Daily Archives: July 31, 2019

2019-07-31: News Headlines

Gloria Rubac (2019-07-31). Houston F.I.R.E protests Greyhound-ICE connection. workers.org After quickly and quietly giving out "Know Your Rights" leaflets to every passenger in the Greyhound waiting room here on July 27, and before security could figure out what was happening, activists walked out of the station and set up a picket line outside the terminal where they held a . . . | Continue reading Houston F.I.R.E protests Greyhound-ICE connection at Workers.org

Staff (2019-07-31). On Direct Action and Trump's Immigration Agenda. truthout.org | | We are nearing the tail end of the latest round of reports of (and subsequent righteous uproar at) the ongoing crisis at the U.S./Mexico border and all things immigration. At different points over the last several weeks, folks have wondered aloud online about where was the immigrant rights movement? What could be done? | Speaking for myself, it's been difficult to produce a convenient answer (or even an inconvenient one that will work). I have felt pena ajena when I see that the only action step for people is to do…

Eds. (2019-07-31). Is India displaying signs of neo-fascism? mronline.org Property rights of people are protected under neo-fascism, except those racially, communally, sexually, or politically targeted whose properties are often confiscated. | Source

teleSUR (2019-07-31). US Imposes Sanctions on Iran's Foreign Minister. telesurenglish.net The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control said on its website. | The Treasury Department said it was imposing sanctions on Zarif for acting on behalf of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. | RELATED: | Trump Claims Iran has Never Won a War in New Twitter Rant | "Javad Zarif implements the reckless agenda of Iran's Supreme Leader, and is the regime's pri…

teleSUR (2019-07-31). Iran to Europe: Fix INSTEX or Will Reduce Deal Commitments. telesurenglish.net Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif lamented Wednesday, on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting in Teheran that France, Britain, and Germany are not abiding by the terms of the multilateral nuclear deal they signed in 2015. | RELATED: | US Imposes Sanctions on Iran's Foreign Minister | The deal is not being respected, or the responsibility of these European countries, to find a solution to the consequences of the United States' leaving the accord, officially called the Joint Comprehen…

Daniel Larison (2019-07-31). The Injustice of Economic Warfare. globalresearch.ca The AP reports on the harmful effects of sanctions on the availability of medicine in Iran: | "Our biggest concern is that channels to the outside world are closed," said Dr. Arasb Ahmadian, head of the Mahak Children's Hospital, which …

Nancy Ukai (2019-07-31). Detention, Denialism, & Activism Now. indybay.org Futures Without Violence | 100 Montgomery Street | The Presidio – SF CA 94129…

Staff (2019-07-30). Four Immigrants Have Died at Stewart ICE Facility in Georgia. Advocates Want It Shut Down. democracynow.org A 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico died last week at Stewart Detention Center, one of the largest immigration jails in the United States and one that has been plagued by allegations of neglect and abuse for years. Pedro Arriago-Santoya was the fourth person to die at Stewart in just two years and the seventh person to die while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since October. An immigration judge had ordered Arriago-Santoya be deported in June. Instead, he was transferred to Stewart on July 10 as his removal proceedings continued. Two weeks later he was pronounced dead at a Georgia hospital.

Alleen Brown (2019-07-30). More Than 160 Environmental Defenders Were Killed in 2018, and Many Others Labeled Terrorists and Criminals. theintercept.com Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, the United Nations special rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous peoples, was disturbed to learn that her name had been included on a list of "terrorists" allegedly affiliated with the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army. | Authoritarian President Rodrigo Duterte had imposed martial law on the island of Mindanao in May 2017, when ISIS sympathizers attacked the predominantly Muslim city Marawi. By October, ISIS had been ousted, but martial law remained in p…

teleSUR (2019-07-30). More Than Three Eco-Activists Killed Every Week in 2018: Study. telesurenglish.net While calls to save the planet are growing every day, the people who fight to protect their lands and the environment are being silenced. In 2018, on average three environmental defenders were murdered each week, according to a study published Monday by the international human rights group Global Witness. | RELATED: | Peru: Protestors Demand Definitive End of Open-Pit Mining Project | More than 160 land an…

Albert Bender (2019-07-30). Standing room only at Nashville immigrant and refugee rights forum. peoplesworld.org "I am a woman. I am a Mexican. My family lives in fear every single day"- Veronica Zavaleta NASHVILLE — Veronica Zavaleta, a homeowner, a business owner, mother, and immigrant gave a moving account of her feelings of terror at the hands of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Her narrative was given at a public …

Staff (2019-07-30). DOJ Guts Asylum Protections for Members of Families Threatened With Violence. truthout.org | | In a decision immigrant rights advocates said could have horrific consequences for thousands of people fleeing violence in Central America, Attorney General William Barr ruled Monday that being an immediate member of a persecuted family is not sufficient grounds to seek asylum in the United States. | According to immigration experts, Barr's move rewrites years of law and represents the Trump administration's…

Staff (2019-07-30). Four Immigrants Have Died at Stewart ICE Facility in Georgia. truthout.org | | A 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico died last week at Stewart Detention Center, one of the largest immigration jails in the United States and one that has been plagued by allegations of neglect and abuse for years. Pedro Arriago-Santoya was the fourth person to die at Stewart in just two years and the seventh person to die while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since October. An immigration judge had ordered Arriago-Santoya be deported in June. Instead, he was transferred to Stewart…

J. August (2019-07-30). NYC power outage reveals a profit-hungry and racist system. liberationnews.org Electricity, transportation, decent water and other services are basic human rights.

teleSUR (2019-07-30). Greece: Students Protest to Keep Universities Police Free. telesurenglish.net Greek students are protesting against a proposal to scrap academic sanctuary, a law that was designed to protect protesting students and freedom of ideas but which the new government says is used as a cover for lawlessness. | RELATED: | Greece: Refugees, Activists on Alert Amid New Migration Acts | A couple of thousand students marched through Athens against repealing asylum last week. "I personally believe the free movement of ideas means that no institution of the state can inter…

Staff (2019-07-30). Four Immigrants Have Died at Stewart ICE Jail in Georgia. Advocates Want It Shut Down. democracynow.org A 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico died last week at Stewart Detention Center, one of the largest immigration jails in the United States and one that has been plagued by allegations of neglect and abuse for years. Pedro Arriago-Santoya was the fourth person to die at Stewart in just two years and the seventh person to die while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since October. An immigration judge had ordered Arriago-Santoya be deported in June. Instead, he was transferred to Stewart on July 10 as his removal proceedings continued. Two weeks later he was pronounced dead at a Georgia hospital.

Ricardo Vaz (2019-07-30). U.S. sanctions target subsidized food program as Foro de Sao Paulo kicks off. mronline.org Washington has targeted companies and individuals it alleges are profiteering from the CLAP food initiative. | Source

James Carden (2019-07-30). The Pompeo Commission Is Weaponizing Human Rights. thenation.com The Pompeo Commission Is Weaponizing Human Rights…

United Nations (2019-07-30). Monday's Daily Brief: Children in armed conflict, Ebola in DR Congo, human rights in Bahrain, and two International Days. un.org Our main stories today cover: A new report on children and armed conflict, a day to combat human trafficking; funds needed to fight Ebola in DR Congo; UN rights office condemns the execution of two Bahraini citizens; and International Day of Friendship…

The Grayzone (2019-07-30). Nicaraguan 'human rights' director accused by staff of massive theft of US taxpayer money, death toll inflation. thegrayzone.com ANPDH's board members are accusing their director of stealing huge sums from US soft power organizations and inflating death tolls…

teleSUR (2019-07-30). Guatemala's Top Court to Rule on Migration Agreement with US. telesurenglish.net Guatemala's Human Rights Prosecutor Jordan Rodas Monday filed an urgent appeal to the Constitutional Court to curb the "Safe Third Country" (STC) agreement signed by President Jimmy Morales administration in Washington, D.C., on July 26. | RELATED: | Trump Admin Enacts Another Restriction for Asylum-Seekers | "The agreement contradicts not only the Guatemalan Constitutio…

teleSUR (2019-07-30). Saudi Forces Kill 13 in 'Massacre' at Yemen Market. telesurenglish.net Saudi forces launched Monday airstrikes at a busy market in Yemen's northern province of Saada, killing 13 and injuring 26, along with destroying much of the market produce, as the country suffers one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. | RELATED: | Yemen World's Worst Humanitarian Crisis: Human Rights Report | The attack has been called the 'Al Thabet Market Massacre' by Yemeni media outlet Almasirah. Though the confirmed death toll is 13, the number is likely to rise according to a He…

John Lekas (2019-07-30). Could Trump end a cruel dog meat festival during U.S.-China trade negotiations? nationofchange.org It's often said that a picture is worth a thousand words. However, I have no words for the images from the recent Lychee and Dog Meat Festival held in Yulin, Guangxi, China. Held annually during the third week in June, this 10-day festival ritualizes the abduction, torture, slaughter and eventual consumption of tens of thousands of dogs. The torture comes in many forms, including blow-torching, hanging, skinning and immersing the dogs in boiling water [mdas…

Alice Pettway (2019-07-30). New Coalition Goes on the Offensive for Abortion Rights. progressive.org It can start to feel like the fight for reproductive rights is only about preventing backslide, but that's far from the truth.

teleSUR (2019-07-30). Chinese Huawei Beats Trump's Ban, Makes a $58.3 Billion Profit. telesurenglish.net China's tech company Huawei made a profit of US$58.3 billion, which means it billed 23.2 percent more in the first half of 2019 despite the veto imposed on its products by the U.S. President Donald Trump. | RELATED: | Trump's Decision to Ease Huawei Ban Boosts Market Shares | In the first six months, Huawei sold 118 million smartphones, an increase of 24 percent over the prev…

Thomas Knapp (2019-07-30). American Politicians Use Jews as Pawns to Excuse Their Meddling in Israeli Elections. counterpunch.org On July 23, the US House of Representatives passed (the vote went 398-17, with five voting "present") a resolution condemning the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement. The resolution was an outrageous condemnation of the freely chosen economic actions of millions of Americans. Worse, that condemnation was made on the express behalf of not just More

Staff (2019-07-30). House Anti-BDS Resolution Reveals the Power and Limits of the Israeli Lobby. therealnews.com The defense of Palestinian rights has become more acceptable and accusations of anti-Semitism have become more sparing in the mainstream media, despite the House's recent resolution against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, says IPS's Phyllis Bennis…

Fred_F (2019-07-30). Protests demand: 'Lift the sanctions on Venezuela!'. greenleft.org.au A rally was held outside the United States Consulate in Martin Place on July 27 to condemn the US government's campaign to overthrow the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro through illegal sanctions and threats of military intervention. | Rally chairperson Coral Wynter read out an open letter released that day, signed by 45 academics, unionists, journalists and solidarity activists, among others, calling on the Australian government to: reverse its recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaidó as "interim presiden…

Staff (2019-07-30). The Lines Between Us: The Modern History of Baltimore Apartheid (1/2). therealnews.com As Trump unloads a racist attack on Baltimore, we speak with author Lawrence Lanahan, who charts the history of segregation from redlining to the civil rights movement…

Julia Conley, staff writer (2019-07-30). More Than Three Eco-Defenders Killed Per Week in 2018 While Fighting to Protect Wildlife, Homes, and Livelihoods. commondreams.org The fight to protect land, homes, livelihoods, and wildlife from destructive, pollution-causing industries turned deadly for more than 160 environmental defenders in 2018, the international human rights group Global Witness revealed Monday night in a new report. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files…

Staff (2019-07-29). Mass Protests in Colombia and Abroad Decry Killings of 500 Activists Since Peace Accords. democracynow.org Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Friday in more than 50 cities and towns across Colombia to protest a surge of lethal attacks on indigenous, Afro-Colombian and environmental leaders in recent years. Solidarity marches were held in dozens of cities around the world, from Mexico City to Athens. In 2016, the Colombian government and FARC rebels signed a historic peace accord to move the country forward after a half-century of armed conflict. But since then, nearly 500 human rights activists, many from the Afro-Colombian community, have been killed, targeted for their work combating illegal m…

Ramzy Baroud (2019-07-29). Bassam Shakaa: The Making of a Palestinian 'Organic Intellectual'. mintpressnews.com Between his birth in Nablus in 1930 and his death, Bassam Shakaa fought a relentless struggle for Palestinian rights. He challenged Israel, the PA, US imperialism and reactionary Arab governments. Throughout this arduous journey, he survived exile, prison and an assassination attempt.

United Nations (2019-07-29). Murder of Brazilian indigenous leader a 'worrying symptom' of land invasion. un.org In the wake of the murder of indigenous leader Emrya Wajà£pi in Brazil, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, has called on the country's authorities to "react quickly and decisively" to protect the rights of indigenous peoples on their lands.

Bryan Ellis (2019-07-29). Protesters in Bradenton defend the rights of immigrants and refugees. liberationnews.org On Sunday, seventeen people gathered at the Manatee County Courthouse in downtown Bradenton to demand an end to US concentration camps for refugees and mass deportations of immigrants.

Aaron Maté (2019-07-29). Progressive Democrats vote against BDS, Palestinian rights. thegrayzone.com House Democrats, including key progressives, have passed a measure condemning the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS). Why are Reps….

Eds. (2019-07-29). In victory for activists, Vancouver city council votes against adopting IHRA antisemitism definition. mronline.org The City of Vancouver, Canada might seem to be an odd place for a battle over the IHRA definition of antisemitism. But that is exactly what happened in the last week, and it all concluded with a temporary victory for free speech, human rights and common sense. | Source

United Nations (2019-07-29). Monday's Daily Brief: Nigeria massacre, Libya shelling condemned; recycled plastic used to build classrooms in Cà¥te d'Ivoire. un.org Our main stories today: UN chief and senior UN official condemn the 'terrible massacre' in Nigeria that left some 65 dead, and the shelling of a hospital in Libya that killed medical workers; UN Secretary-General António Guterres reacts to a deadly landslide in China; recycled plastic waste is used to build classrooms in Cà¥te d'Ivoire; and scouts are urged to become human rights defenders.

Jim Carey (2019-07-28). Starvation as a Weapon: US Targets Venezuela CLAP Program. theantimedia.com (GPA) — The new US sanctions on Venezuela meant to target the CLAP food program proves there is nothing "humanitarian" about Washington's concerns. Last week the United States Department of Treasury placed new sanctions on multiple individuals and businesses connected to the Bolivarian government's Local Committees for Supply and Production program (in Spanish Los Comités Locales de …

Fight Back (2019-07-27). New York rallies to oust Duterte. fightbacknews.org New York, NY – Over 100 protesters gathered outside of the Philippine Consulate General in New York City on July 22 for the People's State of the Nation Address. This action was part of a larger call to oust U.S.-backed Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte as he gave his State of the Nation address. | Despite heavy rain, the crowd was strong and enthusiastic. The protest was organized by Malaya Movement Northeast and included speeches from various Filipino and ally organizations. The speakers highlighted the different ways in which President Duterte has committed human rights abuses, and the need for organization…

Graham Peebles (2019-07-27). The Age of Abuse. dissidentvoice.org As social divisions deepen, polarities spread, extremists rise, anger and abuse grows, is growing, is being legitimized, excused. Lies are sanctioned, truth dismissed. The abuser armed, flag-waving, ignorant, spewing vitriol and poisoning the collective psychological space, weaving a brittle web of insecurity. There are multiple forms of abuse, from exploitation as in the case of …

Reese Erlich (2019-07-26). Foreign Correspondent: Elizabeth Warren on War and Peace. progressive.org Warren's troubling foreign policy history includes uncritical support of Israel, supporting sanctions on Venezuela, and vilifying Russia and China as national security threats. But her views are also evolving.

Frank Scott (2019-07-26). CapitalGate's the Problem, Not Russiagate. dissidentvoice.org [U]nder existing conditions, private capitalists inevitably control, directly or indirectly, the main sources of information (press, radio, education). It is thus extremely difficult, and indeed in most cases quite impossible, for the individual citizen to come to objective conclusions and to make intelligent use of his political rights. — Albert Einstein While the professional class …

United Nations (2019-07-26). UN human rights chief fears world has grown numb to Syrian carnage. un.org The relentless campaign of airstrikes in Syria has been met with a "collective shrug," the top United Nations human rights official said on Friday, denouncing the world's apparent indifference to the mounting civilian casualties as a "failure of leadership" by the world's most powerful countries.

United Nations (2019-07-26). Friday's Daily Brief: Libya mass drownings response: Syria 'carnage' denounced, food aid doubled for Ebola-affected in DR Congo. un.org Our main stories today: UN leaders call for a return to sea rescues in the Mediterranean, following Libya shipwreck; UN human rights chief denounces indifference to victims of Syrian airstrikes; World Food Programme doubles supplies to those affected by Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, and WHO urges more investment to eradicate hepatitis.

splcenter (2019-07-26). Family of Herbert Lee to visit Civil Rights Memorial that honors his sacrifice. splcenter.org Clifton Franklin was a high school football running back who — at 16 — wanted to play in a big game between Louisiana rivals. His mother, however, had other plans.

susan_p (2019-07-26). Open letter to Australian government: No war on Venezuela, lift the sanctions. greenleft.org.au The following open letter to the Australian government was released on July 27. | *** | The United States government of President Donald Trump has made clear it will do whatever is required, including engaging in illegal activities and even potentially launching a military offensive, to overthrow Venezuela's democratically elected government of President Nicolas Maduro. | On January 23, when Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido unilaterally declared himself "interim president" of Venezuela, the US administration immediately recognised his illegal claim. The Australian government followed suit shortly after. W…

ACLU (2019-07-25). Hawaiians are Taking to the Streets and Exercising their First Amendment Rights. aclu.org We're ensuring the right to protest and cultural access at the world's tallest mountain. | Driving up Daniel K. Inouye Highway on the Big Island of Hawai'i at 4: 30 in the morning is a sight few will forget: a silent, pitch-black road, with black lava and sparse trees. The dark air is a chilly 50 degrees. In our backpacks are packaged tuna, crackers, water, walkie talkies, and a voice recorder. However, the most important items are without a doubt our blue ACLU of Hawai'i legal observer vests and first aid kit, which is stocked with goods like antacid (to rinse our eyes of pepper spray) and earbuds. Sitting in the…

Nausicaa Renner (2019-07-25). As Immigrants Become More Aware of Their Rights, ICE Steps Up Ruses and Surveillance. theintercept.com "ICE's mission is to apprehend people that it believes shouldn't be in our communities and it will go to great lengths to do that, particularly in the face of increased knowledge of rights."

United Nations (2019-07-25). Despite 'considerable progress,' Somalia needs help tackling political, economic and rights challenges, says UN expert. un.org Although Somalia has made "considerable progress" in its political, economic, social and human rights situation over the past six years, "there is much more to do," a United Nations expert said on Thursday, urging the international community to assist.

Ricardo Vaz (2019-07-25). Venezuela: US Sanctions Target Subsidized Food Program as Foro de Sao Paulo Kicks Off. venezuelanalysis.com Washington has targeted companies and individuals it alleges are profiteering from the CLAP food initiative.

2019-07-31: Social Media Postees

On Direct Action and Trump's Immigration Agenda
Staff | truthout.org | 2019-07-31
| We are nearing the tail end of the latest round of reports of (and subsequent righteous uproar at) the ongoing crisis at the U.S./Mexico border and all things immigration. At different points over the last several weeks, folks have wondered aloud online about where was the immigrant rights movement? What could be done? | Speaking for myself, it's been difficult to produce a convenient answer (or even an inconvenient one that will work). I have felt pena ajena when I see that the only action step for people is to do…
truthout.org/articles/on-direct-action-and-trumps-immigration-agenda/

On Direct Action and Trump's Immigration Agenda
Staff | truthout.org | 2019-07-31
| We are nearing the tail end of the latest round of reports of (and subsequent righteous uproar at) the ongoing crisis at the U.S./Mexico border and all things immigration. At different points over the last several weeks, folks have wondered aloud online about where was the immigrant rights movement? What could be done? | Speaking for myself, it's been difficult to produce a convenient answer (or even an inconvenient one that will work). I have felt pena ajena when I see that the only action step for people is to do…
truthout.org/articles/on-direct-action-and-trumps-immigration-agenda/

Houston F.I.R.E protests Greyhound-ICE connection
Gloria Rubac | workers.org | 2019-07-31
After quickly and quietly giving out "Know Your Rights" leaflets to every passenger in the Greyhound waiting room here on July 27, and before security could figure out what was happening, activists walked out of the station and set up a picket line outside the terminal where they held a . . . | Continue reading Houston F.I.R.E protests Greyhound-ICE connection at Workers.org…
workers.org/2019/07/30/houston-f-i-r-e-protests-greyhound-ice-connection/

Is India displaying signs of neo-fascism?
Eds. | mronline.org | 2019-07-31
Property rights of people are protected under neo-fascism, except those racially, communally, sexually, or politically targeted whose properties are often confiscated. | Source…
mronline.org/2019/07/31/is-india-displaying-signs-of-neo-fascism/

Iran to Europe: Fix INSTEX or Will Reduce Deal Commitments
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-31
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif lamented Wednesday, on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting in Teheran that France, Britain, and Germany are not abiding by the terms of the multilateral nuclear deal they signed in 2015. | RELATED: | US Imposes Sanctions on Iran's Foreign Minister | The deal is not being respected, or the responsibility of these European countries, to find a solution to the consequences of the United States' leaving the accord, officially called the Joint Comprehen…
telesurenglish.net/news/Iran-to-Europe-Fix-INSTEX-or-Reducing-Deal-Commitments-Again-20190731-0016.html

US Imposes Sanctions on Iran's Foreign Minister
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-31
The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, the U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control said on its website. | The Treasury Department said it was imposing sanctions on Zarif for acting on behalf of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. | RELATED: | Trump Claims Iran has Never Won a War in New Twitter Rant | "Javad Zarif implements the reckless agenda of Iran's Supreme Leader, and is the regime's pri…
telesurenglish.net/news/US-Imposes-Sanctions-on-Irans-Foreign-Minister-20190731-0013.html

The Injustice of Economic Warfare
Daniel Larison | globalresearch.ca | 2019-07-31
The AP reports on the harmful effects of sanctions on the availability of medicine in Iran: | "Our biggest concern is that channels to the outside world are closed," said Dr. Arasb Ahmadian, head of the Mahak Children's Hospital, which | …
globalresearch.ca/injustice-economic-warfare/5685211

Detention, Denialism, & Activism Now
Nancy Ukai | indybay.org | 2019-07-31
Futures Without Violence | 100 Montgomery Street | The Presidio – SF CA 94129…
indybay.org/newsitems/2019/07/27/18825011.php

DOJ Guts Asylum Protections for Members of Families Threatened With Violence
Staff | truthout.org | 2019-07-30
| In a decision immigrant rights advocates said could have horrific consequences for thousands of people fleeing violence in Central America, Attorney General William Barr ruled Monday that being an immediate member of a persecuted family is not sufficient grounds to seek asylum in the United States. | According to immigration experts, Barr's move rewrites years of law and represents the Trump administration's…
truthout.org/articles/doj-guts-asylum-protections-for-members-of-families-threatened-with-violence/

Four Immigrants Have Died at Stewart ICE Facility in Georgia. Advocates Want It Shut Down
Staff | democracynow.org | 2019-07-30
A 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico died last week at Stewart Detention Center, one of the largest immigration jails in the United States and one that has been plagued by allegations of neglect and abuse for years. Pedro Arriago-Santoya was the fourth person to die at Stewart in just two years and the seventh person to die while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since October. An immigration judge had ordered Arriago-Santoya be deported in June. Instead, he was transferred to Stewart on July 10 as his removal proceedings continued. Two weeks later he was pronounced dead at a Georgia hospital.
www.democracynow.org/2019/7/30/pedro_arr…

More Than Three Eco-Activists Killed Every Week in 2018: Study
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-30
While calls to save the planet are growing every day, the people who fight to protect their lands and the environment are being silenced. In 2018, on average three environmental defenders were murdered each week, according to a study published Monday by the international human rights group Global Witness. | RELATED: | Peru: Protestors Demand Definitive End of Open-Pit Mining Project | More than 160 land an…
telesurenglish.net/news/More-Than-Three-Eco-Activists-Killed-each-Week-in-2018-Study-20190730-0025.html

Four Immigrants Have Died at Stewart ICE Jail in Georgia. Advocates Want It Shut Down
Staff | democracynow.org | 2019-07-30
A 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico died last week at Stewart Detention Center, one of the largest immigration jails in the United States and one that has been plagued by allegations of neglect and abuse for years. Pedro Arriago-Santoya was the fourth person to die at Stewart in just two years and the seventh person to die while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since October. An immigration judge had ordered Arriago-Santoya be deported in June. Instead, he was transferred to Stewart on July 10 as his removal proceedings continued. Two weeks later he was pronounced dead at a Georgia hospital.
www.democracynow.org/2019/7/30/pedro_arr…

More Than Three Eco-Activists Killed Every Week in 2018: Study
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-30
While calls to save the planet are growing every day, the people who fight to protect their lands and the environment are being silenced. In 2018, on average three environmental defenders were murdered each week, according to a study published Monday by the international human rights group Global Witness. | RELATED: | Peru: Protestors Demand Definitive End of Open-Pit Mining Project | More than 160 land an…
telesurenglish.net/news/More-Than-Three-Eco-Activists-Killed-each-Week-in-2018-Study-20190730-0025.html

More Than 160 Environmental Defenders Were Killed in 2018, and Many Others Labeled Terrorists and Criminals
Alleen Brown | theintercept.com | 2019-07-30
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, the United Nations special rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous peoples, was disturbed to learn that her name had been included on a list of "terrorists" allegedly affiliated with the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army. | Authoritarian President Rodrigo Duterte had imposed martial law on the island of Mindanao in May 2017, when ISIS sympathizers attacked the predominantly Muslim city Marawi. By October, ISIS had been ousted, but martial law remained in p…
theintercept.com/2019/07/30/criminalization-environmental-activists-global-witness-report/

Greece: Students Protest to Keep Universities Police Free
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-30
Greek students are protesting against a proposal to scrap academic sanctuary, a law that was designed to protect protesting students and freedom of ideas but which the new government says is used as a cover for lawlessness. | RELATED: | Greece: Refugees, Activists on Alert Amid New Migration Acts | A couple of thousand students marched through Athens against repealing asylum last week. "I personally believe the free movement of ideas means that no institution of the state can inter…
telesurenglish.net/news/greece-university-students-protest-no-police-academic-asylum-20190730-0014.html

Four Immigrants Have Died at Stewart ICE Facility in Georgia
Staff | truthout.org | 2019-07-30
| A 44-year-old immigrant from Mexico died last week at Stewart Detention Center, one of the largest immigration jails in the United States and one that has been plagued by allegations of neglect and abuse for years. Pedro Arriago-Santoya was the fourth person to die at Stewart in just two years and the seventh person to die while in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since October. An immigration judge had ordered Arriago-Santoya be deported in June. Instead, he was transferred to Stewart…
truthout.org/video/four-immigrants-have-died-at-stewart-ice-facility-in-georgia/

Standing room only at Nashville immigrant and refugee rights forum
Albert Bender | peoplesworld.org | 2019-07-30
"I am a woman. I am a Mexican. My family lives in fear every single day"- Veronica Zavaleta NASHVILLE — Veronica Zavaleta, a homeowner, a business owner, mother, and immigrant gave a moving account of her feelings of terror at the hands of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Her narrative was given at a public …
peoplesworld.org/article/standing-room-only-at-nashville-immigrant-and-refugee-rights-forum/

Nicaraguan 'human rights' director accused by staff of massive theft of US taxpayer money, death toll inflation
The Grayzone | thegrayzone.com | 2019-07-30
ANPDH's board members are accusing their director of stealing huge sums from US soft power organizations and inflating death tolls…
thegrayzone.com/2019/07/30/nicaraguan-human-rights-director-accused-by-staff-of-massive-theft-of-us-taxpayer-money-death-toll-inflation/

The Pompeo Commission Is Weaponizing Human Rights
James Carden | thenation.com | 2019-07-30
The Pompeo Commission Is Weaponizing Human Rights…
thenation.com/article/mike-pompeo-human-rights-mary-ann-glendon/

NYC power outage reveals a profit-hungry and racist system
J. August | liberationnews.org | 2019-07-30
Electricity, transportation, decent water and other services are basic human rights.
liberationnews.org/nyc-power-outage-reveals-a-profit-hungry-and-racist-system/

Saudi Forces Kill 13 in 'Massacre' at Yemen Market
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-30
Saudi forces launched Monday airstrikes at a busy market in Yemen's northern province of Saada, killing 13 and injuring 26, along with destroying much of the market produce, as the country suffers one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. | RELATED: | Yemen World's Worst Humanitarian Crisis: Human Rights Report | The attack has been called the 'Al Thabet Market Massacre' by Yemeni media outlet Almasirah. Though the confirmed death toll is 13, the number is likely to rise according to a He…
telesurenglish.net/news/Saudi-Forces-Kill-13-in-Massacre-at-Yemen-Market-20190730-0006.html

Monday's Daily Brief: Children in armed conflict, Ebola in DR Congo, human rights in Bahrain, and two International Days
United Nations | un.org | 2019-07-30
Our main stories today cover: A new report on children and armed conflict, a day to combat human trafficking; funds needed to fight Ebola in DR Congo; UN rights office condemns the execution of two Bahraini citizens; and International Day of Friendship…
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2019/07/1043481

Guatemala's Top Court to Rule on Migration Agreement with US
telesurenglish.net | 2019-07-30
Guatemala's Human Rights Prosecutor Jordan Rodas Monday filed an urgent appeal to the Constitutional Court to curb the "Safe Third Country" (STC) agreement signed by President Jimmy Morales administration in Washington, D.C., on July 26. | RELATED: | Trump Admin Enacts Another Restriction for Asylum-Seekers | "The agreement contradicts not only the Guatemalan Constitutio…
telesurenglish.net/news/Guatemalas-Top-Court-to-Rule-on-Safe-Third-Country-Agreement-with-US-20190730-0005.html

Could Trump end a cruel dog meat festival during U.S.-China trade negotiations?
John Lekas | nationofchange.org | 2019-07-30
It's often said that a picture is worth a thousand words. However, I have no words for the images from the recent Lychee and Dog Meat Festival held in Yulin, Guangxi, China. Held annually during the third week in June, this 10-day festival ritualizes the abduction, torture, slaughter and eventual consumption of tens of thousands of dogs. The torture comes in many forms, including blow-torching, hanging, skinning and immersing the dogs in boiling water [mdas…
nationofchange.org/2019/07/30/could-trump-end-a-cruel-dog-meat-festival-during-u-s-china-trade-negotiations/

New Coalition Goes on the Offensive for Abortion Rights
Alice Pettway | progressive.org | 2019-07-30
It can start to feel like the fight for reproductive rights is only about preventing backslide, but that's far from the truth.
progressive.org/dispatches/new-coalition-goes-for-abortion-rights-pettway-190730/

American Politicians Use Jews as Pawns to Excuse Their Meddling in Israeli Elections
Thomas Knapp | counterpunch.org | 2019-07-30
On July 23, the US House of Representatives passed (the vote went 398-17, with five voting "present") a resolution condemning the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement. The resolution was an outrageous condemnation of the freely chosen economic actions of millions of Americans. Worse, that condemnation was made on the express behalf of not just…
counterpunch.org/2019/07/30/american-politicians-use-jews-as-pawns-to-excuse-their-meddling-in-israeli-elections/

American Politicians Use Jews as Pawns to Excuse Their Meddling in Israeli Elections
Thomas Knapp | counterpunch.org | 2019-07-30
On July 23, the US House of Representatives passed (the vote went 398-17, with five voting "present") a resolution condemning the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement. The resolution was an outrageous condemnation of the freely chosen economic actions of millions of Americans. Worse, that condemnation was made on the express behalf of not just…
counterpunch.org/2019/07/30/american-politicians-use-jews-as-pawns-to-excuse-their-meddling-in-israeli-elections/

U.S. sanctions target subsidized food program as Foro de Sao Paulo kicks off
Ricardo Vaz | mronline.org | 2019-07-30
Washington has targeted companies and individuals it alleges are profiteering from the CLAP food initiative. | Source…
mronline.org/2019/07/30/u-s-sanctions-target-subsidized-food-program-as-foro-de-sao-paulo-kicks-off/

House Anti-BDS Resolution Reveals the Power and Limits of the Israeli Lobby
Staff | therealnews.com | 2019-07-30
The defense of Palestinian rights has become more acceptable and accusations of anti-Semitism have become more sparing in the mainstream media, despite the House's recent resolution against the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, says IPS's Phyllis Bennis…
therealnews.com/stories/house-anti-bds-resolution-reveals-the-power-and-limits-of-the-israeli-lobby

The Lines Between Us: The Modern History of Baltimore Apartheid (1/2)
Staff | therealnews.com | 2019-07-30
As Trump unloads a racist attack on Baltimore, we speak with author Lawrence Lanahan, who charts the history of segregation from redlining to the civil rights movement…
therealnews.com/stories/the-lines-between-us-the-modern-history-of-baltimore-apartheid-1-2

Protests demand: 'Lift the sanctions on Venezuela!'
Fred_F | greenleft.org.au | 2019-07-30
A rally was held outside the United States Consulate in Martin Place on July 27 to condemn the US government's campaign to overthrow the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro through illegal sanctions and threats of military intervention. | Rally chairperson Coral Wynter read out an open letter released that day, signed by 45 academics, unionists, journalists and solidarity activists, among others, calling on the Australian government to: reverse its recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaidó as "interim presiden…
greenleft.org.au/content/protests-demand-lift-sanctions-venezuela

More Than Three Eco-Defenders Killed Per Week in 2018 While Fighting to Protect Wildlife, Homes, and Livelihoods
Julia Conley, staff writer | commondreams.org | 2019-07-30
The fight to protect land, homes, livelihoods, and wildlife from destructive, pollution-causing industries turned deadly for more than 160 environmental defenders in 2018, the international human rights group Global Witness revealed Monday night in a new report. | www.commondreams.org/sites/default/files…
commondreams.org/news/2019/07/30/more-three-eco-defenders-killed-week-2018-while-fighting-protect-wildlife-homes-and?cd-origin=rss

Mass Protests in Colombia and Abroad Decry Killings of 500 Activists Since Peace Accords
Staff | democracynow.org | 2019-07-29
Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets on Friday in more than 50 cities and towns across Colombia to protest a surge of lethal attacks on indigenous, Afro-Colombian and environmental leaders in recent years. Solidarity marches were held in dozens of cities around the world, from Mexico City to Athens. In 2016, the Colombian government and FARC rebels signed a historic peace accord to move the country forward after a half-century of armed conflict. But since then, nearly 500 human rights activists, many from the Afro-Colombian community, have been killed, targeted for their work combating illegal m…
www.democracynow.org/2019/7/29/colombia_…

In victory for activists, Vancouver city council votes against adopting IHRA antisemitism definition
Eds. | mronline.org | 2019-07-29
The City of Vancouver, Canada might seem to be an odd place for a battle over the IHRA definition of antisemitism. But that is exactly what happened in the last week, and it all concluded with a temporary victory for free speech, human rights and common sense. | Source…
mronline.org/2019/07/29/in-victory-for-activists-vancouver-city-council-votes-against-adopting-ihra-antisemitism-definition/

Progressive Democrats vote against BDS, Palestinian rights
Aaron Maté | thegrayzone.com | 2019-07-29
House Democrats, including key progressives, have passed a measure condemning the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS). Why are Reps….
thegrayzone.com/2019/07/29/progressive-democrats-vote-against-bds-palestinian-rights/

Protesters in Bradenton defend the rights of immigrants and refugees
Bryan Ellis | liberationnews.org | 2019-07-29
On Sunday, seventeen people gathered at the Manatee County Courthouse in downtown Bradenton to demand an end to US concentration camps for refugees and mass deportations of immigrants.
liberationnews.org/protesters-in-bradenton-defend-the-rights-of-immigrants-and-refugees/

Bassam Shakaa: The Making of a Palestinian 'Organic Intellectual'
Ramzy Baroud | mintpressnews.com | 2019-07-29
Between his birth in Nablus in 1930 and his death, Bassam Shakaa fought a relentless struggle for Palestinian rights. He challenged Israel, the PA, US imperialism and reactionary Arab governments. Throughout this arduous journey, he survived exile, prison and an assassination attempt.
mintpressnews.com/bassam-shakaa-making-palestinian-organic-intellectual/260804/

Bassam Shakaa: The Making of a Palestinian 'Organic Intellectual'
Ramzy Baroud | mintpressnews.com | 2019-07-29
Between his birth in Nablus in 1930 and his death, Bassam Shakaa fought a relentless struggle for Palestinian rights. He challenged Israel, the PA, US imperialism and reactionary Arab governments. Throughout this arduous journey, he survived exile, prison and an assassination attempt.
mintpressnews.com/bassam-shakaa-making-palestinian-organic-intellectual/260804/

Murder of Brazilian indigenous leader a 'worrying symptom' of land invasion
United Nations | un.org | 2019-07-29
In the wake of the murder of indigenous leader Emrya Wajà£pi in Brazil, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, has called on the country's authorities to "react quickly and decisively" to protect the rights of indigenous peoples on their lands.
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2019/07/1043401

Progressive Democrats vote against BDS, Palestinian rights
Aaron Maté | thegrayzone.com | 2019-07-29
House Democrats, including key progressives, have passed a measure condemning the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS). Why are Reps….
thegrayzone.com/2019/07/29/progressive-democrats-vote-against-bds-palestinian-rights/

Monday's Daily Brief: Nigeria massacre, Libya shelling condemned; recycled plastic used to build classrooms in Cà¥te d'Ivoire
United Nations | un.org | 2019-07-29
Our main stories today: UN chief and senior UN official condemn the 'terrible massacre' in Nigeria that left some 65 dead, and the shelling of a hospital in Libya that killed medical workers; UN Secretary-General António Guterres reacts to a deadly landslide in China; recycled plastic waste is used to build classrooms in Cà¥te d'Ivoire; and scouts are urged to become human rights defenders.
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2019/07/1043371

Starvation as a Weapon: US Targets Venezuela CLAP Program
Jim Carey | theantimedia.com | 2019-07-28
(GPA) — The new US sanctions on Venezuela meant to target the CLAP food program proves there is nothing "humanitarian" about Washington's concerns. Last week the United States Department of Treasury placed new sanctions on multiple individuals and businesses connected to the Bolivarian government's Local Committees for Supply and Production program (in Spanish Los Comités Locales de …

Starvation as a Weapon: US Targets Venezuela CLAP Program

Starvation as a Weapon: US Targets Venezuela CLAP Program
Jim Carey | theantimedia.com | 2019-07-28
(GPA) — The new US sanctions on Venezuela meant to target the CLAP food program proves there is nothing "humanitarian" about Washington's concerns. Last week the United States Department of Treasury placed new sanctions on multiple individuals and businesses connected to the Bolivarian government's Local Committees for Supply and Production program (in Spanish Los Comités Locales de …

Starvation as a Weapon: US Targets Venezuela CLAP Program

New York rallies to oust Duterte
Fight Back | fightbacknews.org | 2019-07-27
New York, NY – Over 100 protesters gathered outside of the Philippine Consulate General in New York City on July 22 for the People's State of the Nation Address. This action was part of a larger call to oust U.S.-backed Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte as he gave his State of the Nation address. | Despite heavy rain, the crowd was strong and enthusiastic. The protest was organized by Malaya Movement Northeast and included speeches from various Filipino and ally organizations. The speakers highlighted the different ways in which President Duterte has committed human rights abuses, and the need for organization…
fightbacknews.org/2019/7/27/new-york-rallies-oust-duterte

The Age of Abuse
Graham Peebles | dissidentvoice.org | 2019-07-27
As social divisions deepen, polarities spread, extremists rise, anger and abuse grows, is growing, is being legitimized, excused. Lies are sanctioned, truth dismissed. The abuser armed, flag-waving, ignorant, spewing vitriol and poisoning the collective psychological space, weaving a brittle web of insecurity. There are multiple forms of abuse, from exploitation as in the case of …
dissidentvoice.org/2019/07/the-age-of-abuse/

Foreign Correspondent: Elizabeth Warren on War and Peace
Reese Erlich | progressive.org | 2019-07-26
Warren's troubling foreign policy history includes uncritical support of Israel, supporting sanctions on Venezuela, and vilifying Russia and China as national security threats. But her views are also evolving.
progressive.org/dispatches/foreign-correspondent-elizabeth-warren-on-war-and-peace-erlich-190726/

UN human rights chief fears world has grown numb to Syrian carnage
United Nations | un.org | 2019-07-26
The relentless campaign of airstrikes in Syria has been met with a "collective shrug," the top United Nations human rights official said on Friday, denouncing the world's apparent indifference to the mounting civilian casualties as a "failure of leadership" by the world's most powerful countries.
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2019/07/1043241

Friday's Daily Brief: Libya mass drownings response: Syria 'carnage' denounced, food aid doubled for Ebola-affected in DR Congo
United Nations | un.org | 2019-07-26
Our main stories today: UN leaders call for a return to sea rescues in the Mediterranean, following Libya shipwreck; UN human rights chief denounces indifference to victims of Syrian airstrikes; World Food Programme doubles supplies to those affected by Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, and WHO urges more investment to eradicate hepatitis.
news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2019/07/1043311

CapitalGate's the Problem, Not Russiagate
Frank Scott | dissidentvoice.org | 2019-07-26
[U]nder existing conditions, private capitalists inevitably control, directly or indirectly, the main sources of information (press, radio, education). It is thus extremely difficult, and indeed in most cases quite impossible, for the individual citizen to come to objective conclusions and to make intelligent use of his political rights. — Albert Einstein While the professional class …
dissidentvoice.org/2019/07/capitalgates-the-problem-not-russiagate/

Family of Herbert Lee to visit Civil Rights Memorial that honors his sacrifice
splcenter.org | 2019-07-26
Clifton Franklin was a high school football running back who — at 16 — wanted to play in a big game between Louisiana rivals. His mother, however, had other plans.
splcenter.org/news/2019/07/26/family-herbert-lee-visit-civil-rights-memorial-honors-his-sacrifice