Archive for June 8th, 2014
LFC
RIP General Baker 1941-2014. Yuri Kochiyama 1921-2014
We’ve lost two more stalwarts in the ongoing struggle for a new world of peace and social justice: General Baker and Yuri Kochiyama.
Our hearts go out to Marian Kramer, Gen’s wife and comrade and their children and grandchildren.
The last time General and I talked was four years ago on June 19, 2010. It was the night before the opening of the 2nd US Social Forum.
We laughed as we recalled the heady days of the 1960s.
We talked about Continue Reading »
Thinking for ourselves
By Shea Howell
Beyond Pensions
Week 61 of the Occupation of Detroit
June 3, 2014
The dictatorial running of our city distorts our ability to think and discuss the kind of future we want for ourselves and our children. Currently, we engaged in an outrageously brutal, sham process of public decision-making.
Across the country more than 32,000 individuals are receiving ballots to vote on the future of their retirement plans. This vote is complicated, misleading, unclear, and mismanaged.
First, there is no “No.” Voting against the plan does not stop the bankruptcy process. Nor does it protect pensioners from cuts. It is a forced choice among bad alternatives. Some changes, like reductions in health care benefits, have already taken place, regardless of the vote.
Secondly, pensioners are told voting No is not an option. EM Orr reiterated in Mackinac his long held position that the current offer to pensioners is the best there is. He said. “If we do not get this plan through, if we have to go back to the drawing board, the cuts will be severe, and we will not be able to be as compassionate, which is what we want to do.”
Orr’s credibility is nil. His compassion is hollow and his take it or leave it stance, is like that of a schoolyard bully.
He was sent back, twice, by the court to re-negotiate with the banks because he offered them too much money. It is difficult to believe him when he says this is the best deal in town. Continue Reading »
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