Kia ora JFers,
As 2009 comes to a close we look back on a year full of significant achievements and events, and we wait to see if the deal made at the United Nations Climate Change Forum is a significant step forward or a ‘betrayal of our grandchildren.’
In the meantime we hope you are all looking forward to a great summer break! Studying, working AND trying to live an ethical, sustainable life can get a bit tiring….so I’m sure you deserve a holiday.
The Just Focus team is definitely ready for a break, but we will be back in the office from Jan 11 and cranking! Jennie will be running workshops at Summer Jam in Christchurch, Will is off to a conference in Napier to chat to teachers and educators about sustainability, the Just Write team will be working on their very own magazine and by the end of the month you will all receive the latest two global bits. (If your address has changed since last time then get in touch with Jennie.)
Highlights
Article - Speak out! Be heard!
From the favelas (slums) of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, in the midst of racism, poverty, gang warfare and drugs, there came a beat - a beat of change and new beginnings. In this Tearaway article Su’Ad Muse explores the use of music to raise awareness about conflict and promote peace.
The Soapbox - God’s Will at the Chemist?
RRecently, controversy arose in Griffith, New South Wales, Australia after Trevor Dal Broi, a local pharmacist, stated that he would refuse to dispense the contraceptive pill at his privately-owned business, East Griffith Pharmacy. Jayran Mansouri asks if any one has the right to impose their moral beliefs on another?
Media Gallery - Cap & Trade
The Story of Cap & Trade is a fast-paced, fact-filled look at the leading climate solution discussed at Copenhagen and on Capitol Hill. If you’ve heard about Cap & Trade, but aren’t sure how it works (or who benefits), this is the film is for you.
New library resource - No Nonsense Guide to World Music
This guide goes behind the phrase to consider the popularity of world msuic. It looks at genres, such as fado and rembetika, that emerged from marginalised communities…It also probes the dark side - the role that music played in conflict from Rwanda to the Middle East.
Global Headlines
Climate change talks end in failure
The Guardian’s environment editor John Vidal, US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenburg and Asia environment correspondent Jonathan Watts discuss the deal made by world leaders.
Check out the podcast on the Guardian website.
Norway Campuses Reject Coca-Cola
In another major victory for the international campaign against Coca-Cola, colleges and universities in Norway have decided not to renew the exclusive contract with the soft drink giant.
Full story on Scoop.
Events
Parihaka International Peace Festival
7-11 January 2010
In early January check out the Parihaka International Peace Festival in Taranaki. This festival celebrates the greatness of the visionary leaders Te Whiti and Tohu and the power of non-violent action, with music, workshops, films and yummy food.
www.parihaka.com
Take Action!
Buy Nothing Christmas
At Christmas time we are all swamped with offers, ads and invitations to buy more stuff, but now there’s a way to say enough! Join the movement dedicated to reviving the original meaning of Christmas giving.
www.buynothingchristmas.org