Thursday update: DC Encampment(Ann Wilcox)

GPAX Blog from Troops Out Now Encampment (DC): www.troopsoutnow.org

THURSDAY at the DC Troops Out Now Encampment featured the stories of Katrina/Rita Survivors. Films including “Welcome to New Orleans,” which depicts the racist military occupation of New Orleans following the storm, were shown. Participants also viewed a short film on the work of Common Ground collective, founded by Green Party member Malik Rahim: Common Ground has organized in the 9th Ward, rebuilding health clinics, community centers, and helping long-time residents return to their community. (www.commongroundrelief.org). Malik Rahim arrived at the encampment Thursday evening, and will be in the area for several days of meetings.

Also speaking were Brenda Stokely of the New York Katrina/Rita Solidarity Coalition and Katrina survivors from Mississippi. They spoke of government neglect in providing relief and rebuilding funds, as well as the lack of affordable housing in areas where evacuees have relocated.

Thursday evening the music and poetry of “Rock the Rulers” continued, well into the night. Some TONC participants went to the Warehouse Theatre in DC, for a special presentation of comedian Sherry Glazer’s one-woman show, “Breasts Not Bombs.” The show was a benefit for the Washington Peace Center.

Friday will feature more discussions, a student gathering, and preparation for the main rally on Saturday. Gather Saturday at 11 am, for rally and March to End the War at Home and Abroad.