T'Keyah Fights City Hall

Clean Air Kudos to President Obama!

2011-12-24T23:53:00.000-08:00

Quite often, this blog is a drag. I complain about what is wrong with the world, who is doing something they should not, who is not doing something they should and always something we should do about it. Letting people know when they are behaving in less than ideal ways is important. It is equally important to praise and encourage people for the good they do. I have no doubt that President Obama is bombarded with pressure from coal and allied companies to keep coal on the energy table so to speak. Despite that pressure, the president has announced new safeguards to limit the toxic emissions from coal-fired power plants.

Coal-fired power plants emit pollutants such as mercury, arsenic, dioxin and acid gases. These toxins poison the air and wreak havoc on the humans, animals, and plant life that exist in that air. Sierra Club projects that the President Obama’s new position will save 11,000 lives per year! Big coal will likely push back on this historic stance, so please join me in showing support for the president’s move. This is a great step in the right direction and if the voices of those who appreciate this are louder than those of coal lobbyists, who knows what strides toward a healthy planet the president will accomplish next?

To join me in thanking President Obama for standing up for clean air, Click Here!

Thank you for reading my blog today. Please be kind to yourself and to others. Share your visions of peace and justice with the world. Strive always to leave each place you visit the better for your having been there! - TCK

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www.tkeyah.com - Where Crystal visions come to life!

Write for RIghts!

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

For fifty years, Amnesty International has been a beacon of light for prisoners of conscience around the world. The organization investigates and publicizes the unfair treatment of people whose just, reasonable or well intended actions are met with harsh, unfair or abuse, and takes action to help. Their actions have saved many lives. Every year, through their Write for Rights campaign, Amnesty International supporters send letters around the world asking government officials to release prisoners of conscience, give them a fair trial and / or cease abusing them. I participated for the first time a couple of years ago and wrote about a dozen letters. It was empowering to know that each of my letters would be joined by many others. The 2011 Write for Rights campaign is underway now and Amnesty is asking you to join the more than fifty thousand of people around the world who are participating in their annual Global Write-a-thon to write letters that can save lives.

"Write letters to amplify the voices governments are attempting to silence. Write letters demanding freedom. Write letters of solidarity. There are many governments around the world that like to think their prisoners are forgotten, and that their unjust actions go unnoticed. Help us shine a light on human rights abuses. Join us and write for rights.

SIGN UP to Write for Rights! Participate as an individual, host an event with friends, family, and members of your community, or attend a scheduled event. Check out our Write for Rights map to find an event near you, and RSVP to attend an event. SPREAD THE WORD! Tell everyone that you plan to Write for Rights on Facebook and/or Twitter. Encourage others to sign up for Write for Rights by texting or emailing this registration link: www.amnestyusa.org/writeathon

Get your RESOURCES. Everything you need to participate in Write for Rights will be available on this website, including case summaries, sample letters, promotional materials, and helpful tips for holding a successful Write for Rights event. Participants will receive an email when these additional Resources become available. If you'd like hard copies of these items or have questions, email us: writeathon@aiusa.org. WRITE and MAIL your letters. (December 3-11 are the key dates, but feel free to start later.)"

To join me in Amnesty International's Write for Rights campaign, writing letters to help free prisoners of conscience around the world, Click Here!

2011-12-02T09:29:00.000-08:00

FireDogLake reminds us all of how the UC campus police abuse Occupy peaceful protesters. Join me in asking the Department of Justice to honor their civil rights:

If you haven't already, you must watch this video of campus police officers at University of California, Davis indiscriminately pepper-spraying protesters while they sit quietly on the ground, as though the officers were simply watering plants.¹ Law enforcement has no right to use violence as a tool of torture and punishment against those who do not pose a threat to their safety. This incident is plainly assault and is therefore a criminal violation of our most basic civil rights. That's why we're calling on the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division to investigate the campus police officers involved in the UC Davis pepper-spraying incident and uphold our right to peaceful protest without fear of violent retaliation.

Sign our petition to the DOJ Civil Rights Division and demand they investigate civil rights violations stemming from the UC Davis pepper-spraying incident.

Click here to sign: http://action.firedoglake.com/page/s/uc-davis

No matter your feelings on the Occupy movement, you should be disturbed by what you see in this video.

The UC Davis campus police have attacked Americans who are actively exercising their constitutional right to assembly. This is exactly the specific type of crime and abuse by authorities that the DOJ Civil Rights rights division was created to stop -- not just because this assault was meant to stop people from practicing their rights, but to also send a message to other towns and cities that similar, blatant violations will not be tolerated.

In the video, as protesters sit quietly awaiting arrest, a campus police officer walks up and down the line, spraying protesters in the face with pepper spray at point-blank range. All the while, the protesters remain calm and orderly as they endure their torture. As Salon's Glenn Greenwald wrote over the weekend, "...It's only when we see steadfast, courageous resistance from the likes of these UC-Davis students is [the] erosion of [our] rights manifest."²

Who ordered this disproportionate show of force, and who is paying for it? Is there a coordinated effort to suppress this movement on the federal level? If the DOJ Civil Rights Division begins this investigation, we have a chance at curbing further police brutality against peaceful protesters in other states around the country. If not, then the extent to which our government is complicit in this violence will be laid bare for all to see.

Even repressive governments in the Middle East and North Africa are looking to the United States for inspiration on how to effectively suppress dissent.³ We must stand up for the rights of protesters across the country to peaceably petition their government for redress of grievances while we still can.

Click here to sign our petition to the DOJ Civil Rights Division, demanding they investigate the UC Davis campus police officers for their excessive use of force.

I look forward to working together to not only protect the rights of the Occupy protesters but our individual rights as American citizens.

To join me in demanding that their civil rights be honored, Click Here!

Salute Veterans!

2011-11-11T05:49:00.000-08:00

I do a great deal of talking against the war we're in... against all of the wars we're in... against all war. I strongly feel that although countries, like people, should have the right to defend themselves, wars begin offensively, not defensively, are usually motivated by greed, paranoia and hatred, and are by most accounts unjust, unrighteous, unholy and indefensible. With that in mind, I've written and send countless letters, postcards, emails, signed petitions, attended rallies and I've prayed that the day will come that human will realize that a war begun is a war lost.

Wars are initiated by people who will never see action on the front lines, they are encouraged and marketed to the public by people who will profit from them in some way. Wars are fought, however, by brave and selfless men and women who believe it is their duty to protect their families and their country or that serving is an honorable alternative to the slim and dire opportunities otherwise available to them.

They serve knowing that they may have to maim or kill others; they serve knowing that they may capture or be captured, torture or be tortured; they serve at the risk of returning torn, broken ...or not at all.

Today and every day, I salute the brave women and men who live lives of service. I am both terrified and proud to count many members of my family and currently one of my big brothers among them. So please join me in praying, writing, calling, emailing, and rallying for peace, and in thanking those who do what we would not...

Happy Veterans Today!

Stand with the Oakland protesters!

2011-10-26T16:57:00.000-07:00

When I think of Oakland, California, I think of Angela Davis, fists in the air and a fight for fairness. I think of downtrodden protesters will more willpower than fatigue. I guess that is what the government has always feared. What happened in Oakland was not right. Whether you think the Occupy Wall Street protest is founded in reasonable outrage or not. Change.org says,

"For two weeks, hundreds of peaceful protesters gathered in Oakland's Oscar Grant Plaza as part of that city's installation of the Occupy Wall Street movement. For two weeks, Oakland Mayor Jean Quan told the police to leave the protesters alone -- she said that she supported the protests, that sometimes "democracy is messy." But yesterday, without warning, Mayor Quan reversed her stance. Protesters say that, on her orders, the Oakland police fired tear gas, bean bags, and stun grenades. When they peacefully gathered outside the plaza again last night, protestors -- who included veterans, children, and a woman in a wheelchair -- were met with more tear gas and police violence.

Oakland resident Shanelle Matthews saw her city's violent crackdown on Occupy Oakland and knew something had to be done. So Shanelle started a petition on Change.org asking Oakland Mayor Jean Quan to stop the city's crackdown and grant Occupy Oakland a safe space to make their voices heard. Click here to add your name to Shanelle's petition. In just one month, people fed up with wealth inequality and the influence of Wall Street have staged occupations in more than 900 cities across the globe. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC have so far allowed their residents to keep up continuous protests, with city officials even joining the occupations.

In Oakland, Mayor Jean Quan has gone from allowing Occupy Oakland to protest to having tear gas fired at her citizens who gathered for a peaceful demonstration. Quan's crackdown has forced a quiet encampment into the streets, threatening the safety of thousands of people. It's critical to create a safe space for Occupy Oakland to protest in the city as part of the nationwide Occupy Wall Street movement. Please sign Shanelle's petition on Change.org asking Oakland Mayor Quan to allow Occupy Oakland to stay outside City Hall and stop her crackdown on demonstrators in the city:

http://www.change.org/petitions/mayor-quan-let-occupy-oakland-keep-oscar-grant-plaza"

To sign Shanelle's petition urging fair treatment for the protestors, Click Here!

Thank you for reading my blog today. Please be kind to yourself and to others. Share your visions of peace and justice with the world. Strive always to leave each place you visit the better for your having been there! - TCK

2011-09-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

When one of my nieces asked why I was taking time from my studies and work to campaign to save Troy Davis, I explained that even though we’re all busy, some things require us to stop and take action. Getting justice for Troy Davis was such a thing.

I also explained that some people believe that those who break the law should be rehabilitated, while some people believe they should be punished. For those who believe in punishment, some believe that those who commit horrible crimes (like murder) should be given horrible punishments (like the death sentence).

I understand the desire to punish, especially when you are hurt or angry, or if you have no faith in Divine justice. Even if it seems reasonable to kill someone, because that person killed someone, however, is it reasonable if even one innocent man is killed? Troy Davis was not the first man to die at the hands of the United States justice system, when there was much more than reasonable doubt of his guilt. He will probably not be the last. I signed Amnesty International's Pledge to fight to abolish the death penalty, because I don't want any more blood on my hands:

The state of Georgia shamefully executed Troy Davis on September 21, 2011 despite serious doubts about his guilt.

But Not In My Name.

While a majority of the world – more than 65% of all countries – has abolished the death penalty in law or practice, the United States remains one of the top countries responsible for executing people.

Not In My Name.

Officials continue to allow this deeply-flawed, extremely arbitrary and severely-biased (both economically and racially) system to run rampant without checks, balances or concern for moral decency.

Not In My Name.

Guilty or innocent every person is a human being with human rights. Executions are always wrong.

I won't stand for it.

THE DEATH PENALTY MUST BE ABOLISHED. I take this pledge because human rights and human lives are on the line.

To sign Amnesty International pledge to fight to abolish the death penalty, Click Here!

I Am Still Troy Davis! ... Are You?

2011-09-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

September 21, 2011 Update

Rest in Peace Troy Davis...

God bless everyone who tried to see that justice prevailed. God help everyone who knew better, but did nothing...

September 20, 2011 Update!!!

Troy Davis's clemency was denied by the Georgia Board of Pardons & Paroles, and he is set to be executed on Wednesday @ 7PM. Please sign the petition to DA Larry Chisolm.

* * * * * * *

A date has been set for Troy Davis' execution: September 23, 2011. A clemency hearing has also been set - for Monday, September 19, 2011. This is Troy Davis' last chance. Read further for more facts, but the short version is this:

Seven of nine witnesses against him have recanted their testimony,

The judge called his own ruling “not ironclad,”

There has never been any DNA evidence to connect Troy Davis to the crime,

Other witnesses have come forward since the original trial and singled out another suspect.

If nothing changes, Troy Davis will die on September 23, 2011 for a crime he most likely did not commit.

The following is updated from my April 30, 2011 blog:

People often ask me who Troy Davis is, if I know him and why I am wearing a shirt that says I am him. Now that Mr. Davis again in imminent threat of a wrongful death, I will answer those questions. Troy Davis is a Black man born and raised in Savannah, GA. There was nothing spectacularly interesting about his life from his birth until August of 1989. The son of a hospital worker and a veteran, Davis was neither a hoodlum nor a saint. He struggled through school, helped younger people in his neighborhood, was likable, but had trouble on his job as manufacturing plant drill technician.

In August of 1989, based on the testimony of nine witnesses and despite his constant claims of innocence, Troy Davis was convicted of White police officer Mark MacPhail's murder and for shooting Micheal Cooper. MacPhail apparently was killed when trying to stop the assault of a homeless man. Cooper was shot in an earlier incident. No forensic evidence linked Davis to the crimes.

Since Troy Davis' conviction, seven of those nine witnesses recanted their testimony, saying it was coerced. The eighth witness testified that Davis confessed to MacPhail's murder so police wouldn't connect him to Cooper's shooting. In addition to that not making sense, Cooper denied having been shot by Davis. The ninth witness, Redd Coles, who first reported Davis to the police, admitted in court to fighting with the homeless man that night. Many witnesses say Coles also later confessed to murdering MacPhail himself...

I have never met Troy Davis. What I know of him and his story, I've gathered from social action letters sent to me and from the internet. The logo for this blog is of me wearing a shirt that says, "I am Troy Davis" because l know I could be. I know I could be at the wrong place at the wrong time hanging out with the wrong people and end up on death row.

Our justice system is supposed to have checks and balances that prevent innocent people from going to prison and from being killed (murdered) because of a wrongful conviction. I am wearing that shirt because I pray that should circumstances ever find me in an incomprehensibly unjust situation, people who know me and people who don't would gather in a tireless fight for my freedom. Join Color of Change, Amnesty International, the NAACP , Harry Belafonte, Pope Benedict XVI, and me in helping to see that justice prevails for both Troy Davis and for Officer Mark MacPhail.

The NAACP says:

"Innocent until proven guilty.

These four words helped establish our criminal justice system. But in a nation that prides itself on our belief in liberty and justice for all, why is Troy Davis -- with an overwhelming body of evidence pointing to his innocence -- facing execution?

Twenty years ago, Troy Davis was convicted of murdering a white police officer. Since then, seven of the nine witnesses recanted their statements, new witnesses have come forward identifying another man as the murderer, and the alleged murder weapon has still not been found.

Despite these new developments, the state of Georgia is putting Davis on track to be executed -- perhaps as early as next month.

You can help save Troy Davis' life today by standing up, adding your voice to our "name wall" and asking the Georgia Parole Board to commute his sentence:"

http://action.naacp.org/Save-Troy-Davis

Amnesty International says:

"Oppose the Death Penalty for Troy Davis

Troy Davis has faced execution three times for a crime he may not have committed. In an unprecedented evidentiary hearing held in a federal district court in Savannah, Georgia in June, 2010, he was able to present evidence supporting his innocence claim. However, the standard for proving his innocence was “extraordinarily high”, especially given the lack of physical and scientific evidence in his case.

The federal judge ruled that he did not meet the high standard, despite the fact that doubts about his guilt remain unresolved. While this ruling may be appealed, it is more important than ever that we continue to let Georgia authorities know that we oppose any effort to execute Troy Davis. Sign the petition today!"

http://www.amnestyusa.org/death-penalty/troy-davis-finality-over-fairness/page.do?id=1011343

Color of change says:

"Georgia may be about to kill an innocent man. That's not justice. Please ask the Georgia Parole Board to spare Troy Davis' life, before it's too late -- and it's critical that you ask others to do the same:

http://act.colorofchange.org/sign/troy/

...the Supreme Court granted Davis another chance. But instead of an actual new trial before a jury, which would mean the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt is on the prosecutor, he got an evidentiary hearing before a single federal judge where Davis' lawyers had the burden to meet an impossibly high and undefined legal standard.

In light of this, it was sad -- but no surprise -- when the judge rejected the new evidence and cleared the way for Davis' execution. However, even he acknowledged lingering doubt, noting that the case against Davis was not "ironclad."

But "ironclad" is exactly what the evidence should be in order to put someone to death. If the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole doesn't act to stop Davis' execution, they'll run a serious risk of putting an innocent man to death. That is not acceptable.

Please join us, along with our partners at Amnesty International and the NAACP, in asking the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole to save Troy Davis' life by commuting his sentence to life in prison. And when you do, please ask your friends and family to do the same"

http://act.colorofchange.org/sign/troy/

If you believe in justice, if you believe in freedom, if you would not want what is happening to you to happen to you, if like me, you are troy Davis, Please Click one of these Links!

http://action.naacp.org/Save-Troy-Davis

http://www.amnestyusa.org/death-penalty/troy-davis-finality-over-fairness/page.do?id=1011343

http://act.colorofchange.org/sign/troy/

PS - I have never met Troy Davis, but I hope to do so.

Support a Smart SAG/AFTRA Merger!

2011-08-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Forgive me for a while if you're not a member of SAG (Screen Actors Guild) or AFTRA (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists)... I am a proud #unionmember of both. For many years, there has been a hot debate on the merger of these very different performers' collective bargaining organizations. The heat rose past the boiling point, creating factions and even a two-party system within SAG. (Was this an inevitable reaction to the success of America's two party system in eliminating independent thought and original ideas from politics?)

Years ago, I wrote to the then pro-merger powers in SAG, asking what the merger would mean. As a vested member of both organizations, would the retirements amounts promised from each be combined? Would the benefits of the better insurance plan (SAG's) prevail? The response (which has not changed in the years the followed) was: "We'll deal with those issues after we merge." After. The response to others' questions was the same. ...Eventually the survivors of the pro-answers faction dropped their 'party,' but are still focused on common sense.

A message from Esai Morales, William Mapother, Scott Bakula, Valerie Harper, George Coe and David Jolliffe said:

"Every day, SAG members from Hollywood are asking questions about merger. Our answer, 'Let's make sure a merger benefits all Screen Actor's Guild members.' The usual response from the ruling majority of the SAG board?: “We’ll deal with that once merger happens.” Is that answer good enough? We don’t think so. Therefore, we’ll demand that before you’re asked to vote on merger, SAG answer your questions about a merged union. For example:

-Will the pension and health plans of the new union be as strong as SAG’s are now?

-Will the new union require its members to work ONLY union jobs (Global Rule 1) as SAG does now?

-Will actors have the majority vote regarding their own interests like SAG does now?

-Will the new union have requirements for membership as SAG does now?

-Will the facts, both PRO and CON, be included in the merger referendum sent to members for a vote?

... Creating a merger plan behind CLOSED doors with AFTRA is unacceptable... SAG members must know the whole truth about a merger plan before being asked to vote... Please vote for the following independent candidates to ensure all voices are heard and all questions are asked.

Sincerely, #3 William Mapother, #20 Scott Bakula, #26 Esai Morales, #27 Valerie Harper, #31 George Coe, #56 David Jolliffe. We also ask for your vote for the additional independent candidates: #6 Scott Pierce, #24 Pete Antico, #39 John Tremaine, #46 Mobin Khan, #48 Ron Ostrow. Ballots must be returned by September 20th."

I support those who pledge to get answers to the major questions on the SAG/AFTRA merger...BEFORE the merger! OK? For more info on these candidates, Click Here!

End California's Death Penalty!

2011-08-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

The death penalty debate elicits strong emotions on both sides. Surely something must be done in response to the violent actions of killers and the like. Many people like to believe that killing killers is a just punishment that deters others from walking similar paths. Although the death penalty clearly prevents those who suffer that fate from further terrorizing citizens at large, so does life in prison.

According to Death Penalty Information Center, not only is the death penalty not a deterrent, states that carry out the death penalty have higher murder rates than those who do not. To the question of 'just' punishment, I've always thought that killing killers and the like only serves to fuel blood lust; I've always wondered if the administrators of the death penalty, the killers of killers, are judged for their actions by a higher court. Just or unjust, these killings certainly do not bring victims back from the dead, nor leave the criminal any chance of rehabilitation. I will acknowledge that there are psychopathic individuals who are beyond redemption, but maintain that they are a very small minority of those on death row.
There is also the matter of executing the innocent. Amnesty International reminds us that since 1973, 130 people have been released from death row after forensic evidence proved them innocent. Who knows how many innocent people were not so fortunate. Who knows how many still await a horribly unjust fate. As my readers know, I believe Troy Davis is such a person. I therefore feel that we should reconsider this practice of executing those member s of our society we wish to permanently throw away. In California, the discussion is on the table.

The Care2 Petition site says:

"While California schools struggle to stay open and the job market dwindles, the state is spending $184 million annually on death penalty proceedings.
The death penalty has cost California $4 billion since its 1978 reinstatement. It is projected that it will cost the state $9 billion by 2030. It takes an average of 25 years for execution to occur after an individual receives a death sentence. During that time, inmates on death row usually pass away due to other causes. Senate Bill 490 proposes that the death penalty be repealed in favor of life without parole--a sentence 20 times less costly than a death sentence."

If you would like to join me in urging the California legislature to support the passing of Senate Bill 490, Click Here!

Thank    you for reading my blog  today. Please be kind to yourself and to     others. Share your visions  of peace and justice with the world. Strive     always to leave each  place you visit the better for your having been     there! - TCK
  

Stand with Jose Antonio Vergas on Immigration Talks!

2011-07-14T13:09:00.001-07:00

I am an American citizen because most of my ancestors were brought here by terrorizing force, because many were here before the terrorists came, and because some were the terrorists. Among my admittedly mixed feelings for my country, is a great pride for our Statue of Liberty. Despite the initial stripping of her African vestiges, she still represents the best aspect of this land – that potential for a decent life that is every immigrant and every citizen’s dream.

Certainly, there is not room enough to accommodate the world’s tired, poor and homeless, especially given the rate in which our foreign and domestic policies increase of those numbers. There should be, however, a serious discussion on the terrible disparity by which some of the world’s huddled masses are harbored on our shores and other’s are not. There should be a discussion of our adherence to laws that abolish basic decency, and our avoidance of all such laws whenever and for as long (and only as long) as they do not serve the benefactors of near slave labor.

I am an American citizen because I was born here. Nothing is asked of me and very little required in return for my citizenship. Yet every day, people who contribute greatly to this country, often under the horrific conditions, are tossed out like trash to make room for wealthier, whiter, and / or otherwise more acceptable inhabitants. There should be a discussion about what this country is and (putting greed, xenophobia and outright racism aside) what it could be.

Photo: flickr/detritus

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist / undocumented immigrant Jose Antonio Vargas asked me and others thorough Change.org if I would stand with him on a new conversation on immigration. I said yes.

He wrote:

Three weeks ago, I published an exposé in the New York Times. It was my life story: I came to this country as a boy, learned English, embraced America, and thrived. But at age 16 I found out that I am an undocumented immigrant. And I have been hiding that fact ever since. I left my job as a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and came out about my immigration status because it's long past time to strike up a more civil, inclusive debate about immigration in America. It was a risk, but I was tired of staying silent. More than 6,000 Change.org members from all over the country have joined me in calling for a new national conversation on immigration -

- and I'm bringing all of their voices with me when I go on the Colbert Report on Thursday night. (July 15, 2011!)... We may not all agree on how to fix it, but one thing we can all agree on is that our immigration debate is out of control and our immigration system is badly broken. I believe not only that we can do better but that we must....

Some would say my story is the tale of a hard-working immigrant who defines the American dream: achieving success against great odds, working hard, and even earning a Pulitzer Prize for my reporting. Still, despite everything I've achieved, the law still says I am not technically an American. I am undocumented. I want to ask my fellow Americans: What would you do if you found out at age 16 that you didn't have the right papers? As a journalist, my job is to ask questions that spark conversation. Now I am asking you to join in that conversation.

If you would like to join me in standing with Jose Antonio Vargas, Click Here!

Thank   you for reading my blog  today. Please be kind to yourself and to    others. Share your visions  of peace and justice with the world. Strive    always to leave each  place you visit the better for your having been    there! - TCK
  

Happy Birthday South Sudan!

2011-07-09T12:44:00.000-07:00

July 9, 2011 marks South Sudan's becoming the world's newest nation. If you regularly follow this blog, you know that I think that much hanky panky went into the the coming of the monumental event. Some may think that this signals an end to the horrific violence in Darfur and the time to turn our attention elsewhere. Unfortunately, this is not the case. So on the official birth of the Republic of South Sudan, I respectfully salute the hundreds of thousands of lives lost and shattered in this conflict and I pray that despite all appearances to the contrary, the survivors will be able to live peaceful, self-governed lives. As Save Darfur Coalition reminds us to do, I will remain abreast of the goings on in the Sudan (North and South), so that those who may wish to continue to harm others, and those who may still be in harm's way, know that people who care are still watching.

Save Save Darfur Coalition provides up to date news about the impoverished, yet oil rich country of Republic of South Sudan and the ongoing conflict there. To learn more Click Here!

The Crystal News - http://thecrystalnews.blogspot.com/
T'Keyah Fights City Hall - http://tkeyahfightscityhall.blogspot.com/

Keymah Presents - http://keymahpresents.blogspot.com/

www.tkeyah.com - Where Crystal visions come to life!

2011-05-24T00:19:00.000-07:00

As we learn more and more about the dangers of nonrenewable energy, corporations that produce and profit from it are fighting harder and harder to keep their dirty, dangerous, depleting, systems in place. By inventing the ridiculous notion of 'clean coal,' the coal industry and it's supporters are counting on us forgetting that: The extraction of coal and the pits left in its wake harms wildlife and destroys miles and miles of our countries scenic wonders; and The use of coal produces carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and small airborne particles of coal causing chronic bronchitis and asthma in the residents that live close or downwind from a power plant. Greenpeace shares the following:

It’s time to quit coal. Tell Edison International CEO Ted Craver to shut down Chicago’s Fisk and Crawford coal-fired power plants.

Community activists in Chicago are fighting for their lives right now against Edison International -- the giant utility company that owns the city’s two coal-fired power plants. Pollution from the Fisk and Crawford plants prematurely kills 42 people every year. That human cost is paid entirely by the communities who live in the shadows of these two aging plants. You won’t find it on Edison International’s bottom-line.

But Chicagoans are fighting back. And Greenpeace is supporting them. That’s why Kelly Mitchell Greenpeace, Coal Campaigner, is on the smokestack at the Fisk power plant today taking action with other Greenpeace activists. We’re sending a simple message to Edison International: Shut down these plants and quit coal. The corporate bottom-line for Edison International says that they can’t make money on these plants if they can’t poison the local community for free. Simple as that. It’s why they’re fighting city efforts to reduce toxic pollution and it’s why they really can’t afford the bad publicity right now. Which is why it’s so important you speak out.

Coal Ash

What’s happening in Chicago isn’t unique. It plays out again and again every day in communities just like yours from Texas to Colorado to Pennsylvania. In fact, coal is costing Americans up to an extra HALF A TRILLION DOLLARS every year. Meanwhile, companies like Edison International are making a killing. Edison International can make this change. They’ve already done it in California where their local subsidiary has become the largest purchaser of renewable energy among American utility companies and has plans to phase out ALL coal power by 2016.

Chicago deserves the same. Every community affected by a dirty coal-fired power plant deserves the same. That's why Greenpeace is working and will continue working with communities across the country to make sure that coal companies like Edison International are no longer allowed to poison people for profit.

To send a message to Edison International CEO Ted Craver right now, Click Here!

Show Your Support for Women and Working Families!

2011-05-09T03:46:00.000-07:00

Habitat For Humanity Helping Women And Families Build New Lives « CBS Los Angeles

Please support The Habitat for Humanity SF/SCV WE Build, this Saturday, May 14 and this Sunday, May 15, 2011! T'Keyah Crystal Keymáh (Cosby / In Living Color / That’s So Raven), Chairperson, Arianne Zucker (Days of Our Lives) Habitat Ambassador.

Other celebrity participants include Anneliese van der Pol (That's So Raven / Vampires Suck), Dawnn Lewis (A Different World / Hangin' with Mr. Cooper), Margaret Laurena Kemp (Children of God) Alison Arngrim (Little of on the Prairie) and many stars from CBS and NBC daytime dramas 'The Bold and the Beautiful,' 'Guiding Light,' and 'The Young and the Restless.'

Tamara Braun, Hunter Tylo and Kimberly Matula

Margaret Laurena Kemp

Women and Girls, Ages 16+ (and empowered men), come join us for an amazing day of advocacy and building homes for hard-working families in our communities. Minimum suggested donation is $40.00 (includes T-shirt, hard hat and lunch) but you can set any fundraising target. Ask your friends and family to sponsor you for this exciting day. First register and then join us on Saturday May 14 and / or Sunday, May 15, 2011 from 9 am to 3 pm at 12600 Carl Street, Pacoima, CA 91331.

Anneliese van der Pol

Wear comfortable work pants like jeans or overalls and flat work shoes. During this build, we will be plastering, painting and building a playground. Professional contractors will be present to guide you so, No Experience is Needed!

Dawnn Lewis

To Join "Team T'Keyah" (and we'd love to have you join), Go to: http://humanityca.org/events/event.php?event_id=28&team_id=85&view=team_details Click “Join Team.” Enter your information including which day(s) you want to participate and your individual fundraising goal.

To Sponsor Team T'Keyah (for as little as $5!), Go to: https://humanityca.org/events/event.php?event_id=28&team_id=85&view=team_details Scroll down and select the name of the team member you wish to sponsor, click “Sponsor Participant,” then complete the donation details for your secure sponsorship.

Alison Arngrim

All gifts are welcome and appreciated! If you don’t have a specific team member in mind, feel free to sponsor T'Keyah.

To Sponsor T'Keyah directly (for as little as $5!), Go to:

http://tiny.cc/ibhyj then complete the donation details for your secure sponsorship. Gifts to any member increase the team total and, of course, increase the total for the build. The more funds we raise overall, the more affordable homes Habit for Humanity can build! Thank you!

To Create a team of your own, Go to: http://humanityca.org/events/event.php?event_id=28&view=team Complete your team information and fundraising goal. This creates your team page. Then send your team members to your team page and have them register and set fund raising goals of their own.

Lewis in action!

This build completes the building of the Pacoima Habitat for Humanity SC/SC's pioneering Enriched Neighborhoods. Services for the Enriched Neighbor project include health and nutrition training, dental hygiene, teen empowerment, tutoring, and ESL classes, to name a few of the innovative offerings this affiliate puts together. In Pacoima, only 43% of high school students graduate, but in Habitat’s Enriched Neighborhood, every child has graduated high school and 92% of them are attending or have graduated from college or trade school. The program works, but we need your support to continue growing.

For more information about the build, Go to:

http://humanityca.org/our-events/events/140-we-build

Habitat for Humanity SC/SCV info@humanityca.org | (818) 884-8808 Check out my interview with LaFern Cusack!

I Am Troy Davis! ... Are You?

2011-04-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

People often ask me who Troy Davis is, if I know him and why I am wearing a shirt that says I am him. Now that Mr. Davis again in imminent threat of a wrongful death, I will answer those questions. Troy Davis is a Black man born and raised in Savannah, GA. There was nothing spectacularly interesting about his life from his birth until August of 1989. The son of a hospital worker and a veteran, Davis was neither a hoodlum nor a saint.
He struggled through school, helped younger people in his neighborhood, but likable, but had trouble on his job as manufacturing plant drill technician. In August of 1989, based on the testimony of nine witnesses and despite his constant claims of innocence, Troy Davis was convicted of White police officer Mark MacPhail's murder and for shooting person, Micheal Cooper. MacPhail apparently was killed when trying to stop the assault of a homeless man. Cooper was shot in an earlier incident. No forensic evidence linked Davis to the crimes.

Since Troy Davis' conviction, seven of those nine witnesses recanted their testimony, saying it was coerced. The eighth witness had testified that Davis confessed to MacPhail' murder so police wouldn't connect him to Cooper's shooting. In addition to that not making sense, Cooper denied having been shot by Davis. The ninth witness, Redd Coles, who first reported Davis to the police, admitted in court to fighting with the homeless man that night. Many witnesses say Coles also confessed (after the fact) to the murdering MacPhail himself...

The NAACP says:

http://action.naacp.org/Save-Troy-Davis

Amnesty International says:

"Oppose the Death Penalty for Troy Davis

http://www.amnestyusa.org/death-penalty/troy-davis-finality-over-fairness/page.do?id=1011343

Color of change says:

http://act.colorofchange.org/sign/troy/

...the Supreme Court granted Davis another chance. But instead of an actual new trial before a jury, which would mean the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt is on the prosecutor, he got an evidentiary hearing before a single federal judge where Davis' lawyers had the burden to meet an impossibly high and undefined legal standard.
In light of this, it was sad -- but no surprise -- when the judge rejected the new evidence and cleared the way for Davis' execution. However, even he acknowledged lingering doubt, noting that the case against Davis was not "ironclad."
But "ironclad" is exactly what the evidence should be in order to put someone to death. If the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole doesn't act to stop Davis' execution, they'll run a serious risk of putting an innocent man to death. That is not acceptable.
Please join us, along with our partners at Amnesty International and the NAACP, in asking the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole to save Troy Davis' life by commuting his sentence to life in prison. And when you do, please ask your friends and family to do the same"

http://act.colorofchange.org/sign/troy/

If you believe in justice, if you believe in freedom, if you would not want what is happening to you to happen to you, if like me, you are troy Davis, Please Click one of these Links!

http://action.naacp.org/Save-Troy-Davis

http://www.amnestyusa.org/death-penalty/troy-davis-finality-over-fairness/page.do?id=1011343

http://act.colorofchange.org/sign/troy/

Celebrate Earth Day in Your Own Green Way!

2011-04-22T06:50:00.001-07:00

In celebration of Earth Day... I researched making a rain barrel (once I couldn't find where to get one for free), composting, planting a garden in a small space, tips on water conservation, tips on recycling at home, tips on recycling at school, tips on recycling at work, and Earth Day projects and events around the world.

In celebration of Earth Day, I will write a letter to President Obama asking him to do something to stop offshore drilling, stop nuclear power plants, stop global warming. I will also thank him for the wonderful promise he made last fall, to put solar panels back on the White House this spring, and ask him to follow through now on that promise!

In celebration of Earth Day, I will send a card to First Lady Michelle Obama, (1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20500), thanking her for planting a garden at the White House and for writing a book about it with proceeds going to charity!

In celebration of Earth Day, will plant seeds in my own beautiful garden to grow plants that I will then give away to others. What will you do to celebrate this Earth Day? .... If you need help deciding, click any of these links for ideas: Earth Day, Greenpeace, Earth911, Sierra Club, 50 Ways to Help the Planet, Earth Protect, Climate Crisis, or Treehugger!

HAPPY EARTH DAY!

Urge the EPA to Ban Poison in Your Soap!

2011-04-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

In an effort to be healthier, you make myriad changes to your diet, routine and lifestyle. You walk to the corner store instead of driving, reach for water instead of a pill when you have a headache, squeeze in a moment at the gym before work, count calories, tear yourself away from your computer to breathe nearly fresh air, sleep more, and cut down/out your use of spray cans, double espressos and meat, only to have soap kill you? Perhaps... if the

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn't hear your thoughts on allowing companies to continue to put triclosan in household products. Triclosan is an anti-bacterial chemical that can kill low level bacteria, but while it encourages new, resistant strains to develop. Considered 'harmless' to humans in small amounts, the chemical is allowed in countless products (like soaps, mouthwashes, toothpastes, deodorants, cleaning supplies, etc.), as if the average consumer of any one of those products will not use any other in the same time period... Until 3PM, Eastern Standard Time, this Friday, April 8, 2011, the EPA is taking comments about the continued use of triclosan in household products. I join CREDO Action in urging you to ask the EPA to ban triclosan and all other chemicals whose obvious combined usage levels are toxic in humans:

"Triclosan is a germ-killing chemical used in a stunning array of consumer products. I recently discovered it in my own hand soap. It's likely in yours, too — or in your toothpaste, deodorant, dish soap or even tissues.¹ The problem is, triclosan doesn't just kill germs. It's also toxic for people. It disrupts hormones, lowers sperm production and weakens the immune system. And its use is so widespread, it has accumulated in most of our bodies.² Restrictions on triclosan have been enacted in the EU and Canada. Now the EPA is also considering a ban on the use of this dangerous chemical.

Despite its substantial health and environmental risks, Triclosan isn't any better at killing germs than regular soap. ³ The danger from Triclosan isn't limited to our homes. It washes down the drain and enters drinking water sources, lakes and rivers where it is converted by sunlight into cancer-causing dioxins. Still, the powerful chemical industry has successfully promoted widespread use of Triclosan, and so far avoided increased EPA regulation. That needs to change. The EPA is accepting public comments until this Friday on a petition to ban the use of Triclosan as a germ killing agent. Join dozens of other groups including our friends at Food and Water Watch and the Center for Environmental Health, and tell the EPA you support increased regulation of this dangerous, toxic chemical that is already far too prevalent. 1. Products containing Triclosan," Beyond Pesticides 2. National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals," Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, February 28, 2011 3. Triclosan No Better than Plain Soap," Environmental Working Group"

To ask the EPA to ban toxic chemicals like triclosan from our household products, Click Here!

No Subsidies for the Nuclear Industry!

2011-03-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning praying for the people in Japan effected by the recent earthquake and tsunami. I live in southern CA, which is directly across the water from them. If something like happened at the San Luis Abispo nuclear plant, thousands and thousands of people who live dangerously close to the plant would be lost. Those who survived the initial disaster would be trapped there because the bridge laden roads they would use to evacuate, would be destroyed.

Sites like the one in San Luis Obispo were not tested to withstand both an earthquake and a tsunami. That is because the pro-nuclear energy experts said ,and are still saying something like that could never happen here - the possibility is too remote. A week ago, the pro-nuclear experts in Japan would have said the same thing... Nuclear energy leaves no room for human error, natural or unnatural disasters. There have always and will always be human error, natural and unnatural disasters. Therefore, funding nuclear energy is funding disaster.

Greenpeace agrees, saying:
"The disaster unfolding in Fukushima, Japan is a terrible reminder of the dangers of nuclear power. In the past 24 hours, the situation in Fukushima has gone from bad to worse. Reports out of Japan are suggesting that the cooling units on a number of reactors at the plant could fail at anytime. The simple truth is that no matter how advanced the technology and how prepared a country might be to deal with a disaster it doesn’t change the fact that nuclear power is inherently dangerous and always will be. Right now the President has $36 billion in taxpayer giveaways to the nuclear industry to build more plants here in the US in his proposed budget."

To join me in telling the President and your members of Congress that there is no place for taxpayer giveaways for nuclear energy in this year's budget, Click Here!

Thank you for reading my blog today. Please be kind to yourself and to others and strive always to leave each place you visit the better for your having been there! - TCK

Secret of My Access!

2011-03-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

When I posted my blogs last month, someone who perused them commented on how impressed he was that I am so well informed. Well, I have a secret. It's called KPFK and it is a tiny, Pacifica radio station in Los Angeles with a highly diverse format which broadcasts worldwide. KPFK was the first to tell me what was happening in Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Wisconsin and Ohio. They were the first to tell me about the film "Fahrenheit 911" and "Inside Job." They are not just the first, but they are among the very few who deliver vital information without first filtering through a gang of corporate censors...

KPFK is largely funded by listeners (they get a small grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting) and because of that, they have to fund drive three to four times a year. They are in Fund Drive now. If you regularly read this blog (wouldn't that be nice), you've already heard me rave about the station.

I rave because to quote an earlier blog, "If it weren't for KPFK, I don't know where I could go to hear world news in the morning, world music in the afternoon and worldly thoughts at night; I don't know where I could hear health information not sponsored by drug, insurance and processed food companies, economic information not sponsored by banks, environmental information not sponsored by oil, car and chemical companies, or war coverage not sponsored by those benefiting from war."

If you live or travel outside KPFK's the listening area (90.7 FM ~ Los Angeles), you can always listen online at kpfk.org. Help me support KPFK in any way you can. They need volunteers all of the time, but especially during and after the fund drive... money too!

To listen to KPFK now, Click Here!

To donate to KPFK, Call (818) 985-KPFK (818) 985-5735 or Click Here! (to give without getting a gift) or Click Here! (to give and get a thank you gift)

To volunteer at KPFK, Click Here!

Thank you for reading my blog today. Please be kind to yourself and to others. Seek to learn something new every day, and to act upon that knowledge. Strive always to leave each place you visit the better for your having been there! - TCK

Ask Wal-Mart and Supervalue to Join Costco, Trader Joes' and Target!

2011-02-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

When we shop for food, most of us expect that the stores that sell food and the agencies that govern what the stores can sell us have taken measures to ensure that what is sold will not harm us. This is not an unreasonable expectation. Sadly, those stores and agencies do not always operate with our best interests (health and fair pricing) in mind. In April, Greenpeace will release it's fifth Supermarket Scorecard report. In it, they will celebrate the improvements that have been made due in no small part to economic, health and consumer activism. The most recent cause for celebration in this regard is the news that Costco and Trader Joe's has joined Target in its decision to stop selling many of the popular seafood items on the Greenpeace Red List. Red List items are those that come from unsustainable sources; those from fisheries whose practices will eventually wipe out species of fish and irreparably damage the ecosystem effecting marine and human life. Although Greenpeace is celebrating these tremendous wins, they are also asking for help to convince other stores to take the same responsible stand:

"... there’s still a group of national supermarket chains that are seriously lagging behind when it comes to their seafood “policies”. These are major companies like Wal-Mart and SUPERVALU and they need a little encouragement. Help keep the momentum going by telling them to get their act together and save the oceans."

To sign the Greenpeace petition asking companies like Wal-Mart and Supervalue to upgrade their seafood policies to save the oceans, Click Here!

Thank you for reading my blog today. Please be kind to yourself and to others. Celebrate something for which you are grateful everyday. Strive always to leave each place you visit the better for your having been there! - TCK

No Unheard and Unheeded Means ...Rape!

2011-02-05T00:42:00.000-08:00

The debate over whether or not a woman should have the right to choose when and if she will bear children may never end. Both sides have valid, emotionally charged positions that merit respect. Currently, federal dollars can not be used for abortion except in cases of rape, incest, or when the woman's life is in danger. A newly proposed bill seeks to further limit government funded abortions by ...redefining rape! On January 20, 2011, New Jersey Republican Congressman Chris Smith, introduced a bill, "No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act", also known as H.R. 3. that would narrow the allowance of federally funded abortions to "cases of 'forcible' rape but not statutory or coerced rape."

My mind is flooded with images of women and girls who were raped with no outward indicators, no smeared make-up, torn clothes or broken bones; women and girls whose lives were smeared, whose hearts and spirits were broken and whose minds and innocence were lost just the same... The lack of consent means no. No unheard and unheeded means rape. I can respect people who disagree with me, even those who feel that abortion is wrong no matter what. Redefining rape in this way, however, is a cruel and cowardly assault on countless women and girls who are raped in ways Mr. Smith and the 173 members of Congress who co-sponsored his bill find unworthy.

To join me in signing the Move On petition asking Congress to oppose H.R. 3, the bill that would narrow the definition of rape as it pertains to federally funded abortions, Click Here!

To find out if your congressional representative co-sponsored the bill, Click Here! (Then let him or her know how you feel about that.)

Thank you for reading my blog today. Please be kind to yourself and to others. Support the people and the businesses that support you and your community. Strive always to leave each place you visit the better for your having been there! - TCK

Health Care Now!

2011-01-25T12:12:00.000-08:00

Healthcare-Now writes:

Dear Single-Payer Supporter:
Tonight, President Obama will deliver the State of the Union Address to those who are anxiously waiting to hear what he will say about Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.
While President Obama has stated he will not urge cuts to Social Security in his speech tonight, a narrowly defeated proposal by the Deficit Commission to cut these programs means we have to continue to be vigilant.
Leaders in Congress are still seeking to privatize Social Security and turn Medicare into a voucher program, claiming it will save money.
Tell President Obama "No cuts, no privatization, and no raising the eligibility age of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid" on his watch.

The vast majority of Americans support increasing taxes on the rich to fund these programs rather than cut them.
Make your voice heard. Email President Obama here. Or call the White House at 202-456-1414.

For Improved Medicare for All,
Katie and Jeff
Healthcare-NOW! National Staff

Again, to email President Obama to ask him not to diminish our health care, Click Here! or call the White House at 202-456-1414... today!

Don't Eliminate the Best Provision in the New Healthcare Plan!

2011-01-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Although Republicans are still pretending that the Democrats got one over on them on the recent health care reform, they know that the insurance corporations help draft the legislation and that their proposed surgery to repeal the reform will leave the corporate benefits from the legislation in place and leave the senators themselves with the only government sponsored (socialist) health care coverage of any kind. Matt Lockshin, Campaign Manager for Credo Action applauds Sen Chuck Schumer's challenger that (Republican) senators that want to repeal any (social) health benefits for the American people, first decline their own:

"For two years, GOP leaders in Congress fought tooth and nail to oppose health care reform. They did their best to keep tens of millions without coverage, decrying any effort to help citizens as "socialist," "fascist" or some other equally baffling "ist." Incredibly, now that they are the majority, their first act will be to vote to repeal health care reform that gives affordable care to 32 million Americans. And yet, when it comes to their own coverage, Republicans in Congress are not only using government-sponsored health care, they even whined about having had to wait for it.¹ As the Republicans are gearing up to appease Tea Party extremists and vote to repeal health care reform for Americans who need it, Senator Chuck Schumer is calling the GOP on their hypocrisy, and calling on them to give up their government-sponsored health care: "It was a central value to us when we passed health care, and a central value to the American people, that members of Congress should get the same health care as everyone else. It seems unfair that house Republicans want to deprive middle-class Americans of the same health care as members of Congress but to keep it for themselves." "Will Eric Cantor urge every Republican who is going to be for repeal to not take government health care themselves and to drop their existing health care?"² We think he should, and applaud Schumer for his challenge." ¹ John Marshall, Talking Points Memo — November 15, 2010 ² Huffington Post, January 4, 2011

To sign the petition to tell the GOP: Practice what you preach! Give up your own health care! Click Here!

Don't let your representatives leave you with poor or no health coverage. Let them know that this is an issue of paramount importance to you and your family. To contact your senator directly, Click Here!

Participate in your government and make the world a better place!

Suggest An End to Violence

2011-01-09T05:31:00.000-08:00

On her website, Sarah Palin put gun targets on the names of 20 Democratic members of the U.S. Congress. After the election, she stated that of the twenty, only Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and West Virginia Rep. Nick Rahall were left. On Saturday, January 8, 2011. Rep. Giffords was among more than a dozen people shot. The victims included U.S. District Court Chief Judge John Roll, Giffords' Director of Community Outreach, Gabe Zimmerman, two other members of her staff, and a 9-year-old girl.

Rep. Gabrille Giffords

Giffords, who was the apparent target of the terrorist massacre, underwent surgery and is currently in a medically induced coma. Perhaps the gunman was exercising the freedom of Arizona's lenient gun laws. Perhaps he was caught up in Arizona's racist immigration law invironment. Perhaps he was encouraged by his alleged affiliation with the anti-Semitic, anti-immigration, white supremacist hate group American Renaissance (Giffords is Jewish). We only know two things for sure: On her website, Sarah Palin put a gun target on U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords; and then someone shot Rep. Giffords. Palin issued condolences about the event and I want to believe that even Sarah Palin did not intend for her targets to murdered. But even if the gunman knew nothing about Palin's targets, the suggestion was out there. It was energy in the wind. It was a violent thought written; to be read, absorbed and disseminated into an already agitated environment...

Judge John Roll

Our thoughts have power. Our words have power. Our suggestions have power. That power can be used for peace, or for war. President Obama called for a moment of silence for the victims of the Arizona terrorist (my word) attack. I call for a moment of silence to pray for / meditate on / envision the suggestion of peace. I call for a moment of sound to put thoughts into words of peace. I call for a moment of action to engage everyone you touch to be mindful of the power of they possess, and to encourage them to use that power to promote peace.

Credo Action has a petition asking Sarah Palin to renounce violence. To sign that petition Click Here!

2010-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

As a member of the CREDO community, I was thrilled to be able to vote on how CREDO will distribute its 2010 annual donations to 50 progressive groups like Amnesty International, Greenpeace and Democracy Now. (I'm so easy to please.) CREDO wants you to join the community and if you do right away, you can participate in their year-end vote too:

"Since 1985, CREDO has given more than $65 million to progressive groups. Last year, we gave a total of $2.6 million to 50 organizations, including the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, Planned Parenthood and Democracy Now! Now we're inviting our CREDO Action members to join our mobile, long distance and credit card customers to vote on the donations ballot. It's fast and easy, and you can do it right now.

... You can vote, too, just by taking action on one of the urgent alerts below:
Stop the crackdown on WikiLeaks
http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/wikileaks/?rc=votingpaste

Tell Congress: Don't cave to Sarah Palin. Stand up for NPR!
http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/stand_up_for_npr/?rc=votingpaste

Tell the DOJ: Investigate the Chamber of Commerce's campaign spending
http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/coc_doj/?rc=votingpaste"

It is amazing to me what one determined person can do to change the world. When people of like minds come together for the common cause, the results can be staggering. I guess that is why I started this blog. I am on a mission to do everything I can to leave the world better off than how I found it. I hope you will join me on this exciting adventure! (Step One: Keep reading the blog...)

To vote on how CREDO will distribute its 2010 annual donations:

If you are already a CREDO customer of CREDO Action member, Click here!
If not, use on of the links above, or Click Here! ... or Click Here!... or Click Here!

Protect Families from Coal Ash

2010-12-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons the energy derived from coal is called dirty. One of them is the permanent damage done to the communities where waste from the mining practice is dumped. Sierra Club wants your help to protect people from the fallout of coal mining... toxic ash:

"Two years ago this week our nation suffered a major disaster. More than a billion gallons of toxic coal ash sludge flooded communities in Harriman, Tennessee, poisoning the environment and causing irreparable damage. While the administration has made progress in clean-up efforts, the agency must take decisive action to prevent this from ever happening again. The Environmental Protection Agency must choose the stronger of its proposed federal safeguards for coal ash and publish a final rule in 2011. Please join us today in telling them enough is enough."

To urge the Environmental Protection Agency to initiate safeguards protecting people from coal ash, Click Here!

Ivory Belongs to Elephants

2010-12-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

When I was little I had no idea that the beautiful keys of an classic piano, came from the massacre of one of the most peaceful animals in the world - the African elephant. For centuries, peddlers of ivory made millions from the death of these gentle, vegetarian giants. The killing of elephants to extract the ivory tusks they can not live without has been long frowned upon, but the practice never died, just went underground. International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) thinks and I agree that the US should not participate in the continual slaughter of elephants. IFAW is urging us to urge President Obama to reform our ivory trade regulations so that this cruel trade does not have US support:

"The U.S. is one of the largest retail markets for imported ivory and therefore a major driver of elephant poaching in Africa. This is possible because of loopholes in Endangered Species Act protections.

Close loopholes that allow U.S. ivory trade and help save elephants. »

Today, elephants are being slaughtered in record numbers. And reports say that ivory trade has dramatically escalated since 2005 -- this correlation is no coincidence.

It's shameful that the U.S. would support the slaughter of African elephants and allow an illegal ivory trade to flourish under the radar."

To ask President Obama to save African elephants by reforming United States' ivory trade regulations, Click Here!

2010-12-23T00:00:00.001-08:00

Whenever I pass a truck letting out a black cloud of pollution from its exhaust, and whenever I glance at the diesel fuel pump at a gas station, I wonder why I have to go threw so many changes to proof that my vehicle is not soil the air more than its share, when other vehicles are allowed to add ten times the caustic fumes and dirt than my car does... More than unfair, its dangerous. The Union of Concerned Scientists would like us to help pressure the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) to institute emissions regulations for medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks:

"The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) are currently accepting public comments on the first-ever national fuel economy and emissions regulations for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

Trucks account for only four percent of all the vehicles on our nation's roads, but they use 20 percent of our fuel. The technology already exists to make these vehicles cleaner, and everyone benefits when we have more efficient trucks on the roads -- we get cleaner air and we can help break our dependence on oil.

Please send a message to the EPA and DOT. From holiday packages shipped to far away friends and family, to the abundance of goods that crisscross our country daily, we deserve a truck fleet that minimizes pollution and oil use."

To sign the petition asking the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation to institute emissions regulations for medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks, Click Here!

Plug Shell's Drilling Plans

2010-12-20T15:44:00.000-08:00

Greenpeace wants you to know that:
"Shell Oil is doing everything they can to secure plans to drill for oil in the Arctic’s Beaufort Sea.

The proposed oil drilling location is twelve miles off the coast of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in an area designated as critical habitat for the threatened polar bear. To make matters worse, the area also serves as vital feeding and migration grounds for the endangered bowhead whale.

The government is currently asking for public comments on Shell’s drilling plans. But there isn’t much time. We have just 48 hours to convince Secretary of the Interior Salazar to do the right thing and stop Shell’s dangerous plan.

Tell Secretary Salazar to protect the Arctic wildlife and prevent another disastrous oil spill by stopping Shell’s plans RIGHT NOW!"

To send a message to Secretary Salazar asking to stop Shell's drilling plans in the Arctic, Click Here!

World AIDS Day

2010-12-01T05:18:00.000-08:00

Today is World AIDS Day. Too many people still pretend that it is a subject best not broached. Too many people think they are immune to it, that it doesn't apply to them, or they are too afraid to find out whether or not it does. HIV knows no color or economic lines. It doesn't care how you party or with whom. Untreated, it will kill you. In the U.S., an estimated 1.1 million Americans are living with HIV ─ and one out of five does not know it. Worldwide, there are an estimated 33 million individuals with HIV. Please get test and be careful... all of the time. Encourage those you know and love to take an HIV Test.

Congress: Don't Cut My Social Security and Medicare!

2010-11-30T12:56:00.001-08:00

I have been paying into the Social Security System now for more than thirty years. The year I reach sixty-five, the minimum age for receiving regular benefits will rise from sixty-five to seventy. Nice, right? Makes me wonder what will happen the year I turn seventy... The jury is still out on what consequences the new changes in health coverage will eventually bring. Healthcare-Now, one of the groups still pushing for a single-payer system, is asking us to call Congress not to make further cuts in Social Security and Medicare... TODAY!:

"Join today's National Call Congress Day and tell your Representative and Senators to SAY NO to cutting our Social Security and Medicare. Call 866-220-0044 for the capitol switchboard and ask to be connected. Don't know your Representative or Senators? Go here. The Co-Chairs of the National Fiscal Commission have proposed deep cuts to Social Security and Medicare - increasing the retirement age to 69, making Medicare recipients pay more out-of-pocket for healthcare, cutting benefits for middle-class workers and reducing annual Cost of Living Adjustments.

We need your help to stop them! Social Security and Medicare are promises that must not be broken--we've worked hard and paid for them in taxes. Social Security and Medicare belong to our children, our parents, our neighbors and ourselves. ACT NOW! Your voice needs to be heard.

Call your Congress people RIGHT NOW at 866-220-0044 or go here if you don't know who they are.

Tell the person who answers the phone:
"I am a voter/constituent living in [your state]. I am calling to tell the [Rep. or Senator] – NO CUTS TO, PRIVATIZATION OF, OR RAISING THE ELIGIBILITY AGE FOR SOCIAL SECURITY OR MEDICARE! HANDS OFF SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE."

Please take the time for this very important effort today. An improved Medicare for All system will control health costs and make Medicare sustainable for future generations. We still need improved Medicare for All. Every call counts."

Call your Congressional representative at (866) 220-0044. To find out who represents you, Click Here! or Click Here!

Save Sudan... for the Sudanese!

2010-11-21T01:32:00.000-08:00

When we learn that something unspeakable happened to a people, we shutter and say, "We would have done something if we had known..." When we learn that something unspeakable is happening or is about to happen to a people, we sigh and ask,"What can we do?..." President Bush said (and probably meant) that what happened in Rwanda not have happened on his watch. But on his watch millions of Sudanese people were tortured, murdered and / or left homeless during the bloody conflict there - ultimately, over... oil.

Earlier this month, President Obama sent Senator John Kerry to the Sudan with an offer to take the country off of the U.S. Terrorist list if they signed the 2005 peace accord that only momentarily slowed down the brutal attacks on the mostly Black population of southern Sudan. The accord would separate the south from the mostly Arab north and leave the oil heavy mid country of Abiyei to decide their which camp to join. Call me paranoid but I can't imagine that there is not undue pressure on Abiyei to lean a certain way, leaving the war torn south in a dangerously devastated position.

Call me a cynic, but if America is asking southern Sudan, (which has not even begun to recover) to secede from their own nature resources (or continue to suffer foreign funded atrocities), I'm thinking something is in it for us - maybe... oil? Change.org is offering Oxfam's petition asking President Obama to take preventative measures in the country Secretary Clinton called "a ticking time bomb." Not On Our Watch is offering a petition asking President Obama to "do what he can to avert a terrible conflict in Sudan." I urge you to ask our president to employ humanitarian efforts that do not also cause further devastation. But since we are currently urging the bruised and battered part of the country to abandon it's most valuable resource, we should at least give them livestock in return.

To sign Oxfam's petition asking President Obama to support sustainability in the Sudan, click "Sign the Petition," or Click Here! To sign the Not On Our Watch petition asking the president to "do what he can," Click Here! Or write to President Obama and Secretary Clinton directly with your concerns about U.S. involvement in the Sudan (and elsewhere):

President Barack Obama, The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500 - http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street NW, Washington, DC 20520 - Email the US Depart of State

Kick Coal's Ash!

2010-11-18T02:57:00.000-08:00

The Environmental Protection Agency is a considering stricter rule for disposing of coal as waste. Waste that is currently contaminating soil and drinking water. They are hearing public comments on the proposed new rules until Friday, November 19, 2010! The Environmental Defense Fund is urging you to quick add your voice to those in support of this more stringent rule:

"Coal ash is one of the most dangerous environmental threats you may never have heard of. The leftover waste of coal-fired power plants contains some really nasty and toxic materials – arsenic, lead, mercury, and more. Exposure can lead to increased risk of cancer, learning disabilities, birth defects, and other serious illnesses.

If you live near a coal-fired power plant, your drinking water may already be contaminated. That's because right now coal ash is less strictly controlled than household garbage."

To sign the petition in support of the EPA's new rule to make coal-burning plants dispose of coal ash waste responsibly, (by Friday, November 19, 2010) Click Here!

Stop Mountaintop Massacres!

2010-11-13T01:01:00.000-08:00

Perhaps mountains were meant to inspire our gaze upward, or to be climbed, written about, or captured on film, frame or canvas. Perhaps they exist simply to make long drives down the #405 bearable and even breathtaking...

There may be many purposes for mountains, but I don't think one of them is a monetary profit for a few thoughtless companies who vandalize these ancient treasures for the purpose of mining dirty fuel (while reeking havoc on the mountains and their surrounding communities in the process). The Sierra Club agrees and invites you to join the movement to stop this horrid practice:

Send a Message:
Support EPA's Proposal
to Save Our Mountains!

"The EPA is finalizing a new policy that could virtually stop this destructive practice. We have until December 1st to let the EPA know that we support their efforts to protect Appalachia and end mountaintop removal coal mining. Send your message today! Mountaintop removal mining not only buries Appalachia's waterways, it pollutes far downstream, threatening aquatic life, wildlife and communities. EPA's new policy will prevent mining companies from dumping their waste into streams. Coal companies and coal state politicians are putting their profits first. They're doing everything they can to oppose the EPA's proposal--introducing legislation to block EPA's efforts."

To sign the petition letting the EPA know you support the pof , Click the "Take Action" button... or Click Here!

Veterans Day!

2010-11-11T00:55:00.000-08:00

I met a woman recently whose husband is serving in Iraq. I told her that I hope the president bring him home soon; that I hope they could all come home soon. She said I should support our troops. I told her that I do support them. A soldier needs to believe that he or she is doing a job for some good reason. To not think that is a dangerous thing. It's easy for us to say otherwise, but that's not always possible. In my lifetime, a great many brave men and women served in Vietnam and were treated terribly when they returned - they people who sent them (as is the case now) were not held accountable, but the people who risked and gave their lives, were. Change.org is asking that we celebrate Veterans Day by asking they we pledge to honor the brave and selfless Americans who served in Vietnam:

"During the Vietnam War, over 58,000 men and women never came home to join their fellow veterans and many are still missing. Their names are written on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. to remind us of their sacrifice, service and uncommon courage.
Today, we ask you to say “Welcome Home” to these unthanked warriors -- and pay honor to all the veterans of our country -- by signing our pledge. "

I do not support war, but I support and appreciate those brave enough to serve. To sign the pledge in supports of Vietnam veterans, Click Here!

Happy Veterans day to all who have served!

I Voted... Now What?

2010-11-03T13:35:00.000-07:00

I voted in the 11/2/2010 election and was happy about some of the results, and disappointed about others. I'd bet that's how most of us feel. In some ways, that indicates a fair election. You win some, you lose, right? The thing that bothers me, is that a hand full of people spent roughly four billion dollars campaigning, and for the most part, their money talked. So how do we level the playing field so that the results are determined not by who outspends whom but by our genuine differences of opinion? We level the playing field, dollar for dollar. So maybe you're thinking, "But T'Keyah, I don't have millions (or hundreds) of dollars to donate to my green issue / third party / working poor / etc. candidate or ballot initiative! What can I do?" Well, you can pool your power with millions of others who support the issues you do. Below is my five point program for doing it. Each of these benefit you and decrease the campaign bankrolling and lobbying power of those whose interests almost never serve the destitute, working poor, marginalized, disenfranchised or environment:

1) Take Care of Yourself! - A - Avoid fast food restaurants whenever possible. (In addition to the fried, non-nutritive foods, you will also be avoiding genetically engineered 'food' products as well.) B - Exercise more. (This will reduce your stress levels and your waist line.) C - Commune with loved ones. D - Reduce your meat, salt and sugar intake. They're killing you. The healthier you are, the less dependent you will be now and later on prescription drugs, hospital stays, and the like.

2) Take Care of Your Money! - A - Except for actual emergencies (those involving blood loss or eviction), don't buy anything (else) that you can't pay off when the bill comes. This will help you pay down your debt and save on interest. B - Get rid of credit cards that charge an annual fee unless the benefits outweigh the costs for you. C - Transfer your balance(s) to cards with lower interest rates if you can - just watch out for trick rates that start low then leap!

3) Support Local Businesses! - Big chains are wiping out local businesses at alarming rates. I know it may seem sometimes like you can't afford not to go to the mile long store that sells everything... but look around and ask yourself what will happen when they are actually your only choice.

4) Pay Attention to Your Representatives! - Elected officials seem to count on the fact that so many people only pay attention to issues at election time. Keep a scoreboard of the issues that are important to you and how your representatives support them (or not). Write and call to let them know that you are keeping score.

5) Share Information! - Talk to you friends and family about what's going on and how you can pool your social, intellectual and monetary resources to improve your neighborhood, community, country and world! And let them know about this and my other blogs as well. :)

The Crystal News - http://thecrystalnews.blogspot.com/

T'Keyah Fights City Hall - http://tkeyahfightscityhall.blogspot.com/

Keymah Presents - http://keymahpresents.blogspot.com/
www.tkeyah.com - Where Crystal visions come to life!

!!!!VOTE!!!!!!

2010-11-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

There are no unimportant elections. There are no unimportant issues. There are no unimportant voters. There are no unimportant votes. We only know we all feel when all of us voice our opinions at the ballot box. If you haven't already done so, please vote. Thank you!

California's Dirty Duo

2010-10-24T01:43:00.000-07:00

By now, most Californians have heard of Prop 23, the proposition that would in effect, reverse part of the state's progressive environmental safeguards. Credo Action is encouraging voters to be aware of Prop 26, another anti-environment initiative pretending to be what it is not:

"Prop 26 is Prop 23's evil twin; another harmful, deceptive initiative funded by big polluters, which would make it virtually impossible for the state to impose fees on these polluting industries — fees that California needs to enforce our global warming law."

In other words, Prop 26 would place the burden of pollution clean-up on us, the tax payers, instead of on the companies that cause the pollution in the first place. You can help spread the word by downloading and printing the sign above and placing it in your window. To download your "Dirty Duo" window sign, Click Here!

Share the Dirty Duo Sign on Twitter

Can You Answer the Call for KPFK? - Revisted

2010-10-23T01:11:00.000-07:00

This is the last weekend of KPFK radio station's Fall Fund Drive

The drive will end on Sunday whether the station makes its goal or not. If you have donated, thank you. If you haven't, please consider a small gift to keep real, non-corporate sponsored information available.

If you live or travel outside KPFK's the listening area (90.7 FM ~ Los Angeles), you can always listen online at kpfk.org. Help me support KPFK in any way you can.

They need volunteers all of the time, but especially during and after the fund drive... money too!

To listen to KPFK now, Click Here!

To donate to KPFK, Call (818) 985-KPFK (818) 985-5735

To volunteer at KPFK, Click Here!

****Now that you've registered to vote, discuss and debate the issues and candidates on your ballot! Stay tuned to KPFK for the latest in California's ballot issues.****

Hold Your Tongue / Hold Your Water

2010-10-21T00:10:00.000-07:00

I met a woman once who shopped quickly for groceries because her neighborhood store did not have a restroom they would allow their customers to use. When I asked if she had addressed this issue with her ward representative, she told me that she was 'not political.' I was saddened but not surprised.

I've met many people who shy away from addressing the unnecessarily unpleasant conditions in which they live, and others who pat themselves on the back for casting poorly informed votes once every four years. I suppose that people either do not make the connection between their choice not to engage in 'politics' and the resulting inconveniences, hardships and outright horrors of their 'political' inactivity... or they don't care.

There is no such thing as not being political. You can avoid voting. You can avoid all discussions of elections, the elected officials who represent you in the city council, the congress, the state and national senate and in the White House; and all related issues, measures, and legislation. But you can not avoid the results of those elections or of the actions those elected officials take on your behalf (or lack thereof).

So unless you want to go through life holding your water... don't hold your tongue! Don't withhold your pen! Don't withhold your vote!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote! If you are registered, please get someone else to register! If everyone you know is registered, start discussing the issues that will be on your ballot! ****

The Process: Health or Heartache

2010-10-19T00:10:00.001-07:00

Recently, someone sent me an email about how unhealthy processed meat is based on the 2007 article Mike Adams wrote for Total Health Breakthroughs. It's been going around the internet for years, but that's not always a bad thing. Animal meat is generally not good for human consumption, but processed animal meat is deadly. I even realized after all of this time, I'm still a victim of processed meat consumption. Or in my case, processed non-meat. Usually a label reader, I found, on closer inspection, that some processed non-meats contain some of the same cancer causing ingredients that processed actual meats contain. So I'm reminding Veg Heads and Carnivores alike, that the you can eat processed food if you want, but the further a food item is from it's natural state, the more difficult it will be for your body to process it, and greater the opportunity will be for it to create cancer in your body ...in the process. To read Mike Adams' article, Click Here!

PS - Now that you've registered to vote, examine, discuss and debate the issues and candidates on your ballot in the coming election. Champion the issues (and people) that speak most to you. Be a part of the solution!

Walking Weekend - Habitat for Humanity Dream Walk & AIDS Walk LA!

2010-10-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Ever since I first heard about the organization that President Jimmy Carter began, I have been a fan. This past spring, I was part of the Entertainment Industries Council team at the first annual Women's Empowerment (WE) Build, organized by the San Fernando / Santa Clarity Valley (SF/SCV) Chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Someone put a hammer in my hand and I managed to help build an actual wall of a family's actual new home! I am proud to be the Chairperson (queen, really) of the 2011 WE Build (May 14-15)! In the first official appearance of my term (reign, really), I will participate in the SF/SCV American Dream Walk on Saturday, October 16th. Now I must admit that I have not trained whatsoever for this event, so if you see me out there panting and carrying on, try to contain your laughter until you are out of my line of vision.

Seriously, the SF/SCV chapter is raising the bar on the already stellar services Habit for Humanity provides. Unlike most other chapters, they do not require volunteers to also make donations toward builds. That way, people from all walks of life can feel comfortable participating in the building of not just homes, but communities. To sponsor me in the Habitat for Humanity American Dream Walk, (even after 10/16/10) Click Here!

On Sunday, October 17th, I'll be joining my Century City Delta Sigma Theta Sorority sisters for AIDS Walk LA. AIDS is still reeking havoc in this country and the world and yet it is still something that people are slow to discuss and therefore slow to prevent. I am walking to help spread awareness of the need, particularly in the African American community, and in both young and older populations, to be empowered enough to get tested, to get (holistic) treatment if you are infected, and to make safe choices to protect yourself and your partner. Notice how I didn't put an s on that, OK? And while I'm at it, please keep in mind that just because he (or she) is the only one you are 'seeing' does not mean you are the only one 'he (or she) is seeing. OK?

Now it goes without saying that if I am not in shape for the Saturday walk, by the time Sunday comes along I will simply be in trouble. So if you see me out there looking for a cheaters trolley, don't talk about me too badly. Just fan me right quick, hand me some water and try not to take a picture of me crying. To sponsor me in the AIDS Walk LA, (even after 10/17/10) Click Here! Oh, and then visit the drugstore and have that talk with you know who that you've been avoiding...

If It Weren't for KPFK...

2010-10-15T00:37:00.000-07:00

If you've known me for more than a week, you've probably heard me quote something that I heard on one of my favorite radio stations. KPFK is a Pacifica station, founded on the principles of disseminating truth and promoting peace without the influence or interference of corporate sponsorship.

If it weren't for Pacifica stations like KPFK I might still think that CNN was my only source for actual news; I wouldn't know what really happened to Amadou Diallo, Sean Bell or Rachel Corrie or what's been going on in Haiti long before the earthquake;

I would have no idea that Monsanto has been genetically engineering foods (they won't serve their own employees) and destroying organic farms in the process for more than a decade or that the U.S. is dumping our toxic waste on the land and shores of Africa; I would rarely hear more than well funded sound bites from people (front) running for public office and I would likely never have heard of Nom Chomsky at all.

If it weren't for KPFK, I don't know where I could go to hear world news in the morning, world music in the afternoon and worldly thoughts at night; I don't know where I could hear health information not sponsored by drug, insurance and processed food companies, economic information not sponsored by banks, environmental information not sponsored by oil, car and chemical companies, or war coverage not sponsored by those benefiting from war. If it weren't for KPFK I would have not have heard the shocking evidence that absolutely refutes the U.S. government's official position on the 9/11 attacks...

If you live or travel outside KPFK's the listening area (90.7 FM ~ Los Angeles), you can always listen online at kpfk.org. As I mentioned in an earlier blog, the station is currently in their fall drive. Help me support KPFK in any way you can.

They need volunteers all of the time, but especially during the fund drive... money too. Phone in to donate one weekday morning and I just may answer your call!

To listen to KPFK now, Click Here!

To donate to KPFK, Call (818) 985-KPFK (818) 985-5735

To volunteer at KPFK, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote! ...If you are already registered, please get someone else to register!**

Ask the President Remember Darfur... Peacefully

2010-10-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

The Save Darfur Coalition has been working for five years to stop the genocide in Darfur. They want to remind you on the occasion of President Obama's impending meeting regarding Sudan, to remind you not to forget what happened and is still happening in that region:

"Hi, please give just 60 seconds for Sudan. On Friday, President Obama meets with other heads of state in a high-level, high-stakes meeting about Sudan. The decisions made at this meeting could mean the difference between violence and peace in Darfur and all Sudan as the country prepares to vote on the secession of Southern Sudan. Urge the president to lead the way toward a peaceful, free and fairly-implemented referendum in South Sudan."

To urge President Obama's support of Darfur and the Sudan, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote! If you are registered, please get someone else to register!**

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-10-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday and I would absolutely love it if you would give me a present! Now cash is fine, but the very best gift would be your commitment to make the world a better place in some great or tiny way: Write a letter of phrase to your favorite teacher, employee, or elected official; write a letter of complaint or of action to a corporate or world leader, neighborhood business or ward committee chair; contribute your time or money to a charitable organization (a few of my favorites are listed below); reach out to a child or young adult that you know need guidance or protection; plant a seed in the earth; recycle something; smile at a stranger; and / or hug someone you love today! Thank you!

American Indian College Fund, 8333 Greenwood Blvd., Denver, CO 80221 (303) 426-8900. www.collegefund.org - There are 32 Indian founded tribal colleges fighting high rates of poverty, educational failure and cultural loss. These colleges created the nonprofit AICF to raise needed scholarship, endowment and operating funds. Aware of the historic relationship of survival through support between Native Americans and African Americans (and not ignoring her own heritage), T'Keyah would like to help.

Amun Ra Theatre (ART), 2508 Clifton Avenue, Nashville, TN 37209 (615) 329-4228 www.amunratheatre.org - The mission of ART is to explore, in a public and educational forum, the universal themes of humanity as experienced through the worldview of African-American Drama, Music, Dance, and the Spoken Word. - T'Keyah conducted her "Tools of the Trade" Actor workshop at ART this fall and directed the world premier of Founder/Artistic Director jeff obafemi carr's, "Route66: Finding Nat King Cole."

Audience Development Committee, Inc., POB 30, Manhattanville Station, NY, NY 1002, 2469 Frederick Douglass Blvd., NY, NY 10030 (212) 368-6906 was established in 1973 by Vivian Robinson to generate understanding and awareness of the arts in African-American communities, provide better public relations, and to build new audiences for not-for-profit theater and dance companies. T'Keyah received a Best Solo Performance AUDELCO Award nomination for her show, "Some of My Best Friends" and served as a presenter at their annual awards presentation.

Color Me Bright Youth Foundation P. O. Box 480329, Los Angeles, CA 90048 - is dedicated to making sure every child has a book to read. CMB hosts an ongoing "Books Brighten Your Life" campaign and essay contest, which provides matching funds for schools that raise money for school library books. The organization also collects books (and money to purchase books) for children in shelters. T'Keyah has volunteered for the organization's various fundraising events.

DuSable Museum Of African-American History, 740 East 56th Place, Chicago, IL 60637-1495, (773) 947-0600 www.dusablemuseum.org and Studio Museum in Harlem, 144 W. 125 ST., NY, NY 10027, (212) 864-4500 www.studiomuseuminharlem.org - are museums of African American art and history. T'Keyah loves art and history. She thinks that we should hold dear the experiences of the past - if not for the glory in them, then for the lessons of survival they contain.

ETA Creative Arts Foundation, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60619 (773) 752-3955 www.etacreartivearts.org - is one of Chicago's leading African American cultural performing arts institutions. T'Keyah performed at ETA (as Dinah Washington, Tammy Terrell and a Regalette) in one of their longest running shows, "The Regal Theater." She has returned to visit and participate in panels and perform.

Florida A & M University, POB 6562, Tallahassee, FL 32307, (805) 599-3000 - a four-year, public, co-educational and fully accredited institution of higher learning. As of fall 1997, FAMU offered 108 undergraduate degrees in 64 undergraduate programs and 60 graduate degrees in 32 graduate programs within its 12 Schools and Colleges. FAMU graduates more African Americans than any other college or university in the nation. www.famu.edu T'Keyah was recruited by FAMU's prestigious School of Business & Industry, and graduated with a degree in Theater. She has returned to visit, perform, speak and receive numerous awards including the Florida A & M University Millennium Award for being one of the 100 FAMUans of the Century. A FAMU theater scholarship has been established in her name.

Hale House - Hale House Center, Inc. 152 West 122nd Street New York, NY 10027 (212) 663-0700, info@halehouse.org. Since 1969, hundreds of children have found sanctuary in Mother Hale's brownstone in Harlem. Today, Hale House continues to honor Mother Hale’s legacy — providing a warm, loving, nurturing home for infants and young children in need. Hale House also offers a vital support network for generations of families through its new and innovative educational programming and parent and child support services. Hale House remains committed to building better futures for children and families. www.halehouse.org - T'Keyah is a member of Hale House’s Board of Directors. To make a donation to Hale House Click Here.

Institute for Black Parenting, 1299 E. Artisia Suite 200, Carson 90746 (310) 900-0930, www.blackparenting.org - is dedicated to the preservation of the Black family as a unit through the provision of family preservation, foster care and adoptive services. Email: zoglesby@successnet.net - T'Keyah has done several public service announcements for the organization, has spoken and served as hostess for their annual awards dinner and other events.

Meharry Medical College, 1005 Dr. / D.B. Todd, Jr., Blvd., Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 327-6111 - since its founding in 1876, has provided superior health sciences education primarily to African Americans and other students of color. www.mmc.edu and Drew University of Medicine 1731 E. 120th St., Los Angeles, CA 90059 (323) 563-4800 www.cdrewu.edu - Through innovative basic science, clinical, and health services research programs, Drew University faculty and students seek to address the health and social issues that strike hardest and deepest among inner city and minority populations. T'Keyah admires anyone who doesn't faint at the sight of blood and who wants to make it their life's work to heal the wounds of others. A Meharry medical scholarship has been established in her name.

NABSIO, 1000 W. Century Blvd. #254, Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 755-6024 www.nabsio.org - is a prison outreach ministry that provides a self-esteem building history curriculum to motivated men and women. "Each One Teach One, Each One Reach One." www.nabsio.org T'Keyah is inspired by the organization's tireless founders, Dr. Donald Evans and Brother Nathaniel Ali. She is an advisor and honorary board member and she proudly sponsors one of the women in the program.


Stage Aurora Theatrical Company, Jacksonville, FL (202) 328-0569 Box Office (904) 765- 7373 - is dedicated to entertaining and culturally enriching multicultural audiences by producing quality live "theatre that enlightens". www.stageaurora.org/ - T'Keyah attended Florida A & M University with the theater's founder, Darryl Reuben Hall.


	The Essential Theater, Suite 100, 1112 11th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 328-0569, Fax (301) 292-6188 info@theessentialtheatre.org, www.theessentialtheatre.org - is dedicated to producing quality African American theatrical productions and developing new works by African American playwrights. T'Keyah attended Florida A & M University with the theater's founder, S. Robert Morgan.

The Harvest Institute, 623 Florida Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20001 (202) 518-2465, www.harvestinstitute.org/ - is a non-profit, tax exempt research educational, policy and advocacy organization founded in 1993 by Dr. Claud Anderson, author of Black Labor, White Wealth: A Search for Power and Economic Justice and PowerNomics: The National Plan to Empower Black America. The Harvest Institute’s mission is to engage in activities that lead to a Black America that is self-sufficient and competitive as a group within the next decade. T'Keyah is inspired by Dr. Anderson’s plan to achieve economic empowerment for Black people.

Tutwiler Clinic and Outreach, c/o Sister J. Blomme, P.O. Box 462, 205 Alma Street, Tutwiler, MS 38963. (601) 345-8334 or (601) 345-8393 www.catholic.org/prwire/headline.php?ID=613 - a volunteer staff works with community members to provide basic necessities for indigent women and children in Tutwiler. Donations of any size of personal items, (soap, tooth paste, etc.) clothing, medical and household supplies and books are welcomed. T'Keyah was made aware of the Tutwiler years ago by event planner Yvonne White's creative annual efforts to support this wonderful clinic.

The Keymáh Cultural Fund - Established by T'Keyah to support and encourage programs, events and activities in the arts that benefit underserved African American youth. T'Keyah believes that involvement in the arts decreases the likelihood that young people get into trouble and increases their overall productivity. To make a tax deductible contribution, click below or to learn more about The Keymáh Cultural Fund C lick Here.

Register to Vote...Alright?

2010-10-12T22:04:00.001-07:00

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote! ...If you are already registered, please get someone else to register!** Thank you!

Things You Don't Want to Know

2010-10-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

Patricia McPherson is one of the people I was fortunate enough to meet at the "Kick Coal and Oil out of Los Angeles" rally yesterday. Listening to her speak was like reading "Behold a Pale Horse." McPherson is the president of Grassroots Coalition, a... well a grassroots coalition of people who seek "transparent, accountable government, and the full disclosure of environmental public health and safety issues including gas and oil field operations" In 2007, the group won an arduous, thirteen year court battle against Southern California Gas Company for dewatering and contamination of the Playa del Rey, California area. What McPherson shared yesterday about how PXP Oilfields are currently poisoning residents of Inglewood and Baldwin Hills, California with toxic gases was utterly staggering.

To learn more including the toxicity of the Inglewood, Baldwin Hills and Playa del Rey areas, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!**

T'Keyah Fights City Hall...Today!!

2010-10-10T04:53:00.000-07:00

On today, October 10, 2010 (10/10/10) organizations and individuals are hitting the streets to participate in events centering around finding ways to combat climate change. As hard as activists fight to make to move the country in a sustainable direction, companies who place profits over protecting the environment fight back with well funded campaigns to bury facts and spread misinformation.

Currently California's California’s Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (A.B. 32) is the country leading legislation for clean energy. It was passed with the support of activist and politicians across party lines. Now oil companies are backing a ludicrous proposition (Prop 23) that will stall the 2006 initiative so that their dirty profits will continue. Ellen Page, Robert Wisdom and I will be joining Sierra Club, Greenpeace, 350.org and many other organizations and individuals for the "Rally to Kick Coal and Oil out of Los Angeles." Groups will begin gathering at 11:30 and the rally begins at 12:30 between Spring and Main streets on the south lawn of City Hall. This rally is in connection with the Ciclavia event, so streets will be blocked. Be green and ride the Metro there like I am doing!

By the way, to read New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman's article on California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's justified battle with big oil, Click Here.

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!**

Labor for Labor

2010-10-09T00:30:00.000-07:00

Despite corporate America's best efforts to outsource and computerize as many jobs as possible, blue collar workers still make up the backbone of this society. The AFLCIO wants to engage us in the labor movement during this elections season (and beyond.)

"When you wake up on Nov. 3, will anyone be fighting for working families? That’s up to us.

So much depends on these elections—jobs, Social Security, health care, corporate accountability and more. Our vision of America is at stake. That’s why I’m asking you to do your part—to volunteer today for Labor 2010 actions in your area."

To volunteer for the AFLCIO’s Labor 2010, Click here!

Also, today is Troy Davis' birthday. If you haven't already, send him a card to show your support!

Troy A. Davis #657378

GDCP PO Box 3877 G-3-79

Jackson, GA 30233

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

Stop Military Recruitment of Children

2010-10-08T01:23:00.000-07:00

Change.org is asking that we protest the recruitment of children into the U.S. military. Joining the military, especially in war time, is an extremely serious decision - one that should be made only by people who are mature enough to decide whether or not they are ready to kill, (to torture and be tortured) and to die for their country. If adults wish to serve our country by joining a branch of the armed forces, that is of course their right and their privilege. But the currently ubiquitous recruitment of minors by the United States military is an activity that should be discouraged with the same energy given the discouragement of any extraordinarily dangerous endeavor by minors:

"Our military services have no business recruiting children under the age of 18. Each year hundreds of thousands of kids in the US are actively recruited by our military, and each year well over 10,000 of these kids under 18 join the armed forces.

This petition asks our elected officials to pass legislation barring all forms of military recruitment of children by the armed services, including the Junior ROTC program. It also asks our representatives to change existing legislation to prevent schools from releasing student contact information to military recruiters."

To sign the petition protesting the recruitment of minors into the military, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

Spotlight: American Indian College Fund - 2010 Flame of Hope Gala

2010-10-07T05:23:00.000-07:00

American Indian College Fund - 8333 Greenwood Blvd., Denver, CO 80221 (303) 426-8900. www.collegefund.org - Thirty-two American Indian founded tribal colleges, fighting high rates of poverty, educational failure and cultural loss, created the fund to raise needed scholarship, endowment and operating funds. The Fund disburses approximately 6,000 scholarships annually for American Indian students seeking to better their lives through higher education. The Fund also provides support for tribal college needs ranging from capital support to cultural preservation activities. Each year, the fund hosts a gala to celebrate and raise funds for their scholarships and other programs. On Thursday, October 14, 2010 American Indian College Fund hosts the 2010 Flame of Hope Gala.

Entertainment by Big Head Todd and The Monsters

Cocktails at 6:00 p.m.
Dinner and program from 7:00-11:00 p.m.
The Seawell Ballroom Denver Center for the Performing Arts
Denver, Colorado map

Individual tickets are $150

Click here to purchase tickets
or call Abi Whiteing at 303-430-5345
or e-mail awhiteing@collegefund.org

To view their Online Auction, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

10/10/10 Rally to Kick Coal & Oil out of L.A.!

2010-10-06T01:57:00.000-07:00

Sierra Club and a contingent of other environmental organizations and individuals are rallying for clean energy in California:

Rally to Kick Coal and Oil
out of Los Angeles 10.10.10

"On October 10th the Sierra Club, 350.org, Greenpeace, Green LA and others will take part in the largest international climate mobilization day ever. Streets across Los Angeles will be closed to cars as a part of a city-wide festival, CicLAvia.

Join us at a rally for clean energy in front of City Hall while enjoying the car-free streets with thousands of bicyclists and pedestrians. Sign up today to kick coal and oil out of Los Angeles on Sunday October 10th!

Right now Los Angeles is dependent on dirty energy. Coal-fired power plants in Arizona and Utah deliver dirty, dangerous, and increasingly expensive power to Los Angeles. Locally, oil refineries poison our air, harming local residents while worsening climate change. The same coal and oil companies use money from our electric bills to fight public health, safety and environmental standards at City Hall, the state Capitol, and in Washington D.C.

Enough is enough. Sign up to join us and hundreds of your friends Sunday October 10th at Los Angeles City Hall to kick coal and oil out of LA!

Event Details:

WHO: You, your friends and family along with Greenpeace, the Sierra Club, and Green LA

WHAT: Rally against the coal and oil industries' grip on Los Angeles. This rally coincides with people mobilizing in cities worldwide on this international day of action against climate change.

WHEN: Sunday, October 10th, 2010 at 12:30PM

WHERE: The corner of Main and First Streets, on the south lawn of City Hall. Meet by the steps.
JOIN IN: Want to get more involved with the event planning, or recruitment? Contact Chrissy Scarborough at Chrissy.scarborough@sierraclub.org"

If you would like to join me at the Rally to Kick Coal and Oil out of Los Angeles, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

Fair Elections for Fair Health Care!

2010-10-05T01:20:00.000-07:00

Healthcare Now, one of the many endorsers of Amnesty International's Health Care is a Human Right Coalition, is hoping the the Fair Elections Now Act will advance the cause of a single-payer health care initiative. To that end, they are asking House Speaker Pelosi (202-225-4965) to schedule a vote on the Fair Elections Now Act (HR 6116/1826) before Congress adjourns this Friday, October 8th:

"The Fair Elections Now Act, the bill providing for publicly funded elections for Congress, has passed in committee and has moved to the floor of the House of Representatives. This bill gives members of Congress an alternative to being dependent on campaign cash from lobbyists and it gives any citizen the ability to challenge an incumbent by allowing them to run a financially competitive campaign using small donations (under $100) matched by public funding. In our struggle for improved and expanded Medicare for All, we have witnessed the enormous power that for-profit health-related industries have over our Congress.

The Fair Elections Now Act gives members of Congress the financial freedom to disregard the threats and enticements of industry lobbyists. Because candidates' campaigns will be financed by small contributions from people in their home state, Congress will be listening to us, instead of the lobbyists. And what are we saying? We're saying that we want single-payer, the only morally and fiscally responsible solution for our continuing health care crisis.

If you would like to join email Speaker Pelosi and your member of the House, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

I Am Troy Davis...Are You?

2010-10-04T01:07:00.000-07:00

Amnesty International, the organization that asked us to put ourselves in Troy Davis' shoes, is asking us to remember that he still needs our attention to get the justice he deserves:

"Troy Davis was convicted of murdering a Georgia police officer in 1991. Nearly two decades later, Davis remains on death row – even though the case against him has fallen apart. On August 17, 2009, the Supreme Court issued an order mandating a new evidentiary hearing in his case. The hearing took place on June 23-24, 2010, and on August 24, Judge William T. Moore, Jr., ruled that Troy Davis had not met an “extraordinarily high” standard for clearly establishing his innocence. The judge did rule that it would be unconstitutional to execute an innocent person. An appeal is likely. » Learn more about Troy Davis"

» Take action: Troy Davis' birthday is October 9. Send him a card to show your support!

Troy A. Davis #657378

GDCP PO Box 3877 G-3-79

Jackson, GA 30233

To sign the petition opposing the death penalty for Troy Davis, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

Something Fishy This Way Comes!

2010-10-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

Consumers Union is urging the FDA to require labeling of genetically engineered salmon so that consumers can know what they are getting and decide whether or not they want to make unnatural and potentially unhealthy purchases.

"The FDA may soon approve the sale of genetically engineered salmon in our supermarkets – even though it’s unclear what the long-term effects on humans of eating it will be.

But there’s something even fishier going on. The agency could put this salmon – which reaches market size in half the time as conventional fish – in stores without any special labeling. That means you might not know the difference between a genetically enhanced salmon and one that grew up naturally, leaving you in the dark about exactly what it is you’re eating.

Tell the FDA that you want the right to know what’s in your food! The agency is standing on technicalities in the labeling law, when it only has to declare that genetically engineered salmon is ‘materially’ different – and should be labeled as such."

I signed their petition and added the following personal note: If people want to consume genetically engineered organisms (GMOs) I suppose they should be allowed. But I strongly believe that no one should be allowed to infest natural populations of food sources with GMOs that will in just a few generations cause complete contamination, or sneak GMOs into the marketplace unannounced. I strongly believe that consumers have the right to know what they are buying and a reasonable expectation that the FDA will prioritize consumer rights, health and safety above corporate profits.

If you would like to sign the Consumers Union petition urging the FDA to require the labeling of GMOs, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

Bring the Arts to the Polls!

2010-10-02T03:45:00.000-07:00

Americans for the Arts Action Fund is asking that when voting in the upcoming elections, we consider the candidates' records on supporting (or not supporting) the arts:

"To ensure lasting support for the arts and arts education, arts supporters need to elect pro-arts members of Congress. Americans for the Arts Action Fund is providing you with the tools you need to do just that, and they’re all available in the ArtsVote section of our website, www.ArtsActionFund.org. Here are just a few ways you can get involved:

Use our 2010 Congressional Arts Report Card, which grades current members of Congress based on their voting records on arts-related legislation, to help you make informed decisions at the ballot box. Spread the message to other arts-supporters in your community.
Learn what candidates have to say about the arts in our Candidates’ Survey on the Arts. You can also find suggested questions to ask candidates at local events to learn more about their arts positions."

To learn how Americans for the Arts Action Fund graded your Senate representatives' 2010 record of supporting the arts, Click Here!

**** If you haven't already done so, please register to vote!****

Can You Answer the Call for KPFK?

2010-10-01T23:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's nearly time once again for one of my favorite radio stations, KPFK to launch their fall fund drive and they need volunteers to answer the phones:

KPFK'S FALL FUND DRIVE STARTS ON
TUESDAY OCTOBER 5TH AT 6AM

"WE NEED TO FILL OUR PHONE ROOM WITH VOLUNTEERS SO COME ON DOWN!

OUR MAIN SHIFTS ARE:

5:30AM TO 10AM 10AM TO 2PM
2PM TO 6PM 6PM TO 10PM

AND IF YOU CAN DO AN ALL-NIGHTER with Roy GREAT!

CALL JESSIE AT 818-985-2711 EXT.513

If the above shifts don't match your availability don't worry, whatever time you donate will be greatly appreciated!!

We are located at 3729 Cahuenga Blvd. West in North Hollywood 91604
just a couple blocks away from the Universal City Red Line Station and just off the Lankershim exit of the 101 freeway"

If you have any time to help, please do. KPFK is the kind of radio station that those of us who love honest, non-commercial, non-corporate influenced news truly treasure. To listen now to KPFK, Click Here!

Spotlight: PETA

2010-09-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) recently celebrated thirty years of tireless work on behalf of the world's animals with a gala honoring activists and celebrity supporters of their outspoken organization. Some of PETA's actions have been criticized for being over the top, but as the literature of their "Give McCruelty the Bird" campaign states, "sometimes being polite just doesn't work." If not for their sometimes line-crossingly rude anti-fur campaigns, many people would never have even considered the lives of the animals slaughtered for fashion. If not for their Sexy Celebrity Vegetarians campaigns, many people would never have considered a vegetarian or vegan diet... cool. If not for their anti-cruelty exposes on animal farms, animal experimentation and meat manufacturing, many people would still have no idea how severely animals are abused and tortured, and therefore how truly unhealthy many meats are by the time they reach the dinner table.

As a long-time PETA supporter and vegetarian for more than twenty-five years, I applaud their efforts and their results! So here's to thirty years of bold work on behalf of our animal friends who rely on us to speak up for them. If you would like to know more about PETA or becoming vegetarian or vegan, Click Here!

Music Mends!

2010-09-29T03:24:00.000-07:00

I don't think there is any situation that can not be made better with music. Playing for Change agrees and is on a mission to unite the world through music. They've recorded musicians from myriad backgrounds, stages and places and formed a collective through which music can be shared and musicians that would not all have access to distribution, can benefit. If you would like to help Playing for Change advance their marvelous musical mission, Click Here!

Kill the Drill!

2010-09-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

Greenpeace advises us that BP oil company is skirting dangerously around the moratorium on offshore drilling in the arctic waters off Alaska by actually building a gravel drilling island a few miles off away from Alaska's north shore and that "the only thing standing between BP and its next big drilling disaster is the Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar. BP calls Liberty one of its “biggest challenges to date,” and if it moves forward, the company will push the limits of drilling in Alaska’s Arctic, just as it pushed the limits of deepwater drilling in the Gulf with the Deepwater Horizon."

The fact that BP is knowingly planning a more dangerous drill than the one that caused the current spill is unthinkable. If you would like to join me in signing the petition to Secretary Salazar, Click Here!

The Honorable Hilda L. Solis Returns to Rally!

2010-09-27T07:35:00.000-07:00

Organizing for America (OFA) invites you to a Vote 2010 Rally:

What: Moving America Forward Rally with
The Honorable Hilda L. Solis

Where: Golden Eagle Ballroom, 3rd Floor
5151 State University Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90032

When: Tuesday, September 28th
3:00 p.m.

Directions:

	Parking on Campus includes only certain lots. You know if you can park in a lot if there is an easily visible kiosk where you can pay for a parking permit. Cost: $1=1hr and 15min $2=2hr and 30min $3=4hr
	Associated Groups:

Associated GroupsCalifornia 32nd Congressional District

Ms. Solis is our current U. S. Secretary of Labor. Known as a champion of labor issues and the environment, she was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives five times. She is a California native, born of immigrant parents from Mexico and Nicaragua. Solis is the first Latina to serve in the U. S. Cabinet.

The event is free and open to the public, but if you would like to let OFA know you are coming or would like to support the event, Click Here!

Stop the Alaskan Gray Wolf Massacre!

2010-09-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

Defenders of Wildlife is spreading the word that "Alaska's majestic gray wolves are in grave danger. The state has issued permits to aerial gunners and pilots to chase the wolves, run them to exhaustion and shoot them from the air with high-powered rifles or land and shoot them at point-blank range. More than 1,000 wolves have already been killed, and even though former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is gone, her hand-picked Board of Game is continuing her brutal slaughter"

I sent a personalized letter asking President Obama to end this brutal, aerial attack on wolves simply by enforcing the Federal Airborne Hunting Act already in place. If you would like to send a letter through Defenders of Wildlife, Click Here!

Help Keep Ports Clean!

2010-09-25T23:52:00.000-07:00

The Sierra Club reminds us that: "More than 87 million Americans live near ports or in coastal communities that have poor air quality. Much of this pollution comes from old, dirty tractor trailers that emit roughly ten to sixty times the diesel pollution of new trucks. The Port of Los Angeles has shown that by requiring new trucks ports can reduce emissions, create good jobs, and help business grow. " They are asking us to "Help ensure that ports around the countries can implement clean truck programs -- ask your Representative to cosponsor the Clean Ports Act."

I sent a personalized version of their letter to my representatives. If you would like to tell your representatives that you want them to help create green jobs and stop pollution by co-sponsoring The Clean Ports Act (HR 5967), introduced by Representative Nadle, Click Here!

Free "No on 23" Sticker!

2010-09-24T23:30:00.000-07:00

In 2006, California passed the Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), making California number one in the world in legislating real reductions in greenhouse gases -- including C02 -- that cause global warming. Now Texas oil companies are funding a deceptive initiative -- Prop 23 -- that would destroy AB 32, California's landmark clean energy and air pollution law. To help defeat CA proposition 23, Credo Action is giving away free 'No on 23' stickers! I just ordered one. If you would like one, just Click Here to order!

Mad as Hell About Travel Fees?

2010-09-23T07:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Mad as Hell Day for American Society of Travel Agents who are petitioning Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood because, "Airline fees are out of hand and surprise us from the moment we make reservations. There are telephone reservation fees, checked baggage fees, seat reservation fees, carry-on luggage fees, special seating fees, get-on-the-plane early fees, pillow-and-blanket fees and more fees on their way.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is examining this growing problem. They want your views on whether airlines should make their fees clear on their own websites and make them available to all travel agents so that travelers can compare the total cost of travel.

I signed their petition and added the following person note: "Almost every day I receive an e-mail from one airline or another advertising extremely low fares. Time and time again I click through to get the cheap fare advertised, only to find that with fees, the trip is so far from advertised price, that I think it should be illegal from them to have mentioned that price in the first place. It is not as if there is ever a way to actually get that price without the fees, so why not advertise the real price and stop wasting our time?"

If you are mad as hell and would like to sign their petition and or share your unwanted travel fees story, Click Here!

Close Guantanamo ASAP!

2010-09-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

Human Rights First Q & A on Guantanamo says:

Q: Why do we need to close Guantanamo?

A: Key military and intelligence experts say Guantanamo is risk to US national security. Alberto Mora, Former General Counsel of the Navy, testified that "There are serving U.S. flag-rank officers who maintain that the first and second identifiable causes of U.S. combat deaths in Iraq – as judged by their effectiveness in recruiting insurgent fighters into combat – are, respectively the symbols of Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo." Admiral Dennis Blair, the Director of National Intelligence, elaborated: "I agree with the President that the detention center at Guantanamo has become a damaging symbol to the world and that it must be closed. It is a rallying cry for terrorist recruitment and harmful to our national security, so closing it is important for our national security."[1]

Q: Are regular federal courts the appropriate forum to try Guantanamo detainees suspected of crimes of terrorism and war crimes?

A: Yes, our federal courts have proven that they are up to the task. In a study of 119 terrorism cases with 289 defendants, filed since 2001, Human Rights First found that of the 214 defendants whose cases were resolved as of June 2, 2009, 195 were convicted either by verdict or by a guilty plea.[2]

Since Jan. 1, 2009, more than 30 individuals charged with terrorism violations have been successfully prosecuted and/or sentenced in federal courts nationwide.[3] The War Crimes Act also explicitly gives federal courts jurisdiction to try war crimes.[4]

To see the rest of the Q & A, Click Here!

To sign the petition in support of closing Quantanimo, Click Here!

Raise the Bar on Chocolate!

2010-09-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

Green America wants to make you aware that Hershey chocolate company "lags well behind its competitors in taking responsibility for the local communities from which it sources cocoa around the world. Last Monday, Hershey released its first-ever Corporate Social Responsibility Report. It failed to outline a credible plan for ensuring that its supply chains aren't tainted with forced labor, human trafficking, and abusive child labor – all notorious problems for companies that source cocoa. "

Green America would like you to complete Hershey's online survey and let them know you would like Fair Trade certification of their products as soon as possible. In addition to pressuring Hershey to be more responsible, Green America suggests three more ways to help end labor abuses in the cocoa supply chain:

1. Purchase Fair Trade chocolate from businesses listed in the National Green Pages™ »

2. Work to make Fair Trade more accessible in your community, using resources from our Fair Trade Your Supermarket Campaign »

3. Take your kids "Reverse Trick-or-Treating" for Halloween, and share Fair Trade chocolate with your neighbors. Use the code GREENAMERICAN to order your FREE kit »

Again, to complete the survey, Click Here.

Not Me on 23!

2010-09-20T06:09:00.000-07:00

Credo Action is looking for Californians who oppose Prop 23, the "California Jobs Initiative", which will in effect, not create any jobs at all, but will stop the creation of green jobs while allowing big oil polluters to continue polluting unchecked until the unemployment rate decreases (through no help form Prop 23).

The Propostion: “Suspends State laws requiring reduced greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming, until California's unemployment rate drops to 5.5 percent or less for four consecutive quarters. Requires State to abandon implementation of comprehensive greenhouse-gas-reduction program that includes increased renewable energy and cleaner fuel requirements, and mandatory emission reporting and fee requirements for major polluters such as power plants and oil refineries, until suspension is lifted. Summary of estimate by Legislative Analyst and Director of Finance of fiscal impact on state and local government: Potential positive, short-term impacts on state and local government revenues from the suspension of regulatory activity, with uncertain longer-run impacts. Potential foregone state revenues from the auctioning of emission allowances by state government, by suspending the future implementation of cap-and-trade regulations.”

If you are a California voter opposed to Prop 23 click here!

Don't Muddy the Clean Air Act

2010-09-19T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Environmental Defense Action Fund is asking people to send their senate representatives the following message: I am writing to urge you to oppose any and all legislative efforts to eliminate, delay, or constrain the Environmental Protection Agency's efforts to protect Americans from climate pollution as authorized under the Clean Air Act.

America's clean air laws have worked for 40 years to protect millions of Americans from exposure to dangerous air pollution. And they have saved lives.

A new study finds that premature deaths linked to pollution from coal-fired power plants have been reduced by more than 56% over the last decade, from more than 30,000 deaths every year in 2000 to about 13,200 today. That's still too many, and tougher pollution limits will help protect more American lives.

Please stand up to the big polluters and oppose efforts to delay or constrain the EPA's climate work.

I included the following personal message: "The air is not ours to pollute. The water is not ours to infest. The earth is not ours to damage. We are merely guests on this planet and our destructively rude behavior will not only make our stay uncomfortable, unbearable and eventually fatal, it will leave no home for future passersby..."

To take action clink here!

Guard the Great Outdoors!

2010-09-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

The Wilderness Society is asking people to sign the follow letter to President Obama:
I want the next generation to enjoy America's great outdoors too. That's why I am asking you to seize this opportunity to create, expand and better protect America's shared outdoor spaces, including wilderness, monuments, wildlife refuges, parks, forests, trails, wild and scenic rivers and historic sites.

To ensure that future generations will always benefit and enjoy our public lands, please consider these priorities for America's Great Outdoors:

- Address Conservation at a Large Scale
- Protect our wilderness
- Improve Watersheds and Wildlife Habitat
- Connect people with Nature
- Provide Increased Access and Recreational Opportunities
- Fully Fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund

Thank you for your leadership in shaping a bold conservation strategy for the 21st century.

I signed their letter, adding the following personal message: When I sit like so many / too many Americans, behind my cluttered desk day in and day out, I am calmed by the potted life in my plaqued and computered room / the green bits of earth magic that remind me - there is breath and beauty in the world just beyond my office door. As we continue to cover with concrete all that sustains us, let us remember to save some portion of what God made for generations to come...

To sign their letter, click here!