna@mountaintrue.org.
Green Drinks meets at 6 PM at The Block Off Biltmore on the third Wednesday of the month.
Sierra Club meets at 7 PM at Unitarian Universalist in Asheville on the first Wednesday of the month.
Indivisible Asheville does political letter writing at 5:30 every Wednesday at The Block Off Biltmore.
THURSDAY
Political Prisoners Letter Writing at Firestorm Coffee & Books at 6 PM on first Thursday of the month. Materials provided.
Welcome Home Tour by Homeward Bound on the third Thursday of the month at 11 AM. Call 258-1695 for more information.
Asheville Prison Books Program is held at Downtown Books & News from 4 to 7 PM.
FRIDAY
Women in Black have a weekly vigil at noon at the City Hall in Hendersonville.
Progressive Women of Hendersonville hold a letter/postcard writing to government representatives from 4 to 7 PM at Sanctuary Brewing Company at 147 First Avenue in Hendersonville.
SATURDAY
French Broad Riverkeeper has a paddle-n-plant to prevent sediment erosion most Wednesdays and Saturdays. Registration required at anna@mountaintrue.org.
Mountain True holds urban forest workdays on the second Saturday of the month at Richmond Hill Park from 9 AM to 1 PM. Call 258-8737 for more information.
Citizen’s Climate Lobby meeting at 12:30 PM at Kairos West Community Center on second Saturday of the month.
Food Not Bombs serves free vegan/vegetarian food every Saturday at noon at Pritchard Park.
Dances of Universal Peace on the third Saturdays at 7:30 at 1 School Road in Asheville.
SUNDAY
Asheville National Organization for Women meeting at 2:30 PM at YWCA of Asheville on second Sunday of the month.
Political Prisoner Letter Writing Night at 5 PM at Firestorm on the first Sunday of the month.
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ACTIONS AND READINGS
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The US Plans Endless Occupation and the Partition of Syria
U.S. Peace Council
February 15, 2018
Since the liberation of Aleppo in December 2016, report after report of military victories by the Syrian government and its allies over the foreign jihadist mercenaries led some in the Western media to suppose that the war was all but over.
For a time, the Syrian war, which had claimed more than 400,000 lives and made refugees of millions of Syrians, moved out of the headlines. Some in the U.S. antiwar movement may have also allowed themselves to hope the war in Syria was winding down.
Unfortunately, the war in Syria is back in the headlines. Events are now moving fast.
• The US-led coalition fighting ISIS in Syria conducted air and artillery strikes against the Syrian Army recently, killing an estimated 100 “pro-regime fighters,” according to a coalition statement. Some were Russians according to reports. Thus, two nuclear-armed great powers are in direct conflict now in Syria.
• Syrian jihadist “rebels” shot down a Russian warplane for the first time on February 3rd, and Russia’s defense ministry said the pilot was killed as he resisted capture by jihadists.
• A third nuclear-armed state, Israel, is now fully in the war, primarily, it would seem, for anti-Iran reasons. On February 10, an Israeli F-16 warplane returning from a bombing raid on Iran-backed positions in Syria was shot down over central Syria by anti-aircraft fire. Israel is boasting its raids took out half the Syrian government’s air defenses.
• The ideological offensive against Syria has resumed. Fresh “reports” from dubious sources such as “The White Helmets” and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights — observing from England! — on the use of chemical weapons by the Syrian government appear in the U.S. corporate media and some “alternative” media. Such slanders can spread across the world in a heartbeat, while it takes months to disprove them — as they all have been disproved.[1]
During his campaign and in the early days of his Administration, Trump seemingly narrowed the US goal to the defeat of one terrorist group, ISIS (or ISIL), which since 2014 had won substantial territory in Syria and Iraq. He downplayed the goal of “regime change.” But the failure of the U.S., its NATO allies, and their proxies for seven years to overthrow the Syrian government forced Trump to switch from Obama’s direct attempts to oust the current Syrian government to Plan B, i.e., Trump administration’s attempt to adopt an indirect way to force a regime change in Syria.
The Obama Administration policy was clear enough: “regime-change,” i.e. ousting Syrian President Assad by means of proxies, the so-called “moderate rebels” — actually well-paid terrorist mercenaries recruited by means of social media from all over the Muslim world and bankrolled by Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Their terrorism against the Syrian people was aided by Israel, Jordan and Turkey, with overall military coordination of the war by the U.S.
However, at his Stanford University speech on January 17, 2018, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson announced the main points of Trump Administration’s new version of U.S. policy toward Syria:
1 Long-term presence of U.S. military forces engaged in combat operations;
2 Expansion of the military mission from defeat of ISIS to also preventing Iranian influence in the post-ISIS Syria;
3 “Stabilization” (that is, provision of humanitarian, economic, and political assistance) to areas under rebels’ control;
4 National elections under United Nations supervision; and
5 “[Rallying] the Syrian people and individuals within the regime to compel Assad to step down.”
In less convoluted terms, the Trump Administration’s Plan B seeks to achieve the U.S. goal of forced regime change through the following three consecutive steps:
1 Step One: Partitioning of Syria and establishing permanent U.S. military bases in northern Syria, where the oil is;
2 Step Two: Arming and training the rebel forces in the secured Kurdish areas; and,
3 Step Three: Using the captured territories and the trained rebel forces under the command of Syria-based U.S. forces to impose a regime change in Damascus.
These are important facts about the new U.S. plan for Syria and the Middle East:
• The U.S. is now directly engaged in illegally occupying Syrian territory, claiming rights to Syrian oil and attacking the Syrian army in the name of “self-defense.”
• Officially, U.S. forces inside Syria number at least 2,000. The real count may be far higher. There are also many thousands of U.S. forces on ships in the Mediterranean or in nearby countries.
• The 2,000 U.S. troops in Syria are arming and organizing the 30,000-strong the so-called “Syrian Democratic Forces,” a mix of Kurdish and Arab fighters who have been the primarily fighting on the U.S. side in Syria.
• Turkey has recently invaded northern Syria to attack the Syrian Kurds who live in northern border areas contiguous to Turkey. The Turkish government fears its own large, Kurdish minority’s rightful aspirations for national self-determination. Turkey fears that Syria’s north can become a staging area for a liberation struggle inside Turkey.
• Normally, subservient Turkey was the conduit for most of the foreign mercenaries entering Syria. Now, the Turkish invasion, wholly illegal and unjustified, complicates U.S. occupation plans, which are also wholly illegal and unjustified.
• The invasion has created an intra-NATO problem. Turkey is in NATO but has been drifting away from the U.S.-dominated war alliance with its recent major arms purchases from Russia.
• Trump has done everything possible to strengthen the U.S.-Israel-Saudi axis, which since 2011 has been the core support of the terrorist mercenaries in Syria.
• In nearby Afghanistan, it is clear the U.S. has not won the 17-year war against the Taliban insurgency, so Trump is sending more U.S. troops to shore up the government in Kabul and forestall a humiliating U.S. defeat.
Trump’s overall military budget in 2018 will come to $716 billion. Under Trump, there is no turning away from interventionist wars that begun or continued by his predecessors, despite his campaign rhetoric to the contrary.
Tom Paine once wrote “Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered.…” Neither is US imperialism easily conquered, even though its power is waning.
Urgent action by U.S. peace movement is needed. We must urgently re-energize the work of the whole U.S. peace movement on Syria. At the upcoming, long overdue national antiwar actions for April 2018, the demand “Hands off Syria!” must be front and center.
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‘Russiagate’ Is Revealing Alarming Truths About America’s Political-Media Elites
By Stephen F. Cohen
February 21, 2018
Stephen F. Cohen, Professor Emeritus of Russian Studies and Politics at NYU and Princeton, and John Batchelor continue their (usually) weekly discussions of the new U.S.-Russian Cold War. (Previous installments, now in their fourth year, are at TheNation.com.)
The nearly two-year-long allegations and investigations now known as “Russiagate” were instigated by top American political, media, and (probably) intelligence elites (mostly Democratic or pro-Democratic, but not only). What they have wrought suggests profoundly disturbing characteristics of people who play a very large role in governing this country. Cohen specifies six such barely concealed truths, which he and Batchelor then discuss.
Russiagate promoters evidently have little regard for the current or future institution of the American presidency. At the center of their many allegations is that the current president, Donald Trump, achieved the office in 2016 due to a conspiracy (“collusion”) with the Kremlin; or due to some dark secret the Kremlin uses to control him; or due to “Russian interference” in the election; or to all three. Which means, they say outright or imply daily, that he is some kind of Kremlin agent or “puppet” and thus “treasonous.” Such allegations are unprecedented in American history. They have already deformed Trump’s presidency, but no consideration is given to how they may affect the institution in the future. Unless actual proof is provided in the specific case of Trump — thus far, there is none — they are likely to leave a stain of suspicion (or similar allegations) on future presidents. If the Kremlin is believed to have made Trump president and corrupted him, even if not proven, why not future presidents as well? That is, Russiagate zealots seek to delegitimize Trump’s presidency but risk leaving a long-term cloud over the institution itself. And not only the presidency. They now clamor that the Kremlin is targeting the 2018 congressional elections, thereby projecting the same dark cloud over Congress, as some embittered losers are likely to blame Putin’s Kremlin.
2. These same Russiagate promoters clearly also have no regard for America’s national security. This is revealed in three ways:
—By loudly and regularly proclaiming that Russia’s “meddling” in the 2016 U.S. presidential election was “an attack on American democracy” and thus “an act of war,” comparable to Pearl Harbor and 9/11, as recently inventoried by Glenn Greenwald, they are literally practicing the dictionary meaning of “war-mongering.” Can this mean anything less than Washington must respond with “an act of war” against Russia? Tellingly, Russiagaters rarely if ever mention the potentially apocalyptic consequences of war between these two nuclear superpowers.
—Still more, by their Russiagate accusations against Trump, whom they characterize as a “mentally unstable president,” they risk prodding or provoking the president to undertake just such a war against Russia in order to demonstrate that he is not the “Kremlin’s puppet.”
—Meanwhile, by repeatedly stating they do not trust Trump to negotiate with Russian President Putin, Russiagate zealots severely limit his capacity, possessed by all American presidents since the onset of the Atomic Age, to resolve potential nuclear crises through diplomatic means rather than by military action, as President John F. Kennedy did in the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. (Imagine, Cohen adds, the outcome had Kennedy been so assailed by the allegations being leveled against Trump today.) In short, as Cohen has argued previously, Russiagate and its elite adherents are now the No. 1 threat to American national security, not Russia itself.
3. Having found no factual evidence of such a plot, promoters of Russiagate have shifted their focus from the Kremlin’s alleged hacking of emails at the Democratic National Committee to Russia’s social media “attack on our democracy.” In so doing, they reveal something bordering on contempt for American voters, for the American people.
—A foundational principle of theories of democratic representative government is that voters make rational and legitimate decisions. But Russiagate advocates strongly imply – even state outright — that American voters are easily duped by “Russian disinformation,” zombie-like awaiting a signal as how to act and vote. The allegation is reminiscent of, for people old enough to remember, the classic Cold War film “Invasion of the Body Snatchers.” But, Cohen proposes, let the following representatives of America’s elite media speak for themselves:
—According to Washington Post columnist Kathleen Parker, Russia social media intrusions “manipulated American thought … The minds of social media users are likely becoming more, not less, malleable.” And this, she goes on, is especially true of “older, nonwhite, less-educated people.” New York Times columnist Charles Blow adds that this was true of “black folks.” Times reporter Scott Shane IS entirely straightforward, writing about “Americans duped by the Russian trolls” and Evan Osnos of The New Yorker spells it out without nuance: “At the heart of the Russian fraud is an essential, embarrassing insight into American life: large numbers of Americans are ill-equipped to assess the credibility of the things they read.”
—Though hardly necessary, Cohen emphasizes that these are lead writers for some of America’s most elite publications. He adds, their apparent contempt for “ordinary” Americans is not unlike a centuries-old trait of the Russian intelligentsia, which held the Russian narod (people) in similar contempt while maintaining that it therefore must lead them, and not always in democratic ways.
4. Russiagate was initiated by political actors, but the elite establishment media gave it traction, inflated it, and promoted it to what it is today. These most “respectable” media include the New York Times, Washington Post, New York Review of Books, New Yorker, and, of course, CNN and MSNBC, among others. These media outlets constantly proclaim themselves to be factual, unbiased, balanced, and thus another essential component of American democracy — a “fourth branch of government.”
—But that has been far from the case in their reporting and commentary on Russiagate. Their combined loathing for Trump and “Putin’s Russia” has produced one of the worst episodes of media malpractice in the history of American journalism. This requires a special detailed study, though no media critics or journalism schools seem interested. But a somewhat close reader of these mainstream newspapers, and television “news” viewer, will note their selective, disproportionate coverage of some stories to the exclusion of others; the prejudicial language and prosecutorial slant often employed; the systematic violation of journalistic due process or presumption of innocence; the equal exclusion of contrary “sources” and “expert” opinions in their pages and on their televised panels; and other disregard for long-established journalistic standards.
—Nor are these elite media outlets above slurring the reputations of people who dissent from their prosecutorial coverage of Russiagate. Very recently, for example, the New York Times traduced a Facebook vice president whose own study suggested that “that swaying the election was not the main goal” of Russian use of Facebook. Even more revealing, a brand name of the liberal-progressive MSNBC, John Heilemann, suggested on air, referring to Congressman Devin Nunes, “that we actually have a Russian agent running the House Intel Committee on the Republican side.” The Democratic Senator being interviewed, Chris Murphy, was less than categorical in brushing aside the “question.”
—And not to be overlooked, these mainstream media have done little if anything to protest the creeping Big Brother censorship programs now being assiduously promoted by government and private institutions in order to ferret out and ban “Russian disinformation,” something of which any American dissenter from the orthodox Russiagate narrative might be “guilty” entirely on his or her own. Indeed, leading media have abetted and legitimized these undemocratic undertakings by citing them as legitimate sources.
—Cohen leaves to others to decide what the Russiagate role of establishment media reveals about the elites who run them.
5. Briefly regarding the obvious role being played by the Democratic Party, or at least by its leading members, in Russiagate, whatever the serious commissions and omissions of the Republican Party may be. In a word, as it looks ahead to congressional elections in 2018, this essential component of the American (perhaps lamentably) two-party democratic system is now less a vehicle of positive domestic and foreign policy alternatives than a party promoting conspiracy theories, Cold War, and neo-McCarthyism. (According to conversations with a number of local candidates, these electoral approaches are less their initiatives than cues, or directives, coming from high party levels — that is, from the Democratic elite.) And this leaves aside the Russiagate social media narrative that blames the Kremlin for “divisions” in America that have pitted American citizens, and Democrats and Republicans, against each other for decades, often in “exacerbated” ways, not merely since 2016.
6. Finally, but no less revealing, American elites have long professed to be people of civic courage and honor. But Russiagate has produced very few “profiles in courage” — people who use their privileged positions of political or media influence to protest the abuses itemized above. Hence another revelation, if it is really that: America’s elites are composed overwhelmingly not of “rugged individualists” but of conformists — whether due to ambition, fear, or ignorance hardly matters.
Stephen F. Cohen Stephen F. Cohen is a professor emeritus of Russian studies and politics at New York University and Princeton University and a contributing editor of The Nation.
https://www.thenation.com/article/russiagate-is-revealing-alarming-truths-about-americas-political-media-elites/
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