Ed Line
Terrorism, war and global security - not an environmental issue? The terrible
violence that has led to the suffering of those in America, Afghan refugees and
many others are well beyond both my experience and my campaigning remit, but
I feel the reasons why we campaign and try to effect change are why the present
situation of threat of war matters to us as well. The scale of man-made damage
such as climate change and that of the effects of war are similar, both with
long and short term consequences on part of the world and its people and the
global whole. Both climate change and an escalation from terrorism into war would
inflict further suffering on those who are already suffering most from the degradation
of the planet. Both are anathema to the principles of sustainability: global
justice, equality and redistribution of resources for present and future generations.
Many of us have attended peace events over the last few days. We hope that, if
you wished to do so, you have been able to add your voice to those calling for
justice and restraint rather than war. An antiwar group and egroup has been set
up and if you wish to get involved contact Ger (Birmingham Stop the War Coalition)
on 07949 028362; West Mids CND on 0121 643 4617; or I may be able to help.
Things are usually a little quiet over the summer months for Birmingham FOE although
we did organise a large and well-attended Esso action (due to their ostrich-like
stance on climate change) with nominal support from People and Planet and Greenpeace.
This was great fun - proper tanker-stopping stuff, though as I may have said
before it is surprising how many journalists don't have the word "embargo" in their
dictionaries. There will be further Stop Esso actions in the coming months.
The post-holiday season has been given a good kick-start by another inspiring
FOE national conference which a record 9 people from Birmingham FOE attended.
Everyone found it worthwhile, provoking a sudden and welcome influx of keen volunteers
to the Top Office. There are various conference reports on pages 8 and 9.
Karen Leach