[Sosfbay-discuss] visit of Iraqis

[Jim Doyle]

Follow up on
The Greens have also promised a donation,
is needed.

*Update on the June 10 event in San Jose featuring Iraqi labor leaders 
Faleh Abood Umara (general secretary of the Southern Oil Company Union) 
and Ms. Hashimia Mohsen al Hussein (president of the Electrical Utility 
Workers Union).* Faleh Abood Umara was one of the two oil workers who 
spoke in SJ in 2005 – and was warmly received. Given the ever more dire 
conditions in Iraq and the pending Oil Law which opens the way to 
privatization of resources under foreign corporations, we need to hear 
directly from the workers affected.

The executive committee of SBM reviewed information and agreed to 
contribute $500 and to be cosponsor (pending approval by the core group) 
providing the labor community provided $500 and a venue.

We now have more than that amount pledged, as well as support from other 
South Bay peace and justice groups. This represents outstanding 
enthusiasm for the upcoming event. (Funds beyond the $1000 for 
transportation will go to the two Iraqi unions.)

To date, the Central Labor Council and its affiliates have pledged $750 
(including personal donations by Louie Rocha and Louise Auerhahn). The 
Laborers rep offered use of the Laborers Hall and will request a 
donation to the event of $500.

Members of the following unions will be asking their locals for a 
contribution: Plumbers, Painters, UFCW 5, and SEIU 1877.

The San Jose Peace Center, WILPF, Labor Party, our developing world and 
Vets for Peace are contributing a total of $400.

The Greens have also promised a donation, and contacts are in the works 
with Council on American Islamic Relations, Council of Churches, plus 
the Interfaith Council on Religion, Race and Economic and Social Justice

endorsements (no cash) Peninsula Peace and Justice Center, SJ United for 
Peace and Justice

Joan Bazar, South Bay liaison with the Bay Area organizing committee for 
the tour
US Labor Against War
joanbazar at sbcglobal.net 408-243-4359