Bernalillo County La Raza Unida

Income Inequality and Violence 1-20-12

2012-01-20T06:42:00.000-08:00

Seasons' Greetings from La Raza Unida 2011

2011-12-23T09:47:00.000-08:00

We have been told that war, poverty, homelessness and more is "inevitable" as if they are natural. They are not and let's rest and re-dedicate ourselves to a better world in the new year!

You might find inspiration from "When the World Outlawed War."

PEACE, LOVE & REBELLION FOR 2012!!!

1/2 of people in the US now Poor or Low-Income!

2011-12-22T11:09:00.000-08:00

S 1867 - Police State Warning from Anonymous

2011-12-06T08:36:00.000-08:00

Another of many reasons to get involved. Please share broadly.

Unemployment Realities - 12/05/11

2011-12-05T18:02:00.001-08:00

Last weeks news reported that employment in the US is lower. There are problems with this report. One is that there is an under-count in unemployment and also poverty.

The under-counts are in groups such as Chicanas and Chicanos, African Americans, Native Americans, and others. Elders are also under-counted. Importantly youth are under-counted. All of these people can be considered invisible Americans.

One thing that we don't talk about in the US is the health impact of unemployment. Being laid off is unhealthy, being under-employed is unhealthy, and being unemployed for a long time is unhealthy. Being a young person without work for a long time is also unhealthy. In England, Sir Marmot calls is a public health crisis.

US Closing in on Population

2011-12-02T18:07:00.001-08:00

Many have warned for years of a growing police state. It seems that those only slightly concerned may have waited too late.

Please read these articles and share.

Declaring War on Americans

US Senate Declares US a Battleground

These 7 Senators Voted Against S 1867! Support them!

Health and Justice

2011-11-28T17:37:00.001-08:00

Here are some articles on health and politics. Privatized politics is keeping us from having universal health care. Yet many advocate for this without dealing with the political context. It is like taking some aspects of socialized medicine from another country and placing it a US context.

Our political system narrows the political choices in the US. This narrowness in political parties also limits the possibilities for policies. Policies which impact health are many. Income inequality is a primary factor in health. Education, housing, and jobs are other things that impact our health. Segregation is bad for our health as well.

It is time to focus on how politics and health relate. We need a change in our political system to create more choices. Without working-class oriented parties willing to fix the maldistribution of resources and power in our country we'll keep getting the results we're getting.

MINISTERS CHAMPION AGAINST HOSTILE CLIMATE AT UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO

2011-11-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, November 22, 2011, community leaders will gather to announce plans to ameliorate the racially hostile climate at the University of New Mexico (Albuquerque campus). The Minister’s Fellowship of Albuquerque and Vicinity (MFAV), a 70-year old organization of pastors dedicated to providing religious and community service, have joined with the local NAACP branch to highlight proven injustices against African American UNM employees.

Complaints against UNM include documented cases of the following:

1) Hostile Climate for African Americans;

2) Compensation Disparities;

3) Adverse impact of policies upon African Americans that reduce the number of role models, reduce quality of healthcare, and reduce the same service delivery; and

4) Inequitable distribution of federal funding for minority healthcare research.

A press conference will be held at New Hope Church, 1901 Pennsylvania Avenue NE at
10:00 am, Albuquerque, New Mexico. All members of the press are encouraged to attend as representatives from the Minister’s Fellowship and NAACP will announce the filing of its Title VI Civil Rights complaint against UNM. Additionally, cases of injustice will be shared as well as plans to redress them. The time is overdue for the University of New Mexico to rectify policies and procedures that result in unfair disparities and reduction of service delivery to the African American community. The Minister’s Fellowship and NAACP, along with other community allies will work toward ending the institutional racism at UNM.

For more information contact Bishop David Cooper at 505/881-7780.

Día de La Revolución - 2011

2011-11-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

Today is Revolution Day for Mexico. La Raza Unida commemorated this by screening the documentary The Internationale last night at El Chante. Tomorrow 11/21 is the anniversary of Ricardo Flores Magón dying in Fort Leavenworth.

Look for more word on May Day 2012 and the Walk to Cure Capitalism!

Advance Notice - Walk to Cure Capitalism!

2011-11-15T07:28:00.001-08:00

Who is Ordering the Arrest of Demonstrators?

2011-11-13T08:39:00.000-08:00

During the early 20th Century the Socialist Party had about 1,000 elected officials. Over 70 were mayors. Some of them kept their police forces from attacking striking workers. Now in the 21st Century who is ordering the attack on demonstrators fighting for the working class?

"Time to Occupy the Democratic Party" says:

"But Oakland is hardly alone when it comes to Democratic mayors ordering mass arrests of Occupiers for exercising their First Amendment rights. In fact, aside from New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg - a Republican turned independent - most of the mayors involved have been Democrats. Boston's Mayor Tom Menino had 141 people arrested on October 11. Under Chicago Mayor Rahm Emmanuel, roughly 300 Occupy supporters have been arrested in a series of attempts to set up a stable base camp. In Atlanta, 52 protesters were arrested on October 26 under orders of Mayor Kasim Reed, who said the “last straw” came when a man carrying an AK-47 joined the demonstrators. But the man was rejected by the Occupiers, and what he did was legal under Georgia law. Besides, no Tea Party demonstration was ever shut down because someone there was carrying an assault weapon.

The weekend after Olsen was shot in Oakland, 27 Occupiers were arrested in Portland under Mayor Sam Adams, and 25 were arrested in Denver, under Mayor Michael Hancock. The Denver arrests were particularly violent as police in riot gear attacked peaceful demonstrators with tear gas and pepper spray pellets. Dozens more have been arrested in Des Moines, St Louis, Cincinnati, Seattle, Sacramento, and San Francisco - all with Democratic mayors.

While some mass arrests have been deliberately planned, and very professionally handled by police, the predominant pattern has been much more troubling: Despite a grudging admission that people have a right to protest, Democratic mayors have generally viewed Occupy demonstrators in a negative light, and have not shown much interest or inclination in any sort of productive relationship. The city of Los Angeles was a noted exception initially, with city council members even visiting them, and passing a supportive resolution, but more recently both the mayor and an initially enthusiastic councilmember have begun to talk about shutting them down."

At least Albuquerque has some support from City Council, even though the police have helped to shut down Camp Coyote and arrested people. It is time to get out and vote as Left as possible while staying in the streets that are ours!

Interlocking Issues

2011-11-08T18:29:00.000-08:00

It is unfortunate that much of the response from the "occupy" people in dealing with racism, classism, sexism, homophobia and colonialism is the old line of "it shouldn't overshadow THE issue" - corporate greed. Corporate greed feeds off of the divisions created by classism, racism, sexism, homophobia and colonialism. That keeps the 99% divided. And divided it is easy to implement corporate greed.

Part of taking that on will require dealing with the isms as well as changing electoral and economic systems.

For those interested below are the "left" parties recognized in NM.

La Raza Unida de Nuevo Mejico (LRU)
New Mexico Socialist Party (SNM)
New Party of New Mexico (PNM)
Peace and Freedom Party (PAF)
Socialist Labor Party (SLP)
Socialist Workers Party (SWP)
Worker's World Party (WWP)

11/5/11

2011-11-05T21:46:00.000-07:00

Today was Bank Transfer Day!

There have been studies that show that different electoral systems give different outcomes for both poverty and health between countries. There needs to be similar studies done within the US for local or state governments. Luckily there are studies that show local area health and poverty. Here is one example showing county level income inequity.

There are Secretaries of State who track good information for the state. Such as how many people are registered in which parties. Believe it or not many counties and states do not publish this. It may be that they are worried about encouraging people to register in other parties. Here is one example of sharing good voting data. The 20+% of voters not categorized into parties may be "left" or "right." Since they are not listed they often get put into the category of "middle of the road."

Measuring and reporting those in different parties might encourage participation in these parties. In NM there are many parties recognized and more people registering in these parties will show that people have specific values and policies they support.

Democracy is about voice and about choice. It is important to recognize that there is an attempt to disenfranchise voters. House Dems wrote to all Secretaries of State and encouraged them to be advocates for participation and democracy.

Here is a list of "Left" parties in NM. You can register in one of these by putting the three letter abbreviation in box 5 of the voter registration form.

La Raza Unida de Nuevo Mejico (LRU)
New Mexico Socialist Party (SNM)
New Party of New Mexico (PNM)
Peace and Freedom Party (PAF)
Socialist Labor Party (SLP)
Socialist Workers Party (SWP)
Worker's World Party (WWP)

Public Health Solidarity 11/1/11

2011-11-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

Some people know that public health has social justice roots. Part of this is showing in a Public Health Pledge to Support the Occupy Movement. There are also resources for how Public Health can help out.

So far that we know of La Raza Unida, SWOP, the International District Health Communities Coalition, and the Economic Democracy working group of the Bernalillo County Community Health Council have all expressed solidarity with (un)Occupy Albuquerque. If you work in Public Health please sign the pledge!

11/1/11 IRV Updates

2011-11-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

Maine Politics - a quick poll

An endorsement of an opponent - much different than politics than usual

Why Ranked Choice Voting is Good for San Francisco - examples of how instant runoff voting works well for this large city.

Participatory Budgeting in Chicago 10/31/11

2011-10-31T22:08:00.000-07:00

10/24/11 Foreclosures

2011-10-24T14:29:00.001-07:00

Foreclosures are obviously an economic issue. Prices of homes in neighborhoods drops, tax bases erode, and important community relationships are severed. There are also important health issues as well. In a NY Times article "Foreclosures Are Killing Us" there is some very disturbing news. Anxiety, depression, suicide attempts, heart disease, and diabetes all seem to be part of the problem. There have been studies on this and many La Raza Unida members are participating with (Un) Occupy Burque on STOP FORECLOSURE work.

Please get involved, even if it is just spreading the word!

Culture of Democracy10-19-11

2011-10-19T06:49:00.001-07:00

We have an opportunity to strengthen cultures of democracy at this moment. It would be a waste not to take advantage. Control over the decisions of our lives is an important step to create real people power.

There is also a teach-in going on at UNM. One message from yesterday is that social justice IS public health!

More on IRV 10/13/11

2011-10-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

Portland, Maine is another place implementing instant runoff voting.

In 2010 North Carolina was the first state to implement IRV at the statewide level. Imagine if each of the cities supporting the Occupy Wall Street movement were able to demand and implement IRV and public financing.

Dia de La Raza 2011

2011-10-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

Instant Runoff Voting 10/11/11

2011-10-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

If we want to change our economy we need to change how we elect the people who make the laws that regulate corporations. Maybe we can start with Albuquerque.

Minnesota Public Radio explains Instant Runoff Voting pt 1

2011-10-10T21:08:00.000-07:00

10-08-11 Occupy reflection

2011-10-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day of taking it to the banks. The march started off at UNM and went to Central and San Mateo. Along the way stopping at banks and even went into Wal-Mart. At one point the group took to the center of San Mateo and Central. Very exciting for the mobilization piece.

Lots of things happen that need to be processed and discussed.

Multi-party democracy is one part of all the things that need to be changed. Here are "left" parties you can register for in NM. When you get a voter registration form just fill in one of the three letter abbreviations in box 5.

La Raza Unida de Nuevo Mejico (LRU)
New Mexico Socialist Party (SNM)
New Party of New Mexico (PNM)
Peace and Freedom Party (PAF)
Socialist Labor Party (SLP)
Socialist Workers Party (SWP)
Worker's World Party (WWP)

New York City General Assembly Declaration 10/06/11

2011-10-06T11:46:00.000-07:00

DECLARATION OF THE OCCUPATION OF WALL STREET:
As we gather together in solidarity to express a feeling of mass injustice, we must not lose sight of what brought us together. We write so that all people who feel wronged by the corporate forces of the world can know that we are your allies.

As one people, united, we acknowledge the reality: that the future of the human race requires the cooperation of its members; that our system must protect our rights, and upon corruption of that system, it is up to the individuals to protect their own rights, and those of their neighbors; that a democratic government derives its just power from the people, but corporations do not seek consent to extract wealth from the people and the Earth; and that no true democracy is attainable when the process is determined by economic power. We come to you at a time when corporations, which place profit over people, self-interest over justice, and oppression over equality, run our governments. We have peaceably assembled here, as is our right, to let these facts be known.

They have taken our houses through an illegal foreclosure process, despite not having the original mortgage.

They have taken bailouts from taxpayers with impunity, and continue to give Executives exorbitant bonuses.

They have perpetuated inequality and discrimination in the workplace based on age, the color of one’s skin, sex, gender identity and sexual orientation.

They have poisoned the food supply through negligence, and undermined the farming system through monopolization.

They have profited off of the torture, confinement, and cruel treatment of countless nonhuman animals, and actively hide these practices.

They have continuously sought to strip employees of the right to negotiate for better pay and safer working conditions.

They have held students hostage with tens of thousands of dollars of debt on education, which is itself a human right.

They have consistently outsourced labor and used that outsourcing as leverage to cut workers’ healthcare and pay.

They have influenced the courts to achieve the same rights as people, with none of the culpability or responsibility.

They have spent millions of dollars on legal teams that look for ways to get them out of contracts in regards to health insurance.

They have sold our privacy as a commodity.

They have used the military and police force to prevent freedom of the press.

They have deliberately declined to recall faulty products endangering lives in pursuit of profit.

They determine economic policy, despite the catastrophic failures their policies have produced and continue to produce.

They have donated large sums of money to politicians supposed to be regulating them.

They continue to block alternate forms of energy to keep us dependent on oil.

They continue to block generic forms of medicine that could save people’s lives in order to protect investments that have already turned a substantive profit.

They have purposely covered up oil spills, accidents, faulty bookkeeping, and inactive ingredients in pursuit of profit.

They purposefully keep people misinformed and fearful through their control of the media.

They have accepted private contracts to murder prisoners even when presented with serious doubts about their guilt.

They have perpetuated colonialism at home and abroad.

They have participated in the torture and murder of innocent civilians overseas.

They continue to create weapons of mass destruction in order to receive government contracts.*

To the people of the world,

We, the New York City General Assembly occupying Wall Street in Liberty Square, urge you to assert your power.

Exercise your right to peaceably assemble; occupy public space; create a process to address the problems we face, and generate solutions accessible to everyone.

To all communities that take action and form groups in the spirit of direct democracy, we offer support, documentation, and all of the resources at our disposal.

Join us and make your voices heard!

*These grievances are not all-inclusive.

From:
http://current.com/shows/countdown/videos/special-comment-keith-reads-first-collective-statement-of-occupy-wall-street

Public Health and Social Justice - V Navarro 1976

2011-10-05T19:34:00.000-07:00

"....there is a need to link the public health struggles, both at the local and national levels, with larger political struggles at all levels, political struggles that should be aimed at profoundly transforming a system that works primarily for the few and not for the many. To that end, we must struggle and organize."

Vicente Navarro, 1976

Short Reflection on Occupy

2011-10-05T05:11:00.000-07:00

This is a brief set of thoughts on the current political impulse.

My main question is how do we make direct action, community organizing, and electoral work build upon each other?

We know that a more open approach to politics will make things better for many people. It will not be the solution, but will move things forward. As an example, there have been Mayors who make sure that police do not attack strikers and demonstrators. There are also elected officials, Senator Sanders as an example, who believe in many things that the 99% organizers believe.

We can move beyond "either/or" and get to "all and." This means that we will have to learn to listen to each other. We have to learn to communicate differently. To reach out and check in more often.

We'll make mistakes. And it is OK because this is the time to learn to be gentler with those fighting for social justice. We tend to be very hard on each other. It is time to move beyond that.

We have the opportunity now to discuss lots of things. Who has the privilege to camp, be arrested, travel to demonstrate, etc. And how to use that as an advantage. We have the chance to have conversations about class, race, gender and more with people have not had those conversations with.

We have the opportunity now to talk beyond individual issues. We have the opportunity to discuss changes in the systems and rules. Systems change after the rules change. You don't get different people at the table as long as you need to be a millionaire to buy a ticket. We get different policies by the combination of pressure and more representative decision-makers. We have had one good discussion at Camp Coyote about long-term electoral politics. Something beyond the current "progressive" approach. We need to have many, many more of those conversations.

We have the opportunity now to take many movements and turn it into movement! Many communities have been screwed by capitalism for many years. Like many problems now that it is impacting the white and middle-class it is a "crisis."And in many real respects it is a crisis for all of us.

This is a great time to be alive and working for social justice!

10/04/11 - Left Parties

2011-10-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at Camp Coyote there was a discussion of electoral politics and direct democracy. The electoral politics reviewed the reality that we currently do not have a federal level left party. We discussed needing work on that and how many electoral reforms will be necessary for that. Among the reforms necessary were same day registration, ballot access laws, and instant runoff voting.

Someone asked if there were differences in outcomes between proportional representation and "winner take all." The winner take all systems tend to have two parties, and lean more to the right in general when compared with proportional representation. Another idea presented was for those who do not participate in the primaries to register with a left political party. This will begin to build collective electoral action. Below are a list of left political parties recognized by NM.

Not all independents identify as left or right.

Independents:

Independent (IND)
Independent New Mexican Party (NMI)

Left:
La Raza Unida de Nuevo Mejico (LRU)
New Mexico Socialist Party (SNM)
New Party of New Mexico (PNM)
Peace and Freedom Party (PAF)
Socialist Labor Party (SLP)
Socialist Workers Party (SWP)
Worker's World Party (WWP)

Occupy Burque Day 2

2011-10-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

Schedule - Noon: Meeting
5:30PM Protest at Bank of The West (Central & San Mateo)

Now is a good time to build a broader movement that includes the intersection of class, race, gender and other oppressions. It is also a good time to build an understanding of the long-term nature of social change. It is a good time to talk about how to coordinate direct action and electoral work.

Ultimately we need to change the rules of the game. The US is not only the most economically unequal country but also a very non-democratic country. We need public financing, same day voter registration, and also instant runoff voting. We should strive for proportional representation. These changes seem small but they change power dynamics. These changes will improve voter turnout for the working class and people of color. With concentrated effort we can also ensure that the elected start to look more like the rest of us - more working people, more people of color, and more women.

This reduces poverty. It isn't the solution but we have two ways to work toward this. One is to fight item by item to improve our welfare state system or we can change the electoral system and then be able to fight from both inside AND outside.

The social and economic justice movement has an amazing boost of energy. How do we better coordinate direct and electoral action?

Occupy Burque Day 1

2011-10-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

The numbers mentioned ranged between 250 and 600. People in Solidarity with the rest of the Working Class and tired of Billionaire Bailouts came together!

Here are links to some of the media coverage:

Non-Violent Protest In Albuquerque

Raw AP Video

Occupy Burque

Voting Matters Blog

2011-09-29T22:55:00.000-07:00

A blog that is keeping up with voting issues in New Mexico. See what is going on with voting reform in Santa Fe. The City Councilors are the ones holding up electoral reform! Learn more at VotingMatters

MLK on Poverty (9/28/11)

2011-09-28T05:41:00.000-07:00

"There is nothing new about poverty. What is new, however, is that we have the resources to get rid of it. There is no deficit in human resources; the deficit is human will. The well-off and the secure have too often become indifferent and oblivious to the poverty and deprivation in their midst. The poor in our countries have been shut out of our minds, and driven from the mainstream of our societies, because we have allowed them to become invisible."

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Proportional Representation and Poverty

2011-09-27T01:16:00.000-07:00

David Brady argues that the welfare state structure and generosity are what strongest impacts poverty. For the welfare state to be strongly in favor of the poor requires a strong Left. Left is defined here as left political parties (socialist, social-democrat, and labor) and unions connected with the left. I would also argue that for the US organizations and movements dedicated to working to improve the situation where classism, racism, and sexism intersect will be important.

We also have to look at the reality that unions in the US tend to support a center-right party instead of left parties. Some people argue that the trick is to take over the Democratic Party and make it a left party. This seems to just accept the structure as is.

In most "winner take all" electoral systems there is a tendency to reduce to two parties. In theory we could have benefited from a right and left party. Instead the US has developed two right parties. Supporting Democrats with real left values is important and not enough.

Working toward proportional representation will be important. This can start with Instant Runoff Voting. This is not openly proportional representation. It does allow, however, for a voter to vote for their real interests without fear of "wasting" their vote.

Brady showed that the two things that influence the strength of the welfare state are a strong left and proportional representation. While there are some of us who have drank the "rugged individualism" kool-aid, not all have. We need to build these two institutions and also keep fighting on issues as possible.

Ultimately it may be that the goal is not to focus solely on issues. We will need to focus on changing systems. Learn about and promote Instant Runoff Voting! This will allow voters more choice and create political options.

We may have to start city by city. That is better than waiting for the right "change" candidate to come along. No one person can move the system. It will take all of us.

Amor y Rebeldia!

Politics of Poverty (9/26/11)

2011-09-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

In 2009 David Brady wrote Rich Democracies, Poor People: How Politics Explain Poverty. This is a useful book for all seekers of social justice as poverty is one of the most pervasive forms of violence in a country like the US. He breaks it down into both academic and straight forward language.

He uses statistics to show that the biggest influences on poverty are the welfare state, Left politics, and proportional representation. He talks about other things that are necessary and shows why politics influences the reasons behind some countries having 5% poverty and the US having 15% or more.

As an independent political party we will continue to discuss the political approach on our blog.

Living Wage NYC video

2011-07-18T12:26:00.001-07:00

Here is a good straight forward message:

http://youtu.be/HohOXvb2vKw

Living Wage Links

2011-07-06T15:37:00.000-07:00

Living Wage Calculator for Albuquerque

This calculator gives an idea of what a family needs to be fully out of poverty in Albuquerque/Bernalillo County. Please read it and share with your friends and family, either by email or post on your social media page.

Ohio's Minimum Wage Battle

2011-06-23T06:39:00.001-07:00

Ohio voters passed a constitutional amendment making increases in the minimum wage tied to inflation. The Ohio State Senate is working to exempt more people from minimum wage protections.

We need to keep track of this because La Raza Unida recently moved to support work toward a living wage.

Read more about this minimum wage constitutional amendment

PRIDE 2011

2011-06-11T16:22:00.000-07:00

La Raza Unida stood up for freedom for relationships and sexuality while standing against homophobia, racism, sexism, and classism at the Albuquerque Pride Parade today.

We had a small dedicated and lively group which helped to fire up

the crowd with yells of Viva La Raza and La Raza Unida, Jamas Sera Vencida!

We are clear that homophobia is used like racism, sexism and classism in order to keep us divided. We refuse to be confused about that and will stand in solidarity with all in fighting for justice.

Why I Support La Raza Unida by Federico Reade

2011-05-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

Para ser un miebro del Partido de la Raza Unida is to announce to the United States that the needs and desires of people have to be met. That the wealth and the countries resources have to be equitably, and that all of humankind deserves to live a satisfying life free of exploitation.

Federico

May Day 2011 Summary of Events

2011-04-27T19:10:00.000-07:00

May Day Event Summary

9AM

Casita Community Acupuncture: will be offering FREE acupuncture on May Day as part of the Community Acupuncture Network's 9th Annual May Day celebration! Thank you for joining us as we commemorate International Worker’s Day by offering free acupuncture to all patients on Sunday, May 1st-- 9am-1pm!!

9:30AM

Soccer Tournament
Teams have been created to have a May Day Soccer Tournament, teams need to meet at 9:30AM at the West Side Community Center, 1250 Isleta Blvd SW.

Noon

The Walk to Cure Capitalism will start at noon at La Plazita Institute, 831 Isleta SW and go to the West Side Community Center, 1250 Isleta SW. Please park at the empty lot on Lopez SW. Walking from the plazita near Lopez and Isleta is allowed as well. The purpose of the walk is to promote working class solidarity amongst all workers, – immigrant and citizen – to have fun, and to bring light to workers issues.

We ask marchers to please wear red and black.

1-5PM

Celebrating Our Victories and Continuing the Struggle Together.

At the West Side Community Center, 1250 Isleta Blvd SW. Picnic style!

Food, live music, DJ, jumpy jumps, kids' activities, soccer, face painting, games, raffles, and medical screening by Casa de Salud, tables, speeches, and lots and lots of fun!...

For more information call El Centro de Derechos Igualdad y Derechos 246-1627.

May Day 2011 Celebration

2011-04-26T22:41:00.001-07:00

May 1st Celebration - Celebrating Our Victories and Continuing the Struggle Together.

1-5PM at the West Side Community Center, 1250 Isleta Blvd SW. Picnic style!

Food, live music, DJ, jumpy jumps, kids' activities, soccer, face painting, games, raffles, and medical screening by Casa de Salud, tables, speeches, and lots and lots of fun!...

For more information call El Centro de Derechos Igualdad y Derechos 246-1627.

Walk to Cure Capitalism 2011

2011-04-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

We want to extend an invitation to all Working Class people and allies to participate in the "Walk to Cure Capitalism" and the May Day event planned at the Westside Community Center.

The walk will start at noon at La Plazita Institute, 831 Isleta SW and go to the West Side Community Center, 1250 Isleta SW. Please park at the empty lot on Lopez SW. Walking from the plazita near Lopez and Isleta is allowed as well.

The purpose of the walk is to promote working class solidarity amongst all workers, – immigrant and citizen – to have fun, and to bring light to workers issues. We ask marchers to please wear red and black.

The Facebook Cause for the Walk is: http://www.causes.com/causes/601804-walk-to-cure-capitalism

There is also an event at the Westside Community Center that begins at 1pm. There will be food, entertainment, games for the kids and the Casa de Salud (A non-insurance low-cost health center on the corner of Isleta and Arenal) will be offering a health fair. A co-ed soccer game is also scheduled and is $5 a-person with 5-8 players. There MUST be both men and women on the team. (Minimum age is 12.)

Here is a breakdown of events:

Monday April 24th: Planning meeting at Encuentro, 714 4^th St SW at 5PM. Translation avail.

Saturday April 30th: Sign making, 1PM at El Chante.

Sunday May 1st: 12-noon, Walk starts, 1pm, Event starts.

We know that capitalism cannot be "cured" - this is a lighthearted approach to the serious issues of right to organize, workers rights, income and power concentration, corporate encroachment upon our lives, immigrant rights issues and more!

Again, please wear red and black.

A 2011 May Day Call To Action 2

2011-04-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

If you are on FaceBook go to "Burque's May Day" or "Walk to Cure Capitalism" - there will be details on Albuquerque's International Workers Day events!

A 2011 May Day Call To Action

2011-03-16T18:22:00.000-07:00

The Bernalillo County La Raza Unida had been working with other groups for May Day events since the 1990s. Worker power and working class solidarity are the general themes. This year we will have an event for International Workers' Day around noon. Please save the date!

From another group:
This is a call to join a network of worker centers, community organizations, and labor unions to increase national participation and power on May Day 2011 to win good jobs, legalization, and equality for every worker. As we all know, Congress and state governments across the nation have begun to wage a relentless attack against all workers this year and in years to come, especially immigrant workers and workers of color. At the same time, the remarkable energy, turnout, and spirit seen five years ago on May 1, 2006 has yet to be duplicated.

Read more at http://maydayunited.org/2011/02/19/call-to-action/

We need to gain the spirit of the original May Day!

Stop the Wars - 3-19-11

2011-03-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

Endorsed by Bernalillo County La Raza Unida!

Please attend - wear red and black in solidarity with all working people!!!

New Mexico's First Independent State Legislator

2011-03-05T22:50:00.000-08:00

No one has been elected to the New Mexico legislature, other than Democratic and Republican nominees, since 1914, when the Socialist Party and the Progressive Party each elected a legislator. New Mexico did not even permit independent candidates to get on the ballot until 1977. The state was forced to provide procedures for independent candidates, because in 1976 independent presidential candidate Eugene McCarthy sued New Mexico over that aspect of its election law, and won the lawsuit.

Read more at Ballot Access News

A Way of Life by Enrique Cardiel

2011-01-24T17:49:00.000-08:00

I am registered with La Raza Unida because to me it represents my way of life. A way where we make sure that all have what they need to thrive and grow. A way were we have to be strong enough to take care of each other. We the idea of “we the people” taking care of our common welfare is a reality.

We need by the people and for the people to be a strong reality. The market is not providing jobs, housing, or quality health care. So we need to find ways to make that happen. The people who have chosen to register LRU are some of the most dedicated advocates and I am proud to stand with them to make the world a better place for all of us.

I will continue to be registered LRU because our government has chosen to redistribute the wealth toward the wealthiest of society. That needs to change, and it will not change without a strong people's movement and political parties that are openly for regular working people. We need a family friendly economy and real democracy! And I believe that's what LRU stands for!!!

Why I Support LRU by Robin Gibson

2011-01-23T19:51:00.000-08:00

I am a registered socialist. When I registered, I thought if everyone who turned 18, who didn’t feel Democrat or Republican, registered as a different party, whichever party most closely aligned to their ideologies, we could dispatch with the two-party system, and begin to create a government that represented what new voters really wanted for their country. I acted as my best instincts told me, and I’ve never regretted it.

Now, 17 years later, my political affiliation is mostly a point of personal pride. Some states in the U.S. have had an S.W.P. candidate for president on the ballot in recent years, but not New Mexico.

Two years ago, I got a postcard from Enrique Cardiel, inviting me to a gathering for “people registered with progressive parties.” Most of them were L.R.U., and I think there may have been a couple Greens there too. I was disappointed not to meet other Socialist Workers, but Enrique and co. explained to me that they were considered socialists for the most part, and he explained to me why.

“I think being socialist means we take care of each other,” he said, and that pretty much fit with everything I’ve been trying to verbalize about my idea of government. We choose to live together in communities, and we elect a government to make sure our communities are as productive as possible. We all pay dues (taxes) to pay for agreed upon necessities, like roads, schools, police, firefighters, etc., and we make sure that everyone in our community is cared for. The L.R.U. works to ensure everyone has access to the communal amenities their taxes have paid for. The L.R.U. works to ensure everyone is represented by our elected government.

Our taxes pay for the roads we drive on, the schools our children attend, the safety regulations that control the food we eat; the safety net that surrounds each of us when something terrible and unexpected happens. I am happy to pay for that safety net, because I see people every day who might fall, and I know I am no so far from the edge. The L.R.U. party works to ensure everyone has access to that safety net, even if they aren’t corporate lobbyists or high-dollar contributors to someone special’s campaign. I love the L.R.U.’s platform of The People. The People are the ones doing the work, paying the taxes, using the services. If the people we elect to represent us aren’t doing the job, we need to replace them with People Like Us, who WILL represent us.

Each of us, teacher, nurse, letter carrier, sanitation worker, administrative assistant, administrator, is a soldier on the ground. We live and work in the state and country governed by Santa Fe and Washington, D.C. We deserve to be led by people who live like us, think like us, who REPRESENT us. That is why I support L.R.U.

Voting as Part of Community Organizing by Roberto Martinez

2011-01-22T22:03:00.000-08:00

I became a member of La Raza Unida in 2003, after getting to know party members in Albuquerque who are also involved in other organizing efforts for social, environmental and economic justice. I am a member of the party because I'm tired of voting for the lesser of two evils, and want to do my part to elect good people who will represent my vision for a better world. But most importantly, I want to be part of a movement that uses voting as part of larger community organizing strategy to create justice for poor and working class communities.

I am Committed to the Party by Aurea Cardiel

2011-01-21T19:13:00.000-08:00

I am registered and I support La Raza Unida Party, because it reflects my values and beliefs. La Raza Unida represents community and caring for one another. It also is family friendly and keeps in mind future generations as well as the present generations, which is very important to me as a single mother. I want to make sure that this world is better for my son when he is grown and raising his children.

I also grew up with in this party. I was part of La Raza Unida Youth Committee and from that experience I have learned so much. I learned of past revolutions and revolutionaries, of my culture, of current issues facing our communities, and of life skills. La Raza Unida has been a big part of my growth as a community activist/organizer.

La Raza Unida has made a huge impact on who I am today, and that is why I am committed to the party.

Welcome Home By Rusita Avila

2011-01-20T18:12:00.000-08:00

I am from Albuquerque. I went away to school at 18 years old and gained my voice. I was extremely involved in student movements while at Brown University in Providence, RI. I developed more as a community organizer and was ready to fight all injustices every place they showed their ugly faces. I returned to Albuquerque in 1994 to find a void. I found my home with LRU.

I quickly got involved in LRU as a supporter and helped with the youth organizing. For a long time I was a “Democrat supporting LRU”. It took awhile to overcome the fear to commit to LRU as my political party.

I changed my party affiliation to LRU because of the party platform of supporting all people’s struggles and fighting against all injustices. LRU is inclusive and welcomes everyone. It’s important to me that it is family friendly, gay/lesbian/bisexual friendly, and puts at the forefront workers' rights. A living wage is the only way people can live.

I also like saying that I’m “La Raza Unida” whenever someone tries to get me sign up to vote or lobby a candidate or issue. It’s still in style!

In Lak Ech: Tú eres mi otro yo By Maria Brazil

2011-01-19T16:43:00.000-08:00

In Lak Ech: Tú eres mi otro yo. Si te hago daño a ti, Me hago daño a mí mismo. Sí te amo y respeto, Me amo y respeto yo.

You are my other me. If I do harm to you, I do harm to myself. If I love and respect you, I love and respect myself.

The Raza Unida Party represents the potential to reach this ancient concept that was taught through action by my parents and grandparents. The platforms that are presented by the LRU show these ideas as a way to move toward a more just and equal society. Without organization and an understanding of our past and present we cannot dream a future. The reasons that the LRU began still exist. Without a way to organize ourselves we are scattered. Third party options are needed as a way to truly be able to express our desire for a better world…more voices, better outcome. That's why I am registered LRU.

An Invitation to LRU by Maria Munguia

2011-01-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

I moved to Albuquerque ten years ago. Being invited to register LRU was, to me, an invitation to become part of a community of gente that cares about each other. I am passionate of many things in life, but being an advocate for social justice is the most compelling.

Because its Time! By Aine Brazil

2011-01-17T16:26:00.000-08:00

Because it is time for politicians to truly represent the people. It has been long enough that the public has had to choose between the better of two evils. It should not be like this. We as hard working people, deserve to vote for a party who we can actually count on to fight for us, and who we are proud to endorse. It is time for unity as working class people to come together and ask for what we need to nourish the education, heath care, economy, and environment of our community.

41st Anniversary of La Raza Unida

2011-01-17T16:20:00.000-08:00

Today marks the 41st Anniversary of La Raza Unida Party! And commemorating this on the Bernalillo County La Raza Unida blog will be the writings by members and supporters of La Raza Unida. They have written as to why they are registered LRU or why they are supporters of LRU.

The first post will go up later tonight!

1,000 Women March - Save the Date

2011-01-15T22:57:00.000-08:00

1000 Women March:
New Mexico Families on the Rise

Save the Date!

On February 11, 2011 women from communities throughout New Mexico will gather in Santa Fe to make our voices heard by the administration of Governor Susana Martinez.

One Proposal for Third Party Work

2011-01-12T12:11:00.000-08:00

Much of this relates to the work of LRU. Moving to unity and beyond sectarianism will be a major move forward for democracy. A multi-party democracy is possible and will improve our lives by increasing our voices!

Here is an excerpt...
"We need an alliance culture that is about respectful listening, cooperation and the common good (“an injury to one is an injury to all”), as distinct from the currently-dominant culture’s individualism, power-seeking and greed. Indeed, today’s right-wing culture has evolved into a mean-spirited, dishonest and violence-producing approach to politics that is a dangerous and very real threat to our common survival and progress. To the extent that we model a very different way of standing up for our beliefs in an organized way, to that extent will we win over large numbers of people and, over time, expose and isolate the ultra-rightists."

And here is a list of common demands that the author proposes, most of which are on the LRU platform:

*Debates that include all candidates,
*Proportional representation,
*Instant runoff voting,
*Campaign finance reforms,
*Tamper-proof and open-software computer voting machines,
*Abolishment of ‘corporate personhood,’
and Repeal of restrictive ballot access laws.

St. Paul to Implement Instant Runoff Voting

2011-01-08T23:24:00.000-08:00

St. Paul, Minnesota will be implementing an Instant Runoff Voting (IRV) approach that will allow up to 6 candidates to be ranked. This is an important change and by going up to six choices, there is a message of trusting voters to be able to deal with more than one, two or three choices. Often critics say this is too complicated, insulting the ability of voters.

Unemployment Kills

2011-01-04T08:47:00.000-08:00

It has been known since the 1800s. Yet we allow government and corporations to promote the idea that there is a need for unemployment, that it - like poverty - is inevitable. Neither poverty nor unemployment is a natural phenomenon. They are created by policies and actions of those in power.

In the US we talk about nearing a 10% unemployment without talking about the people who have been hidden. In the 1980s President Reagan took out the "discouraged worker" (those who have given up looking for work) from the number of unemployed. Some estimates are that these workers are another 10%. So in reality close to 1 in 5 workers is unemployed.

That is why full employment policies are good for health. Full employment policies are good for families. And Full employment policies are good for the economy.

It is working people who drive the economy. They don't make enough to hoard money away like the rich, so their income goes into products and services that keep people working. That's a reality that our corporate news doesn't promote. Unemployment kills - literally.

Beyond Elections Part 16

2011-01-03T17:14:00.000-08:00

A great summary for an important documentary on deepening our view of democracy.

Beyond Elections Part 15

2011-01-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

Democratizing Democracy! That decisions go beyond a hand full of people is a major shift. Much of the "Progressive" movement now doesn't question that it should be a handful. In fact their idea of "revolution" is to change the handful of decision makers to a nicer gentler type of decision makers.

Beyond Elections Part 14

2011-01-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

Given that in Brazil the Worker's Party has elected Brazil's first female President this video becomes more important to understand. And given that it takes a Worker Party candidate to declare the goal of ending poverty while neo-liberal and neo-conservative parties take poverty as a permanent part of the landscape it will be interesting to watch how "liberal" countries (US, Canada, Australia, and England) respond to her and working-class policies!

Beyond Elections Part 13

2010-12-31T09:31:00.000-08:00

As we end the year it is great to look at what we call "Democracy" and go beyond what we have in the US. Getting more turnout is one part.

Two Rhode Island Legislators Want December Run-Offs When No One gets 50% in November

2010-12-30T08:24:00.000-08:00

Two Rhode Island legislators say they will introduce a proposed state constitutional amendment in 2011, providing that when no one in a November election for federal or state office gets as much as 50% of the total vote, the state will hold a run-off in December. See this story.

One wonders if the two legislators are aware of alternate election systems that would solve the problem they perceive, without adding to the expense and probable poor voter turnout in their proposed December run-offs.

The article mentions that the Attorney General’s race last month is an example of a race in which no one got 50% in November. In that race, the vote was: Democartic 43.1%; Republican 29.0%; Moderate Party 14.4%; two independent candidates, one of whom polled 9.6% and the other 4.0%.

* * *
It is possible that Instant Runoff Voting could be a cheaper answer!

Beyond Elections Part 12

2010-12-30T08:18:00.000-08:00

If you appreciate the irony of anti-democratic individuals and institutions attacking democratic practices then this is a good section to watch...

Dec, 2010 Ballot Access News

2010-12-29T07:42:00.001-08:00

This newsletter has some very important news stories. Below is a sample.

2010 WAS BEST MID-TERM ELECTION FOR MINOR PARTY AND INDEPENDENT CANDIDATES IN OVER 75 YEARS

OCTOBER 2010 REGISTRATION TOTALS

MORE DEBATES ARE INCLUSIVE

MINOR PARTY PARTISAN WINS

INSTANT RUNOFF VOTING NEWS

Beyond Elections Part 11

2010-12-29T06:16:00.000-08:00

Beyond Elections Part 10

2010-12-28T08:05:00.000-08:00

One of the most important components if we are to have real democracy - Social Movements!

Beyond Elections Part 9

2010-12-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

Beyond Elections Part 8

2010-12-17T07:32:00.001-08:00

Beyond Elections Part 7

2010-12-15T23:23:00.001-08:00

College, Jobs and Inequality NYT

2010-12-14T08:36:00.000-08:00

Education is important and vital, but not sufficient. We need to promote education AND promote policies which support our way of life where people have fair opportunities, and fair opportunities for participation. Just like there is more to democracy than elections, there is more to economic opportunities than a degree.

From the NYT article College, Jobs and Inequality

College is still the path to higher-paying professions. But without a concerted effort to develop new industries, the weakened economy will be hard pressed to create enough better-paid positions to absorb all graduates.

And to combat inequality, the drive for more college and more jobs must coincide with efforts to preserve and improve the policies, programs and institutions that have fostered shared prosperity and broad opportunity — Social Security, Medicare, public schools, progressive taxation, unions, affirmative action, regulation of financial markets and enforcement of labor laws.

Beyond Elections Part 6

2010-12-14T07:18:00.000-08:00

This section starts by talking about reducing hierarchy and increasing participation. We often wonder why there is such low voter turnout in the US, it seems obvious that our "winner-take-all" electoral system along with the representative nature of politics does not inspire people to participate. People want more power and control over their lives. Decades of using the term "democracy" has raised expectations. And rightfully so!

The discussion about the difference between an elected representative and a spokesperson is a stretch for many of us, but something to consider deeply. The discussion about taking and internalizing and doing the work for democracy is important as well. We have become so accustomed to voting and waiting for the next election that all of this seems odd. But real democracy will be really challenging work.

Beyond Elections Part 5

2010-12-12T08:06:00.001-08:00

This section goes into the communal councils created in Venezuela. While there was some organic development of this process, it really took off with an official change in electoral power. This is another example of where elections and grassroots can work together to create real community power.

In the sections on communal councils there is some discussion of the improvement over their old neighborhood association structure. This may be of value for people doing work on this level in the US. Neighborhood associations are important but often not inclusive or engaging. There is definitely work to be done on that front.

Georgia Prisoners Continue Strike for Second Day

2010-12-11T21:01:00.000-08:00

Georgia prisoners continue their strike. The strike is for basic rights in a state that does not pay for prison labor. It is important to note that prisoners of various backgrounds are working in solidarity within a system that uses racism to keep people divided.

And ironically the Georgia prison system chose to respond to a work stoppage by locking down the prison. When the imprisoned do not work they need to stay in their cells anyway. This seems like a cheap tactic for the benefit of the corporate media.

The prison system is showing its true colors by cutting out hot water and turning off the heat, even though the temperatures are in their 30s. According to Common Dreams, "Prisoners are demanding, in their own words, decent living conditions, adequate medical care and nutrition, educational and self-improvement opportunities, just parole decisions, just parole decisions, an end to cruel and unusual punishments, and better access to their families."

The Georgia Green Party is urging negotiations in order to resolve the situation. More solidarity is necessary to put pressure on the Georgia incarceration system.

Overview of State Legislative Elections from BAN

2010-12-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

From Ballot Access News:

Tim Storey has this comprehensive summary of the results of state legislative elections, including a map that shows which major party controls each state’s legislature. Unfortunately, the article does not mention that independents or minor party members were elected to state legislatures in ten states this year.

***

This article like many avoid dealing with the anti-democratic nature of the "winner take all" electoral system which limits choices for voters which is a huge part of the low voter turnout. And given that more and more people are feeling that the two parties are serving the rich at the cost of the working people of the United States, more are proposing a progressive split from the Dems.

It will be tough for any changes in power without structural changes in the electoral system. The question is how do we achieve those types of changes. We need either a major uprising of the population or truly pro-democratic, and inclusive elected officials to be a large enough group to make the changes. Until then we need to find cracks in the systems we interact with to practice real democracy that includes the excluded.

Beyond Elections Part 4

2010-12-11T06:18:00.001-08:00

Beyond Elections Part 3

2010-12-10T09:04:00.000-08:00

This video is inspiring. What is most amazing is that some of the most "progressive" voices in the US do not ever discuss opening up democracy. Instead they usually talk about multiple parties acting as "spoilers." If they were truly progressive and truly democratic they would work toward widening and deepening our democratic foundations.

Georgia Prisoners on Strike

2010-12-09T22:39:00.001-08:00

Georgia prisoners are on strike. In an incredibly historic action, black, brown and white prisoners in the dreadful prison system of the state of Georgia have gone on a one day strike.

Breaking Ground

2010-12-08T21:55:00.000-08:00

A group worked to create urban gardening guidelines for the International District in Burque.

Beyond Elections Part 2

2010-12-08T16:50:00.000-08:00

It is amazing that they share this!

If only the supposedly "progressive politicians" would get us to this type of democracy. It is obvious that electoral representation only is not enough!

Rachel Maddow on Billionair Bailout

2010-12-07T21:16:00.000-08:00

This increasing of economic inequities will increase social and health inequities as well.

Beyond Elections Part 1

2010-12-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

Stop Tax Giveaways!

2010-12-05T20:28:00.000-08:00

Those elected to represent the people are choosing to represent the rich. Extending the tax giveaways to the millionaires and billionaires while hundreds of thousands of families are losing their unemployment benefits during the winter is nothing short than criminal. Unfortunately it seems that the 98% of working people really don't matter.

Hopefully unemployment benefits will be raised for at least as long as the tax giveaways are!

The fact that "middle-class" is already being defined as $60,000 a year and above should let most of us know what we do not talk about most of the time. Many of us are working-class. Working people, working families, working-class. It is time that everyone has a fair chance to support their families. One way to make that happen is to stop redistributing wealth from working people to the rich!

Albuquerque Youth Health Summit 12/4/10

2010-12-04T21:01:00.000-08:00

The Albuquerque Youth Building Health Communities project held their Youth Health Summit today. Representatives of La Raza Unida, Young Women United, SWOP and other groups were there to discuss health from a youth perspective and also talk about solutions.

The group will continue to process the information and look for a project to follow through on. It was very exciting to discuss health from a social justice perspective. These youth may truly be the future!

Alabama Voting Rights Fighter Dies at the Age of 100

2010-12-03T19:22:00.000-08:00

Alabama Voting Rights fighter dies at 100.

Annie Lee Cooper fought figuratively and literally for her right to vote. She has been recognized in various ways. She passed on after turning 100.

Project HEALTH

2010-11-30T07:32:00.000-08:00

We can support innovative models like Project HEALTH, which empowers doctors to remove the social barriers that prevent people from taking the actions they need to be healthy. They literally write prescriptions for food or heating assistance for struggling families, or stable housing for a single mom that does not exacerbate her son's asthma. A dedicated team of college volunteers then helps connect vulnerable patients to local resources that can immediately benefit their health.

We can apply new public health tools at our disposal to see the potential health benefits and consequences of new projects and policies. If Denver decided to expand its light rail system, for example, it would make sense to conduct a health impact assessment, an analysis that would consider questions like, "Will people walk more in getting to and from the rail stop?" This happened in Charlotte, N.C., where people who began to regularly ride the rails lost, on average, six to seven pounds.

...

We need a fundamental change in how we think about health. A nationwide commitment in which each sector - transportation, business , education, housing - assesses the health effects of their plans and programs and creates ways to help people live healthier lives. The community development arm of the Federal Reserve Board is doing just that; its July conference focused squarely on the health implications of housing development.

Read more about Project HEALTH here and here.

Dr. Raphael - How Inequality Makes us Sick

2010-11-28T07:40:00.000-08:00

"Why should inequality, perhaps the biggest factor affecting the health of populations,
be so bad for us? In a big gap society, those lower down the ladder experience more
chronic stress than those towards the top. We are beginning to understand how this stress
produces ill health, in large part mediated through hormones released by the adrenal
glands.

Inequality concepts relate to the quality of social and human relations produced by the
structure of society which in our era are largely determined by measures of hierarchy. We
tend to associate with people like ourselves, most of us do not have friends who are either
much richer or much poorer than we are. As a young boy, growing up in the 1950s in East
York, a part of Toronto, I lived in a working class neighbourhood and did not consider
myself disadvantaged. My father repaired shoes, and my friends’ parents were similar
workers. When I went to the University of Toronto, I became aware of hierarchy in
Canada, as my classmates came from more privileged backgrounds than mine. I began
to feel poor. Today with lifestyles of the rich and famous always in the media we don‘t
compare ourselves to just our friends anymore but to the many achievers and the wealthy
who are constantly in our face. Finding ourselves down the ladder, our sense of self-worth,
our ability to control our lives and our access to what is considered essential for health,
suffers. Not only do we not do as well, but society’s health suffers.

Modern societies, unless held in check, tend to share income and wealth unfairly.

...

The kinds of positive societal changes that will produce health improvements will only
come from popular pressure on the forces of wealth and power. Canadians must continue
to maintain and strengthen their unique society, one that values cultural diversity and social
justice. Many prescriptions for dealing with health problems are outlined herein, but none
of them will be given to you by your doctor. We are all affected by this dis-ease, and must
work together to take this remedy through the democratic process."

Read the entire report - Social Justice Is Good For Our Hearts

Iceland to Democratically Review Constitution

2010-11-27T10:32:00.000-08:00

Iceland will have elected members of its society to review and upgrade its Constitution. This is the only time any country has used this direct democracy approach to its constitution. It will be an interesting example for the world.

RIP David Nolan - Multi-Party Democracy Advocate

2010-11-27T10:28:00.000-08:00

The November 23 edition of the New York Times has a lengthy and respectful obituary for David Nolan. The obituary is also notable for seeming to suggest that minor parties have an important influence on the free circulation of ideas, even when they are not numerically strong.

The Washington Post obituary also has some of the characteristics of the Times obituary.

From Ballot Access News

Invisibility of Poverty in Diabetes Research

2010-11-27T09:12:00.000-08:00

Chaufan and Weitz write an important article pointing out that poverty as a cause of disease is ignored in academic research. They also point out that there is at least a 200 year tradition showing this to be the case. Poverty is ignored because it would make academics and others have to deal with how we benefit from the power dynamics that create poverty.

Dealing with these dynamics would require academics and public health workers have to face their role in the maintenance of poverty and disenfranchisement. Or, in an attempt to appear more academic researches focus on individual cause and effects which can be easily manipulated in a manageable experiment. Either way this leads to what the authors state as "business as usual."

They also point out that working for changes is one possible option. They suggest that living wages, affordable housing, and health care as a right will have greater impact than attempting to change individual behaviors. They also suggest that researchers look at the role of poverty as a cause of disease and propose structural changes to society that make the population healthier.

Some of these health improving changes are electoral, others are economic. Either way, it is important to begin to look at poverty as a structure which makes people sick. Then we can look at politics as one of many methods to make people healthier!

Register! Vote! Organize Raza Unida!

2010-11-25T11:39:00.001-08:00

"In first-past-the-post, the electorate is divided into a number of districts, each of which selects one person to fill one seat by a plurality of the vote. First-past-the-post is not conducive to a proliferation of parties, and naturally gravitates toward a two-party system, in which only two parties have a real chance of electing their candidates to office. This gravitation is known as Duverger's law. Proportional representation, on the other hand, does not have this tendency, and allows multiple major parties to arise.

A two-party system requires voters to align themselves in large blocs, sometimes so large that they cannot agree on any overarching principles. Along this line of thought, some theories argue that this allows centrists to gain control. On the other hand, if there are multiple major parties, each with less than a majority of the vote, the parties are strongly motivated to work together to form working governments. This also promotes centrism, as well as promoting coalition-building skills while discouraging polarization." From wikipedia Multi-Party System article.

41st and 17th Anniversaries

2010-11-23T20:46:00.000-08:00

La Raza Unida Party will have its 41st anniversary on January 17th. That has transformed largely to el Partido Nacional de La Raza Unida. That organization is a directly descended organization of the original LRUP. The chairpersons have been from Texas, New Mexico, and California.

The Bernalillo County La Raza Unida (LRU) started on August 29, 1993 in the County's South Valley. The La Raza Unida Youth Committee was a major focus of that initial effort. The voter registration part of that effort follows under el Partido de La Raza Unida de Nuevo Mexíco. The Bernalillo County La Raza Unida (LRU) is working to build a strong voice for electoral, social, and economic justice by combining community, cultural and electoral work.

The South Valley Dia de Los Muertos Marigold Parade is one aspect of this. The voter registration aspect is another.

Register! Vote! Organize Raza Unida!

US Desires Third Party

2010-11-22T06:58:00.000-08:00

"Given the lack of alternatives, it perhaps is no surprise that Americans' desires for a third party are as high as they've been in at least the last seven years. And while the formation of an official third party is not imminent, that desire may be manifested in voters' strong anti-incumbent sentiments this year."

While there are significant barriers to third party development put in place by corporate sponsored parties this desire cannot be denied forever. A multi-party democracy would have better voter turnout, be more representative, and would reduce much of the useless deadlock of our current system. You can register La Raza Unida by putting "LRU" in box 5 of your NM Voter Registration Form.

Ricardo Flores Magón - 2010

2010-11-21T17:56:00.001-08:00

88 years ago Ricardo Flores Magón died in Ft. Leavenworth prison. He never broke from his ideals and paid the ultimate price. Someone that truly fought for freedom and liberty for all!

The roots of many movements and organizations pass through the Partido Liberal Mexicano and the Magonistas. As their saying that was used by Zapatistas went ¡TIERRA Y LIBERTAD!

¡Recuerda Ricardo Flores Magón!

Feliz Dia de La Revolucion - 2010

2010-11-20T08:53:00.000-08:00

100 years ago, Mexicanos stood up to fight tyranny and corruption! Let us hope we can live up to such high ideals in our own ways! Viva La Revolución!

Register! Vote! Organize Raza Unida!

Health Equity in the United States

2010-11-19T07:54:00.000-08:00

On average, people in the United States die much younger and suffer worse health, as well as endure serious societal dysfunction, compared to people in other rich nations. The usual explanation is that we engage in too many adverse personal health behaviours and do not have access to the right medicines. Presenting the evidence that personal behaviours affect only a small fraction of our health status as a population leads to 'but....' responses. The idea that health care has limited impact on mortality measures in societies is not believable to most people, regardless of their level of education or even their experience or training in health care.

Read More on Health Equity in the United States

If You Are Hungy Are You Free?

2010-11-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

That's the interesting question asked on the Thom Hartmann community blog. While we talk about people having television and cell phones as measures of the quality of life we often leave out other important issues such as nourishment.

More on Keeping the Net Free

2010-11-17T13:47:00.001-08:00

Federal Communications Commissioner Michael Copps spoke to hundreds of supporters about the need for net neutrality Tuesday evening at the Albuquerque Journal Theater at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

Net neutrality is the principle that all content on the internet should be treated equally, and that internet service providers cannot discriminate between different types of content.

"When broadcast came about the corporation said 'trust us.' When previous FCC commissions removed limits on media consolidation we were told 'trust us.' With this new medium they are saying 'trust us,'" Copps said.

Andrea Quijada, the Executive Director of the Media Literacy Project, served as the MC for the evening. She shared how an open internet is needed for the most basic of services.

"With 30 of our 33 counties being medically underserved, we know that the internet is not just about civic participation," Quijada said. "With a state poverty rate at 19 percent we know that the internet is not just about access."

New Mexico Fighting to Keep Internet Open

2010-11-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

Residents in and around Albuquerque, N.M., will gathered yesterday for a town hall meeting to discuss the future of broadband Internet legislation. The meeting, the second such event in less than six months, comes at a difficult time in the battle over how open the Internet will remain. The FCC has largely gone silent on the issue, and prospects for regulatory legislation in next year’s Congress now appear dim.

North Carolina uses Instant Runoff Voting (IRV)

2010-11-17T08:49:00.000-08:00

This fall North Carolina held the first statewide general election with instant runoff voting (IRV) in the nation’s history to fill federal judge Jim Wynn’s vacancy in on the Court of Appeals. Three Superior Court vacancies were also filled with instant runoff voting. The statewide vacancy election drew 13 candidates; the three Superior Court races each drew three candidates.

Before 2006, such judicial vacancies created between the primary and Labor Day of an election year were filled with a single election by plurality voting. With that system, voters cast one vote, and the candidate with the most votes won, no matter how low his or her percentage of the total vote. In 2004, a statewide vacancy to the North Carolina Supreme Court was won with 23%. IRV requires winners to demonstrate more support if they do no win a majority of first choice rankings. (See www.ncvotes123.com)

From what we know of these IRV elections, voters seemed to have handled instant runoff voting well, which is a credit to state and local elections officials. Anecdotal reports from election officials have been positive. For instance, Carteret County Board of Elections director Lindy Lewis said yesterday toward the end of Election Day: “"We haven't had a phone call from a precinct official or voter (regarding the instant runoff) which makes me feel good about that.”

Read More