Occupy Buffalo CITIZEN ACTION Meeting Minutes - February 16, 2013

OCCUPY BUFFALO: GENERAL ASSEMBLY MINUTES (UNEDITED):February 16, 2013 (2 p.m. to 6 p.m.)

IN ATTENDANCE:

1. Al Allerton (Occupy Buffalo): n/a (n/a)2. Albert Brown (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected]. Ashley Westbrook (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] (4. Atrayeu (?) (n/a): n/a (n/a)5. Bev (Buffalo International Action Center, Workers’ World): [email protected]. Brandon Bob Brooks: [email protected]. Brinda Krish (n/a): [email protected] (716-228-24068. Brian Trzeciak: [email protected]. Chris Barbera (Occupy Buffalo): n/a (n/a)10. Chuck Culthane (Prisoners Rights Coalition, Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] (716-228-2076)11. Clifford Cawthorn (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] (12. Dana Lyn Gerace (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected]. Ellie (Buffalo International Action Center, Workers World): [email protected]. Heron Simmonds-Price: [email protected]. Jackie Splain Wilson: [email protected] (726-543-5908)16. Jamie Nicol Stewart (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] (716-602-4196)17. Jeff O’Connell (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] (716-200-7248)18. Jim Anderson (Citizen Action, Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] 19. John Rozman (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected]. John Washington II: [email protected]. Jon Gallo (Buffalo Class Action, PUSH): (716-274-9890)22. Kamali Liyanage (Legal Aid, Western NY Peace Center): [email protected] (716-544-8044)23. Karen Wozniak-Daigler: [email protected]. Lauren 25. Leslie Scott (Federal Defenders’ Agency): [email protected] 26. Lisa Richardson (Occupy Buffalo): [email protected] (716-602-4196)27. A. Luana DeJesus (n/a): [email protected] (716-715-9798)28. R.J. Bradley-Ortiz (Public Policy & Education Fund Of NY): [email protected] (716-852-4050)29. Stefanski Harry Haller (n/a): n/a (n/a)

OTHERS PRESENT?

Still need to collect some emails and all phone numbers for those present; list is in Jim Anderson’s possession at this time

Welcome – Jim Anderson

Introduces R.J. – works for Health Care Campaign (need clarification)

Albert – legal is important, Ashley will mention legal news regarding OB

Jeff – pass around sign-up sheet for attendance/emails

Chris B. will take stack

Albert will be moderator

Albert – Talk about Legal, Upcomings, Climate Rally, 1 Billion Rising, May Day,

Jamie – Upcoming legal team fundraiser

Ellie – International Women’s Day: March 8 (http://www.internationalwomensday.com/ ), celebrating working women fighting back (after Triangle Shirtwaist Fire of 1911; mentions recent Bangladesh fire)…. Sweetness 7, Grant Street, March 7, 7 p.m : managing editor of Worker’s World, Lalani Dowell (?) , will speak

Introductions made by those present (see Attendance)…

Jim – forum on Immigration (get information)

Jamie – Legal Team Fundraiser Event at Nietzsche’s on March 21, 2013, at 8 p.m.Social Hour/ Hor D’oeuvres: 8 – 9 p.m.Variety Show: 9 – 10 p.m.Need volunteers

Ashley – Huge thank you for above event, Daire and Mike Kuzma put in ton of time, will go for court fees

Lisa – Was arrested downtown for witnessing crime, woman attacked by man downtown, woman wanted to press charges, but police wouldn’t listen, everyone called drug addicts, tried to report but was put in jail…. Went through trial, not guilty…. Will pursue civil suit against arresting officer Donna Donovan…

Ashley – Very courageous step in doing this, filing ; really easy to take ACD, right choice for many at right time (no shame if it works for you), but Lisa is smart in doing this …. I have job change, can be more aggressively involved…. F.O.I.A. action: Mike is attorney, Daire is client in suing gov’t on behalf of OB….. doc drop in D.C. recently regarding Occupy, got ton of materials….

Albert – Have you heard rumor regarding Page 62 or 63 thing about F.B.I. wanting to assassinate Occupy “leaders”

Ashley – In one of notes in NYC, footnote: credible source saying someone in NYPD (?) would fire on Occupy….we’re not getting all the documents, but are investigating….maybe gov’t did nothing, but need more info

Heron – Isn’t it illegal for anyone to say they will kill

Albert – Not the gov’t, but discovered a threat by an extremist right-wing group making claims that they might

Jamie – Lisa, Dana, Mike Kuzma, and I filed F.O.I.A.’s (under their own names) to see if gov’t has anything on OB

Ashley – City violated claim when evicted OB, Daire and I will file lawsuit (violation of 190 day rule)….City might say they will negotiate, need people to testify…. List of demands made by General Assembly was written, will bring list…will keep people posted…. See you all as second kind of family, Stefan (?) and I got engaged yesterday

Jamie – 501c3 news? If we are non-profit, do we file Taxes?

Brandon – Not sure what to discuss canvassing

Heron – Haven’t met about canvassing strategy yet…. Outreach Meeting next Saturday potentially at Citizen Action…. We get together a few action items, go door-to-door to raise issues and get information with people about what they want to get done, get them involved….way to get Occupy Buffalo with community…. Execute something significant over the summer, so if we protest and do actions towards the city, encourage participation by people so we may better represent them…

Cliff – One thing we could do (sometimes people aren’t forthcoming about ideas or clear, but do have issues) – Put things on flyer such as online poll to encourage people to contribute ideas about what they want for social change…. I could do that

Albert – Make May Day Rally bigger and better this year…

Bev – Instrumental with I.A.C. in organizing May 1 Coalition in NYC (has big focus on immigration but broad focus when all workers and oppressed people from all struggles come out with big presence)…not sure what to do here, but we want to focus similarly on what May 1 Coalition does…especially with local immigration community….now a big thing nationally…. We would like to work with OB and unions and such, but not a narrow focus…

Jim – OK to list Ellie / Bev’s contact email with John Washington’s too?

Albert – Bill Nowak willing to open up CWA office to do presentations/meetings on May Day Action….one idea was that we would do a march, do specific targets on march with speak-outs, one from each organization….

John Rozman – On May Day (speaking for JW, not present yet), do coordination with Strike Debt (also involves labor), targeting collection agencies (Buffalo is one of largest collection of these business in USA), may get some of these employees to walk out on job, spinning on Occupy issues, have personally worked in collections…told people to pay their debt when couldn’t pay own, deeply sympathize and strongly support this movement

Jeff – Point of info – need to involve students (current, and graduate)

Jim – Need to huddle with other groups, I.A.C. and others have addressed these issues in recent past, could be major

Chris – Important for people who are new to understand the OB facilitation process… we must follow democratic procedure…..raise hand to speak….. Will have to endorse May 1 Action …. JW and Strike Debt completely involved with OB, also working with Task Force at WNY Peace Center specifically focusing on poor people and debt issues

Heron – Endorsing “Unity Idea” ….conservative forces regarding immigration run counter to labor unions’ concerns…. Is wrong…. States with higher number illegal immigration tend to have more employment…. If we can’t speak to issue with clarity, has weakening effect… Instead of people getting excited, they shy away if not phrased carefully…. How can theme of immigration be messaged that appeals to interests of domestic workers…. Like JW, John, and Chris, Strike Debt is something students are interested in doing….Heron with Canisius, that day is last week of final exams, difficult to get them involved during this time… We have to address are we doing something on Wednesday, May 1 as an action….something people can participate that has effect, but not solely linked to day or action….must be an ongoing thing… If we speak to or about Strike Debt that emphasizes universal appeal of fighting our current debt system for working/poor people, and creatively find ways to link to other working peoples’ concerns…. Must develop “Elevator Speeches”…. “this is my conclusion, you should be part of May day actions because ‘point 1, 2, 3,’ end of talk…”

Also, May Day is traditional and very specific, must develop point for why to expand to different groups

Clifford – May Day focuses: ECIDA in terms of reform effort (they give tax breaks and subsidies to their friends, not to those who need help)…. Also Labor Unions and their concerns …. Who is the worst/i.e. largest Collection Agency? In leading to actions, must draw upon repertoire of experience: Labor has not always been progressive, at times xenophobic, but as Occupy, we’ve not been tainted by these reactionary elements, OB can refine progressive nature of relationship between labor and immigrant movement… In Manchester, England, May Day was moved by labor teams to May 16 for various reasons…. We can change the date too to a more helpful time as well… If we cannot absolutely get a May1 Action, can do other Strike Debt Actions with more resonance (mentions actions in Manchester)…. We should write a statement on these issues…doesn’t have to represent larger movement, but can represent our statement, to establish in others’ minds that we are still here, plus establish our above messages with clarity (will help draft it)…. Keystone XL pipeline very scary, but we need to work with other groups to address issue (connections here, such as banks that fund the pipeline, indigenous and other communities that are affected by it)

Mentions TruthOut article: http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/14540-charging-through-the-archway-of-history-immigrants-and-african-americans-unite-to-transform-the-face-of-labor-and-the-power-of-community

Video of Manchester Action: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxhE9zMC7w0

10 MINUTE BREAK

Albert – Will continue with May Day planning discussion…pick up on what Jim, Cliff, Heron, Ellie saying, supports a drafted statement on what action we take, want to propose we pick date (whether Wednesday, or 1st Saturday)…Chuck mentioned idea of one event each day: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday on specific issue leading up to Saturday as big day…. What would be the best day for everyone (students, workers, etc.) to come out? Keep the statement very broad as “coming out workers and peoples’ rights”…can hit many different tangents, including environmental issues as well as economic, immigration. Talk to any group that might be interested… It is an important day, symbolized peoples’ struggle, important to show solidarity and diversity…

Jim – Likes Chuck’s idea too… along the way in organizing, go back and look at May Day history, to be well-grounded so to connect the modern issues…. Immigration has been treated as cheap labor…. The “beast” would have us fighting each other…. Historically, this is nothing new…. Our verbiage has to articulate on each sector…. First Day: march from East Side to downtown, find ways to get workers to come out on lunch hour, actions on campus

Ellie – About May Day, it is a day about solidarity more than anything else. In the long/short run, that means strength. Without it, we stand apart/alone in our own little struggles. Day was born in the hands of immigrants who were hated, being executed/persecuted for fighting for 8 hour day. Our history defines what we do/pull us together. Show support for people fighting different struggles and situations… We should not allow ourselves to be divided by our differences by the powerful…. In 2006, explosion of immigrants in the hundreds of thousands who shut down industries by walking off of work… Totally isolated in NYC from the decisions of labor unions, who didn’t support until several years later. Only last year were labor leadership and immigrant workforce didn’t hold different May Day rallies in NYC, and it was with Occupy…

John – Put out All Debts Are Off/Strike Debt…. Getting people to strike against debt industry and reasons why (low-wage workers being able to pay minimum), get them to participate in concepts of non-participation in the debt trap/cycle…. The tie than binds all together with those feeling direct/non-direct oppression….something that opens the door to other issues, get narrative that brings it all around… Buffalo is the epitome of “sic-ing the poor on the poor” via the debt collection industry. Every single person in collection agency is a debtor themselves, trapped in a bubble, made not to care…. Give those in cubicle a chance to voice their frustration/concern…. People have gotten so robotic to go to work at this job rather than question

Chris – Want to propose that OB officially endorse a May Day Event or Action, develop a May Day Action to flesh out a day, message, and action. Proposal seconded….now open to discussion

Jackie – Will set up an email list just for May Day Working Group, and send out information

Cliff – For Labor we should possibly contact Locals that are much more radical than the Buffalo ones, get their colleagues to strongly encourage their non-radical union contacts to join in. What are other Occupies doing on that day? One problem: oncoming Austerity coming soon (on the federal level, some of it on state level)

Heron – Calls Point Of Process

Ellie – Specifically, make sure we are all aware of the postal crisis…get them involved

Jamie – Can get worked out in working group

Heron – Wants to ask question: we’re creating group, fine with delegating details, but we should describe the scope of the project. We want to see Labor Movement strengthened over time, May Day important date in measuring its progress. Shouldn’t there be an anniversary action for workers in worst situation, who MOST need to unionize. Wal-Mart, fast food restaurants. Do document drops at these places. Is working group narrowly having action or having larger campaign? Do we want to be ambitious and have working group doing general strike (much broader), or focus on the more narrow (Strike Debt or All Debts Are Off)?

Chris – My understanding: G.A. talks about basic philosophical issues, working group is the technical aspect of putting that into motion. The working group would report back to the G.A. about specific message/technical concerns. If G.A. disagrees, would have power to agree/disagree/amend the recommendation.

Albert – We should have the working group decide the specifics

Cliff – Clarify a point… Heron’s point resonates with me…. The General Strike, have heard of no union or worker association that has called for that; activists have, but they haven’t. Some trade unions in U.K. did actively call for long-term thing. In terms of more radical action, in solidarity with Wal-Mart workers, did do a banner drop (Video: In general, we could consider adding a march / picnic (something more celebratory) in addition to

Lou – Should be dealt with directly in working group: targets (labor, immigration, prisoners, etc.). There isn’t any “or” in leading to General Strike. The consensus will develop that broad picture for the year that follows, won’t necessarily be in opposition to the working group

Karen – Sometimes we are too quick to have working group to handle it, we need more definition of action/idea (noticed in the past the working group doesn’t always follow through)

John Washington – Working group could transition to Affinity Group…

Chris – Not a perfect system, but just to set it in motion

Albert – MOVE TO VOTE

Occupy Buffalo endorses May Day Activities, OB Working Group reports back….

PROPOSAL PASSES

Albert – Finances …. Financial Working Group here (Jamie)

Jamie – Need list to sign up to take over. Curt, Sam, Jamie don’t.

Albert – Open up vote for new Financial Committee members to sign for withdrawal of bank account. Anyone can deposit, only 3 at the same time can withdraw

JeffKarenSergio

Albert – Time of change and transition in regards to people on account

Heron – I was put on the list

Albert – Propose to vote to include on the account Jeff, Karen, Sergio. 3 people will be on the account, but 2 will be allowed to withdraw at bank. We task them to go to the Credit Union to formally submit that the list of co-signers are changed from 3 to 2 people to make transaction. If people want more people, open to discussion… Also allow for rotating schedule.

Chris – If Ricky and others adamant about staying on, should be consulted

Albert – Sergio very reliable, others that haven’t shown up at meeting shouldn’t be considered

Jim – Submit a 1page document to the BFCU hat we move to amend / accept changes to the Financial Committee. i.e. the date and time that the decision was made…

Al – If it only requires 2 people, if it changes in the future, what 2 people will be tasked with continuing the process.

Albert – Problem in past with getting extra people coordinating schedules in going to the credit union. Created some hard feelings. What matters is efficiency. 3 hasn’t worked, let’s try 2.

Chris – More people on account is democratic, but efficiency and reality forces us to adjust to circumstances. OK with decision, but concerned along with Al about ongoing democratic structure.

Cliff – 3 is better, not just to have the safeguard but still have efficiency.

VOTE GIVEN. PROPOSAL PASSES.

R.J. – Am new here at Citizen Action. 1) Community Organizer at Citizen Action 2) Am working with Community Health Advocates – bringing awareness to community about what your new health care options are under New York State laws (not necessarily Affordable Care Act). New enrollments begin October 1, am looking for new people to sign up. If anyone has questions, will give card out. Things she does: if you have health care but not satisfied with insurance…will be mandated by January 1, 2014 that all must have health insurance, can get you hooked up if necessary. If you have family members on Medicaid/Medicare, can help them too. How up to date is everyone on ACA? The Exchange is a giant warehouse of (private) insurance companies to pick from, can help

John – What are consequences if you don’t?

R.J. – Could be fined when taxes are done, penalties are income-based.

Albert – Heard was upward of $10,000 fine

Cliff – If you are on parents insurance under 26, not affected. Basically a bailout for health care industry.

R.J. – Reason we need to do something about health care, we have to work with it though agree it is flawed…. Please ask questions….

Heron – reason 1: We NEED single payer insurance. Other agenda items?

R.J. – Community organizing work at Citizen Action. Any reform laws take work beyond passing laws. We need to take corporations out of electoral process, health care companies buy politicians to defeat universal health care. ACA a step forward, but need to more. What happens too often is that minorities in a community get overlooked who don’t have advantages (disabled, people of color). Health care is a basic human right.

Albert – Any other agenda items/announcements?

Brandon - Next week, Saturday, will meet up about Canvassing

Jim – Will send out info about National Calls For Days Of Action about Drones

Ellie – Drone Action planned in Niagara Falls on April 7

Lou – PUSH Buffalo has tons and tons of ways to get homes weatherized. If you live in city and do or don’t own home, there is gov’t money available, can help you with the process.

Brandon – Was working for Empire Home Energy Solutions (private company). If you’re renter, there’s the Empowerment Program: free audit to get home weatherized. Actual retrofitting to house (subsidies available).

Lou – Program is brand-new, and free. Everyone pays in through conservation taxes, been sitting in hands from federal government for a long time, finally available (“Pay back”)

Jim – These walls that we’re knocking down to make a better way; we have to get access to better ways ourselves from our past efforts. Check and see if under the radar help (family, friends, etc. ) can be found….check out resources beyond

Lauren – R.J. talked about publicly financed fair elections. Banks are another big group… Bank Of America, 495 Elmwood Avenue, February 21, 2013: press conference with Citizen Action at 11 a.m. to endorse to serve people, not big donors. Committee meeting at Citizen Action 5 to 6 p.m., Monday, February 18, 2013.

Brian Trecziak – March 5, going for another budget fight in Albany: Parade For Public Education/ Rally. Sign up sheet available

Al – Lots of good things going on, Media has lacked content. If anyone wants to put stuff out on website, facebook, YouTube. John, Jackie, Karen, Al are all available to put content on the .org site, Twitter.

Jeff – a) OB Video List going out soon, b) WNYPC show with Apollo Media proposed

Jim – Barbara Boxer proposed a bill to establish a cabinet-level Department Of Peace…will get that information out

Lisa – Talked to mail carrier today…they are protesting at William Street Post Office regarding the USPS budget cuts on March 24, 2013

Al – “Dear Governor Cuomo” screening at Burning Books: February 21, 2013 (7 to 9 p.m.) (FREE)

Jamie – Did anyone talk about D.C. Trip?

Karen – Forward On Climate Rally on February 17, 2013. Buses coming in, sponsored by Sierra Club, addressing Obama to put pressure on him to work on climate change issues, especially in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. Bring extra snacks, water, cash, etc. Bus will leave at UB South Campus park and ride.

Jackie – Who has banner?

John Rozman has OB banner, will bring…

Jamie – Want to propose another meeting

ORIGINAL AMOUNT IN PETTY CHANGE BOX: $200.00 1.30

.50 .58

TOTAL AMOUNT: $202.38 Lisa – Can we propose to pay Heron with the petty cash regarding the reimbursement for the Radical Philosophy Conference fees?

PROPOSAL PASSED

AMOUNT REIMBURSED TO HERON SIMMONDS-PRICE: $40.00

CURRENT AMOUNT IN PETTY CASH BOX: $162.38

Jamie – Used to have a literature/art budget… Wanted to propose $100 releasing budget for Legal Fundraiser PR (flyers/art/etc.)

VOTED

PROPOSAL PASSED

AMOUNT GIVEN FROM PETTY CASH BOX TO JAMIE STEWART AND LISA RICHARDSON FOR LEGAL FUNDRAISER: $100.00

CURRENT AMOUNT IN PETTY CASH BOX: $ 62.38

John – Has check for $650.00 from Unitarian Universalist Church to deposit into account.

Albert – Proposal to release funds for Legal Fundraiser on March 21, 2013

VOTE

PROPOSAL PASSES

Jeff O’Connell is authorized to give money to Jamie and Lisa

Anything you don’t spend must come back to the OB Fund, MUST follow up on people

Must give Financial Statement every month.

Albert – Receipt is showing they have documentation for giving / spending money. Must be written or printed.

Jim – Please invest in an Accounting Book to keep track of OB account funds.

Lisa – Propose monies for St. Patrick’s Day / Dyngus Day parade (tabled)

Chris – Propose Soapbox

Albert – Propose next meeting date by March 2

Chris – We used to meet every day, 3 times a week, once in a while…some consistency helpful.

Jim – Will get on reserving Citizen Action office ASAP. Also mentioned possibility about CWA

Jeff – Will ask Bill Nowak tonight

Jamie – Anybody wants to sign up for Legal Team Fundraiser, contact me

SOAPBOX OPEN

Heron – getting out strong feelings going through Lisa’s trial and remembering situational ordeal I had when arrested in 2002… the shock to my system of the system’s dishonest/dysfunctionality. Was appalled to learn when the prosecutor could throw out all original charges of arresting officer, bring back new charges. The person who was there said they made it up, everything is off the table, someone who wasn’t there makes up charges to bring… CRAZY and UNFAIR… Left with feeling of déjà vu about how unfair it feels like, because you have citizens with a sense of justice to try and do the right thing, come up with people doing their job in unfeeling way…. Was stopped while biking, cops made up allegation that they were throwing coins at cops…They told a lie, shocked and nonplussed that their response was to help each other, the cops took it as a challenge, cops who came on the scene decide they’ll change the situation around and bust heads (every cop comes on scene gets violated). Lisa wants to help person, police come and speak to no one, tell them to shut, and when asking Lisa to speak, confirms what they want to here. This what we allow to pass for “justice.” Justice gives people to have a chance to say their peace. How can you trust/support a system that wanted to silence you? My vision for the group is to give people a chance for their voice to be heard. Albert talked about Native American Reconciliation Practices (Restorative Justice)…once you hear what people say, punishment is about the process of healing....at the end, they feel like the crime is forgiven and reconciled. There isn’t a way in the system for the guilty to free themselves from psychological and social guilt. We should have it so people can feel free. Lisa was found not guilty, but the process did not work. Judge didn’t know what happened, was there

Pros say “Represent Yourself.”

“He who has themselves as a client has a fool for a client” – Clarence Darrow

Ashley – Largely Chuck’s doing, group being formed about racial disparities in the justice system. Did studies in Albany, Schenectady, other counties about population of people of color in those counties on probation, incarcerated, awaiting sentences, and the disparity is HUGE…situation is disgusting…. Want to do the same study in Niagara, Cattaragus, Erie counties… A program in NYC called Common Justice, a product of Vera Institute Of Justice, personal goal to bring it to Buffalo. Takes juvenile offenders, brings them through a process of reconciliation with victims of whatever crime they did, victim’s responsibility to assign a punishment, everyone walks away clean…

Albert – Explains process of Restorative Justice in Native American societies…whole pressure of community forces parties to the crime to come to a solution/conclusion

Chuck – Michelle Alexander points out once you get charged, get trapped in a permanent cycle of incarceration/release/punishment

John Washington – Frustration with people showing up with out understanding issues, having no lack of consciousness, supporting them disingenuously. In thinking about future actions/issues, wants to make sure that the people involve really understood what May Day involves and understands full history/implications of participation, rather than just showing up for the sake of being there… People should inform themselves.

Heron – Original conception of Justice Dialogue was that a forum for teach-ins to educate people on the issues we are advocated. Was difficult to keep in people’s minds why we were doing it. At the end, was cancelling due to no attendance. Hurt feelings when nobody shows when doing a teach-in. Individual thing: everyone has to figure out what they do know in relation to what they don’t know. Two people in a situation: one has

ability to speak, another may not. I don’t want people to speak up when they’re not confident. Some don’t have the capacity to articulate about issues, even if they do know. The group will be stronger the more people are informed in situations where they are comfortable in speaking / participating.

Albert – You can’t make people join in the sense of movement…Some come for specific issues. In reality to develop the consciousness John talks about, must look at it from a global perspective in regards to injustice. Some come out for single issue events, but single issues are never the final answer, but solidarity is for standing out on multiple issues, difficult to support issues if you’re not hot for them, but should offer support in some sense… Maybe not HAVE to be at a strike, but could mention to another person about the issue

Jim – The Sentencing Project – national group about injustice and sentence disparities…. We have folks on the ground there doing the work, we need to exploit that possibility of working with them to change the system… Mentions F.O.I.A. request made by Buffalo News to the City, which was denied, but they kept at it and presented information that related to case. Mentions how the judge in Lisa’s case was glad to throw the case out and lecture everyone in order to avoid calling attention to the

Albert – It’s a race and class stratification-based strategy that the justice system perpetrates.

Jim – If you’re on one of the country roads, stopped while speeding when there’s no witnesses, you may not be able to argue your rights out of risk….have to play strategically…

Chris – Agree with all the conversation. In terms of OB, we’re not burdened by problems at the camp and the house (homelessness, drugs, etc.). We have some freedom right now in that sense. We are not so much a service organization (serving the poor, drug counseling), we’re advocating for justice and social change. We didn’t find a way to bring along homeless/drug addicts in an effective way before, because we didn’t have the willingness or capability to deal with those gut-wrenching/emotional demands. We have an advantage in a way right now, unshackled…

Jim – In regards to Justice Dialogues, 2nd Cup, we could try to get other venues interested to do Justice Dialogue presentations (re: organizations like the Racial Task Force at historical society last night; discussion at church last night about War On Drugs, the kind of people discussing this may not go to G.A. or Occupy, but we could bring the discussion to them). Other interested parties? The Say Yes Corporation…. Bring in the strong conversation to their domain, if open to that…

Heron – Would like to see practical invitation

Jackie – Came to Buffalo for OB, after 1st JD, couldn’t come to all of them, but cares just as much about sitting, hearing, learning there…. Not just solidarity, boots on ground stuff…. InterOccupy Activities was what she could do help, but was feeling pressured, unsustainable…

Heron – Why we remember politicians is when they articulate what we are thinking/feeling about. Bill Clinton: “Without vision, the people perish.” Brought it up in debate, in lieu of the Bush Administration the First, because his positions were pragmatically cherrypicked from different angles for political gain. Clinton’s statement also to counter Grover Norquist “we don’t’ need gov’t philosophy.” Clinton: “If you play by the rules, you should get a good fair shake.” Change the theme: instead of cutting government for not working, make gov’t work. We remember them

for clarity on issues. Obama was successful in tapping into people’s feelings about the war, economy, etc. Throws out Hope/Change thing (disingenuous), but the message on point, and we need to feel that a coherent vision helps people to move forward….a clearer idea to what we need to do to reform the mess we’re in. We don’t have to reinvent so much as look at what works now. One example: immigration. Republicans are now trying out new nasty rhetoric, the lie that “immigrants are natural Republicans. Why? they’re entrepreneurs, believe in family values.” Lies (Democrats DON’T believe in those too?). The truth is when people are poor, they tend to identify with working-class issues (probably closer to natural Democrats). How can we be truthful and inter-fair and speak directly to the people and get THEIR agenda on the horizon?

John Washington – About Citizen Action going to Bank of America to protest for fair elections, discrepancy of drug charges and New Jim Crow, should also protest at HSBC (re; drug laundering activities). Easier to jail young poor black kids in jails for drug charges, while CIA-asset drug runners deposit their money with HSBC and getting off for free….banks should be punished and held to equal account in regards to drug issues…. Department Of Justice recommended HSBC since 2002, knew they were doing this, but a lawsuit to charge them with drug-laundering activity would destroy their image, threat to the banking system, we can’t touch them. The injustice is a big joke. We need to find a way to close the gap between the EC Holding Center and HSBC…connect the issues.

Albert – There’s only one form of justice here, and it’s corrupt. Race/ Class Stratification-based. Need a new vision of justice, going beyond reform.

John Washington – Ending Suspension In Schools movement about that, too….stopping punishment and promoting restorative justice

Heron – People encouraged to adopt mindset about what is advantageous to me alone, not about the community at large, or the Truth in itself… Cynicism encouraged, which goes along with the market (“I’m going to do whatever I can to win/make money, truth be damned” – it’s functional within our current system).

Albert – The world is a market/business, and that’s how it’s run.

Chuck – Established the Corrections Community Advisement Board, TBN called for Sheriff’s resignation, more….County Control Board came out with audit, Sheriff has been misallocating hundreds of thousands of dollars for use of prisoners, went into his pocket, used funds for his own discretion, County took away his checkbook…. One thing Karima Amin has mentioned is doing more coalition building with other groups…

Albert – Intimidating when these people have guns, have the power to stop/arrest/shoot/abuse you… Outrageous that Lisa was arrested in the first place for doing the right thing and thrown in jail, the woman got punched by someone whom the police had no interest in helping… Not enough that her charges were dismissed, the point is the system is not being addressed…

Heron – If she had more money at the time, would not be an issue for the police… They were offended because we came out in support….Part of what they’re doing is a rear-guard offense…

Albert – Even with the other people being tried, Judge tried everything to force Lisa to take ACD as a matter in intimidation; most of the time, without adequate representation, it works for 98% of others unjustly accused…

John Washington – Probation is a set-up to really destroy you later..

Heron – They push and intimidate you not to fight City Hall, because if you fight, might win, affect the city’s coffers.

Jim – Justice admonished by upper court for badgering/intimidating those standing in trial, not to mention his past drug usage. One reason why he’s still at same level in court. His behavior was inappropriate and atrocious

Chris – When Dana was on the stand, her integrity, honesty, and humor put the judge off balance. Very powerful moment, little things that influence and change the situation. One time spent the night in jail after Thursday At The Square, witnessed, tried to tell cop, sent to jail…. The level of arrogance of power that the judge has to lecture me (“the police asked you to move, you should have move”….how dare you say that). Dana and others address that arrogance in a healing and powerful way…

WORKING GROUP COMMITTEES (AS OF FEBRUARY 16, 2013)

Canvassing Working Group:

1. Heron Simmonds-Price: [email protected])2. Clifford Cawthorn: [email protected]. Brandon Bob Brooks: [email protected]. Sergio Tupac Uzurin (maybe?): [email protected]

Financial Working Group

1. Jeff O’Connell: [email protected]. Karen Wozniak-Daigler: [email protected]. Sergio Tupac Uzurin: [email protected]

(Authorized To Withdraw Funds From Buffalo Cooperative Federal Credit Union Account)

May Day Working Group:

1. John Washington II: [email protected]. Albert Brown: [email protected]. Jackie Splain Wilson: [email protected]. Clifford Cawthorn: [email protected]. Jeff O’Connell: [email protected]. Lou DeJesus: _____need email_____7. Jon Gallo: _____need email_____8. John Rozman: [email protected]. Chuck Culhane: [email protected]. I.A.C. (Bev and Ellie): [email protected]

11. Lisa Richardson: _____need email_____

Media Working Group:

1. Al Allerton: _____need email_____2. Jeff O’Connell: [email protected]. Karen Wozniak-Daigler: [email protected]

Others?

SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS(FEBRUARY 16 TO 21, 2013):

TOTAL AMOUNT IN PETTY CASH BOX (2013-02-16): $202.38 AMOUNT REIMBURSED TO HERON SIMMONDS-PRICE FOR RADICAL PHILOSOPHY CONFERENCE EXPENSES (2013-02-16): $40.00

PETTY CASH BOX DIFFERENCE (2013-02-16): $162.38

AMOUNT GIVEN FROM PETTY CASH BOX TO JAMIE STEWART AND LISA RICHARDSON FOR LEGAL FUNDRAISER AT NIETZSCHE’S ON MARCH 21, 2013 (2013-02-16): $100.00

PETTY CASH BOX DIFFERENCE (2013-02-16): $ 62.38

PURCHASE OF FINANCIAL TRANSACTION LOG BY JEFF O’CONNELL, AUTHORIZED BY GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2013-02-18): $11.49

HAVE ALSO PURCHASED SMALL RECEIPT PAD FOR OCCUPY BUFFALO, JUST IN CASE (2013-02-18): $3.99

TOTAL AMOUNT SPENT FOR FINANCIAL TRANSACTION LOG AND RECEIPT PAD, INCLUDING SALES TAX (2013-02-18): $16.84

PETTY CASH BOX DIFFERENCE (2013-02-21): $45.54

Purchase Receipt, Receipt Pad, & Petty Cash in Box, along with Financial Transaction Log – Jeff O’Connell currently in possession of Box and Log

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION:

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&tbo=d&sclient=psy-ab&q=c.i.a.+agent+john+kiriakou&oq=c.i.a.+agent+john+kiriakou&gs_l=hp.3..0i22l2.4860.12360.12.13844.23.14.5.0.0.1.469.4779.0j2j4j4j5.15.0.les%3B..2.0...1c.1.3.psy-ab.zHKCEP-xX7E&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.&bvm=bv.42553238,d.dmQ&fp=87086c472ffe1e17&biw=1024&bih=571

http://open.salon.com/blog/barry60x/2013/01/28/abu_ghraib_whistleblower_faces_feds_in_retrial

http://www.google.com/#hl=en&tbo=d&sclient=psy-ab&q=cariol+j.+horne&oq=cariol+j.+horne&gs_l=hp.3..0i30j0i8i13i30.15500.19328.2.20578.15.12.0.0.0.0.1922.7672.2-1j1j3j4j8-2.11.0.les%3B..0.0...1c.1.3.psy-ab.qtKyq6hkdr0&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.&bvm=bv.42553238,d.dmQ&fp=87086c472ffe1e17&biw=1024&bih=571

http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-21696453.html