[Red Star Club - YCL] Action Update, December 5th, 2008

Red Star Club Action Update, December 5th, 2008

In this Update:

1. Coalition Yes!
2. Report from Sao Paulo Meeting
3. Upcoming Events

1. Coalition Yes!

YCLers across the country have been taking part is actions surrounding the planned replacement of the ultra-Harper regime with a new Coalition government over the last week. Below is the YCL's statement on Harper's undemocratic proroguing of Parliament. Visit the YCL blog at www.ycl-ljc.blogspot.com for more information including our statement on the Coalition.

This is not what democracy looks like, this is what hypocrisy looks like!
Central Executive Committee, YCL Canada

The Young Communist League - la Ligue de la jeunesse communiste du
Canada joins with the condemnations of the Harper Conservatives for
creating a Parliamentary crisis and now anti-democratically proroguing
Parliament. We will not surrender! Locking Parliament's doors is a
cowardly response to loosing the confidence of the House, and the
Canadian people. Such desperation and arrogance underscores the urgent
need for broad, powerful public mobilization to dump the Tories now.

We call on all young people to hit the streets, and unite without
hesitation in support the coalition, for it will create better terrain
to fight for new policies that put the people first. Unity requires
joining the battle of ideas and overcoming slanders. Regardless what
you think of the NDP's policies, Harper's red-baiting is crass fear
mongering. Likewise, we resolutely oppose the vicious chauvinism
directed against the people of Quebec, and their democratic right as a
nation to determine their own future (up to and including separation,
just as a marriage can not be equal if there is no right to divorce).

Harper's false and hypocritical claims bring into sharp relieve the
tenuousness of this so-called democracy and the need for deep change
beginning with proportional representation.

Harper, Harper, Harper! Out, Out, Out!

Dec. 5th 2008 statement by the Young Communist League, Central Executive Cmte.
www.ycl-ljc.blogspot.com

2. Report from Sao Paulo Meeting

Sunday December 7^th, 1 pm – Report from Sao Paulo: the Global Economic Crisis and the Fightback.

Hear People’s Voice Editor Kimball Cariou report on the 10^th International Meeting of Communist and Workers’ Parties, November 21-23, Sao Paulo Brazil. The meeting, being held in South America for the time, is taking place during a period of intense global economic crisis. This report back – complete with amazing photography of the meeting, and concurrent demonstrations – is definitely a “don’t miss”

This will be followed by our annual Winter Solstice Open House. Everyone Welcome. Please consider bringing a donation to People’s Voice or the Communist Party of Canada. (Donations to the CPC are tax deductible).

Where: Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr. Vancouver


Read the declaration of the Sao Paulo on the YCL Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/topic.php?uid=2239012118&topic=5835

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

Quinteto Tiempo Concert. Benefit for Cuban hurricane relief and for communities in El Salvador. December 5 @ 7:30. Peretz Centre, 6184 Ash St. Organized by Mangle
Association of BC and VDLC Arts and Culture Committee. Tickets $30 from People’s Co-op Books.
Report from Sao Paulo. PV editor Kimball Cariou re-ports from 10th International Meeting of Communist and Workers’Parties. December 7th @ 1pm. Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
Office Open House. December 7th @ 2:30-5 pm, following the report from Sao Paulo. Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

Action Update - November 21st/2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, November 21, 2008

In this Update:

1. Left Film Night: "Persepolis"
2. General Secretary Coming to B.C.?
3. Upcoming Events

1. Left Film Night: "Persepolis"

Our next Left Film Night will be on Sunday, Nov. 30, 7 pm, at the CSE, 706 Clark Drive, Vancouver. We're showing "Persepolis" (France/USA, 2007, directors Vincent Paronnaud and Marjane Satrapi, 96 minutes)

Here's a bit about the film:

Traditionally animated in black and white flashbacks, this Oscar-nominated film tells the story of a girl’s childhood and young adulthood in Iran and in Vienna during the 1980s and ’90s. Marjane Satrapi grew up in a family of revolutionaries opposed to the Shah’s regime and then the Islamic government which took power in 1979. Persepolis literally illustrates her feelings and thoughts as a little girl, following her as fundamentalist control in Iran becomes more strict. When her parents insist she leave the country, we see her struggling to deal with adolescence and missing her beloved family; when she returns, she has to cope with the increasing repression of her freedoms as a woman. Persepolis beautifully balances both the historic and personal issues and pulls the threads together into a compelling narrative, made a bit quirky by the style of presentation, resulting in work that is altogether touching. Along with intelligence and humor, a deep and strong sense of truth infuses every part of the film.

BY THE WAY - at our Oct. 26 showing of "Incident at Restigouche", we collected $87.25 for John Graham's family. Thanks to all who donated!

2. General Secretary Coming to B.C.?

The following letter was sent on 11/20/08 to the interim Provincial Executive (BC) of the Commuist Party of Canada from the Central Executive of the YCL. Please discuss in your Club or with other local YCL members how you can help in the upcoming election campaign. If you would like Johan to visit your town please e-mail your request to ycl_bc@ycl-ljc.ca

-------Start--------

Central Executive Committee,
Young Communist League
290A Danforth Ave
Toronto ON, M4K 1N6
416-469-2446

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Re: Request for meeting with YCL-LJC CEC

VIA EMAIL

British Columbia Committee,
Communist Party of Canada
706 Clark Drive,
Vancouver, BC, V5L 3J1
604-255-2041

Attention: George Gidora, BC Leader CPC

Dear Comrades,

Warm fraternal greetings from the Young Communist League of Canada!

We are writing to propose a meeting between our Central Executive and

your Provincial Executive Committee, about political and organization

matters that are of concern to both our organizations, and so that we
can strengthen our working relationship.

As you know, the May 16th BC provincial election will be an important
battle-ground of struggle for many youth issues. We would like to
propose that we discuss the role of the YCL in the election, including
the possibility of Johan Boyden, General Secretary of the YCL, running

as a candidate and other possible youth candidates. We would also like
to address building the YCL in BC, including YCL cadre.

We hope you will respond positively, and look forward to hearing from you!


Yours in the struggle,

YCL-LJC CEC

CC: Johan Boyden
Shona Bracken
Marianne Breton Fontaine
Miguel Figueroa
Kimball Cariou

------End------

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

Fundraising Dance of Change in El Salvador. November 22 @ 7pm. Perez Centre, 6184 Ash St.Organizer by FMLN Vancouver. Info: 778-385-5394 or 604-726-9824
BC Federation of Labour Convention. November 24-28. Vancouver Convention Centre. To volunteer distributing People's Voice call 604-254-9836
Quinteto Tiempo Concert. Benefit for Cuban hurricane relief and for communities in El Salvador. December 5 @ 7:30. Peretz Centre, 6184 Ash St. Organized by Mangle
Association of BC and VDLC Arts and Culture Committee. Tickets $30 from People’s Co-op Books.
Report from Sao Paulo. PV editor Kimball Cariou re-ports from 10th International Meeting of Communist and Workers’Parties. December 7th @ 1pm. Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
Office Open House. December 7th @ 2:30-5 pm, following the report from Sao Paulo. Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

[Red Star Club - YCL] Left Film Night - "Persepolis" - November 30th

Our next Left Film Night will be on Sunday, Nov. 30, 7 pm, at the CSE, 706 Clark Drive, Vancouver. We're showing "Persepolis" (France/USA, 2007, directors Vincent Paronnaud and Marjane Satrapi, 96 minutes)

Here's a bit about the film:

Traditionally animated in black and white flashbacks, this Oscar-nominated film tells the story of a girl’s childhood and young adulthood in Iran and in Vienna during the 1980s and ’90s. Marjane Satrapi grew up in a family of revolutionaries opposed to the Shah’s regime and then the Islamic government which took power in 1979. Persepolis literally illustrates her feelings and thoughts as a little girl, following her as fundamentalist control in Iran becomes more strict. When her parents insist she leave the country, we see her struggling to deal with adolescence and missing her beloved family; when she returns, she has to cope with the increasing repression of her freedoms as a woman. Persepolis beautifully balances both the historic and personal issues and pulls the threads together into a compelling narrative, made a bit quirky by the style of presentation, resulting in work that is altogether touching. Along with intelligence and humor, a deep and strong sense of truth infuses every part of the film.

BY THE WAY - at our Oct. 26 showing of "Incident at Restigouche", we collected $87.25 for John Graham's family. Thanks to all who donated!

REVOLUTION THEN AND NOW: 1917 to 2008

REVOLUTION THEN AND NOW: 1917 to 2008

Video on the Russian Revolution, followed by discussion on the working class response to the current global capitalist crisis.

Saturday, November 1, 1-3 pm
Russian Hall, 600 Campbell Ave., Vancouver

Everyone Welcome!

Organized by the BC Committee, Communist Party of Canada

For information, call 604-254-9836 or 604-255-2041

Lower Mainland Action Update, October 17, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, October 17, 2008

In this Update:

1. Left Film Night: "Incident at Restigouche."
2. Red Star Club Meeting
3. Upcoming Events

1. Left Film Night: "Incident at Restigouche."

The next Left Film Night will be on Sunday, Oct. 26, 7 pm, at the CSE, 706 Clark Drive. The film will be "Incident at Restigouche," a 46-minute documentary by Alanis Obomsawin.

On June 11 and 20, 1981, the Quebec Provincial Police raided the small Restigouche Reserve in Quebec, one of seven districts of the Mi’kmaq Nation located in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Gaspe Peninsula, after commercial fisheries and sport fishermen had challenged the salmon fishing rights of the Mi’kmaq people. Because salmon has traditionally been a critical source of food and income for the Mi’kmaq, the Quebec government’s decision to restrict fishing aroused consternation and anger. Written and directed by the celebrated Alanis Obomsawin, a filmmaker of Abenaki descent, Incident at Restigouche is highly relevant during the present period of Aboriginal struggles to defend their traditional territories and inherent national rights. The documentary puts the justice system itself on trial, examining the police raids through news clips, photographs, and interviews, including one with former Quebec Minister of Fisheries Lucien Lessard.

All proceeds from a collection taken at this Film Night will be donated to the family of Aboriginal anti-uranium mining activist John Graham, to help with the expenses of attending his trial. John Graham was extradited from Canada earlier this year to stand trial in the United States on trumped-up murder charges. For more information on this case, visit www.grahamdefense.org.

2. Red Star Club Meeting

The next Red Star Club meeting will be Monday, October 26th at 5pm. It will be at the Centre for Socialist Education (706 Clark Dr.). The discussion will centre around the successes and failures of last years plan of action and what we want to collectively do over the next year. We will also begin discussing club elections. Pizza and drinks will be provided by donation to Rebel Youth magazine and if you haven't picked up your new copy yet... there will be some there as well.

Please RSVP your attendance on or before October 22nd. This is very important because it indicates how much pizza we need and also whether we should re-schedule or not based on who is available. Thanks.

The meeting will be followed by the Left Film Night.

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

October 18 (Saturday), 1-2pm, City Wide Housing Coalition picket of City Hall.
October 19 (Sunday), 2pm, Stopwar.Ca Rally and March to End the War in Afghanistan @ Vancouver Art Gallery
October 25-26 (Saturday-Sunday), Why Resist 2010? Conference. Details at http://resist2010.blogspot.com/
October 26 (Sunday), 5pm, Red Star Club meeting @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
October 26 (Sunday), 7pm, Left Film Night: "Incident at Restigouche." Fundraiser for John Graham Defense Fund @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
October 26 (Sunday), 2pm, SCRAP Fashion Show. Details: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=28622145291 @ 2 W. Hastings St.

Lower Mainland Action Update, October 3, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, October 3, 2008

In this Update:

1. Miguel Figureoa to visit Vancouver
2. Election time
3. Upcoming Events

1. Miguel Figueroa to visit Vancouver

Comrade Figueroa will be in Vancouver on October 5th and 6th. These will be two highly important events during this time for YCLers to attend.

On Sunday, October 5th at 5pm. Communist Party leader Miguel Figureoa will speak at the Centre for Socialist Education (706 Clark Dr.) at the "Vote for People's Needs, not Corporate Greed!" Election social.

and

On October 6th Miguel will be at SFU where there will be a joint CPC-YCL info table set up. YCLers are encouraged to join us.

2. Election time

Federal, Provincial and Civic elections are coming up over the next year and Communists in B.C. and around the country are getting ready. We have an opportunity to rid ourselves of three anti-worker governments: the Harper Tories, Campbell Liberals and Sullivan's NPA. If you are interested in running as a candidate or helping out with an election campaign please e-mail cpbc@telus.net

For more on the Communist election campaigns check out www.communist-party.ca

A public forum titled "Vote for People's Needs, not Corporate Greed!" is being held on Sunday, October 5th, 5pm, with Communist Party leader Miguel Figureoa. It will be at the Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr. All YCLers are strongly encouraged to attend!

Lower Mainland Communist candidates are:
George Gidora (Burnaby Douglas)
Kimball Cariou (Vancouver Kingsway)
Harjit Daudharia (Newton-North Delta)

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

October 4 (Saturday), 1pm, Stand for Public Housing @ Main & 36th.
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca
October 5 (Sunday), 5pm, Public Forum with Communist Party leader Miguel Figueroa, Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
October 6 (Monday), 10pm, CPC-YCL table set up at SFU. Miguel Figueroa to visit and attend rally from 1pm-3pm.
October 6 (Monday), following SFU activities, leafleting for CPC election campaign.
October 26 (Sunday), 7pm, Left Film Night: "Incident at Restigouche." Fundraiser for John Graham Defense Fund @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

Lower Mainland Action Update, September 26, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, September 26, 2008

In this Update:

1. Miguel Figureoa to visit Vancouver
2. Election time
3. Upcoming Events

1. Miguel Figueroa to visit Vancouver

Comrade Figueroa will be in Vancouver on October 5th and 6th. These will be two highly important events during this time for YCLers to attend.

On Sunday, October 5th at 5pm. Communist Party leader Miguel Figureoa will speak at the Centre for Socialist Education (706 Clark Dr.) at the "Vote for People's Needs, not Corporate Greed!" Election social.

and

On October 6th Miguel will be at SFU where there will be a joint CPC-YCL info table set up. YCLers are encouraged to join us.

2. Election time

Federal, Provincial and Civic elections are coming up over the next year and Communists in B.C. and around the country are getting ready. We have an opportunity to rid ourselves of three anti-worker governments: the Harper Tories, Campbell Liberals and Sullivan's NPA. If you are interested in running as a candidate or helping out with an election campaign please e-mail cpbc@telus.net

For more on the Communist election campaigns check out www.communist-party.ca

A public forum titled "Vote for People's Needs, not Corporate Greed!" is being held on Sunday, October 5th, 5pm, with Communist Party leader Miguel Figureoa. It will be at the Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr. All YCLers are strongly encouraged to attend!

Lower Mainland Communist candidates are:
George Gidora (Burnaby Douglas)
Kimball Cariou (Vancouver Kingsway)
Harjit Daudharia (Newton-North Delta)

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

September 26 (Friday), 7pm, People's Co-Op Bookstore AGM @ People's Co-Op Bookstore
September 26 (Friday), 6pm, Canwest Media Bully, Rhizome Cafe, 317 E Broadway
September 26 (Friday), 7pm, The State of the Media Today: Creating Alternative Media @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
September 27 (Saturday), 11am, Palestinian Political Prisoners Conference @ SFU Harbour Centre, 555 W. Hastings St
CANCELED September 28 (Sunday), 5pm, Mauricio Fuenes, Future President of El Salvador @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St. Organized by FMLN Vancouver
September 28 (Sunday), 2pm, U.S., Canada and the War on Terror @ Room 7000, SFU Harbour Centre
October 4 (Saturday), 1pm, Stand for Public Housing @ Main & 36th.
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca
October 5 (Sunday), 5pm, Public Forum with Communist Party leader Miguel Figueroa, Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

Lower Mainland Action Update, September 19, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, September 19, 2008

In this Update:

1. New Website on the way
2. Election time
3. Upcoming Events

1. New Website on the way

A new website is coming! In the meantime you can check out YCL updates on our blog at http://ycl-ljc.blogspot.com/
The old website will remain online with occasional updates until the new one is up and running.

3. Election time

Federal, Provincial and Civic elections are coming up over the next year and Communists in B.C. and around the country are getting ready. We have an opportunity to rid ourselves of three anti-worker governments: the Harper Tories, Campbell Liberals and Sullivan's NPA. If you are interested in running as a candidate or helping out with an election campaign please e-mail cpbc@telus.net

For more on the Communist election campaigns check out www.communist-party.ca

A public forum titled "Vote for People's Needs, not Corporate Greed!" is being held on Sunday, October 5th with Communist Party leader Miguel Figureoa. It will be at the Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr. All YCLers are strongly encouraged to attend!

Lower Mainland Communist candidates are:
George Gidora (Burnaby Douglas)
Kimball Cariou (Vancouver Kingsway)
Harjit Daudharia (Newton-North Delta)

4. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

September 20 (Saturday), 7pm, Chilean Independence Day @ Peretz Centre, 6184 Ash St
September 20, 21 (Saturday, Sunday), Changing Militarism Conference hosted by Women's International League for Peace and Justice, SFU Women's Studies and Vancouver Status of Women. For more info e-mail joandgord@shaw.ca
September 21 (Sunday), COPE Policy Conference, TBA
September 23 (Tuesday), VDLC Workers Cabaret @ The End Cafe, Commercial Dr.
September 25 (Thursday), 9:30am, CCPA Living Wage Press Conference @ SFU Harbour Centre, Room 1425 - 555 W. Hastings St
September 26 (Friday), 7pm, People's Co-Op Bookstore AGM @ People's Co-Op Bookstore
September 26 (Friday), 6pm, Canwest Media Bully, Rhizome Cafe, 317 E Broadway
September 26 (Friday), 7pm, The State of the Media Today: Creating Alternative Media @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
September 27 (Saturday), 11am, Palestinian Political Prisoners Conference @ SFU Harbour Centre, 555 W. Hastings St
September 28 (Sunday), 5pm, Mauricio Fuenes, Future President of El Salvador @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St. Organized by FMLN Vancouver
September 28 (Sunday), 2pm, U.S., Canada and the War on Terror @ Room 7000, SFU Harbour Centre
September 30 (Tuesday), IMPORTANT Communist Election Campaign Event, details TBA
October 4 (Saturday), 1pm, Stand for Public Housing @ Main & 36th.
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca
October 5 (Sunday), 2pm, Public Forum with Communist Party leader Miguel Figueroa, Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

Lower Mainland Action Update, September 5, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, September 5, 2008

In this Update:

1. Central Committee Report Back
2. New Rebel Youth!
3. Election time
4. Upcoming Events

1. Central Committee meets this weekend

The Central Committee met on August 24th in Toronto, Ontario. Attending from B.C. was YCL BC Organizer and Central YCL Organizer Stephen Von Sychowski. Also in attendance were Marianne Breton-Fontaine: LJC Organizer, Drew Bowering: CC member from Edmonton, Johan Boyden: YCL General Secretary, Katharine Carmichael: YCL member from Edmonton, David Tymoschuck: YCL Manitoba Organizer, Asad Ali: YCL Hamilton Organizer, and a number of observers from the Ontario YCL.

Comrade Katharine Carmichael was added to the CC as an alternate member and two comrades were removed for inactivity. The CC discussed the Leagues work and direction in peace, jobs, education and international solidarity - particularly Cuban solidarity.

A number of resolutions were adopted with regards to our priorities of work in these fields. These will be circulated sometime after the next Central Executive meeting. In other exciting news, we can expect a newly designed and frequently updated website in the future.

2. New Rebel Youth

The new issue of Rebel Youth has arrived and is available to be picked up from the Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr., and soon from the People's Co-Op Bookstore and Spartacus Books. If you don't have your copy yet, they will be distributed to members at our next Club meeting. Additionally, subscriptions can be bought for $12. To find out how, just reply to this e-mail.

3. Election time

Federal, Provincial and Civic elections are coming up over the next year and Communists in B.C. and around the country are getting ready. We have an opportunity to rid ourselves of three anti-worker governments: the Harper Tories, Campbell Liberals and Sullivan's NPA. If you are interested in running as a candidate or helping out with an election campaign please e-mail cpbc@telus.net

4. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

September 16 (Thursday), 6pm, VDLC Pizza Educational @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
September 16 (Tuesday), 7:30pm, VDLC Monthly Meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
September 20 (Saturday), 7pm, Chilean Independence Day @ Peretz Centre, 6184 Ash St
September 20, 21 (Saturday, Sunday), Changing Militarism Conference hosted by Women's International League for Peace and Justice, SFU Women's Studies and Vancouver Status of Women. For more info e-mail joandgord@shaw.ca
September 21 (Sunday), COPE Policy Conference, TBA
September 23 (Tuesday), VDLC Workers Cabaret @ The End Cafe, Commercial Dr.
September 26 (Friday), 7pm, People's Co-Op Bookstore AGM @ People's Co-Op Bookstore
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca

Lower Mainland Action Update, August 22, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, August 22, 2008

In this Update:

1. Young Workers Need Unions Forum
2. Left Film Night - Honey for Oshun
3. Central Committee meets this weekend
4. Upcoming Events

1. Young Workers Need Unions Forum

WHAT: Forum
WHEN: August 28th, 7pm
WHERE: #200-5118 Joyce Street (BCFED Office)
ORGANIZED BY: VDLC Young Workers Committee

The Vancouver & District Labour Council Young Workers Committee is organizing a forum for young workers who want better work and better wages. The forum will take place at the BC Federation of Labour Office (across the street from Joyce Skytrain) on August 28th.

The forum will feature a panel of young union organizers who will share their experiences and tips on how to get a union a win better wages, benefits and respect at your workplace.

The panel will include Jason Mann (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), Katharine Shea (UNITE HERE) and Darren Miller (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees).

Union organizers will be at the event to meet young workers interested in pursuing organizing a union.

TELL YOUR FRIENDS! FOR A COPY OF THE EVENT POSTER E-MAIL US!

2. Left Film Night

LEFT FILM NIGHT presents:

"Miel para Oshun" ("Honey for Oshun")

7 pm, Sunday, August 31, at 706 Clark Drive, Vancouver.

Award-winning film-maker Humberto Solas directs this allegorical tale of a reunion between a mother and son. Roberto (Jorge Perugorria, star of Strawberry and Chocolate) moves with his father in the early ’60s from Havana to create a new lie in Miami. Thirty-two years later, after the death of his overbearing father, Roberto returns to find the mother his father claims abandoned them both. In Havana, Roberto meets up with his cousin Pilar (Isabel Santos), who tells him the truth: his well-to-do father had kidnapped him from his lower-class mother. Roberto sets out to find her, Pilar at his side. The journey takes them to the other end of the island where they discover that Roberto’s mother was once institutionalized following a breakdown caused by her son’s disappearance. They continue their search, turning up clues along the way, but beset by thieves, suspicious authorities and snags at every turn. At last, Roberto’s diligent efforts are rewarded, in more ways than he might have hoped. Drawing excellent performances from his cast, Solas balances the deeply emotional moments with exceedingly funny sequences (including one in which Roberto and Pilar are forced to slog along on bicycles during their arduous quest). The film also rests upon a multi-layered narrative in which Roberto’s childhood memories and internal meditations mix with the reality of the present. Refrains from Cuban songs add depth to the emotional atmosphere: “Havana, Havana, a song is enough to give you back all that time took from you.”

The film is 120 minutes, in Spanish with English subtitles.

Sunday, August 31, 7 pm
Centre for Socialist Education,
706 Clark Drive, Vancouver (corner of Clark & E. Georgia)

No admission charge, but donations towards our costs are welcome. Coffee and refreshments available. Left Film Nights are presented by the Centre for Socialist Education, Young Communist League, and the Vancouver East Club of the Communist Party of Canada. Call 604-255-2041 or email for further information.

3. Central Committee meets this weekend

The Central Committee will meet this weekend in Toronto. On the agenda will be our work in peace, jobs and education, Rebel Youth and Juenesse Militante, the World Festival of Youth and Students and Cuba Solidarity work among other things. It will be followed by the Central CPC/YCL school. A full report will appear in the next update.

4.Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

August 22 (Friday), 6pm, “Islamophobia” Forum organize by StopWar @ 5060 Canada Way Burnaby
August 22 (Friday), 7pm, Café Rebelde @ Rhizone Cafe, 317 E. Broadway
August 28 (Thursday), 7pm, Young Workers Need Unions Forum @ BCFED Office, #200-5118 Joyce Street
August 31 (Sunday), 7pm, Left Film Night: Honey for Oshun @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
September 1 (Monday), 12pm, Union Label Labour Day Picnic @ Confederation Park, Burnaby
September 16 (Thursday), 6pm, VDLC Pizza Educational @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
September 16 (Tuesday), 7:30pm, VDLC Monthly Meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
September 20 (Saturday), 7pm, Chilean Independence Day @ Peretz Centre, 6184 Ash St
September 21 (Sunday), COPE Policy Conference, TBA
September 26 (Friday), 7pm, People's Co-Op Bookstore AGM @ People's Co-Op Bookstore
October 4 (Saturday), Rock for a Living Wage - VDLC Young Workers @ TBA Featuring: The Rebel Spell, Resist the Right, Legally Blind, one more band TBA\
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca

YCL BC Action Update - August 8, 2008

1. YCL BC Summer Camp
2. Under the Volcano
3. Jane Bouey for School Board
4. Left Film Night
5. Upcoming Events

1. YCL BC Summer Camp 2008

The 2008 YCL BC Summer Camp at Missezula Lake was a big success. Comrades from across B.C. as guests Drew Bowering, Marianne Breton-Fontaine and Johan Boyden from the Central Committee enjoyed a long weekend learning about reform and revolution, camping, partying, swimming, debating and eating fantastic food provided by Joyce Holmes of the Communist Party.

Next year we aim to make the camp even bigger and better so keep your next August long weekend free! If you would like the pictures from the camp just respond to this e-mail.

2. Under the Volcano

This Sunday (August 10th, 12pm-5pm) is the 18th annual Under the Volcano Festival and the YCL will be there sharing an info table with the Communist Party. For more info on the festival check out: http://volcano.resist.ca/


3. Jane Bouey for School Board!

Jane is a comrade and needs our support...

Please forward…sorry for any cross postings.

Jane Bouey, a long-time advocate for public schools in Vancouver, intends to run again in November for election to the Vancouver Board of Education. She will be seeking a COPE nomination.

Jane became active in education issues after her son was assessed as having a development disability. She recognized there were barriers that prevented many students from getting the support they need and began to advocate for change in the public school system.
A co-manager at an independent bookstore, Jane was elected as trustee on the Vancouver School Board in 2002-2005. She is proud to have been part of a COPE school board that stopped provincial funding cuts to inner city schools, passed comprehensive policy addressing corporate involvement in schools and advocated so effectively for all Vancouver children. Jane played a key role in the formation and implementation of the VSB’s groundbreaking LGBTQ policy. She served as Chair of the Board’s Education and Student Services Committee and sat on both the Special Education and Pride Education Advisory Committees. Jane also represented the Vancouver School Board on the provincial BC Trustees’ Association First Nations Education Committee and the City of Vancouver’s Joint Council of Childcare.

Jane is a member of: Vancouver Parents for Successful Inclusion, the Vancouver Public Education Project, the VSB Pride Committee, the Egale national education committee, organizes local literary events, and just finished a term on the board of her housing co-op.

Jane will be seeking re-election as a trustee in November 2008.

Show your support by:

1) Contacting Jane - janebouey@shaw.ca, or jbouey2008@gmail.com to get on her regular e-mail list.

2) Volunteering your time to her campaign

3) Joining COPE (if you are not already a member), and voting for Jane at the Nominating Conference.

To be eligible to vote at the COPE Nominating Conference, people must be a member in good standing on or before 5:30 pm August 14, 2008.

COPE Nominating Conference - 2:30 Sunday Sept 28
154 E 10th Ave Ukrainian Auditorium.

To join COPE go to: http://cope.bc.ca/Become+a+Member, or fill out attached form and send back to Jane at janebouey@shaw.ca, or to COPE 209-175 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1W2 cope@cope.bc.ca

Membership is $20 or what you can afford.

4) Offering to endorse Jane’s campaign - janebouey@shaw.ca, or jbouey2008@gmail.com.

5) Contributing financially to Jane’s campaign - Jane Bouey 2008 c/o 307 1763 E Pender St Vancouver BC V5L 3X5

6) Contributing to COPE – cope.bc.ca

7) Joining Jane’s Facebook Group http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17012367705&ref=ts and watch for new postings.

4. Left Film Night

LEFT FILM NIGHT presents:

"Miel para Oshun" ("Honey for Oshun")

7 pm, Sunday, August 31, at 706 Clark Drive, Vancouver.

Award-winning film-maker Humberto Solas directs this allegorical tale of a reunion between a mother and son. Roberto (Jorge Perugorria, star of Strawberry and Chocolate) moves with his father in the early ’60s from Havana to create a new lie in Miami. Thirty-two years later, after the death of his overbearing father, Roberto returns to find the mother his father claims abandoned them both. In Havana, Roberto meets up with his cousin Pilar (Isabel Santos), who tells him the truth: his well-to-do father had kidnapped him from his lower-class mother. Roberto sets out to find her, Pilar at his side. The journey takes them to the other end of the island where they discover that Roberto’s mother was once institutionalized following a breakdown caused by her son’s disappearance. They continue their search, turning up clues along the way, but beset by thieves, suspicious authorities and snags at every turn. At last, Roberto’s diligent efforts are rewarded, in more ways than he might have hoped. Drawing excellent performances from his cast, Solas balances the deeply emotional moments with exceedingly funny sequences (including one in which Roberto and Pilar are forced to slog along on bicycles during their arduous quest). The film also rests upon a multi-layered narrative in which Roberto’s childhood memories and internal meditations mix with the reality of the present. Refrains from Cuban songs add depth to the emotional atmosphere: “Havana, Havana, a song is enough to give you back all that time took from you.”

The film is 120 minutes, in Spanish with English subtitles.

Sunday, August 31, 7 pm
Centre for Socialist Education,
706 Clark Drive, Vancouver (corner of Clark & E. Georgia)

No admission charge, but donations towards our costs are welcome. Coffee and refreshments available. Left Film Nights are presented by the Centre for Socialist Education, Young Communist League, and the Vancouver East Club of the Communist Party of Canada. Call 604-255-2041 or email for further information.

5.Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

August 10 (Sunday), Noon, Under the Volcano Festival @ Cates Park, North Vancouver. Volunteers needed for CPC/People's Voice/YCL table (Noon-6 pm)
August 31 (Sunday), 7pm, Left Film Night: Honey for Oshun @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
September 1 (Monday), 12pm, Union Label Labour Day Picnic @ Confederation Park, Burnaby
September 16 (Thursday), 6pm, VDLC Pizza Educational @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
September 16, 7:30pm, VDLC Monthly Meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
October 4 (Saturday), Rock for a Living Wage - VDLC Young Workers @ TBA Featuring: The Rebel Spell, Resist the Right, Legally Blind, one more band TBA\
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca

Lower Mainland Action Update, July 24, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, July 24, 2008

In this Update:

1. YCL BC Summer Camp
2. Moncada Day
3. Upcoming Events

1. YCL BC Summer Camp 2008

The 2008 YCL BC Summer Camp is August 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th and YOU are invited. The theme of this year’s camp is “Reform and Revolution”. It will include a theoretical class and debate as well as a workshop on the application of the Marxist-Leninist theory of reform and revolution to the current struggles of young workers and students. It will also include a workshop in revolutionary music.

Registration for the 2008 Summer Camp is now closed. Late registrants should e-mail ycl_bc@ycl-ljc.ca to see if rides are available from their area. Late registrants are still required to pay the $20 registration fee. Fees may be paid upon arrival at the camp and do not need to be mailed in ahead of time.

WHAT: YCL BC SUMMER CAMP
WHEN: August 2^nd-4^th
WHERE: Missezula Lake, near Merritt
WHO: ALL YCL members. Guests are welcome but please notify us ahead of time.
WHAT TO BRING:

- Tent

- Sleeping bag/pillow

- Any personal amenities you may need

- Swim suit/towel

- A notepad and pen

- Bug repellant

- Sun screen

- Musical instrument if you play one

- Any games, or anything you wish to bring along for use in the evenings/free time

- A pair of good shoes as we will be in good hiking territory

- Any extra snacks or drinks you wish to bring in addition to the meals provided. No alcoholic beverages will be provided

- If your club has its own banner, bring it along, we will hang it in our camp site!

2. Moncada Day

Please forward widely....

The Canadian-Cuban Friendship Association invites you to its annual

MONCADA DAY CELEBRATION

2:00 pm, Sunday, July 27

at the Chilean Co-op, 3390 School Avenue, Vancouver
(near Kingsway and Tyne)

Special Guests: Son Rebelde, Tom Hawken

Dinner $10 (children under 14 - $5)

Rain or Shine! Bring your own lawn chair.

3.Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

July 25 (Friday), 7 pm, Left Film Night “683 Ways to Kill Castro”@ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Drive
July 25 (Friday), 7pm, Cafe Rebelde "Building the Political Platform of the FMLN" @ Rhizome Cafe, 317 E. Broadway
July 27 (Sunday), 2pm, Moncada Day event @ Chilean Co-Op, 3390 School Ave. for info call CCFA-Vancouver, 604-254-1350
July 30 (Wednesday), 5pm, Rally to Bring Omar Kadhr Back to Canada! @ Vancouver Art Gallery
August 2-4 (Saturday-Monday), YCL BC Summer Camp 2008 @ Missezula Lake
August 3 (Sunday), Vancouver Pride Parade, distribution of CPC/YCL statement, for details call Jane, 604-876-4123
August 6 (Wednesday), Hiroshima Day Lantern Ceremony, TBA
August 7 (Thursday), VDLC Young Workers Committee "Organizing for the Unorganized" Forum @ Location TBA
August 10 (Sunday), Noon, Under the Volcano Festival @ Cates Park, North Vancouver. Volunteers needed for CPC/People's Voice/YCL table (Noon-6 pm)
September 16 (Thursday), 6pm, VDLC Pizza Educational @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
September 16, 7:30pm, VDLC Monthly Meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
October 4 (Saturday), Rock for a Living Wage - VDLC Young Workers @ TBA Featuring: The Rebel Spell, Resist the Right, Legally Blind, one more band TBA\
October 4-5 (Saturday-Sunday), "More Power to you" Conference on public power. Details: www.citizensforpublicpower.ca

Lower Mainland Action Update, June 27, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, June 27, 2008

In this Update:

1. Red Star Club Meeting
2. YCL BC Summer Camp
3. Upcoming Events

1. Red Star Club Meeting

The next Red Star Club meeting will be Monday, July 7th. Topics of discussion will be the 2008 YCL BC Summer Camp, Club elections and the beginning of a review of our Club work for the past year and the shortcomings and successes of our current Plan of Work. All YCL members are encouraged to attend as well as all those interested in joining and getting involved.

Pizza and drinks will be provided by donation to Rebel Youth Magazine.

WHAT: Red Star Club Meeting
WHEN: Monday, July 7th @ 7pm
WHERE: Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

2. YCL BC Summer Camp 2008

The 2008 YCL BC Summer Camp is August 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th and YOU are invited. The theme of this year’s camp is “Reform and Revolution”. It will include a theoretical class and debate as well as a workshop on the application of the Marxist-Leninist theory of reform and revolution to the current struggles of young workers and students. It will also include a workshop in revolutionary music.

WHAT: YCL BC SUMMER CAMP

WHEN: August 2^nd-4^th

WHERE: Missezula Lake, near Merritt

WHO: ALL YCL members. Guests are welcome but please notify us ahead of time.

COST: $20 non-refundable fee is required. Includes meals and transportation to and from the camp. Those unable to pay will not be turned away.

PLUS… all registered participants will receive a FREE one-year subscription to The People’s Voice, Canada’s Communists newspaper and will be entered into a draw to win a Sony Playstation 2 (1^st Prize) or a runner up prize Communist gift bag.

WHAT TO BRING:

- Tent

- Sleeping bag/pillow

- Any personal amenities you may need

- Swim suit/towel

- A notepad and pen

- Bug repellant

- Sun screen

- Musical instrument if you play one

- Any games, or anything you wish to bring along for use in the evenings/free time

- A pair of good shoes as we will be in good hiking territory

- Any extra snacks or drinks you wish to bring in addition to the meals provided. No alcoholic beverages will be provided

- If your club has its own banner, bring it along, we will hang it in our camp site!

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: JULY 15

Registration for YCL Summer Camp 2008

Name: ______________________ Address: ________________________

YCL Club: ___________________ Phone Number: __________________

E-mail: _______________________________________________________

I will bring a tent ­­­____ Yes ____ No

If yes, how many (if any) people can share your tent _____

I have enclosed the $20 registration fee ___ Yes ___ No
Special dietary requirements or preferences _________________________

Those unable to pay the $20 fee will not be turned away.

Please mail to: 706 Clark Dr. Vancouver, B.C. V5L 3J1

OR respond via Payment Info: Registration Fee's can be paid via cheque, money order or cash made out to "Young Communist League" and mailing to the above address or given to your local Club organizer who will turn them in at the start of the camp. Registration is only complete when the registration info above is received and the registration fee is either received or verified to have been received by your Club organizer. Late registrants will not be entered into the draw.e-mail with all the above information included in the e-mail body.

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

June 27-29 (Friday-Sunday), Miners Memorial @ Cumberland, BC
June 28 (Saturday), 9am, Kalayaan Centre 2nd Annual 10km Walkathon Fundraiser @ Kalayaan Centre (451 Powell St.)
July 7 (Monday), 7pm, Red Star Club YCL Meeting @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
July 15 (Tuesday), 7pm, VDLC General Meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
August 2-4 (Saturday-Monday), YCL BC Summer Camp 2008 @ Missezula Lake
August 7 (Thursday), VDLC Young Workers Committee "Organizing for the Unorganized" Forum @ Location TBA
October 4 (Saturday), Rock for a Living Wage - VDLC Young Workers @ TBA Featuring: The Rebel Spell, Resist the Right, Legally Blind, one more band TBA

Lower Mainland Action Update, June 13, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, June 13, 2008

In this Update:

1. Next Discussion Group
2. Young Workers Cabaret
3. Red Star Club Meeting
4. Upcoming Events

1. Next Discussion Group

Our last discussion group was a success, we discussed topics such as local and world economics, the economic crisis of capitalism vs. the economies of socialist countries and those moving towards socialism. We did not begin discussion of the Activists Guide to Political Economy (.pdf attached) because the copies of the book were delayed in the mail. As a result, we will continue with that topic at our upcoming discussion group.

The reading will be "Activist's Guide to Political Economy" by our own comrade Jason Mann. Copies are on order currently and should be available soon. This will likely take a couple of discussion groups to get through, so start thinking about what you want to see us move on to next!

Once again, the discussion groups are open to all members of the Young Communist League, the Communist Party and guests who are genuinely interested in learning more about Communist philosophy, theory and practice and getting involved. They are a place for open discussion and debate where your thoughts can be heard and your questions can be answered. After the discussion group, those in attendance will decide what the next month’s topic will be.

Learn to Struggle, Struggle to Learn!

WHAT: YCL Discussion Group
WHEN: Monday, June 16th @ 7pm
WHERE: Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
ORGANIZED: by Red Star Club, YCL

2. Young Workers Cabaret

The Vancouver & District Labour Council and its Young Workers Committee have announced a Young Workers Cabaret to be held June 19th begining at 7pm at The End Cafe (2360 Commercial Dr.). Performers are TBA and details can be obtained by calling the VDLC office at 604-254-0703.

We encourage all YCLers to attend and to distribute Rebel Youth.

3. Red Star Club Meeting

The next Red Star Club meeting will be Monday, June 23rd. Topics of discussion will be the 2008 YCL BC Summer Camp, Club elections and the beginning of a review of our Club work for the past year and the shortcomings and successes of our current Plan of Work. All YCL members are encouraged to attend as well as all those interested in joining and getting involved.

Pizza and drinks will be provided by donation to Rebel Youth Magazine.

WHAT: Red Star Club Meeting
WHEN: Monday, June 23rd @ 7pm
WHERE: Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.

4. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

June 14 (Saturday), 10:30-3:30, Stopwar.ca AGM @ Maritime Labour Centre (1880 Triumph St.)
June 14 (Saturday), 2nd Annual Women's Housing March against Poverty @ Downtown Eastside Women's Centre
June 15 (Sunday), Commercial Dr. Car Free Day
June 16 (Monday), 7pm, YCL Discussion Group @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
June 17 (Tuesday), 6pm, Vancouver & District Labour Council Pizza Educational, followed by general meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
June 17 (Tuesday), 50th Anniversary of the Collapse of the Second Narrows Bridge, details TBA. www.ironworkerslocal97.com
June 19 (Thursday), 7pm, Young Workers Cabaret @ The End Cafe (2360 Commercial Dr.)
June 19 (Thursday), 6pm, Naiomi Klein: The Shock Doctrine, The Rise of Disaster Capitalism @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.
June 20 (Friday), 8pm, The Way Home: Documentary Short Film on Homelessness in BC @ Woodlands Park (Woodlands & Adanac)
June 21 (Saturday), 7:30pm, Salvadore Allende Tribute @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
June 28 (Saturday), 9am, Kalayaan Centre 2nd Annual 10km Walkathon Fundraiser @ Kalayaan Centre (451 Powell St.)

Please note: This newsletter will be bi-monthly throughout the Summer months.

Lower Mainland Action Update, June 6, 2008

Lower Mainland Action Update, June 6, 2008

In this Update:

1. Next Discussion Group
2. People's Voice Banquet
3. Upcoming Events

1. Next Discussion Group

Our discussion group on Monday was a success, we discussed topics such as local and world economics, the economic crisis of capitalism vs. the economies of socialist countries and those moving towards socialism. We did not begin discussion of the Activists Guide to Political Economy (.pdf attached) because the copies of the book were delayed in the mail. As a result, we will continue with that topic at our upcoming discussion group.

The reading will be "Activist's Guide to Political Economy" by our own comrade Jason Mann. Copies are on order currently and should be available soon. This will likely take a couple of discussion groups to get through, so start thinking about what you want to see us move on to next!

Once again, the discussion groups are open to all members of the Young Communist League, the Communist Party and guests who are genuinely interested in learning more about Communist philosophy, theory and practice and getting involved. They are a place for open discussion and debate where your thoughts can be heard and your questions can be answered. After the discussion group, those in attendance will decide what the next month’s topic will be.

Learn to Struggle, Struggle to Learn!

WHAT: YCL Discussion Group
WHEN: Monday, June 16th @ 7pm
WHERE: Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
ORGANIZED: by Red Star Club, YCL

2. People's Voice Banquet

June 7th will be the annual People's Voice banquet at the Russian Hall in Vancouver. The banquet is one of the biggest annual fund raising events for the Communist press in Canada each year bringing together Communist Party and YCL members with friends and allies to celebrate our press and our struggle. All young Communists are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Keynote speaker for the event will be YCL BC Organizer and Central Organizer who will speak about the struggles of youth in Canada and internationally.

WHAT: People's Voice Banquet
WHEN: Saturday, June 7 @ 7pm
WHERE: Russian Canadian Hall, 600 Campbell Ave.
ORGANIZED: by Communist Party of Canada

3. Upcoming Events

If you know of an event missing from this list, e-mail us and we can add it for next time.

June 6 (Friday), 12pm, Seriously Free Speech Committee, No Gag! Rally @ Granville Square
June 7 (Saturday), 7pm, People's Voice Banquet @ Russian Hall, 600 Campbell Ave.
June 11 (Wednesday), 7pm, Dr. Dahlia Wasfi speaks on The Cost of War @ Canadian Memorial United Church
June 16 (Monday), 7pm, YCL Discussion Group @ Centre for Socialist Education, 706 Clark Dr.
June 17 (Tuesday), 6pm, Vancouver & District Labour Council Pizza Educational, followed by general meeting @ Maritime Labour Centre, 1880 Triumph St.