Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events


Thurs., March 21

Des Moines

WILPF Des Moines will be Hosting our annual March Soup Supper

What: Please join us for our March WILPF meeting and annual soup supper.  Enjoy some warm soup and good conversation thisThursday evening!!  *** Please bring your own table service***(We always have extra if you forget - so don't let that keep you from attending!)  We will be talking about the International Declaration of Human Rights 75 years in (and what may need updating etc.) for the program portion of our meeting. Are they honored here at home? In Gaza? 

When:  6:15 p.m. We will begin eating at 6:15 & the program begins at 7:00 p.m.  We also will hear from Maria Reveiz on her recent trip to Egypt to assist fleeing refugees from Gaza.  Following a break at 7:40 p.m. we will hold an abbreviated business meeting.

Where:  Polk County Senior Center at 2008 Forest Ave. 

More:  Please invite friends, family, comrades, and allies!  All Are welcome! 


Sat., March 9 through Sat., March 23

Online

“Women and War” virtual Film Festival by Campaign Nonviolence/ Pace e Bene

What:  Marking International Women’s Day (March 8), this year’s “Women & War” virtual film festival from March 9-23, 2024, explores the intersection of women, war, and militarized masculinity.

Where:  See more info here.


Sat., March 23

Online

Challenging Conversations: Tools for Navigation

What:  From DC Peace Teams

When:  11-2 pm CST/  12-3pm ET.

Where:  Details and registration here


Sun., March 24

Des Moines

Palm Sunday Procession and Service for Peace

What:  There will be a Procession and Prayer Service for Peace.  We will gather our voices in support of justice and peace.  We will lift our voices and prayers calling for a cease fire and diplomacy in Palestine/ Israel and Ukraine/ Russia; an end to war and sanctions that kill in Iran, N. Korea, Syria, and Yemen; and for an end to violence here at home.

When:  Procession will begin at 3 pm.  Prayer Service begins at 3:30 pm.

Where:  Procession will begin at Corinthian Baptist Church at 814 School Street, and end at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 600 6th Ave. for the Service.

More:  This ecumenical service is one of a series organized over the last twenty years by the D.M. Faith Committee for Peace.  Because U.S. involvement in the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Yemen has not ended, and because the waging of wars in Palestine and Ukraine continues, this is a time to lament the terrible losses of war and the national resources spent on warring and preparing for war.  It is also a time to be concerned about the mounting call for increased militarization as the solution to conflict at home and abroad.  The prayer service will express a vision of peace and justice and a position against violence and war.  We will remember the true meaning of Palm Sunday and renew our commitment to be instruments of God’s justice and peace.

Organized by:  D.M. Faith Committee for Peace

Cosponsors: Includes Iowa Peace Network


Register now!  First CPT (Community Peacemaker Teams) delegation:  Sat., March 23- Sat., 30, 2024

Around the world

Delegations with CPT’s to places around the world

What:  Join a CPT delegation in 2024 for a first-hand experience of CPT’s on-the-ground experiment in non-violence:

When and Where:  Colombia-   March 23 – 30, 2024 (Spanish),    July 8 – 17, 2024 (English)

Iraqi Kurdistan-   May 1 – 14, 2024

Lesvos- September 17 – 27, 2024

Palestine-  February 20 – 28, 2024,  May 10 – 18, 2024, Delegation 3: TBA, October 22 – November 1, 2024

Turtle Island- TBA

More:  Click here for more info


Plan Now for Mon., April 15

Plan in your location!

Tax Day Protest

What:  Tax Day is soon approaching! IPN and NWTRCC (National War Tax Resistance Coordinating  Committee) would love to know about your plans for tax day. Email IPN at iowapeacenetwork@gmail.com.  Email link for NWTRCC is below.

When:  up to you!

Where:  Up to you! 

More:  Leave a message with NWRCC here.


Plan now: April 22 through May 1

Your location!

Peace and Planet events- plan one in your community!  From Campaign Nonviolence/ Pace e Bene

What:  Right now, humans are the most dangerous creature on Earth. It’s up to us to change that.

From April 22 to May 1, we invite you to take action with us to unite the issues of Peace & Planet. War, militarism, environmental destruction, and the climate crisis are all forms of violence. They are linked in terrible ways: War destroys the environment. Climate instability triggers wars. Wars are fought for oil. The Pentagon is the single-largest institutional user of fossil fuels.

But the solutions are connected, too. We all want to live in a world of peace on a living planet. That vision is worth taking action for!

Join us in organizing in one of three ways:

Option 1: Peace & Planet Solidarity—take the message ofpeace to an Earth Day event near you.

Option 2: Climate & Militarism—take action to stop warfrom destroying the planet.

Option 3: Celebrate Peace & Planet With Children—usecreativity and the arts to help children lift up their vision for a peaceful,living Earth.  NOTE:  these are all from the same document- different sections of the document highlight the different options.

Tell us you’ll do something here (you don’t need to know all the details). Learn more in our toolkit (see links above.)

Want to brainstorm ideas? Our staff member Alisha wants to talk with you. Book a 1:1 session with Alisha or email them at: alishafoster@paceebene.org.


Sign up Now:  Course starts Mon., May 6

Online

The People Power & Peace course from Campaign Nonviolence/ Pace e Bene

What:  The People Power and Peace Course will delve into remarkable stories of nonviolent action, including the powerful narrative of Pray the Devil Back To Hell. In 2001, the women of Liberia united to halt the Second Liberian Civil War, showcasing the remarkable potential of collective action to end conflict.

When:  A six week course:  Starts Monday, May 6, and goes through Mon., June 17

Where:  Read more here.


Register now:  Thurs., April 18 through Fri., April 26

Philippines

You're invited to visit Nonviolent Peaceforce in the Philippines!

What:  Journey with NP (Nonviolent Peaceforce)  staff to the beautiful islands of the Philippines. You’ll witness first-hand the powerful work of safety and peace of the NP Philippines team, in partnership with the local community, key decision-makers, and parties to the peace process in the region of Mindanao.  Along the way we will enjoy all the Philippines has to offer in terms of hospitality, cultural sights, stunning waters, and delicious food! This 9-day trip will take place the third and fourth weeks of April, beginning in Manila on Thursday, April 18 and ending on Friday, April 26.

When and Where and More:  View the full itinerary, trip cost, and other details here.

Contact:  Interested? Contact Anna Zaros at azaros@nonviolentpeaceforce.org


Tues., March 26

Online and in person

“We need ourselves”: Peacebuilding within Myanmar’s People’s Revolution

 What:   Myanmar is ranked as the world’s most violent and ‘fragmented’ armed conflict, with hundreds of small militias contesting the military’s February 2021 coup. It is also among the world’s most overlooked and least understood.

When:  6-8 pm CST/ 7-9 ET

Where:  We invite the community to join EMU, on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 to learn more about current happenings in Myanmar. Attend on campus in Strite Conference Center, (Campus Center Room 105), or virtually online via zoom.  Click here to register.

More:  This is a free event!

This symposium will explore what is happening in Myanmar today: a People’s Revolution waged through nonviolent resistance, armed revolt and through historic efforts to create new and inclusive governance structures growing out of a revolution in culture and solidarity across divides. Peacebuilding is infusing this revolution, even as Myanmar’s peoples come under sustained attack.


Wednesdays; next date is Wed., March 27

Online

Weekly Prayer Meetings with CMEP (Churches for Middle East Peace)

What:  We continue to host weekly events, with prayer meetings on Wednesdays.

When:  11:30 am to 12 pm CST/  at 12:30 - 1:00 pm EST

Where:  Click here to join.


Thurs., March 28

Online

Food and Water Team Iowa March Meeting

What:  Iowa has become ground zero for the agribusiness and fossil fuel industries’ newest greenwashing tactics. Corporations like Summit Carbon Solutions stand to make billions by piping liquefied CO2 emissions from Iowa ethanol plants to oil fields in North Dakota, putting the safety of water, land, and people along the path in grave danger. Ethanol and factory farm biogas also threaten our health and safety.

Join our next Food & Water Team Iowa meeting on Thursday, March 28, to learn all about these dangerous false solutions!

When: Thursday, March 28, 6:30 p.m.

Where: On Zoom! RSVP for the link to join.


 Thursdays; next date is Thurs.,March 28

Online

Palestine briefings with CMEP (Churches for Middle East Peace)

What:   Thursday briefings Both of these meetings are led by CMEP staff, so join for a time of education and encouragement. Likewise, you can still join us in calling your congressperson. All of the tools you need to advocate can be found here. More about what you can do in this time of crisis is on our GAP Page.

When:  9 -9:30 am CST/ 10 - 10:30 am EST

Where:  Click here to join.


Fri., March 29

Earlham, IA

Good Friday Drama

What: “Judas, Come Home. All is Forgiven” is a drama adapted from the book, “The Gospel According to Judas,” written by Ray Anderson, the contemporary theologian and long-time professor of theology at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California.

Anderson is known as the theologian who never ceased being a pastor. His work speaks directly to the heart, tapping into emotions and intellect with great intention.

A Gospel writing tells a story from the viewpoint of a specific person. Anderson sidesteps the usual Good Friday liturgy and invites us into a conversation between Jesus and Judas in the aftermath of betrayal. How we interpret Judas’s role on the last night of Jesus’ life says a lot about how we interpret Grace. As the conversation unfolds, we are taken back to the very beginning of their relationship and then journey with them through the resurrection. Anderson poses the questions: How might things have been different if Judas had waited until the third day? Is it possible that Jesus might have appeared to him as he did the other disciples?

Beautifully and carefully constructed, “Judas Come Home, All is Forgiven” is an opportunity to hear the sacred scriptures in a new light. It is a window into possibility that we might not consider otherwise. It gives insight to our own shortsightedness while simultaneously filling us with hope. The drama includes music that moves us and a thought-provoking script that challenge the status-quo.

When:  6:30 pm

Where:  Earlham Friends Church-  located uptown at 115 NE 2 nd Street, Earlham.

More:  The Earlham Friends Church welcomes professional producer and actor, Grant Gale, to play the part of Jesus. Gale is the Technical Director at the Iowa-based film company, Bella Luna Productions, LLC. Grant is a seasoned actor, talented cameraman, and highly regarded film maker. His list of recent films include “Little Johnny Jewel,” “Mania,” and “Red.” Grant starred alongside actress Rebecca Haroldson in “Dream Time,” (2023) which earned accolades for Best Original Screenplay (Frida Film Festival, Paris), Best Director (Frida Film Festival, Paris; Art Award Spirit Award, Toronto), and Best Actress nomination (Stockholm City Film Festival, Stockholm.)

Judas will be played by local resident, Pastor Craig Marshall. “Judas Come Home, All is Forgiven” was adapted for the stage by local author, Judith Kay (Easley-Marshall.)

All are welcome. Communion will be offered at the close of the production.


Sat., March 30

Online

Election Situations: Bystander Intervention

What:  Training from DC Peace Teams

When:  9 am to 12 pm CST/ 10am-1pm ET

Where:   Details and registration here.


Next date:  Sun., March 31

Iowa City

Order Afghan food from the Azizi Afghan food business

What:  The Azizi Afghan food business is open for orders for these winter dates:

Sunday March 31

If you want multiple orders of something, please state that in your email request.  For instance, if you want enough Qabili (rice with carrots and raisins) for 3 people, ask for 3 servings.  Send your email order to Afghanfood22@gmail.com.  For description of food available, email iowapeacenetwork@gmail.com.  IPN can forward pictures and descriptions of the menu.

When and Where:  Orders can be picked up at the Azizi house (1625 DeForest, near Mark Twain School) between 11:00-1:00 unless you make other arrangements.

 More:  The Azizi family are refugees from Afghanistan who came to Iowa City through a sponsorship circle of local individuals. This small food business is an important part of the Azizi family becoming economically independent, so many thanks for your support.  Payment is by donation.

Contact: If you have questions, contact Carol at 614-448-8949.

 

Fri., April 5- Sun., April 7

St. Paul, MN

UNAC (United Nat’l Antiwar Coalition) Conference

What:  This Conference is titled: “Decolonization and the fight against Imperialism”  It is a conference for the entire movement.   As we have seen the horrific events in Gaza and the imperialist debacle in Ukraine, the US pushes ahead with threats aimed at China and any country that will not accept its domination. Now is the time for us to come together as a movement to assess the period we are in and plan for the future.

When:  See more info at registration (see below).

Where:  Join us at the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront Hotel located on East Kellogg Boulevard in Saint Paul, MN, USA.  Register here.


Sat., April 6

Des  Moines

(CPM’s) Catholic Peace Ministry’s Bishop Dingman Award Celebration 

What:  The Catholic Peace Ministry is happy to announce the 26th annual Dingman Award Celebration. The celebration is scheduled for Saturday, April 6.

When:  Social Hour with hors d'oeuvres and desserts starts at 6pm.  Award Program starts at 7:30pm

Where:  Holy Trinity Catholic Church 2926 Beaver Ave Des Moines

More:  We are thrilled to announce the 2024 Bishop Dingman Award Recipients are

Sister Jeanie Hagedorn and Sister Elaine Hagedorn

We are honored to have Bishop Kennetha Bigham-Tsai give the keynote address at this special event.

Bishop Bigham-Tsai is Bishop of the Iowa Episcopal Area, United Methodist Church.  More information to come in the weeks ahead.


Tues., April 9- Thurs., April 11

Washington DC

CMEP Annual Advocacy Summit

What:  Join Us in Washington, DC as we mark Four Decades of Pursuing Peace at our annual Advocacy Summit from April 9-11, 2024. Spend time looking back at CMEP's 40 year history while hearing how CMEP will continue its work to advocate for peace and justice for all in the Middle East. You will also have a chance to advocate directly with your Congressional offices.

When and Where:  For more info and to register, click here.


Today and Ongoing


Today and Ongoing

Online

March 2 Poor People’s Campaign Rally recording

What:  On Saturday, March 2, hundreds of thousands of impacted people, moral and religious leaders, and advocates across the country came together at state houses in over 32 states and Washington, D.C. to demand legislators take immediate action to end the crisis of death by poverty in the United States. Poverty is the fourth leading cause of death in this country. It was a solemn occasion to not only lift up the friends, family and loved ones who have been lost to policy violence, poverty and low wages, but to show our power and declare to the political establishment that we will not be silent anymore.

Where:  If you were unable to join us in person or via livestream on Saturday, you can watch a recording of the mass assembly in Raleigh, NC online.  Watch recording HERE.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

“Young Activists for Change (Part II)” final episode of “And Still We Rise” from CMEP

What:  (CMEP) Churches for Middle East Peace has their final episode of this podcast season featuring young activists Eman Al-Asah and Eva Borgwardt. Despite their different religious and ethnic backgrounds, they share common grounds in activism and human rights. Both emphasized the importance of intersectionality and finding a long-term solution to the Israeli occupation of Palestine. 

Where:  Listen Now.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Read about Des Moines Climate Action Plan 

What:  We hope everyone will get familiar with Des Moines Climate Action Plan, - ADAPT DSM    To review the ADAPT DSM plan summary: Here is the link.   To review the full ADAPT DSM plan: Here is a link to the full plan.

(Appendix G is a good place to start if you want info on specifics)  Please read it, and get familiar with  the parts that interest you the most, I promise you that it's a GREAT READ!! :)

Sent by:  Thanks to WILPF Des Moines for sending this!

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Read article

What:  And on this (last week’s) St. Patrick's Day, please consider an article about The Great Starvation in Ireland and the suffering borne by Palestinians starved in our time by Israeli policies. The U.S. government's criminal complicity persists. The article can be read here: https://worldbeyondwar.org/when-starvation-is-a-weapon-the-harvest-is-shame/


Today and Ongoing

Online

FCNL’s Work Toward a Just Peace in Israel-Palestine- watch recording

What:  On Wednesday February 28, we (FCNL- Friends Committee on National Legislation) hosted an online discussion about the role of Quakers as changemakers for just peace. Our speakers outlined the history and context that we are stepping into as we work toward a ceasefire in Israel-Palestine.

Where:  You can watch and share the recording here.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Hearing at the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, watch recording

What:  This week the topic of climate change, displacement and migration was at the top of our (WOLA- Washington Office on Latin  America) minds as WOLA participated in a hearing at the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and hosted a panel discussion with our partner CEJIL. Guadalupe Mayoral from El Bosque in Tabasco, Mexico and Jackson Jean, representing migrants from Haiti, shared their perspective on how their communities have been affected by the climate emergency.

Where:  A recording of the event is available here.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

The recording of Veterans For Peace Webinar on Twin Existential Threats discussing Warheads to WIndmills: Preventing Climate Catastrophe and Nuclear War is HERE!

What:  This webinar was sponsored by VFP's Nuclear Abolition Working Group and features two major anti-nuclear activists speaking on climate and nuclear weapons: Dr. Ivana Hughes and Dr. Timmon Wallis. They will spoke on why both issues must be addressed with equal urgency, and then discuss how together we can build mass movement that can put an end to these threats.

Where:  Watch here:  www.bit.ly/VFP-W2W

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

See 2024 recipients of Campaign Nonviolence/ Pace e Bene’s Changemaker Youth Grants

What:  We (Campaign Nonviolence/ Pace e Bene) are thrilled to announce the 2024 recipients of our Changemaker Youth Grants. Seeking “creative projects that address violence,” we reviewed 66 fascinating proposals from youth ages 12-23 from across the United States and around the world.

The 2024 Changemaker Youth Grants recipients were awarded to 10 projects and 22 youth from 6 states and 5 countries. They include drawing, performance art, storytelling, poetry, sewing, and dance. The projects seek to address bullying, neurodiversity inclusion, social-emotional skills, language barriers, gender-based violence, inter-religious tensions, mass shootings, and more.

More:  If you’d like to read a short paragraph about the 10 projects, email iowapeacenetwork@gmail.com, and I will pass it on.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

The impact of “A Braver Way” podcast from Braver Angels

What:   Listen to Móni talk about the influence BA’s “A Braver Way” podcast has had on the media and how it’s helping shape the way we discuss politics.

Where:  Listen to Journalist & Podcast Host Mónica Guzmán Leads Us to "A Braver Way" to Discuss Politics

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Solidarity Call: Election Scenario De-Escalation  Safety Training

What:  DC Peace Team has just released their new training offering around the elections. They have a new training modules available for election related contexts, such as events (ex. speaker, town hall, debate), demonstrations, canvassing, and polling stations. If that would be helpful in your community, please contact: dcpeaceteam@gmail.com.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Dr. Dean Johnson lecture, “Growing Community in Faith, Resistance, Reconciliation, and Just Peace.” 

What:  Dr. Dean Johnson talked about On Earth Peace in terms of what Elise Boulding called the "200-year present." The concept that what came a hundred years before us has a direct impact on who we are and how we're able to be. We then impact the next hundred years. See, Elise Boulding, Building a Global Civic Culture: Education for an Interdependent World (Syracuse, New York: Syracuse University Press, 1990), 3-7.

Where:  Watch here.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

List of Movies celebrating nonviolence

What:  From Pace e Bene/ Campaign Nonviolence:  In a culture saturated with violence, selecting a film becomes more than just entertainment—it becomes an act of resistance. Whether it's animation, sci-fi, historical dramas, or documentaries, each film you choose shapes the narratives we consume and influences our perception of heroism. Explore our curated listof movies for a culture of nonviolence here.  What loving action will you take today? If you watch a movie this week, let us know and you will be entered into our Season For Nonviolence giveaway. (Two people win a nonviolence-themed gift each week.) Also, you may find this list of discussion questions for reflecting on movies through a nonviolent lens.

 

Today and Ongoing

Nationwide

A Guide for Talking About the Israel-Palestine War in Your Community

What:  From Friends Committee for National Legislation:  “A week after the temporary truce ended, Israel’s bombardment of Gaza has resumed and shows no signs of dissipating. FCNL has created a resource to help meetings, churches, and other groups have important but challenging conversations to find their voice during this difficult, painful moment."


Today and Ongoing

Online

Prayers for Peace email from CMEP (Churches for Middle East Peace)

What:  Prayers for Peace (P4P) is CMEP's bi-monthly blog, and provides a way for Christians of diverse political and theological backgrounds to stand up for peace and unite in supplication to God with a special focus on prayers for the Holy Land. Prayers for Peace provides Jesus’ followers with the common language of prayer around which to mobilize their energy and passion for the land that gave birth to our faith. Prayers4Peace also provides us an opportunity to highlight the work of our Board member denominations and organizations.

What is P4P: Revisited?

At Churches for Middle East Peace, we understand that the work of holistic peacebuilding and advocacy is ongoing, and sometimes, the issues we faced in the past are still present with us today in a variety of ways. With Prayers4Peace: Revisited we would like to occasionally share some of our previous Prayers4Peace blogs with you that we believe are still important messages to us today. We hope that you are encouraged as you continue supporting in prayer those working towards a just peace in Israel, Palestine, and the broader Middle East.

Where:  Catch up on the latest Prayers4Peace blogsusing this button or subscribe to recieve them automatically.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Info for Christians Against Christian Nationalism from Faithful America

What:  In an important panel discussion with the Christians Against Christian Nationalism initiative last year, Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry said that Christian nationalism is not Christianity.

"If you look at the complex of white Christian nationalism as an ideology," Curry warned, "you lay it alongside Jesus of Nazareth and we're not even talking about the same thing."

We agree -- and Presiding Bishop Curry was far from the first or last Christian leader to make this point clear. Where Jesus taught love, peace, and truth, Christian nationalism preaches hatred, violence, and disinformation. Yet with hundreds of far-right political candidates using Christ's name to deny election results, demonize their opponents, and spread dangerous conspiracy theories -- all with the blessing of pastors and televangelists -- Christian nationalism is the single biggest threat to both democracy and the church today.

Where:  To assist you and/or your church in resisting the hijacking of our faith, Faithful America has compiled an FAQ and list of helpful resources about extremist Christiannationalism.

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Nonviolent Action Coloring Pages from Campaign Nonviolence available

What:  Click here for Thenew Nonviolent Action Coloring Pages and other creative ideas in their toolkit make it easy (to reach kids of all ages.)  (Editor’s Note:  there was a link to this in prior calendars, but it was not a good link.  It is new and correct now.)

 

Today and Ongoing

Across Central Iowa

Powerpoint Presentation by Jeffrey Weiss available:  “Capitalism and Socialism”

More:  For more information contact CPM (catholicpeaceministry@gmail.com) or Jeffrey at jjwcpm@yahoo.com

 

Today and Ongoing

In person or Online

“Russia, Ukraine, NATO, and the USA:  How did we get here?” presentation available

What:  Jeffrey J. Weiss teaches Political Science at DMACC and has been giving public presentations on the following topic:    "Russia, Ukraine, NATO, and the USA:  How did we get here?"     

The 30 minute power point focuses on the history and geo-politics of Russia and Ukraine and events over the past 30 years that led to the February 2022 invasion.

It also updates ongoing negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

More:  For more information contact CPM or Jeffrey at jjwcpm@yahoo.com


Today and Ongoing

Online

Free database of peace and nonviolence resources

What:  World BEYOND War's Technology Director Marc Eliot Stein, working with the rest of our staff, has created an online database, easy to use and available to all.

Where:  at https://worldbeyondwar.org/resources


Today and Ongoing

page: https://supportjessicareznicek.com/

Free Jessica Reznicek email add <freejessicareznicek@gmail.com>

Free Jessica Reznicek FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/freejessrez

Write:

Jessica Reznicek # 19293-030

FCI Waseca

PO Box 1731

Waseca, MN 56093

 

Today and Ongoing

Online

Help Us Build Our Network!  From NIAC- Iowa  (National Iranian American Council)

What:  The first step YOU can take to help build power for the Iranian American community is to become a member of a local NIAC chapter near you!

Where:  Share this link to folks in your local area so they sign up, receive updates, and get involved with the local Iranian American community.




OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION


1.)(From 350.org)  Since the 1970s, Exxon has known they are a leading cause of climate change and has spent millions of dollars over the past 50 years trying to convince the world that fossil fuels had nothing to do with it.1,2

Now, Darren Woods, chief executive of oil giant ExxonMobil, says it's our fault for not forking up the cash to solve the climate crisis that his company caused.

Fossil fuel giants like ExxonMobil are to blame for the climate crisis—not us. If you agree, add your name now.

1 - CNN

2 – NPR

 

2.)(From Demand Progress)  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will go ahead with a ground invasion in the Gazan city of Rafah despite President Biden’s opposition and warnings that such an invasion would be a “red line” for the United States.1

Rafah is a densely populated city in Gaza where 1.4 million Palestinians have fled to escape Israel’s bombing campaigns.2 A ground invasion would displace, kill, and cut off humanitarian aid like food and water to great numbers of Palestinians — many who’ve already fled their homes.3

The U.S. government has backed Israel’s war with weapons and money — it’s way past time to end the United States’ complicity in the atrocities against Palestinians.

Sign the petition to President Biden and Congress: Suspendall offensive military aid for Netanyahu’s war!

Sources:

1-      Politico, "Netanyahu vows to defy Biden’s 'red line' on Rafah,” March 10, 2024.

             2-   Associated Press, "Israeli strikes hit Rafah after Biden warns Netanyahu to have 'credible' plan to protect civilians,” February 11, 2024.

      3-       UN News, "Gazans 'stalked by hunger, disease and death,' warns UN’s top aid official,” February 8, 2024.

 

3.)(From Public Citizen)  A bill just introduced in Congress would give the Federal Trade Commission and each state’s attorney general the power to crack down on shrinkflation.

Tell Congress:

Corporate price gouging and shrinkflation are hurting American families every day and masking real progress with our nation’s economy. Pass the Shrinkflation Prevention Act of 2024, introduced by Senator Bob Casey, without delay.

Click to add your name now.

 

4.)(From Daily Kos Green)  The U.S. just had its hottest winter on record. It is clear, once again, that the effects of the climate crisis are already here.

We cannot afford to ignore the alarm bells. That means electing candidates who are ready to take on the fight against climate change today, and it also means additional legislation to combat climate change at the local, tribal nation, state, and federal levels of government.

We must also continue investment and support in research that helps our communities mitigate the worst effects. This research can help us learn how to better handle the effects of a changing climate, understand the long term impacts on our communities, and so much more.

Sign the petition: Climate change will continue to ravagecommunities across the country unless we take action now.

 

5.)(From Food and Water Watch)  World Water Day is this Friday, and we’re counting on movement members like YOU to make an impact in the fight for clean water this week.

In the days ahead, we’ll be sharing ways to take action to fight for clean, affordable, water for all – starting with urging your members of Congress to support the PFAS Action Act.

Toxic chemicals called PFAS have contaminated the water supplies of communities nationwide, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has failed to protect the public. PFAS chemicals never break down and can be found in almost everything from water to food to fabrics, causing serious human health risks.

The PFAS Action Act would set clear definitions and deadlines for the EPA to set enforceable limits on all types of PFAS in drinking water and designate them as hazardous substances. It would also:

Require the EPA to limit the industrial discharge of PFAS.

Provide $200 million annually for wastewater treatment.

Require PFAS health testing.

List PFAS as hazardous air pollutants.

Write your Congresspersons now!

 

6.)(From Peace Action)  We, alongside our allies, are pressing the administration to simply enforce a provision of U.S. law that requires the U.S. to stop sending arms to any government that interferes with U.S. humanitarian aid from reaching people.[2]  Several Senators, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, are demanding that the Biden administration enforce those laws and stop supplying the Israeli government with weapons. You and I can grow this pressure.

Sign here to ask your representative to stop U.S. weaponstransfers to Israel while Israel continues blocking life saving humanitarianaid from reaching Gaza.

 

7.)(From Amnesty Int’l via The Juggernaut Project)  Right now, two Palestinian journalists from the occupied Gaza Strip are in Israeli custody. We have no idea of their whereabouts, if they are safe, or if they are alive.

On October 7th, Haitham Abdelwahed and Nidal al-Waheidi were reporting on the Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel when they were detained by Israeli forces. It’s been three months, and there have been no updates on Haitham and Nidal.

We need your help, right now.

Haitham and Nidal are being held under conditions that constitute enforced disappearance, a crime under international law.

PLEASE TAKE ACTION: Write to the Israeli military advocategeneral now on behalf of Palestinian journalists »

 

8.)(From Daily Kos)  Toxic, dangerous messaging disseminated by social media accounts like Libs of TikTok promotes the targeting, discrimination and erasure of the LGBTQ+ community, and specifically children. Why, then, is this account allowed to have a platform to continue their life-threatening rhetoric?

Enough. Stop giving Libs of TikTok, run by extremist Chaya Raichik, a platform for promoting hate and inciting violence–no more social media, no more appointed positions, no more opportunities to continually espouse discrimination!

Sign the petition: Libs of TikTok is dangerous. Do not giveChaya Raichik a platform for hate.

 

9.)(From Earthjustice)  Farmworkers and agricultural communities face an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease because of the continued use of a highly toxic herbicide called paraquat. In response to a lawsuit brought by Earthjustice on behalf of farmworker, public health, and environmental organizations, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently reevaluating paraquat’s risks to public health and the environment. Join Earthjustice, the premiernonprofit public interest environmental law organization, in telling the EPA tojoin more than 50 other countries worldwide in banning the use of paraquat.


10.)(From Franciscan Peace Center)  

Michael Smith is scheduled to be executed on April 4 by the state of Oklahoma for the murders of Janet Moore and Sarath Pulluru. Please hold Michael, Janet, Sarath, their families, and the people of Oklahoma in prayer. TAKE ACTION

 Brian Dorsey is scheduled to be executed on April 9 by the state of  Missouri for the murders of   Sarah and Ben Bonnie. Please hold Brian, Sarah, Ben, their families, and the people of Missouri in prayer. TAKEACTION


11.)(From DM Catholic Worker)   Beg List Dear Friends and Supporters

 Happy holidays! Thank you for your continued support for the Des Moines Catholic Worker. Unfortunately, we still have a steady stream of folks needing a hot meal, a shower or warm conversations. However, we are continually blessed by the many hands that help us keep the doors open to host neighbors in need.

 The top things we could use at this moment are blankets, men’s winter coats, men’s gloves, Sweatshirts and other warm clothes. We’re completely out of all of these things. They are desperately needed and go out to guests as soon as they arrive. Thank you in advance for anything you can round up.

 

The list below are other things we could really use at the hospitality house.

 

Coffee

Creamer

Sugar

Plastic spoons and forks

Grill Lighter and extra lighter fluid

Garlic powder

Toilet Paper

Paper towels

Coats

Blankets

Gloves

Warm clothes

Hand warmers

Travel shampoo and personal hygiene

 

*We are need people to volunteer and help us do the hospitality (THE WORK) when we are open... a mere 18 hrs a week:

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday between 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

And Saturday from Noon to 2 p.m.

** At least 1/2 of our monthly 6 p.m. meals are OPEN for Volunteers to prepare and serve.

 

Have a blessed week,

Thank you dearly.

The Des Moines Catholic Worker

 

Julie Brown &  The Des Moines Catholic Worker

The DMCW

+51 52 141030

 



SAVE THE DATE



Mon., April 22 through Wed., May 1

Across the country

Peace and Planet Mobilization hosted by Campaign Nonviolence/ Pace e Bene

What:  Join us for our first-ever Peace & Planet Mobilization from Earth Day to May Day. With the extreme urgency of the climate crisis and the growing concerns about ongoing and escalating wars, we are asking people to take action with Campaign Nonviolence.

Military pollution. Ecological destruction. Wars for oil. Climate-fueled violent conflicts. The problems of war and environment are entwined in countless ways.

A world at peace. A beautiful, healthy Earth. The solutions are also connected.

This spring, we’re working with climate and peace groups—including you!—to connect the dots between these issues, deepen solidarity between our efforts, and uphold the vision of the world we want.

There are many ways to join in:

-Organize a Peace & Planet Solidarity Action

-Plan an action that challenges war and militarism

-Celebrate Peace & Planet with youth, children, and community

Where:  Learn more here and let us know you’ll take action.


Thurs., June 27- through Sat., June 29

Kenosha, WI

Braver Angels 2024 Convention

What:   It’s not too early to get the dates in your calendar for our next convention in Kenosha, Wisconsin, from June 27-29, 2024! Watch the recap video from 2023 and get excited.


Fri., June 23 through Fri., June 30, 2024

Assisi, Italy

The Assisi, Italy Peace & Justice Pilgrimage 1-Week Trip from Pace e Bene/ Campaign Nonviolence

What:  Objective: Pray. Study the lives of St. Francis and St. Clare. Build community. Deepen your commitment to Gospel nonviolence. Walk in the footsteps of these peacemakers whose courageous nonviolence, compassion for others, kinship with creation, and work for peace and have inspired people everywhere.

When: June 23 - 30, 2024

Where:  Click here for more info and to register.




Regular Events


Sundays  2p.m.

Cedar Rapids

Peace Vigil

What: Members of local peace groups gather to demonstrate for peace.

Where: 1st Ave. and 1st St. NE, Cedar Rapids. (across from the old Federal Building at the Tree of Five Seasons)

-------------------------------------------


Sundays with SURJ

All meetings are 6-8pm in-person at Mainframe Studios and online via Zoom.

Check SURJ facebook page or email DSMSURJ@gmail.com for more information.

--------------------------------------------------

 

Mondays during Iowa Legislature

Des Moines and Online

Moral Mondays IOWA (in person and virtual)

What:  Join Moral Mondays IOWA on Zoom or Facebook on the Interfaith Alliance of Iowa or Moral Mondays IOWA pages at noon. Moral Mondays IOWA is a collaborative project designed to highlight the progress at work in the Iowa legislature. As a coalition of over 30 progressive Iowa organizations, including MFSA, Moral Mondays IOWA proactively supports the moral good sought through policies that span a range of progressive issues and works for the advancement of Iowa values like equality, fairness, and justice.

When:   12-12:45 pm

Where:  Iowa Statehouse, Room 305*, and online:  https://www.facebook.com/MoralMondaysIOWA


Tuesdays, 7:30 to 8:30 pm

Des Moines

Des Moines Meditation and Mindfulness Group

What:  Teacher Fred Nelson leads the group.

Beginning and experienced meditators are all welcome.  Universal breath mediation and Buddhist philosophy as compatible with all religions.  You may use any silent technique you prefer. Our group was founded in 1994 by Charles Day to enable anyone to learn and practice meditation and mindfulness to benefit their health, clarity of thinking, self-esteem, peacefulness, and spirituality.  Mats, cushions, and chairs are provided. Attend regularly or occasionally. We encourage you to attend all the segments listed above to maximize benefits, but you are welcome to attend any or all of them

When:  Starting at 7:30 pm (see schedule below)

Where:  Friends Meeting House, 4211 Grand Ave.

More:  Schedule:

7:30-8:00pm:  First Meditation sitting with instruction

8:00-8:20:  Presentation about meditation, Buddhism, spirituality

8:20-8:30:  Second mediation sitting

-------------------------------------------------

Tuesdays (online)

Online

Centering Prayer

What:  Please join the Emmaus House Spirituality Center on Tuesday mornings, when we gather to pray. The first half hour will consist of Centering Prayer and time for intentions, both personal and for the most affected in our world. For those interested in staying for the second half hour, we will read an excerpt from a book on Centering Prayer.

When: 7:30 am

More:  No prior experience with Centering Prayer s necessary. If interested in attending, please RSVP so that they can email you the link to the online gathering.


----------------------------------


Thursdays 11:45 am - 12:15 p.m.

Des Moines

Peace Vigil

What: Members of local peace groups gather to demonstrate for peace.

Where: In front of the Des Moines Civic Center, 221 Walnut St.

More: Taking a break; until later this spring


-----------------------------------


Thursdays 5:15-- 5:45pm

Burlington

Peace Vigil

What:  Weekly Vigil for Peace, Healing, and Community

Where:   Port of Burlington by the Statue of Liberty


 -----------------------------------------------


3rd Thursday each Month, Sept-May

Des Moines

WILPF-DSM

What: Women's International League for Peace and Freedom

Where: Central Senior Center, corner of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd and Forest Avenue.  Our first meeting is September 28th,

(most other meetings will be conducted on the 3rd Thursday of the month. The International Day of Peace falls on Sept. 21st.  Begin time is 6:30pm.

 More: "Like" them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WILPFDSM for the most up to date info.  


----------------------------------------------

Fridays

Iowa City, IA

Peace Rally

What:  Join PEACE Iowa and Veterans for Peace in Iowa City for a weekly peace vigil.

When:  3:30 pm to 4:30 pm

Where:  Pentacrest, use East entrance at Clinton St.



--------------------------

Fridays 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm

Decorah, IA

Democracy Preservation Coalition

What: Democracy Preservation Coalition, formerly Democracy Discussion Group, began as a book discussion and continues to meet weekly, focusing on current political movements and events and trying to understand the larger picture. The group is open to all, engaging in a respectful exchange over a variety of topics.  This is an informal opportunity to share information and respectful discussion about current events here, there and anywhere that concern us all.  Anyone can come!  Come to network, understand, clarify and more. 

When:  3:30 PM - 5:00 PM

Where:  Northeast Iowa Peace & Justice Center, 119 Winnebago Street, Decorah, IA 52101


-----------------------------------