Humanist Association of Hong Kong

Didar with the flag on the annual democracy walk July 1

PHOTO ABOVE: Tony Henderson speaking on the HA stance against nuclear weapons and nuclear power - Sunday 24 April, 2011

BELOW: 4th June 2011 Green Party Hong Kong (Chairman Albert Oung, and Mike Sit - taking photo) visited Cheung Chau with Basil Hui of the Sports Club in support of anti-incinerator campaign, Shek Kwu Chau; short-circuiting proper recycling and getting big money contracts to the usual suspects.



Call Tony at 90487639 or email tonyhen1@gmail.com to take part in a small gathering of the Mui Wo Community of the Message, evening, 22 December, 2011.







International Human Rights Day, 10 December, 2011

International humanist party statement on world situation

In this moment of history, and as a political party inspired by the current of Universalist Humanism, we find it necessary to analyse the present situation in order to develop proposals for action in the present global context. [Surely, this is a useful reference for others, Editor.]

From Pressenza
http://world.pressenza.org/
December 10, 2011

When humanists observe and participate in social, political and economic processes around the world, we cannot but reflect about the relevance to this moment of history of the Statement of the Humanist Movement written by Silo in 1993*. From its reading we can understand to what degree the path of history has confirmed the tendencies that this document explained and to what degree - today more than ever - the union of all humanists of the world has become necessary so that the deepest human aspirations may be turned into reality.

THE ANALYSIS

The emergence of new generations

In recent times around the world different social movements have sprung up and surprised analysts and opinion formers who had been suggesting the end of history.

Social expressions, varied in their causes and demands in countries as diverse as Tunisia, Egypt, Iceland, India, Spain, Chile and the USA, have in common that their protagonists have been the new generations.  Thousands of young people have started to take to the streets to show their outrage at the unjust world they've inherited, accepting the challenge of becoming the protagonists for social change and adopting Active Nonviolence as a methodology of action.
The expression of these young people, added to the best efforts of previous generations, is starting to give rise to the birth of a new planetary sensibility.

This is a new sensibility that makes a void to leaders accustomed to manipulating everything.  It not only speaks of horizontality but also exercises it on a daily basis in its different forms of self-managed organisation.  It is a new sensibility that doesn't just tolerate diversity but accepts it and drives it forward; comprehending that such diversity is necessary if the requirement is to produce real changes.  It recognises the banks and speculative capital as the real adversaries who have hijacked representative democracy making plain the need to advance towards Direct Democracy.

This is a new sensibility that is no longer surrendering its subjectivity to the official communication media in the hands of Financial Capital but rather is using and appropriating new technologies and social networks in order to communicate, inform, denounce, organise and take to the streets.

And, perhaps, the most important thing is that this new sensibility's intuition tells it that at the base of social injustice, physical, economic, racial and religious violence is to be found.  And therefore its response to repression and defamation is a void, non-confrontation and civil disobedience, in sum: Active Nonviolence.
   
This new sensibility is a sign of the new world that is being born in the midst of an old world that, with great violence and repression, is trying to stay put.

*  The "Humanist Statement" forms part of the "Sixth Letter to my Friends", written by Silo on the 5th of April, 1993, included in his Collected Works, Volume 1, Page 488, Latitude Press, USA.

Towards the Universal Human Nation

Over the last 20 years, global communication and interconnection have been increasing and certain aspects of this phenomenon have been defined as "globalisation."  But humanists, as internationalists and aspiring to a plural and diverse world, see in this globalisation the signs of anti-humanism.  Because it happens that global economic power has tried to direct this process in accordance with its own interests, creating a Parastate at both a national and global level.  This Parastate operates within national borders by buying or blackmailing governments and manipulating public opinion through control of the mass media.  And it also operates internationally, having at its service economic institutions such as the IMF, the World Bank and the WTO; creating international courts along the way such as ICSID; using the USA's and NATO's armies as the world's police force; and covering all of its misdeeds with a veneer of legality by controlling the decisions of the United Nations.  Public opinion is also manipulated through the international press.

So what happens is that the people of the world not only have to confront the problems within their own borders, but they also feel that many of their problems are generated globally, and that they don't have the means to resolve them.  And just as humanists say that within our borders we must take power through Real Democracy in order to have representatives that genuinely represent us; so also at a global level we must work to dismantle this Parastate that covers itself with a cloak of respectability through organisms that are mere proxies of global economic power.

Therefore, the image of advancing towards a Universal Human Nation must not only be a luminous utopia guiding the struggles of the people, but also a strategic conception from which tactical actions arise that lead to the power of this Global Parastate being disassembled, while simultaneously the pillars of a truly Universal Human Nation are being built.  Because this Universal Human Nation, which might seem to be a mere expression of desires for older generations, is already appearing as a visible horizon for the new generations and for this new sensibility.

From now on, between the present situation and the horizon that is approaching, we must travel a path of action, and some of these actions are those that we propose in this document.

A change of economic paradigms

In a world in which money has become the central value of existence, we shouldn't be surprised by the consequences of such denial of meaning of human life.  We are not surprised by the growing inequity in the distribution of wealth as we are dealing with individualistic competition in which there has to be winners and losers by necessity.  We are not surprised by the successive financial crises and their correlate of recession in a system that can only be sustained by growing debt.  We are not surprised by wars over scarce natural resources in a world preyed upon by the consumerism of the most well off.  We are not surprised by social violence when increasing numbers of people feel like failures and are marginalised, in contrast to the paradise offered by consumerist advertising.  And we shouldn't feel surprised by nihilism, madness and suicide when existence has lost its meaning, and material success is supposed to replace it.

Of course there are procedures to transform this inhuman economic system; improving the distribution of income, disciplining the financial system, and advancing towards sustainable development that allows a dignified life for every human being without devastating the planet.  But it would be naïve to expect the spontaneous application of such procedures without previously driving forward a genuine change of paradigms in the conception of the economy based on a profound change of cultural values.

There are those who believe that, due to the mere fact that economic crises affect many people, there will be a majority convinced of the need to change the economic system.  But it's not so, because individualism has permeated deeply and the fact that many individuals converge in protest in the face of a generalised crisis does not mean that individualism has been transcended, and so it's not so simple to move on to other organisational forms that can really replace the system.

So the proposal for transformation of the economic system cannot be proposed just in terms of technical feasibility or in terms of convenience for the majority.  It must be proposed from a social mystique that has the ethic of coherence as a banner, which in economic terms means to place the resolution of the basic needs of all inhabitants of the world before the interests of any other sector or individual.

We know that today we have the conditions to resolve the basic needs for the whole world.  There are more than enough examples of what could be done with the resources that are today destined to weapons, financial speculation, the production of luxury goods and irrational consumerism.  This should be enough to change the direction of the economic forces themselves and, in a short time frame, convert and multiply the means of production, so ending up with less weapons and more food, less resources going to speculation and more into production.  But the direction of economic forces will not change just because we ask those who live at the top of the pyramid to dismantle it.  It will change when a good part of those of us who act like bricks in this pyramid stop sustaining it, and this will be achieved when we stop believing in the pyramid.  And this means new values, new paradigms, and a social mystique that implants them in the hearts of human beings.

In fact the degree of growing perversion in the relationship between capital and labour is possible thanks to the fact that a reigning individualism in the population prevents joint responses and leaves the vast majority unarmed in front of a powerful economic minority.  But this absurdity is so great that awareness is rising in increasingly large sections of the population.  The Humanist Party around the world must work to organise and give analytical elements to the greatest possible number of people.  Our response, active nonviolence, shows us that the first step is to denounce those who should not be collaborating with those who use violence.  Just as at the right time we will have to press for non-collaboration with violent States, also we will have to advocate for non-collaboration with capital that mistreats the population.  In some moment workers (and consumers) will have to take on social development projects built without the intervention of capitalist partners (or with those who allow for a fair and reciprocal relationship).  In some moment the population will stop demanding their needs from capital and will decide to resolve them as a whole.  "We don't want your loans or your jobs, or your products or your services."  This will only be possible when reciprocity starts to take the place of individualism.

Towards Real Democracy

As humanists we reject totalitarianism and dictatorships of all kinds because we think that the freedom of human beings to decide their own destiny, without lords, or bosses is an unalienable right in all circumstances.

But we also denounce the hypocrisy of formal democracies, in which the powerful of the economic-political-media corporation use their capacity for manipulation to leave the population with false electoral choices, leaving them to choose between the "least bad" executioner and the supposed chaos of institutional instability.

It is clear that in today's world not all freely elected governments are the same; there are those more progressive and those more conservative.  But whether through complicity, inability, or the limitations imposed by economic power, they have not wanted or not been able to put the process into reverse.  Because one thing is having the good intention of "compensating" those least favoured by this system (despite which marginalisation increases anyway), and another is to transform the very structure of the system so that it stops being a machine for marginalising people.  And since the failure of real socialism, there have been no new alternatives to the present situation.

In any case, the possibility for people to intervene in public politics is barely more than electing their supposed representatives in elections.  So if we want substantial transformations in the world, we must achieve greater participation of citizens in the decisions that affect them most, and not be at the mercy of the markets or the authorities.

In concrete terms, among other things, all of this means binding popular consultations for decisions of certain relevance, it means participatory budgets, it means direct elections for all positions of authority and the possibility to recall people from their positions at any time.
But it's evident that just as we cannot pretend that those at the top of the economic pyramid are going to change the rules of the game by themselves, neither can we hope that those entrenched in political power thanks to formal democracy will legislate in order to give greater, real participation to the people in central decisions.  So it will be necessary to promote the practice of Real Democracy right in the heart of society, supporting with our votes only those who commit themselves to implementing the necessary democratic transformations.  And if there are no candidates with this commitment or those with it are not worthy of trust, then we will have to infiltrate the system with candidates of the people, at the same time as we organise non-collaboration and civil disobedience when enough organised people have become aware that this system is irreparable.  However, there is no other way out of this trap of formal democracy, at least in the path that humanists propose, than through nonviolent struggle.

PROPOSALS

These proposals, besides being perfectible in their breadth and depth, and besides representing only a few examples of what could be done, may also be received in diverse ways by those who coincide with them according to their possibility to act.  For some these may be ideals to be reached and used as a guide in the hour of choosing their governments.  For others they may be mobilising images, a basis for organising to demand that governments take care to make them happen.  Others will better see the option of participating politically and having such proposals in their own electoral platforms.  And those that today have any modicum of power-political or economic - and genuinely aspire to a better world, perhaps may try to apply some of them.
   
Proposals for governments, advancing towards a confederation of national states with those who commit to these proposals

1.    To establish at a constitutional level the obligation of the State to guarantee in concrete terms the coverage of the basic needs of the population with tax policies in accordance with this priority.  Establishing, on the basis of the coverage of such needs, a percentage of the budget destined to helping less fortunate countries.

2.    Dismantling all nuclear arsenals.  The progressive reduction of conventional weapons by states.  The renunciation of war as a means to resolve conflicts.

3.    State control of the financial system.  Creation of national and regional banks without interest, with a mixed administration including the participation of users and workers.  Regulations that punish speculative practices and usury.  International agreements to ensure productive reinvestment of company profits, the dismantling of tax havens and all evasive or speculative manipulation by private capital.

4.    Free circulation and equality of rights in all countries, for all inhabitants of the planet.  Freedom and equality of rights for all cultures and religions, guaranteeing the respect for diversity.

5.    Implementation of mechanisms for a Real Democracy: binding consultations, direct elections to the three State powers, decentralisation, representation of minorities, the ability to recall mandates, political responsibility and participatory budgets in all State levels.  Use of the mass media for informing people and debating issues to be decided, guaranteeing the plurality of opinions under equal conditions.  International consultations for all inhabitants involved in regional or global politics.

Proposals for social mobilisation, to put pressure on governments and to build alternatives to the de-facto power

1.    The demanding of popular consultations for every decision that governments must take in relation to economics, politics or social policy, denouncing non-consulted measures as anti-democratic.

2.    The promotion of interchange, debate, education and circulation of information so that society as a whole may be able to form an opinion about all issues that should be subject to popular consultation.  The utilisation of physical forums and social networks; demanding the media gives space for this and denouncing those who don't as the accomplices of formal democracy.

3.    The elaboration of draft laws, the demanding of their consideration, and their promotion by the social-political alternative being constructed.  A Law of Real Democracy (with the incorporation of all its mechanisms).  Tax reforms that guarantee the redistribution of wealth and the productive reinvestment of profits.  An Employee Ownership Law in business.  State control of the financial system and the creation of interest-free banks.

4.    Permanent mobilisation for two fundamental rights, Education and Healthcare, so that they may be public, free, universal and of high quality; demanding not only their existence but also a budget commensurate with their importance.

5.    The promotion and publicising through all possible channels of the paradigms of a new culture for the Universal Human Nation: nonviolence, non-discrimination, reciprocity, liberty, social justice and meaning in life.  While denouncing the values of individualism, consumerism, violence, xenophobia and war as retrograde steps.


THE ROLE OF THE INTERNATIONAL HUMANIST PARTY

As members of the IHP we have been working for years, in all countries where we are present, on the issues that we have referred to here.  But in this moment of history, we are highlighting - as never before - a growing predisposition of the population, and in particular in new generations, to mobilise for this end.  We also highlight a growing affinity for some of these issues in a few progressive governments; those with which we have had some measure of closeness.
Nevertheless, the mere current coincidence with some of our historical proposals should not confuse us as we define our present and future role.  Surely we cannot pretend to make ourselves out to be the "clear vanguard" of social processes, not only for reasons of scale, but above all because such a position would respond to schemes that are obsolete and vertical.  Surely our role should be to place ourselves in a position of parity, establishing relationships of reciprocity with those with whom we coincide.  But this horizontal placement, devoid of manipulating intentions, should not be incompatible with a willingness to take on the challenge of giving clear references about the world we aspire to and the steps to take in order to achieve it.  Such references can in no way be imposed by vertical power, but neither should they be weakened, relativised or given up, due to the fear of being confused with manipulators, or because we believe that, because of our scale, we have no right to speak firmly, or because we think that somehow a revolutionary process will mature in the world naturally.

These are moments in which to give a very clear signal from, and a very defined profile to, the Humanist Party.  The new generations are emerging; they seek the tools and ideas needed to consolidate.  If, because of an apparent situational advantage, we dilute our message with that of other groups who are similar but different, we could be weakening the understanding of our proposal and the necessary inspiration to carry forward a political, economic, social, cultural, ethical, psychological and spiritual revolution.

There is no guarantee that massive discontent with the consequences of the economic system alone will oblige governments to carry out structural changes.

There is no guarantee that discontent with formal democracy will lead governments to carry out transformations that go beyond cosmetic changes.

There is no guarantee that progressive governments will manage to pass from well-intentioned measures to a real change of the foundations of the system themselves.

There is no guarantee that all those who say they are working for a better world, genuinely seek a revolution, not only in its material aspects, but above all in its existential foundations.

What we can guarantee is that while the world is not yet a Great Universal Human Nation, there will be increasing numbers of humanists working genuinely for this aspiration; an aspiration millions of human beings are clamouring for, sometimes in silence.

                        


     15M MOVEMENT:

“YOUTH MANIFESTO”

 

FRIENDS:

“Our call for change unites us.

We want a new society that gives people priority over economic and political interests.

We want to demonstrate that society has not gone to sleep, and that we will keep fighting for what we deserve by peaceful means.

We want all this, and we want it now.” (Sol, May 2011).

 

 

YOUTH MANIFESTO: EVERYONE TO THE STREETS!

 

A ray of Sun, oh oh oh! Against Opression, oh oh oh!

A ray of Sun, oh oh oh! For liberation, oh oh oh!

 

LET’S LAUNCH A REVOLUTION TOGETHER THAT IS PARTICIPATORY, JOYFUL, INCLUSIVE AND PEACEFUL:

Stéphane Hessel says, “Get outraged!... for a peaceful uprising… Nonviolence is the path we must learn to follow. I am convinced that the future belongs to nonviolence, and to reconciliation among different cultures.”

We want the pending revolution: HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL. Dignity, education, healthcare, employment, housing, culture… FUTURE FOR ALL!! We are acting coherently through Active Nonviolence, which is a courageous stand denouncing all forms for violence that outrage us: physical, economic, racial, sexual, ideological, psychological, etc. “NONVIOLENCE IS OUR STRENGTH.”

 

“IF YOU DON’T LET US DREAM, WE WON’T LET YOU SLEEP”:

“We need to give a response to social and personal conflicts. But in a new way. Not with values that we don’t want, but with joy, good humor, and a good spirits among the people. With respect, with caring, encouraging unity and connection among all of us. We must give a clear signal, powerful and concise, a new attitude that we want to express in the world. Our action is born of the human need to overcome our limits, to liberate ourselves, and to create the type of society we really want.” With the Force that unites us, LET US THINK ABOUT WHAT WE TRULY NEED.

 

WE THE PEOPLE COME FIRST:

“Nothing above the human being and no human being above any other.” Not money, the banks, financial capital, the corrupt political powers or their leaders – none of them above the human being. They laugh in our faces with their pockets overflowing. Now IT IS TIME FOR ALL OF US TO LAUGH. “We have awoken, and now we want breakfast!” “We want happiness and freedom to grow in ourselves and in those around us.”

 

TO BE HAPPY, WE ALL NEED THE FUTURE:

Nelson Mandela tells us: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”

But why study? Why should we make an effort? Most of us are unemployed or earning poverty wages. For how much longer?

They are leaving us “with no future, no work, no house, no pension… without fear.” “We want to see ourselves dancing toward the future with the light feet of joy!” WE WANT THE FUTURE NOW!!

 

CITIZENS OF THE WORLD, UNITE: WE ARE A UNIVERSAL HUMAN NATION.

Martin Luther King said: “I have a dream that one day… injustice and oppression will be transformed into freedom and justice… and the whole human race will unite in a beautiful symphony of brotherhood.”

Everywhere we have problems: in Egypt, Tunisia, Morrocco, Iceland… and they have begun to fight by  agreeing on a change. Now in the rest of Europe and the Americas, and soon in every country on the Planet, in every town and city. EVERYONE TO THE PUBLIC SQUARES!

 

We want uncensored internet all around the world. We want a worldization that supports all ethnicities, languages, customs and beliefs - a convergence of cultures.

 

WE HAVE FAITH AND HOPE THAT ANOTHER WORLD IS POSSIBLE:

We want a world where we live together in happiness, all of us and not just a few. A WORLD WITHOUT WARS, WITHOUT WEAPONS, WITHOUT HUNGER, WITHOUT POVERTY, AN ECOLOGICALLY SOUND WORLD FULL OF SOLIDARITY… with equal rights and opportunities for all human beings. “To struggle for the rights of the minorities is to struggle for the rights of all.” “No human being is illegal.”

 

 

REAL DEMOCRACY NOW!

Enough hypocrisy. Money is everything: it buys the governments, the laws, the communications media… We say enough!! We want RESPONSES TO THE REAL NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE. WE ALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO STATE OUR OPINION AND DECIDE TOGETHER, instead of having a few decide for us.

Politicians who have been elected through direct democracy must faithfully represent the will of the citizens and be at their service. Sovereignty resides in the people, and we the people must be continually vigilant. We aspire to have all laws undergo Referendum. So that we are not betrayed, we demand THAT ELECTORAL PROMISES BE FULFILLED, that they cannot be changed by the financial interests of the powerful.

THE POWERFUL DO NOT REPRESENT US.

The politicians of the system want to silence our voices (sometimes by force and violence), so that they can keep living at the expense of our silence. The politicians have gone to the rich from the “monster” of the capital market. Let them resign and join this revolution.

 

GIVE US FULL EMPLOYMENT AND DIGNIFIED WORK!

José Luis Sampedro said: “I urge you to move forward in the struggle for a more human life… you will find many obstacles in your path, but it is your future that is at stake. May 15 must be more than an oasis in the desert; it must be the beginning of an arduous struggle so that finally we no longer are – or are seen as – ‘merchandise in the hands of the politicians and bankers.’ We say NO TO FINANCIAL TYRANNY AND ITS DEVASTATING CONSEQUENCES.”

 

NO TO ECONOMIC VIOLENCE. No to speculation and usury. No to fiscal paradises. No to the scandalous sharing of benefits among those who control capital and business, without considering the workers and the unemployed. No to the scandalous differences in salary in the same business, in the same country, and in different countries and regions of the planet.

 

We need a bank that serves the people. “The Bank always makes a profit and never gives us any of it.” Democratize all businesses. Let the workers also come together and organize in assemblies. Support businesses that organize dignified strikes. Support cooperative societies and businesses and worker self-management.

 

WE RESPECT DIVERSITY:

Gandhi said: “Violence only engenders more violence.”

If we wish to reach common agreements, we have to respect creativity and diversity, and not impose our own point of view. Any kind of imposition is violence, and such violence only limits us, and is unnecessary.

The violence of the states and entrenched powers against the people and their manipulation of us is an outrage. “Against your violence, my peace; against your nightstick, my word.”

 

WE ASK THE SUPPORT OF ALL THE PEOPLE, ORGANIZATIONS AND COLLECTIVES THAT ARE ALREADY WORKING FOR A BETTER AND MORE HUMAN WORLD.

 

LET’S CHANGE HISTORY: LET’S SAY YES TO HISTORY!!

We give thanks for the example and inspiration of all who have fought actively and peacefully down through History, so that we might arrive at this point. We ask the support of all who feel solidarity with us so that we can continue in this task. Struggling together we will leave a much better world for everyone. We have the capability and the strength to change history. This is the moment to act.

 

THE PUBLIC SQUARE IS A SYMBOL OF THE SPIRIT THAT UNITES ALL HUMAN BEINGS:

WE DO NOT WANT EMPTY WORDS.

Together we have generated a unique new process which, if we apply ourselves, can lay the foundations for a true cultural, social and personal revolution. A revolution of all and for all, in which the central value is the human being, and the methodology is active nonviolence.

If this is to endure over time we need to organize. We need an organization that is not bureaucratic, but based on human communication: communication that enriches us and allows us to grow together. Communication that does not lead us to despair or separation; communication based on respect, communication that incites to us action.

That is why we propose, here and now, that we take a moment to think about all the difficulties we’ve had, and everything we have learned from those difficulties…

And now let us remember those good moments that neither we nor the world will ever forget …

BECAUSE THIS IS NOT UTOPIA, THIS IS REALITY

LET’S ALL PARTICIPATE!!

THE FUTURE IS OURS!!

EVERYONE TO THE PUBLIC SQUARES!!

 

 

                            Video: You tube Manifiesto de l@s jóvenes tod@s a las plazas (Everyone to the  Public Squares – Youth Manifesto) http://youtu.be/zhI-qK_klJM

       Contact:  manifiestodelosjovenes@gmail.com

                                           Facebook: Manifiestodelosjovenes Todosalasplazas                                 

The Humanist newsletter - Hong Kong
- among friends of Silo’s Message of Universal Humanism,
Number 33 - September 2011
**********************************************************

Page 1 -  EDITORIAL - Engage the Space
Page 2 - Non-violent campaign against corruption in India, headed by Anna Hazare
Page 3 - Regarding the situation in Libya
Page 5 - To read Asia-related submissions from our team to Pressenza
Page 5 - Contact information

Editorial,

Engage the Space: Today we celebrate in the neighbourhood of Mui Wo Kau Tsuen the blessed end of the Islamic Ramadan, mostly among Indonesian friends. Last week we updated the activities of the Hong Kong chapter of the India Against Corruption campaign on our international press agency website, Pressenza. Last week too word came from our Silo School member Gemma, who resides in the Philippines but is visiting Ulan Bator, about the latest endeavours of our friends in Mongolia as they establish our Message there - of non-violence and non-discrimination. New additions to our Parks of Study and Reflection continue to take place, the latest in South America at this juncture *. Today, as I write, there is a Dogs Walk for Peace initiative taking place in Tiendesitas, Pasig City, Manila. Last weekend there was a local book launch at our affiliated-friend’s Fieldwork Centre in Mui Wo with great conviviality. Last Tuesday we - in this case meaning me (as part of the we) - added our input to the Green Party Hong Kong executive planning meeting in Lai Chi Kok, on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong. A report came to us from humanist friends in Iceland titled: the Pots and Pans Revolution and it´s Aftermath in Iceland, giving their point of view (see below for link **). Our stand on Libya was declared, in concordance with World without Wars and Violence (WwW)***, and relayed to pals on Humanize Asia and the local Lantau Forum email lists of Humanist-related news. In India, Humanist Movement national spokesmen Parimal Merchant inaugurated a fast that will continue till the end of Anna Hazare's agitation, in co-operation with a plethora of other organisations and fronts taking part in a relay agitation - the fasts are conducted in support of Anna Hazare's actions in Delhi Jandar Mandir. Returning locally, our Garden-to-Kitchen website was also updated - and there’s an open day planned for October 16. Thus the ramifications of all our works continue to enliven the planet - and this was just last week!

Peace, Force and Joy
Tony

**********************************************************************
New Park of Study & Reflection
* Saul and I would like to ask you for help on behalf of a group of masters, humanists and messengers in the south of Chile. They are accepting donations until 8/30/11 from Chile and elsewhere to buy a 1.5 hectare of land for a park of study and reflection 17 kilometers from Valdivia, about 10 - 12 hours south from Santiago. This is a beautiful place and  much needed in the long, long country that is Chile.
newyorkparispincoya@gmail.com

****************************************************************************
Tao Yuan
** From Garden to Kitchens, from ingredients to creativity, from cookery to sharing, from thanksgiving to friendship, from fast to slow... follow the natural flow, to taste in real.

http://hk.myblog.yahoo.com/neighbourlygardencookery

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Letter: To Consulate General Hong Kong
August 21, 2011

NON-VIOLENT CAMPAIGN AGAINST CORRUPTION IN INDIA, HEADED BY ANNA HAZARE

Dear Sirs,
We understand from our humanist volunteers across India and the mass-media that a Campaign Against Corruption is being carried out by hundreds of thousands of people and that the campaign has spread across 5,000 locations in India so far.

India has been at the forefront of Cultural and Social change for centuries, showing new direction to the world at different and often crucial times, and we feel this movement against corruption, that is fast becoming a people's non-violent movement, will soon demonstrate a new direction to the world for that real change the world needs urgently, to steer us towards a new human-being centred world of non-violence - thus ending all kinds of violence and discrimination that we now see among and against major sections of people and society.

We are pained to note that the current government of India, that has the Congress Party leading it, is failing to read the pulse of the people who want the Jan Lok Pal Bill (People's Ombudsman Law) to achieve accountability in governance. It pains us, specially because it is the same political party that was at the centre of India's Freedom struggle. This demonstrates the deterioration of values in the Congress Party. This is similar to what is happening across the world, where different governments comprising political parties of varying ideologies, have been looting the wealth of people in more or less the same way. It appears that mis-appropriating people's wealth by the few, led by the banks, has been successfully globalized under the control of what has every appearance of a Mafia (that includes the Banks, Multi-National Corporations, Crime Syndicates and the weak and selfishly co-operating Politicians) operating across the world.

The protests of people that started as a wave from Tunisia and spread over to the whole of Middle-East into North Africa, Europe, the USA (Wisconsin), and recently the UK and elsewhere, is now showing its strong manifestation in India. Indian campaigners are demonstrating once again, in the most commendable and respectable way, the only useful power rests in non-violence and not in force-of-arms. This will go into the future as a strong reference to guide the common people across the world on how to conduct oneself to bring permanent change into the compromised system - from violence to non-violence, from discrimination to true equality, from mis-appropriation to true co-operativism, thus building a new world that would be rightly called a "UNIVERSAL HUMAN NATION".

Through this humble submission of ours, we would like to inform your government, the Government of India, headed currently by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, that the whole world of Humanists, and the world of selfless-responsible people, the world of common people that counts at 80% of the population of planet Earth, is strongly supporting the Campaign Against Corruption led so well by Anna Hazare and his team. Granting that the Government of India's claim to be an honest Government, we request the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to take a stand at the level of the highest reference as exampled by Mahatma Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and so many other great-souls of India - and leave behind the negativity and egoism, to humbly discuss the best methods of implementing a strong Jan Lok Pal Bill (People's Ombudsman Law) without even a day's delay and to demonstrate that the current Congress Party remains at heart living proof of those principals that are a worldwide new and developing reference today. Also, to show that Mahatma Gandhi's demand to disband Congress in 1947 was not the right advice.

It is important for the government of India and the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to realize now that the mood of the people in India is changing very fast, as human consciousness is growing beyond its previous limits as a part of a ramped up human evolution owing to education and communication factors taking hold. The only approach these days is to flow in line with this expansion in human consciousness and not to go against it.

We look forward to positive and visible actions from the government of India and the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. This would show a bright direction for the whole world to follow and demonstrate that changes can happen and in a peaceful manner.

Meanwhile, please note that all peace-loving non-violent and non-discriminatory humanists and other like-minded people and organizations across the planet Earth, are coming together to steer the world towards the formation of a "UNIVERSAL HUMAN NATION".

#####

World without Wars and Violence (WwW)
http://www.worldwithoutwars.org/

Regarding the situation in Libya
31 Aug 2011

The Arab Spring continues to spread throughout the Arab world.  Another dictator has gone and Libya, which has been ruled by one of the longest-lasting and most bloodthirsty dictators, is turning the page on an era characterised by the reign of one individual and one family without any respect for democracy and even basic standards of human rights.

Nevertheless, we would not be coherent with our deepest convictions in the strength of nonviolence if we were not to denounce the use of violence by opposition and NATO forces to achieve this revolution and not least because NATO has expressed nothing but indifference and deafness in the case of the people of Yemen and Bahrain—too close to Saudi Arabia and too dangerous to upset—whereas in oil-rich Libya they have intervened with full force!

Libya has been left on the edge of a precipice of revenge and more revenge, in a cycle of violence that will be very hard to stop.  Entrenched positions on both sides of the armed conflict will not cease to seek revenge for past violence, thereby ensuring that revenge will also stain the future.

Today those in control of Libya stand at a crossroads: they can choose the path of doing what’s best for the Libyan people or they can choose the path of doing what’s best for the rotten and immoral economic system which is waiting with drooling lips to feed on Libya’s resources and her people.  To choose the latter will be disastrous for the long-suffering Libyan people.
We in World without Wars express:

- Our anguish at having watched the violence and horror unfold across Libya as violent factions on both sides sought to murder each other.
- Our sympathy and condolences to all those who have lost loved ones or who have been injured in conflict
- Our condemnation of the NATO hypocrisy
- Our hope that from the ashes of this disaster will emerge a democratic, reconciled and prosperous country which can be a beacon of everything good about North Africa and her people.
We declare:

- Our support for the Libyan people in their efforts to rebuild Libya on the basis of real democracy, the rejection of war as a means to solve disputes, the separation of powers, the independence of the judiciary and the values of human rights.
- Our total disagreement with any moves by NATO to deploy troops on Libyan soil under any pretext.
- Our total rejection of any moves to make the people of Libya pay for the war which has been unleashed upon them by forcing Libya to give away oil concessions.
We call for:

- all conflict in the country to cease immediately and for all weapons now widely distributed in the hands of citizens to be handed in for destruction under the supervision of specially appointed UN peace keeping forces.
- the creation of a democratically elected Constituent Assembly to gather the requirements of all sectors of Libyan society so that this may guide the writing of a new constitution which will lead to elections in which all Libyans may peacefully and freely express their political choices.
- the creation of a commission of national reconciliation so that disputes and grievances may be heard and justice can be seen to be done, so that Libyans can get on with their lives in peace and nonviolence.

#####

To read Asia-related submissions from our team to Pressenza International Press Agency
http://world.pressenza.org/?region_id=2

We recommend:

Pakistan - where lie your dormant Hazares?
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/pakistan-where-lie-your-dormant-hazaresx

Unwanted Missiles for a Korean Island
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/unwanted-missiles-for-a-korean-island

India - action front to get decent roads
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/india-action-front-to-get-decent-roads

Hong Kong Indians in support action for Anna Hazare and Jan Lokpal
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/hong-kong-indians-in-support-action-for-anna-hazare-and-jan-lokpal

Hong Kong’s domestic helpers fighting for right of abode
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/hong-kongxs-domestic-helpers-fighting-for-right-of-abode

Peace March from Gujranwala to Lahore in Pakistan
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/peace-march-from-gujranwala-to-lahore-in-pakistan

Human rights activist “Pepe” Manegdeg’s widow continues appeal
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/human-rights-activist-xpepex-manegdegxs-widow-continues-appeal

Ray of hope in Nepal’s peace process
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/ray-of-hope-in-nepalxs-peace-process

** The “Pots and Pans revolution” in Iceland and its aftermath
http://world.pressenza.org/npermalink/the-xpots-and-pans-revolutionx-in-iceland-and-its-aftermath

#####

Banahaw Park
...of Study and Reflection
http://parkebanahawphilippines.org/

#####

Contact:
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.

TONY HENDERSON E-mail: tonyhen1 @ gmail.com/
Blog1-personal interest: http://hall-inner-light-china.blogspot.com/
    Blog2-GreenHumanist: http://tonyhen-humanisthongkong.blogspot.com/
    Web: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/


***********************************************************************

July 16,2011
The Green Spirituality of universal humanism
For us Green signifies Life. It is the colour of the Life Force. It is the mid-range colour in our spectrum, with red at the lower end and blue at the higher end. Red is the physical-sexual and  blue is the contemplative-intuitive. There’s Green, right in the middle, central to both ends and that is the position of Man, the place of Man emboldened with the vitality of the Life Force.

To enhance or deepen or heighten that Green Force of Life it is proposed by the universal humanists that we get our ordinary life sorted out. We have to achieve a personal and ‘internal’ coherence where what we are is a function of our harmonised thoughts, feelings and actions. Meaning, practically, that we are doing what we deeply want to be doing and we feel very good about that and a sense of meaningfulness permeates our life.

Immediately there is a caution - the systems and societies we are living under are not intended to allow us to be thus free. Because that is precisely what meaningfulness feels like, a sense of freedom. Free of fears of future, free of any dark echo from the past, free of any blocks in the present - of course we all have the common problems - we could always do with an extra few dollars, but these don’t stop us!

Today’s systems are born of an industrial age and just when humanity was emerging from the European Dark Ages, and just as the European Renaissance was laying its searching fingers upon those early societies, a flip occurred as the sciences of astrology took the course of leading into astronomy, and alchemy  went into metallurgy and chemistry, numerology became mathematics, and all that can be seen as good - and indeed it is good - however, important issues were cast aside and materialism came to the fore. The innate spirituality of Man was neglected and indeed abandoned. Materialistic and competitive societies were the result. Mechanical Man replaced ‘natural’ Man.

All that which was allied to the best features in Man, that which makes the human being, a sense of place within a beautiful living world of fellow creatures, an innate sense of a being without limit - not even limited by a supposed personal death - the possibility of achieving love, on the level of this life with a couple and on the cosmic-universal  level with what’s variably termed the Mother, the Creator, the Great Tao, The Unborn...

It is therefore worthwhile to regain what was taken away by others, one’s spirituality. To wake up from the illusion imposed by a consumer oriented society’s collective consciousness and see the real behind the slight, the facade.

This happened to Buddha when he came to realisation. That was a transforming experience as was the gradual dawning of Jesus as he took up ‘his Father’s work’. This was so with all the saints and holy men only that their seeing was through the looking glass of their particular culture and interpreted by us under terms likely foreign to their terms and are thus so fraught with error.

This is why we have to see the real for ourselves. We have to clarify the senses, the emotions, the thinking process, by looking at the personal history, the present situation, and thereby open up the future. This is the Second Coming. This is being reborn.

Tony Henderson               email: tonyhen@humanist.org.hk              Phone: 29840094

***************************************************************************

bend to the Tao of how things are - nuclear power - NO

Dear Editor,

May I entirely disagree with the writer of “Safe, clean and abundant nuclear power has been proved possible”, June 14, SCMP).

Of course we have to stop burning coal SAP but to replace coal dust deaths with radiation deaths is no solution - and what about the dirty uranium mining? No one can figure radiation-related deaths and disfigurements and the concern remains with the general all-everywhere increases in radiation which are incremental and creeping up, and specific location toxicity after accidents.

Two sources of clean energy that will never run out in our human horizon of Earth-bound life-as-a-species expectancy are: tidal power and geothermal power. These sources can be base-load power generators while solar and wind as renewable sources can usefully fill gaps.

We have the technological means today to engage both these potential energy sources in a fullness more than adequate to sustain our modern lifestyle - so no going back to the Dark Ages at all.

The technology demanded is conventional.

Those “passively safe, integral fast reactors” have inherent problems as the coolant sodium burns in air and reacts with water - explosively when atomised. But Thorium is worth a look at and India is doing just that.

Let’s look at wikipedia:
Weapons-grade fissionable material (233U) is harder to retrieve safely and clandestinely from a thorium reactor; Thorium produces 10 to 10,000 times less long-lived radioactive waste;
Thorium comes out of the ground as a 100% pure, usable isotope, which does not require enrichment, whereas natural uranium contains only 0.7% fissionable U-235; Thorium cannot sustain a nuclear chain reaction without priming, so fission stops by default.

It is also a red herring that “Future human advancement requires vastly increased reliable non-carbon-based global power supplies” - with the problem lying in the words ‘human advancement’.

We have not been advancing as a human race; we are only now becoming more aware of what being human entails and it’s not dependant on unlimited energy sources. Like any living creature the human needs a nurturing environment and the Industrial Age did not provide that.

What looked promising in Europe was called the Renaissance, with the rise in social philosophy and intellectual and literary currents over the period from 1400 to 1650. But we went the way of machines. We are still extricating ourselves and some of us are struggling against de-humanisation.

Until today we have been, speaking generally, killing off our human race and other flora-and-fauna by misuse of energy - so-called cheap energy - and the question is are we to emerge unscathed?  Will we bend to the Tao of how things are instead of diverting waters and damming rivers, disrespectfully forcing things?


*********************************************************************

R.I.P Osama bin Laden

Hi Carlo,
Agreed.
My personal reaction was, why are people celebrating the death of a man? A man has been killed, not good. This man has many supporters in places where he has been made into a special figure, fighting to get foreign troops out of Saudi Arabia, his homeland. Who can tell the repercussions... Yes, as our Italian humanist friends are saying, there is no justice here, like Saddam Hussein, he should have been tried in an international court and let him and the world understand what his actions entailed, for the people of the world and for himself. Another opportunity has been lost to better grasp why violence is so generalised and State-sanctioned today and those with hidden motives and tricky self-serving responses are kept safe in their heavily fortified industrial-military-governmental strongholds.

Peace, Force and Joy

Tony, chairman, Humanist Association of Hong Kong

*****************************************

The Humanist - Hong Kong
- among friends of universal humanism,
Number 32 - April 2011
**********************************************************

Page 1 -  EDITORIAL - protest demonstration - with the Greens
Page 1 -  Close down all nuclear power generation stations and replace with renewable alternative energy sources
Page 3 -  contact information

Editorial,

Tomorrow, Sunday 24 April, 2011, the Humanist Association of Hong Kong will be participating in the GreenPeace "No Nuclear Expansion for Hong Kong" (http://goo.gl/MkJok) demonstration in Central, Hong Kong. We will join with our affiliated friends from Green Party Hong Kong. A few of us will meet at  Central MTR Exit A, of Worldwide House, at 2:30pm , on Connaught Road.  All members, pals and new friends and interested persons are welcomed to join us.
A couple of us will take the 12 noon Mui Wo to Hong Kong Central ferry and be available for interchange on the issues at the Outlying Islands pier between 1pm and 2pm, look for our Orange-Black flag and say hello. We are looking for new members.

Peace, Force and Joy
Tony

http://humanistassociationhongkong.yolasite.com/

PS: for those of you who incidentally receive this and are far, far away, then just view this announcement as distant news.

******************
Letter: Appearing in South China Morning Post
18 April, 2011
Close down all nuclear power generation stations and replace with renewable alternative energy sources

    It is true that using nuclear power to generate electricity does not create greenhouse gases but those stated problems of inherent danger and disposing of the radioactive waste, are not minor, if fact they are huge problems.
    First point is that only by generating energy by means of nuclear power is it possible to have the explosive materials for nuclear weapons making - no nuclear power stations, no nuclear bombs.
    That to our Association is enough to insist closing down all nuclear power generation stations and turn to other means.
    Also, nuclear power stations are soft targets for terrorists.
    A nuclear explosion contaminates the entire planet earth, poisoning everything: the air, the sea the land. There is no escape, for us humans or for all creatures alive today. There is also a danger of gradual ineradicable build-up.
    As radioactivity around us increases, so does negative mutations and cancers. It’s our children and coming generations that we are protecting by leaving the short sighted path of dependence on nuclear power.
    Also, technology today has no solution in sight to safely process nuclear waste into environmentally non-hurtful materials and it has to be restated that the natural detox takes tens of decades and more.

[the next section was edited out but that’s OK as our main message got through - the information came from pal Earthwalker, presently digging in in Patagonia with an earthbag home building project.]

    “We have to see and dig out the facts of the huge investments in the nuclear industry, in each country, which is why the pro lobby is so strong. Just watch the case in Japan!
    The five largest shareholders in TEPCO, owners of Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant, are: Japan Trustee Services Bank, Ltd; The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited; The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd; Nippon Life Insurance Company; and Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
    This is why the citizen’s of Japan did not read in the local press that 15,000 people were, had, demonstrated at one of the largest anti-nuclear demonstrations ever seen in Japan! Because Big Business and Government own the media and big government and business are heavily invested in nuclear power.”
    Thus the calls for transparency in regard to the Daya Bay plant on our doorstep and gradual substitution of nuclear power by renewable energies and other power sources leading to shutdowns of all nuclear power plants, everywhere in the world.

#####

To read more on our Humanist stance on nuclear weapons and nuclear power go to
Pressenza
http://world.pressenza.org/

#####

Friend Ben held us to task on Lantau Forum doubting our stance in some aspects and we spoke of coal. I place here my reply on coal and to his comments:

Hi Ben,
Re: coal
There is every likelihood that use of coal will be cleaner, much cleaner, but in the future.  In reality this can be done today, to a large extent, the trouble is it’s expensive. As a society we have to understand that in nature there are no ‘free lunches’, so in those societies addicted to cheap energy - what are called the developed economies - they are (we are) going to have to change habits.

When it comes to coal buring, wet scrubbers, or flue gas desulfurization systems, remove sulfur dioxide, a major cause of acid rain, by spraying flue gas with limestone and water.

With what one company has called super critical technology, coal is bunt but the afterburn products are put through an air quality system, a system of filters to clean the emissions so only moist air comes out. Not perfect no doubt but a whole lot less pollutants than these days.

Some clean coal technologies purify the coal before it burns. One type of coal preparation, coal washing, removes unwanted minerals by mixing crushed coal with a liquid and allowing the impurities to separate and settle.

Underground coal gasification is being developed and that will make use of coal less polluting.

Low-NOx (nitrogen oxide) burners reduce the creation of nitrogen oxides, a cause of ground-level ozone. Electrostatic precipitators remove particulates that aggravate asthma and cause respiratory ailments by charging particles with an electrical field and then capturing them on collection plates.

Gasification avoids burning coal altogether. Since IGCC power plants create two forms of energy, they have the potential to reach a fuel efficiency of 50 percent.

Such developments are not paralleled in the field of nuclear energy generation.

All nuclear weapons are made and made possible using bi-products of nuclear power plants - there is no other source. No nuclear power plants - no new nuclear weapons.

Hip, Hip, Hooray!

Re: defending strategic installations... Did you note the 'rebels' in Afghanistan can walk into the army HQ? There is no defense against someone willing to die for a cause... and some people are in those straights owing to loss of family and loved ones and thus, without any meaning in their own life.

Re dangerous mines: Lack of labour rights, of independent unions, mean lack of safety standards; and poverty and lack of alternatives makes men go down into dangerous mines - it's 'a nuisance' but everything has to be tackled at once. The mining companies have to be answerable to their local communities, until that happens it's all Big Brother stuff and out of our control.

That's what the Arab-Muslim revolt is all about - the people are fed up, they've had enough.
Cheers
Tony

#####

Banahaw Park

...of Study and Reflection

http://parkebanahawphilippines.org/

#####

Contact:
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.

TONY HENDERSON - My phone (852) 29840094
G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
E-mail: tonyhen @ gmail.com/
Web-blog: http://hall-inner-light-china.blogspot.com/

*****************************************************************************************

13 April, 2011

Nuclear Power - why "NO"

Vera Fan’s letter, “Stick with nuclear power” (SCMP 11 April) appears reasonable and has a good point but about power stations being built in the wrong places. Whether they are safe or not though, that’s another question, and it’s not the only question.

It is true that using nuclear power to generate electricity does not create greenhouse gases but those stated problems of inherent danger and disposing of the radioactive waste, are not minor, if fact they are huge problems.

First point is that only by generating energy by means of nuclear power is it possible to have the explosive materials for nuclear weapons making - no nuclear power stations, no nuclear bombs.

That to our Association is enough to insist closing down all nuclear power generation stations and turn to other means.

Also, nuclear power stations are soft targets for terrorists.

A nuclear explosion contaminates the entire planet earth, poisoning everything: the air, the sea the land. There is no escape, for us humans or for all creatures alive today. There is a danger of gradual ineradicable build-up.

As radioactivity around us increases, so does negative mutations and cancers. It’s our children and coming generations that we are protecting by leaving the short sighted path of dependence on nuclear power.

Also, technology today has no solution in sight to safely process nuclear waste into environmentally non-hurtful materials and it has to be restated that the natural detox takes tens of decades and more.

We have to see and dig out the facts of the huge investments in the nuclear industry, in each country, which is why the pro lobby is so strong. Just watch the case in Japan!

The five largest shareholders in TEPCO, owners of Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant, are: Japan Trustee Services Bank, Ltd; The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited; The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd; Nippon Life Insurance Company; and Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

This is why the citizen’s of Japan did not read in the local press that 15,000 people were, had, demonstrated at one of the largest anti-nuclear demonstrations ever seen in Japan! Because Big Business and Government own the media and big government and business are heavily invested in nuclear power.

Thus the calls for transparency in regard to the Daya Bay plant on our doorstep and gradual substitution of nuclear power by renewable energies and other power sources leading to shutdowns of all nuclear power plants, everywhere in the world.

********************************

Egypt - Congratulations


You did it, you stuck to your intentions. Eighteen days, some downs and ups, but in the end you did it! It's great to see the images of jubilation in the streets - thanks to Al Jazeera. It's goodbye to Maburak and hopefully the System that held him in place.

It's hello to all things new.

Peace, Force and Joy

Tony, speaking for the Humanist Association of Hong Kong


Humanist postscript to the Egyptian revolution

As Palestinian friend Mazin Qumsiyeh stated recently in our columns in regard to Tunisia, “Getting rid of dictators is not enough. Building a civic participatory society is not easy (Europe's enlightenment did not come just from removing a few dictators).” 

He continued with: “People's expectation raised for change will dash against the reality that it will take decades to create systems of governance, accountability, economic justice, etc to allow for unleashing the great potential in the Arab world.”

I would disagree about the time-line. People cannot wait that long. What needs to be done has to happen quickly, harnessing all this unleashed energy. 

Now is the time.

But how?

The powers must revert to the locality, the street, the block, the district, the region; only then can a country be stabilised.

What are called today ‘ the minorities’ - whether culturally ethnic or religious - have to be granted their own space to be what they are, and in parallel, brought into the larger system of government so they can be without those old discriminations.

In one sense yes it is the time for independence, for autonomy of peoples from larger and overwhelming forces but on the other hand, the root cause of that need for separation from the wider fold has to be recognised and if it is a selfishness - because ‘we have the oil’ for example, or ‘we have the fertile lands’, then that is a disqualifier.

Justice will be served by being just, not by revenge or actions based on, ‘now it’s our turn’.

We must surpass the too evident tribalisms.

We must stop the powerful State imposing its strictures on lesser peoples then allowing capital rich companies to plunder the land and seas.

However, a cohesive group’s need for its traditional values and lands have to be respected.

With this forethought in mind there remains to be stated that which our International Humanist Party has continuously espoused, the need for:

the decentralization of political power down to the base of society, extending guarantees of respect for minorities and making effective the principle of equal rights and opportunities for all.

Universal access to free, high quality Education and Healthcare at all levels is the priority for the Party.

To uphold the principle of choice as the concrete political expression of liberty and, thus, it struggles against all forms of authoritarianism and economic, organizational and ideological monopolies.

We consider that all coherent policies must have two basic conditions:

   1. Permanent renovation of juridical and political institutions, based on the idea of the new replacing the old, and

   2. Transparency in the political procedures employed.

Related to the latter, which would be quite an innovation, would be a Law of Political Accountability, making politicians actually carry out their election proposals or they would lose their post!

With these words we continue to wish everyone a Happy Revolution!

Tony Henderson,
Chairman, Humanist Association of Hong Kong.


Notice One

Latest newsletter  August 2010

see Pressenza for articles on Asia

http://world.pressenza.org/

also Humanize Asia email news list on Tony's personal webpage

http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/


Notice Two

Humanist Association of Hong Kong 

chairman Tony Henderson

Letter South China Morning Post

January 17, 2011
Not just hoarding

In many cases food is produced in one place then sent to the nearest big city where it is rechannelled and repacked then returned to that place of origin where it sells at a much higher price.

It’s the middlemen who always take their slice and such middlemen are not a necessary part of the distribution system. That puts the price up.

A local co-operative marketing system controlled by local people with participation of local farmers and wholesalers-retailers could decide to supply locally first with the surplus sent out of their district to supply cities and exports.

It is much more profitable though for a producer to just sell the foodstuff to a ‘major buyer’ and forget such community sentiments.

Thus the spiralling prices because then the speculators come in and play their devastating part on the international commodities market which is a sort of gambling that arbitrates the final cost of foodstuff worldwide.

While big companies hoard foodstuff in a more sophisticated manner by withholding supplies to the international market and releasing same after a threshold price raise to get their undeserved profits, local hoarders play their part too, squeezing that extra dollar out of their poor neighbours.

This is another way whereby the rich get rich and the poor get even poorer.

*******************************************

Nuclear option not acceptable

November 2010

I agree with Gloria Chang, of Greenpeace ("Increasing reliance on nuclear energy is not the answer for HK", November 4) and want to add another reason for not using nuclear energy - its link with nuclear weapons.

We should say no to nuclear power stations and material like plutonium, which is used through special reprocessing as fuel to make terrible bombs.

This, of course, applies to all the nuclear weapons nations, in the first place the United States, but including China.

They are all now upping their nuclear power supply capacities and are therefore all overproducing the very material that goes to make weapons.

The nuclear rationale that because they have them, we also need them, is very dated. It harks back to prehistoric man and clubs. We have to move on and aim to go green and clean.

We must get rid of nuclear weapons and the military sales mentality that sees acceptable profits from equipment and machines that kill and that make money.

Tony Henderson, chairman, Humanist Association of Hong Kong

*****

Notice Three


http://parkebanahawphilippines.org/

or


India

http://www.asianashram.in/

and

http://madhubanibiharpark.in/


Please understand that there is no opening for further works leading to the Disciplines at this time nor can any assurance be given that such will be possible in the near future. The Levelling works though are valuable in their own right to bring about equilibrium and development leading to truly human being.

__________________________________________________________________


Since that August newsletter was published the School works have continued and will be closing in January 2011

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

It is expected that the Humanist Association of Hong Kong will be revamped in early 2011


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


The Humanist - Hong Kong
- among friends of universal humanism,
Number 31 - August 2010
**********************************************************

Page 1 -  EDITORIAL
Page 2 - REGISTRATION
Page 2 - THE PARKS
Page 4 -  contact information

Editorial,
Let me begin with a newsy quote from Silo.net: "…The theme is when to start the leveling for the fourth group. We will begin it next 14th of August (remember today is the 1st of August). Those who attend will follow in the tracks of the fourth group. The leveling could be shorter; two months. Each disciplinary step is worked for one week. The first quatern is given at the first meeting of the disciplinary process. Once again, we recommend doing these works at the Parks. By mid January 2011 we will have everything assembled. Masters with the works done and elected. Masters are Masters, whether they come from the first, second, or fourth group. And we can do the Final Examination and give the Ascesis with all of them, simultaneously. There we close that entire stage.…"

I like that word ‘recommend’ and it could be that the Levelling works can be given locally, in Hong Kong for instance. In that case expect to hear from me again very soon as the sessions of retreats would than take place in our neighbourhood instead of those interested having to fly off overseas - to nearby Philippines or India closest.

However, it is likely that the work in the Disciplines would entail travel to one our Parks.

In that quote the latter part deals with Masters passing into School, in mid-January, and that means everyone taking the works and accepted are invited, no matter when they completed the Disciplines, last year, before that, or December 2010.

It would be great to get Chinese entering this process and it’s an anomaly that while India is producing healthy numbers of Postulants and Disciples, China has zero to date! How to click with that Chinese mind and that Chinese culture, because, the Buddhist Way is valued, and the Taoist Way, also the Folk Way which is the preponderance of spirituality among the Chinese.

It may simply be a lack of penetration of this message and possibility of doing what the Buddha did, for example. Maybe the parallel is not seen. Maybe enlightenment is placed on that High Shelf, out of reach, as if meant for some Higher Being, some specially endowed personality.

There will not be any political solution to today’s problems unless the person’s wielding political authority are acting out of the best interests of all, the same in economics, the same in all affairs - so what needs attending to primarily?  That very person, or, in my case - me.

How apt this study, this Path. To establish oneself concretely in one’s own life and live according to one’s own dictates, with past transgressions reconciled and with an open future - that’s what’s going to resolve things. With that centre of gravity and a humanly sensitized look the others in our lives are treated as we would like to be treated and all’s well!

That’s where we are going on this spiritual path treaded by some very wonderful personalities who have always beckoned to us to forge our own destinies and play a part in the inherited scheme of things, changing what we will.
Peace, Force and Joy
Tony

#####

Registration now taking place until August 14, 2010.
Personally
Just get in touch

#####

The Parks
       
1    Red Bluff    USA    San Francisco    www.redbluffpark.org    info@redbluffpark.org   
2    Hudson Valley    USA    New York           
3    La Unión    Colombia    Bogota,Choachi    www.parquelaunion.org    parquelaunion@gmail.com   
4    Montecillo    Bolivia    Cochabamba    www.parquemontecillo.org    parquemontecillo@gmail.com   
5    Caucaia    Brasil    Sao Paulo    www.parquecaucaia.org    contato@parquecaucaia.org   
6    Piribebuy    Paraguay               
7    Manantiales    Chile    Santiago    www.parquemanantiales.org    contacto@parquemanantiales.org   
8    Punta de Vacas    Argentina    Punta de Vacas    www.parquepuntadevacas.org    parque.pdv@gmail.com   
9    La Reja    Argentina    Buenos Aires    www.parquelareja.org    info@parquelareja.org   
10    Carcaraña    Argentina    Rosario    www.parquecarcarana.org    contacto@parquecarcarana.org   
11    Chaco    Argentina    Resistencia    www.parquechaco.org    parquechaco@gmail.com   
12    Patagonia Norte    Argentina    Neuquen,Centenario    www.patagonianorte.org    parquedeestudiopatagonianorte@gmail.com   
13    Toledo    España    Madrid    www.parquetoledo.org    parquesdeestudioyreflexiontoledo@parquetoledo.org   
14    Attigliano    Italia    Attigliano    www.parcoattigliano.eu    center@parcoattigliano.eu   
15    Casa Giorgi    Italia    Milan    www.parchicasagiorgi.org    parchicasagiorgi@gmail.com   
16    la Belle Idee    Francia    Paris    www.parclabelleidee.fr    info@parclabelleidee.fr   
17    Mikebuda    Hungria    Budapest    www.mikebudapark.org    commission@mikebudapark.org   
18    Berlin    Germany               
19    Kandharoli Ashram    India    Mumbai    www.asianashram.net    nowsonali@gmail.com   
20    Banahaw    Filipinas    Dolores, Quezon    parkebanahawphilippines.org    parkebanahaw@gmail.com   

August 2010


The Parks

The Parks of Study and Reflection are spaces dedicated to the study and reflection about the Human Being and evolutionary possibilities toward a nonviolent world without discrimination of any kind. Here a new sensitivity and the best in ourselves can be expressed.

Centre of Work
...as a place for retreats and personal works

Centre of Study
as a place in which the Works of  the School are developed, here the Masters and Disciples do their practices and studies.

#####

Philippines

http://parkebanahawphilippines.org/

India

http://www.asianashram.in/index.htm


for materials and information

http://www.silo.net/

In Hong Kong
We continue to seek a place to use as a Small Hall, in time leading to the establishment of a Centre of Work, a place of some seclusion and quiet, and a place to bring  together people interested in a deeper self-study. Some disused annex of a monastery is ideal and this will help to keep spiritual retreats available for so-inclined people instead of commercial firms buying up those places for use selling urn space at exorbitant prices. Any introductions welcome.
In the quest for the eventual setting up of a Park of Study and Reflection (Hong Kong) the forming of an interest group is now underway.


Contact:
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.

TONY HENDERSON,
My phone (852) 29840094
G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
E-mail: tonyhen @ gmail.com/
Web-blog: http://hall-inner-light-china.blogspot.com/


******************************************


Dear editor, South China Morning Post

(unpublished) 6 May 2010

The columnist Sergei Karaganov writing on Destructive idea of a nuclear-free world, (SCMP May 05, 2010) is showing his ‘set mental form’ in this writing and is a clear example of what happens to a person, a whole group of persons and indeed a certain strata of a society that becomes moribund, nay crystallised.

It is a dangerous condition because people of the Karaganov ilk are in highly paid positions in governments, in multinational privately owned firms, mainstream academia and in the most old guard type military units and are functioning at the will of the today powerful - those who refuse to give up power and who refuse transparency in affairs and any accountability.

So black and white is their thinking and so self-contradictory is their activities that they see a nuclear bomb as a solution leading to peace and arsenals of nuclear bombs as a sure worldwide protective shroud.

The only meritorious sentence in the article is his statement that: “To reject nuclear weapons and strive for their elimination is, no doubt, a moral aim, at least in the abstract. But it is feasible only if humanity changes”. But sadly the he does not believe humanity can change.

Thus he and his fellows are stuck.

Happily, the rest of the world moves on and the increasing momentum of the anti-nuclear activists of all ranks and creeds and colours that are advancing hour by hour prove that people and their demands are changing.

Tony Henderson, chairman, Humanist Association of Hong Kong

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

A Wall Far Too Far


For Pressenza International Press Agency

May 4, 2010

Bridges are for communicating, walls are for segregating, and this is all too clear in the wall of apartheid built by Israel in Wad Rahal village, Palestine. “This wall means Israel has in effect confiscated 120 dunams of our village land (a dunam is 1,000 square metres). This has led to the inability of landowners to work in cultivation of crops or livestock,” cries villager Shado Mohmmad, who is also Coordinator of the Division of Resistance to the Wall in the city of Bethlehem.

Wad Rahal replants olive trees while Israeli forces attack!

On March 30, 2010, Israeli forces shut down a day of voluntary work in this southern Bethlehem village of Wad Rahal: “The day was organized by the Palestinian Center for Peace and Democracy, to replant uprooted olive trees that was damage done in works related to that nearby Israeli settlement of Efrat and for the construction of a dividing Wall,” explains Shado Mohmmad. “Israeli soldiers beat several of the volunteers who were helping in the planting. It was the occasion of Palestinian Land Day.”

At the time participants held banners declaring against the occupation and in support of the 32nd anniversary of Land Day.

Land Day is seen as a pivotal event in the struggle over land and in the relationship of Arab citizens to the Israeli state and body politic. It holds significance in that it was the first time since 1948 that Arabs in Israel organized a response to Israeli policies as a Palestinian national collective. Today it is an important annual day of commemoration in the Palestinian national political calendar, it is marked not only by Arab citizens of Israel, but by Palestinians all over the world.

The banners used on that day also highlighted the decision in the Hague against the Wall - by the International Court of Justice, principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

The advisory opinion was given on 9 July 2004 under the title: Legal Consequences of the Construction of a Wall in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. “The Court finds that the construction by Israel of a wall in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and its associated régime are contrary to international law.”

The legal consequences arising from that illegality were stated:

A - ... contrary to international law”;

B. Israel is under an obligation to terminate its breaches of international law;  it is under an obligation to cease forthwith the works of construction of the wall ... to dismantle forthwith the structure”;

C. Israel is under an obligation to make reparation for all damage caused by the construction of the wall in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including in and around East Jerusalem”;

D. All States are under an obligation not to recognize the illegal situation resulting from the construction of the wall and not to render aid or assistance in maintaining the situation created by such construction;... to ensure compliance by Israel with international humanitarian law”;

E. The United Nations, and especially the General Assembly and the Security Council, should consider what further action is required to bring to an end the illegal situation resulting from the construction of the wall and the associated régime, taking due account of the present Advisory Opinion.”

Participants in the protest reported that guards from the Efrat Settlement surrounded the volunteers. Soldiers fired at Wad Rahal school children who had started throwing stones.

For its part, sources from the Palestinian Centre said all efforts are geared toward the 2004 International Court of Justice ruling against the Wall in hopes that it will some day be honoured via the United Nations Security Council.

In brief, the ruling stated that the Wall must be removed and that Palestinians must be compensated for their losses.

The Palestinian Centre for Peace and Democracy (PCPD) is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation inspired by the principle that the future of Palestine lies in an independent democratic state in which there is full respect for human rights, acknowledgement of the importance of freedom of expression and assembly, recognition of every human's innate right to participate in governance and a vibrant civil society as stipulated in the Palestinian Declaration of Independence of 1988.

“Respect for human rights, tolerance towards each other, participation by all, accountability and the rule of law are the pillars upon which our Centre's work is founded, ended Shado Mohmmad. ““We welcome anyone who wants to support the Palestinian people to come to visit Palestine and see the situation and how the villages suffer such a lot due to the presence of the wall that separates the Palestinians and Israelis.”

Writers: shado mohmmad - wad.r@hotmail.com, and Tony Henderson



Ban on Iranian women footballers
22 April 2010

Our association would like to point out the contradictory actions of  Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) in the organisation at first inviting the Iranian women’s team to take part in the 2010 Youth Summer Olympics, Singapore, then, unexpectedly, deciding to forbid wearing the hijab (Islamic head covering) in the games.

Had no one seen them play?

There are two opposing forces at work in today’s world, the one relating to increasing globalization, standardisation, privatisation, and cultural domination by majority populations or power-holders, as against planetisation, cultural and religious diversity, regionalisation and socialised services and a will to go beyond tolerance to real acceptance of differences according to the ‘others’ likes and dislikes.

President of Iran Football Federation Ali Kafashian has pointed out to FIFA that due to religious beliefs the Iranian women team will participate in the competitions only if they are allowed to observe the Islamic dress code. The hijab is related to Islamic culture and many Muslim women can't take part in social activities without it and due to religious beliefs the Iranian women team will participate in the competitions only if they are allowed to observe the Islamic dress code.

It’s really a case of freedom of choice, any dress-coded sisterhood of nuns would also be hard put to get a team together under these rules. What’s next, a ban on footballers with beards because they are clearly Al Qaeda-Taliban linked?


In praise of Elsie Tu's views on democracy

Feb 27, 2010    
SCMP

Those correspondents like Angus Hardern who have doubts about Elsie Tu's views ("Writer has changed tune", February 22) need to dig a bit deeper into what she means.

Sure, the pan-democrats in the by-elections are trying to achieve a major upset and they are going out on a limb. However, Hong Kong is far from ready for radical change.

It is a safe place in many ways. Our latest demonstrations by the so-called post-1980s generation indicate a healthy undercurrent of dissent, but that is all.

Universal suffrage is an outcome rather than a prerequisite in any democracy, and Mrs Tu is absolutely correct in saying that political enthusiasts in Asia and Africa are abusing the elements that go towards the make-up of a democracy. They have the money or the military in their pockets, then get the media and hey presto, get the presidency.

This is because the masses lack political education and are still divided into tribes and factions.

These people who clamber to the top repress minorities in their countries. In a democracy, minority rights are respected. That is where proportional representation comes in.

In an interesting way, Hong Kong under its present system brings this proportionality into play. In practical terms, the layers of representation organised by the Communist Party are working. It is not the worst system in the world, as those with the loudest voices are saying when they demand earlier democracy.

The people of Hong Kong are ready for full democracy, but the political parties still do not play by the rules and are still driven by personalities. That has to change.

I hope Elsie Tu will continue to share her wisdom with us.

We have the media and we have the freedom to express a diversity of views without the threat of getting "bumped off in the night".

We should be thankful for the independent judicial system, the independent media and the stalwart police force.

Tony Henderson, chairman, Humanist Association of Hong Kong

__________________________________________________________

Interview with Hugo Novotny: "In the Parks of Study and Reflection many issues are being worked on."

Marta Icarte

We have been talking to Hugo Novotny about the Parks of Study and Reflection and what is being lived in them by those who do the work of levelling, as well as those who develop a process in one of the four disciplines: the material discipline, the energetic discipline, the mental discipline and morphological discipline.

Beac683d1fd2e8c58fb81e713e0eaca9fded9f40.1280x960
Image by: Rafael Edwards
The World March at Punta de Vacas Park, Argentina

Pressenza
Punta de Vacas, 2010-04-15

Why is it called a Park of Study and Reflection? What is being studied and reflected upon? What do you do there and why have you built Punta de Vacas Park in the middle of the mountains?

Punta de Vacas Park of Study and Reflection, is one of many - presently 21 - similar parks that are already in use in different countries and continents. There the works of the Communities of Silo's Message and of members of the Humanist Movement are developed, works that are related to the coherent development of the human being as well as works that allow the achievement of states of profound inspiration, states that allow us to gradually create the best conditions for the emergence of a new, truly human and non-violent civilization.

All this is being developed through meetings, seminars, retreats, and gatherings, which take place in the Centre of Work located next to the portal which marks the entrance to the park. This Centre of Work is also where the activities of the various organisms of the Humanist Movement and the Communities of Silo's Message in relation to the personal development of their members take place, as well as activities of levelling open to all persons interested in postulating for the works of school.

The works of school, directly linked to achieving states of profound inspiration, are developed in the Centre of Studies which is located behind the Sacred Mount and facing the source of the Mendoza river.

This Park of Study and Reflection has a very special relationship with the landscape that frames it. The fact of being located at the intersection of three great mountain ranges and near to the source of a river, are things that, as many know, make it a highly inspiring place with a special energy.

Each person, once they have completed the levelling work, can choose the discipline that most resonates with their inner world. The energetic, mental, morphological or material disciplines are all ways to access those profound inner spaces where we encounter the Unnameable and all existence becomes Meaningful.

Precise and comprehensive information about the four disciplines can be found at the website www.silo.net, as well as information on the previous work of levelling, registration for which is open until late December, 2010. The only requirement for participation is to be 18 years of age at the time of registration.

How does one register? Simply send an email to the following address: NivelacionParquePuntadeVacas@gmail.com You will receive a return mail containing a link where you can enter your personal data to complete the registration process.

Inscriptions can also be made on the websites of the various parks of Study and Reflection, which as we have already said are presently located in 21 different countries.

For more information write to parque.pdv@gmail.com

[additional note on the Parks:]

Banawa Park (Philippines): levelingparkebanahaw@gmail.com

Khandaroli Park (India): 
http://www.asianashram.in/index.htm (use general email address NivelacionParquePuntadeVacas@gmail.com for the moment, or parque.pdv@gmail.com

Montecillo Park (Cochabamba, Bolivia): nivelacionparquemontecillo @
gmail

Carcarañá Park (Rosario, Argentina): nivelacionparquecarcarana@gmail.com

Parque Punta de Vacas (Mendoza, Argentina):
nivelacionparquepuntadevacas@gmail.com

Park Chaco (Chaco, Argentina): nivelacionparquechaco@gmail.com

Parque La Reja (Buenos Aires, Argentina):
nivelacionparquelareja@gmail.com

Park North Patagonia (Neuquén, Argentina):
nivelacionparquepnorte@gmail.com

Manantiales Park (Chile), through the website: www.parquemanantiales.org

Piribebuy Park (Paraguay): parqueparaguay@gmail.com

Caucaia Park (Brazil): nivelacaoparquecaucaia@gmail.com

La Union Park (Colombia): nivelacionpostulantes2010@gmail.com

Red Bluff Park (United States) through the website: www.redbluffpark.org

Park Toledo (Spain): nivelacionparquetoledo@gmail.com

Aloasí Park (Ecuador), through the website: www.parquealoasi.org

Attigliano Park (Italy): nivelacionparqueattigliano@gmail.com

Holit Park (Israel) through the website: www.holitpark.org

Marracuene Park (Mozambique), through the website:
www.parquemarracuene.org

La Belle Idee Parc (France): miseaniveauparclabelleidee@gmail.com

Casa Giorgi Park (Italy): livellamentoparcocasagiorgi@gmail.com

Mikebuda Park (Hungary): leveling2010_may@mikebudapark.org

Pressenza, an international news agency dedicated to news about peace and nonviolence with offices in Milan, Rome, London, Paris, New York, Madrid, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Santiago and Hong Kong. Find out who we are and get in touch with us.


*****

The Humanist Association of Hong Kong

This article telling of the methodology of the Humanist Movement and thereby the Humanist Association of Hong Kong, appeared in the South China Morning Post column titled The Third Way.

Date: 23 May 2005

"Love the reality you build"

The above title is the slogan Bangladesh member Kasim incorporated into the clocks he had manufactured in Old Dhaka in his attempt to combine fund raising for his Humanist Movement activities while pushing our universalist humanism message in that handy format - the words come from the South America-born founder, pen-named Silo, from his early writing, The Inner Look.

We have an anti-System stance and for us the System is not just on the level of government, but capitalism generally, and the competitive struggle that pits everyone against everyone. What we are really against is the anti-humanism of the System. Of course there are good things there, those things that work and are useful including many good people involved. It’s a primary target though because we need to combat the hypnosis it provokes that sucks us in, that entrances what is human and free in us and curtails our open-ended heritage, our human future.

Our demand that core (structural) members are active and really do things means we get few takers. People want to come to meetings to talk, to express their precious opinions. Boring. Let’s take up an issue or launch a project. I will take a role, you take a role, and let’s do it with personal autonomy not waiting for instructions. We work with orientors not leaders. We give guidelines not orders. It’s no good for protractors or mere intellectuals - unless they want to break those forms of resistance and mechanicalness.

Going to Bangladesh to build a team was a revelation for me because there people took notice of our message: placement of the human being as the central value, non-discrimination, co-operative systems and processes, freedom and rejection of violence.

In Hong Kong it is as if everyone is content with their lot. Few takers. Is it the materialism or the high value given to pragmatism? Possibly the message just does not resonate.

In Bangladesh an early result was shown by another member, Rana, in the small town of Bagerhat. He studied in Hong Kong for a while and joined our Humanist Association in its Chung King Mansions dimension. On his return to Bangladesh he got his pals together and set up the Humanist Association of Bagerhat.

After I received his informative letter I journeyed across there and met ‘the gang’. They assembled in tea houses and certainly had plans. They asked for support money and I explained we are not a charity and not even an NGO as we are absolutely volunteers. In fact they had to pay one US dollar each six months to be a structural member.

Undeterred they launched their project. Today (just under ten years later) their established activities of their duly registered organisation is: Blood Donation Club, Rickshaw Project - 9 rickshaws so far given to families who pay-back the interest-free purchase cost SAP ***, a micro-credit Self Reliance project, Education Support for pupils by obtaining money from local businessmen, and now a small school is under construction for those who cannot afford schooling. In June 2004 our humanist executive committee member Milon won a seat in the local elections for the municipal ward of Saltala. They did all this themselves.

Though the Humanist Movement is not a political movement if a member goes into politics and abides by our principals, fine. That will humanize politics. In business it is the same despite that we are not a commercial organisation. Having a particular belief or dis-belief is not a barrier just don’t sell that at our meetings!

This planet really needs us. There are many very good organisations and we just want to make our contribution as well. We hit a different spot. It is not what we do but how we do it that is different. Humanize what is inside while humanizing the outside, our society, this is the way we work. We have a spiritual dimension. We seek personal liberation in this life. To be free as a human being. To seek our own immortality in whichever way you or I may see that.

***

Further note: The Rickshaw Project, where a new rickshaw is given to a family with the proviso that they pay back its purchase cost in as short a time as possible. This is done by the operator (usually the father) calling in to the HAB office regularly with a percentage of the week's or day's takings and usually takes one year. Then the money is used to buy another and the act repeated. Nine have so far been introduced into local society using this way of funding-payback.

 

--

Tony Henderson, Chairman, Humanist Association of Hong Kong

G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Tel: (852) 29840094

e-mail: tonyhen@humanist.org.hk

Web page: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen

 

above photo our friends at Khandroli Ashram 17 April 2010

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

The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific
- among friends of universal humanism Vol II, Number 29 - March 2010
**********************************************************
Page 1 -  EDITORIAL
Page 2 -  Present Stage - the works in the various Parks of Study and Reflection
Page 3 -  The Parks
Page 4 -  contact information
Editorial,
This is the first in a new series of these newsletters pertaining to Universalist Humanism. Here we narrow our focus and leave off from the political-social, and environmental as those avenues of activism can be followed on the lists of the respective Organisms: the Community, Humanist Party, Convergence of Cultures, World Without Wars, World Center of Humanist Studies, and the International Press Agency - Pressenza. See the link to the Humanist Movement below to get details of the Organisms.
Lantau Forum was established as a means of communications among those interested in Islands Affairs in an attempt to get people away from having exclusive groupings and limited circulation of news because that limits the dissemination of information and sense of community.  If one of our readers of the Lantau Forum wants to take over as administrator, just get in touch.
The Hong Kong Node of the Asia-Pacific Humanist Forum will cease, having achieved its purpose, and anyone can set up a like service according to their wish.
My distribution of information under the head of Humanize Asia will continue for a while on the Humanize Asia - Topica - channel.
I have a blog, but not sure to what extent I will be updating it, time will tell:
http://tonyhen-humanisthongkong.blogspot.com/
We continue to seek a place to use as a Centre of Work (for preliminary studies of Levelling that can lead to the option of the studies of Disciplines of School), a place of some seclusion and quiet, and a place to bring  together people interested in a deeper self-study. Some disused annex of a monastery is ideal and this will help to keep spiritual retreats available for so-inclined people instead of commercial firms buying up those places for use selling urn space at exorbitant prices. Any introductions welcome.
Note: the date for deciding to enter into the formalities of this study has been extended to 20 March 2010 and all you need do is turn up at one of the Parks of Study and Reflection - you can still email to: nivelacionpostulantes2010@gmail.com
but turning up will suffice.
The Levelling studies are being held in two Parks in Asia, one in the Philippines and one in India.
The development of an interest group concerned with achieving a world, a neighbourhood, and a consciousness of non-violence is a priority now among our immediate friends and anyone wishing to know more about this avenue of contact with our deeper more profound aspirations and feelings may go to the following website:
http://www.silo.net/Documentos-Postulantes.php
Peace, Force and Joy
Tony

#####

the organisms of the Humanist Movement

http://humanistmovement.net/


#####

********************************************

The works in the various Parks of Study and Reflection

In the previous newsletters information was circulated that was quite formal but that is necessary because interpretations at this early stage can be troublesome. However, I now propose to speak about the Levelling and the Discipleship from my point of view, or, in a more general way as a more friendly introduction because, some people are new to these possibilities.
Mis-communication causes a lot of the problems in this world, always has done of course but today, with the general complexity and global interchanges, we have on the one hand great opportunities and on the other, problems of confrontations among cultures, ideologies and entire peoples.
How to start to work to overcome all that, and, personally, to stop all the mess penetrating to my life, the life of my family and friends, my community and the place where we live?
Self-knowledge has to be part of the way forward. At the same time, having an appreciation of, some understanding of, the world we live in is equally important. Studying oneself in the personal predicament of this life brings the two worlds of the internal and external into one, and that’s our reality.
If we can see clearly then we can handle this reality but if our seeing is clouded by prejudice, by bias, by a problematic biography, by daily economic pressures, by handicaps, by a lack of freedoms, then it’s not possible to see clearly, to feel clearly, to act cleanly.
Then the tendency is to compensate or to resort to mind-mood altering intakes to make it all go away and we know that does not solve the problem but it seems to lighten the load somewhat.
That’s ok on festival days or party days celebrating some special occasion but not on a daily basis when the various chores and responsibilities need attention. Sobriety is an amazing antidote when it comes to a reassessment and refurbishment of one’s life. At least to sort out priorities and directions.
Given the above, these works of Levelling are offered - the tools and techniques we use and offer to those who want to go deeper into what can only be termed the meaning of life, “what does it all mean?”
Levelling in our case is the effort to produce a body of people who have a common understanding of what constitutes themselves and that have a common manner of expressing themselves to grant clear exchanges among them - as we work in groups, not by ourselves on an individual basis. To work in a group we see as of paramount importance.
Following the Levelling, we can chose to enter a Discipline: in simple terms categorized as: Material, Energy, Mental, or Forms. From that nice, friendly, communicative level plateau we plan to launch ourselves into a deeper understanding of our universe and our place in our universe. This deepens our grasp on our reality and the transcendent reality - that which goes beyond our tiny significance.
Thus we enter the Discipline of choice. It’s a way of delving deeper. These are ancient ways revived, our ways as bequeathed by Silo and friends that explore the present complexity and that shows a way through. There are other Ways.
Active non-violence is fundamental to our Way, placing the human being as the central value is another core principle, as is non-discrimination, co-operation and freedom.

The Parks

The Parks of Study and Reflection are spaces dedicated to the study and reflection about the Human Being and their evolutionary possibilities toward a nonviolent world without discrimination of any kind. Here a new sensitivity and the best in ourselves is expressed.

Centre of Work
as a place for  retreats and personal works

Centre of Study
as a place in which the Works of  the School are developed, here the Masters and Disciples do their practices and studies.

#####

Our latest news on the activity front is the Park at Banahaw in the Philippines which provides an opportunity to bring the studies and the work closer to all living in Asia. This Park is in addition to the Park at Kandhroli, near Mumbai.
These are places where like-intentioned individuals form into co-operating groups that further their own self-studies and initiate activities relevant to the Asia situation, at this time particularly addressing areas of conflict and contradiction. We do this with a light touch, keeping away from any severity or fanaticism and indeed allowing the essential joyousness of the free’d human being to flow into society as it should.
The new Postulants meetings at the Parks start at 8am and end at 8pm, only one day... a long way to travel? Putting it in context, there’s the excitement of planning a trip and chatting with friends new and old while deciding, arranging meeting places, means of travel, accommodation for the previous and following nights. All of that. It’s part of the fun and of the Way.
This little adventure can take you out of your usual context with all those daily demands and acts as an eye opener and refresher that lets light into the usual routine, bringing a larger world into one’s life. You meet other people and cultures - even those who travel within their own country, as, often as not, the various regions have their own languages and manners. We meet on the grounds of our common humanity and like-intentions.

In all our activities it is quickly learned that a passive stance doesn’t work. Actively helping whatever-wherever brings an engaged energy flow, actually, a happiness, that somehow overcomes what would ordinarily be a nuisance-chore... It’s exciting. We say yes to life in its changes - and jump in!

#####

http://parkebanahawphilippines.org/

&

http://www.asianashram.in/index.htm

#####
Contact us:
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.

FEEDBACK
TONY HENDERSON, editor/correspondent
My phone (852) 29840094
G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
E-mail: tonyhen @ gmail.com/
http://tonyhen-humanisthongkong.blogspot.com/
My personal Web page: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/


#####

BOOK

Walking Hong Kong to the Water
by
Tony Henderson
a Hong Kong humanist’s story
updated to 2010
download in PDF format from:
http://home.pacific.net/~tonyhen/

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

The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific
- among friends of universal humanism Vol II, Number 28 - February 2010
**********************************************************

Page 1 -  EDITORIAL
Page 2 -  An Important Message
Page 3 -  Notes regarding restructuring of the Humanist Movement
Page 4 -  Opening of School
Page 4 -  First Round of Levelling Works, for 2009
Page 4 -  Works of levelling for Postulants to the School
Page 5 -  THE SCHOOL
Page 6 -  Centers of Studies: for the Masters and the Disciplines
Page 6 -  Goodbye Silo - Hello Silo
Page 7 -  The process of the School in the present moment
Page 7 -  Massive Final Act of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence
Page 7 -  PRESSENZA - IPA, International News Press Agency
Page 9 -  E-zine contact information

Editorial,
This is the last in this series of newsletters and in the future the Topica email list will return to more active use and this will be ‘on my own bat' as the other lists pertaining to the Humanist Movement proper have gone their various ways according to the respective organism.
The Lantau Forum will take on a Greener Hue, besides attending to local Island affairs while the Hong Kong Node of the Asia-Pacific Humanist Forum will carry Hong Kong-Asia-Pacific information furthering the Humanize the Earth project. The Asia-Pacific Humanist Forum list will be placed ‘in Limbo' for the time being until the reconstituted Humanist organisations and affiliates are federated as per the general plan.
If any organisation or country list wants to link up here then simply email details.
It is hoped that we can add at least two Chinese persons to our executive committee of the Humanist Association of Hong Kong as early as possible in 2010. Please consider this role and become active - the more the merrier so do not hesitate.
We continue to seek a place to use as a Centre of Work, a place of some seclusion and quiet, a place where there can be separate facilities for the Masters and Disciples - two buildings or a large enough building that can be so allocated. Lantau would be ideal.
Those wanting to study a Discipline need to carry out the works of Levelling this year. The body of this newsletter will give a full account of what is intended in the endeavour and the final date of registration is: 28 February 2010 - email to: nivelacionpostulantes2010@gmail.com
The Levelling studies are being held in two places in Asia, Philippines and India, in our Parks of Study and Reflection.
If you have further questions or need some clarification about this matter, simply get in touch with me, and we can 'take a coffee'.
The development of a Community of the Message is a priority now among our immediate friends and anyone wishing to know more about this avenue of contact with our deeper more profound aspirations and feelings may go to the following website:
www.silo.net
also
http://www.silosmessage.net
Locally: http://hall-inner-light-china.blogspot.com/

Peace, Force and Joy
Tony


An Important Message

The  Humanist Movement
(a circular regarding the Humanist Movement in the present moment)

... "What is the humanist movement today?  Is it perhaps a refuge in the face of the general crisis of the system in which we live? Is it a sustained critique of a world that is becoming more dehumanized day by day? Is it a new language and a new paradigm, a new interpretation of the world and a new landscape? Does it represent an ideological or political current, a new aesthetic, a new scale of values? Is it a new spirituality, destined to redeem subjectivity and diversity through concrete action? Is the Movement perhaps the expression of the struggle in support of the dispossessed, the abandoned, and the persecuted? Or is it a manifestation of those who feel the monstrosity inherent in human beings not having the same rights and the same opportunities?
The Movement is all that and much more. It is the practical expression of the ideal of humanizing the Earth and the aspiration of moving towards a Universal Human Nation. It is the seed of a new culture in this civilization that is becoming planetary, and which will have to change its course, accepting and valuing diversity and giving equal rights and identical opportunities to all human beings, because of the dignity that they deserve by the simple fact of their having been born.
The Humanist Movement (HM) is the external manifestation of the profound changes that are taking place in the interior of the human being and that are history itself: tragic, disconcerting, but always growing. It is a small voice, which foretells what is to come beyond the human being we have known. It is a poem and a rainbow of diverse colours. It is a David facing an insolent Goliath. It is the softness of water against the hardness of rock. It is the strength of the weak: a paradox and a Destiny.
My friends, even when we do not immediately achieve the results that we have hoped for, this seed exists already, and awaits the arrival of the times that are to come.
For all, from heart to heart, the fervent desire for this coming social change and the hope for this silent transformation which, beyond all compulsion, beyond all impatience, beyond all violent aspiration, beyond all guilt and all feelings of failure, is already nesting in the intimate depths of many humanists."
The Humanist Movement is a collection of people who participate in the proposals of New Humanism, also known as Universalist Humanism.  These proposals, in their broadest sense, can be found shaped in the Document of the Humanist Movement.
This current of thought that is presented in the works of Silo and in those of the diverse authors who are inspired by it also implies a sentiment and a way of living, taking shape in multiple fields of human endeavor, giving rise to diverse organisms and action fronts; all of them applied to their specific fields of activity with the common aim: to Humanize the Earth.  In themselves they have in common the methodology of Active Nonviolence and the proposal for personal change as a function of social transformation.
The HM appeared on the 4th of May, 1969 with a public presentation by its founder, Silo, known as the " Healing of Suffering", in a mountainous outpost in the Andes called Punta de Vacas, close to the border of Argentina and Chile.
The HM is not an institution even though it gives rise to numerous groups and organizations.
The  organisms that have emerged from the HM until now are the Humanist Party, the Community for Human Development, Convergence of Cultures, World without Wars and without Violence and the World Center for Humanist Studies.
Even if these organisms have specific organizational forms that allow them to carry out their activities, the HM itself has no type of organization and constitutes an ambit of convergence and interchange for members of the different organisms.
The activities that are developed by those who participate in the HM will depend on their free initiative.
Among the materials the HM counts on are:
-    Document of the Humanist Movement
-    Manual of Personal Development for members of the Humanist Movement. Center of Studies, Punta de Vacas Park, 2009 -    Collected Works, Silo, Volume I and II.
-    Psychology Notes
-    Humanism (extract of the audiovisual production "Silo's Commentaries" – 2008)

Notes regarding  restructuring of the Humanist Movement
(from Punta de Vacas)

We are not eliminating the Humanist Movement; we are restructuring it, as has occasionally happened throughout our process according to the needs of the moment.
The Movement in its conception includes everything (organisms and action fronts).
Every person who joins an organism, by this very fact, is part of the Movement. 
The Movement constitutes the ambit of convergence and interchange of the members of the different organisms. The Movement in itself does not count on any organizational forms: no councils, levels, functions (orientors, supports and administratives), financial collections or planned activities.  In this way any double organization will disappear, eliminating overlaps.
The activities carried out will depend solely on the free initiative of the people who participate in the HM.
Our interest is to encourage participation in all the organisms, but also someone who does not have a liking for any organism can participate just in the Movement. The most important thing is that those who participate in an organism have a real internal commitment to it.  It is good that those who do not participate in an organism do not try to influence it.
Some apparatuses acting from the Movement could remain, without participating in any organism, such as for example the Pressenza news agency, and publishing or video production teams, as well as those who look after the Movement's websites with links to the Organisms.  It's also recommended that until January [2010] the function carried out by the General Coordinator Delegate be maintained, as this function is the one coordinating the International Team of the World March.
With the interest of not affecting the activities of the World March, from September, a new international list of the WM will be created; open to all those interested, independently of which organism they are in.  In different countries similar lists could also be created.  These lists will fulfill, as a priority, the function of allowing all the information we are interested in to circulate.
This new list will allow the existing lists related to the previous organization of the HM to be replaced (councils, sectors, coordination bodies and assembly).  It is suggested not to eliminate any of the current lists until the lists of the organisms are functioning.  For that we will give ourselves a timescale of one month.
We also propose the creation of an international website that contains the basic documents of the HM in various languages with links to the International sites of each of the 5 organisms.
The Spokespersons will continue in their functions until the 2nd of January and their contact lists will be maintained to synchronize the declarations and opinions that are sent out regarding the World March.
With the aim of generating a good new condition of origin, it will be opportune that the Promotion Teams or Committees give themselves appropriate functions as soon as possible.  We are talking about the immediate implementation of the new stage.

#####

FYI
From: Center of Studies Punta de Vacas November 2, 2008

Opening of the School

In this moment, the School's doors are open.

This opening is not only for those who applied before but also for new people who wish to apply to one of the four Disciplines.
Those interested may express their desire to participate to one of the Masters who will register their names so they can be contacted in case their application is accepted.
For this application, no prerequisites will apply other than being of legal age.
Applicants may come from the Movement, the Message, or any other ambit.

On behalf of the School,
Eduardo Gozalo

*****
FY-further-I

First Round of Levelling Works for 2009

Date received: December 2008
Dear friends, On January 24, 2009, from 8 am to 8 pm, the first meeting with all the Postulants to the works of the Disciplines will take place.
This meeting will held simultaneously in all the Parks for Study and Reflection - Punta de Vacas, Manantiales, La Reja, Red Bluff, Toledo, Attigliano and Kandharoli Ashram. Also in Dakar, Senegal and in San Jose, Costa Rica.
The Postulants can attend the meeting at any of these places.
We remind you that the deadline for Postulating to the Disciplines is January 17th and only those who have applied by then can attend.
A big hug,
On behalf of the School,
Tomy Hirsch

#####

Works of  levelling for Postulants to the School

Vision of the  School
Since ancient times there have existed procedures capable of carrying people to exceptional states of consciousness in which the greatest amplitude and mental inspiration is juxtaposed with the dulling of the normal faculties. Those altered states have similarities with dreams, drunkenness, some forms of intoxication and dementia. Frequently the production of these anomalies was associated with personal and animal "entities" or perhaps natural "forces" that were manifested precisely in those special mental landscapes.
As the importance of those phenomena began to be understood, explanations and techniques were honed with the intention of giving direction to processes that, in principle, were out of control. Already in historical times mystical schools in diverse cultures (frequently in the shadow of religions) developed that practiced their particular ways of accessing the Profound. Even today, in the material culture, in myths, legends and literary productions, one can recognize fragments of conceptions, as well as group and individual practices, that were very advanced for the times in which these people lived.

The Period of Levelling
The interest of these works of Levelling, which will last six months, is focussed on attaining a basic uniformity of comprehension and language. We are speaking of preparatory works of the School. This period of Levelling does not imply any commitment. Those dedicated to these works are not undertaking any commitment and neither is the School.

The Form of Work
We wish to stress that there will not be individual follow up. Rather only general orientation will be given to those who are working alone or in small groups. Some may wish to hold retreats at the Centers of Work in the Parks, or in places where there are no parks. However, these activities will be done without instructors

*****

THE SCHOOL

The School is taking shape gradually, silently, with more presence felt in our activities. The School  is a group of people - replacing/raising the level of consciousness of the members, of humanity in general. There are different types of methods to do this, different disciplines, depending upon different criteria. Discipline is to go deep into the consciousness, to get in touch with oneself, through different practices to get  in touch with the profound. The main subjects of School are the activities that go in favour of overcoming pain and suffering.
Masters are prepared thorough  Discipline. A  Master means a process has been completed, and one becomes a Master of a Discipline when one has certain experience. In getting in touch with the profound, one has raised some level of consciousness and is in a position to steer someone else to complete a Discipline.
A Master of a Discipline is a Master only in that Discipline, who can guide others, to follow that Discipline and to complete it, as per certain guidelines/patterns/steps. He-she is not  a person with paranormal powers - not  levitating – not with supra-normal powers. This is never the case of Discipline Masters. A Master is not supposed to know Astral physics, or any such subjects or all subjects. A Master means some experience, exposure to the topics of a particular Discipline. In short a Master is not the Master of the world, of all knowledge, etc, but a Master, when in the Humanist Movement, is just one more member of the Humanist Movement. He-she is not entitled to orient the activities of the Humanist Movement by virtue of being a Master. In the Humanist Movement he-she is as per his-her level attained in the activities of the Humanist Movement or Community of Silo's message. Masters are not another level on top of the Humanist Movement.
Those who have postulated for the Disciplines will help one other in the levelling work for preparation to Discipline, will participate in an Organism of the Movement or The Community of Silo's Message.
The School will become a reference to the gaining of world peace and will work in the immediate future for the World March getting fully involved.
The primary concern of the School is the quality of the Masters. They will study and practice the internal work recommended and will participate in the activities of the Movement/Message.
The target  - 1000 masters in next few years, from different cultures/areas of the globe.
To accommodate 1000 Masters we need Centers of Study (COS) physical places where the School will met and carry out their specialized works that is good for human kind. Any Master can go to any COS (Now the Parks are renamed as COS).
Today, the COS is the main priority, where the specialized works, internal works, can  be done. All over the world the COS facilitates this, this is the priority, the Hall is next, the COS - where 12/14 people can stay and do their work. We can have the Hall, Fountain, Monolith etc later. Parks are not the only bridging point among all of us everywhere. There are official websites for all materials:  silo.net.
It is suggested that we visit this site regularly to see new things that are posted from time to time.
Warning to those who Postulated for Discipline: those who don't attend on 30 May one-day retreat will be out of Discipline. A special consideration was given to those who missed the 24th January retreat but there will be no consideration for the next one.
Each participant has to give a report: a file in writing (Typed) or electronically (CD-DVD).
For the Humanist Movement, at least for the next 1 year, the World March campaign is very important. All the points mentioned are very much current and are of utmost importance. It is a good opportunity (like that of 1981 mission), to do a global mobilization at this turning point and the World March is an opportunity. It is also very easy to reach people and to have them agree to our proposals.
We can reach millions easily, positively, and quickly and in this way our proposals will reached those millions - they all will agree - this is our opportunity to associate the Humanist Movement with one of the best causes that the human being can have - World Peace. We can positively effect with good media, reach many people otherwise out of our reach. It is bringing all of us, the different councils with different styles to a common point of doing things together – and this is a positive point for us.
In '80-'81 - The Mission of the 80s: we came together on a common activity, with common material, common ideas and we got the best results. It was a turning point for us and all those who participated. This campaign will be the same but on a much wider scale. Once we become influential with this campaign, we will have other messages. - So the World March will be a platform for contacting, building and  influencing, in the times to come.

Centers of Studies: for the Masters and the Disciplines

Parks are responsibilities of the School, Communities of Silo's Message, and Humanist Movement.
The retreats, the   Center of Works, and the Centers of Studies will be carried out at the Parks.
For the Centers of Work, Centers of Studies we require 3 rooms, 4 members per room, with attached baths, (2 or 3 tier beds) we can do things as per local suitability of our situation.
We now have Parks every where. We will have new parks as COS. This fits our overall process, not just the Humanist Movement but also the School, because the 1000 Masters will need places for their works in the near future.
People who want to take benefits from the likes of the Discipline, Message and the Movement should contribute towards their proposed activities. So also those who have postulated should contribute towards the Park, take functions regarding the Parks and the World March. Like this, all those who come forward, should be informed on what they can do for our action.
Those who want to be part of School, have to be involved in the actions/interests of School.

#####

Goodbye Silo - Hello Silo

Dear friends,
I have just received through Claudie and Pau the works of the various commissions and groups that were formed in order to define the Re-structuration of the Humanist Movement and its five organisms: The Community for Human Development, the Humanist Party, the World Center of Humanist Studies, the Convergence of Cultures and World without Wars and without violence.
These works regarding the Movement and the Organisms, respond perfectly to what was sought for regarding the spirit and the form of the Re-structuration.
With these materials the proposed task is completed. From this moment the new stage begins to be put in order.
For my part, I believe I have fulfilled the function of orientation and, therefore, it is in this precise moment I leave my duties and entrust them to the founding committees and to the formations recommended in the Appendix of the Humanist Movement, to rapidly bring Universalist Humanism to a new scale in its historic process.
With an affectionate hug, to all of you I say goodbye.
Silo
Center of Studies, Punta de Vacas 
August 31, 2009

#####

The   process of the School in the present moment

"Those who wish to pursue this process will register with the School before the 28th of February 2010. If they are accepted, they will begin their work with a first meeting on Saturday the 20th of March. They will continue with a second meeting on Saturday the 19th of June, concluding this stage of meetings on Saturday the 18th and Sunday the 19th of September. Those wishing to enter the School remain in a period of 'waiting and reflection'. If this proves to be the case they will need to choose a Discipline and begin their work as Apprentices with 2 hours of work every Saturday until their mentors consider them in conditions to participate as Disciples. When the Disciples successfully conclude their disciplinary process and the activities suggested by their mentors, they may present themselves for an 'examination of work'. With this, the 'second round' of 2010 will be completed."
On the 20th of March 2010 the second round of works of Levelling will begin.
Those interested in these works can register, as of now, and before February 28th.

Email: nivelacionpostulantes2010@gmail.com

With this round, the process, which has contemplated the work of two rounds, will close for a long time.
All of the works of School will be carried out in the Parks.

#####

Massive  Final Act of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence
Pressenza IPA
Punta de Vacas, 2 January 2010
After travelling 200 thousand kilometres, the international team of the World March arrived today, January 2, at the Parks of Study and Reflection (Punta de Vacas) in Argentina. Close to 20,000 people heard the representatives of the World March from Chile, Argentina, India, Italy, the Philippines, Spain and England that circled the globe calling for nuclear disarmament.
The final destination of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence was the Parks of Study and Reflection (Punta de Vacas), located in the mountains on the border between Chile and Argentina.
This first World March has been "the largest manifestation for the Peace and Nonviolence in history and the first at a planetary scale," according to its coordinators. Those gathered for the event heard from the activists who have travelled the globe spreading the March`s message.
At 18 hours   Rafael de la Rubia, the international spokesperson for the initiative, began his testimony: "This March is a demonstration effect, building upon other great transformative actions of humanity." The event was held in the same place where the March was launched in November 2008, in the Symposium of the World Center of Humanist Studies.
Hundreds of thousands of people have participated in the March, as have more than three thousand organizations and a group of almost 100 marchers, forming different base teams that carried out four distinct routes: Intercontinental, Middle East, the Balkans, and Southeast Africa. In their trajectory they passed through more than 400 cities in 90 countries and have travelled close to 200 thousand kilometres during 93 days.
In their journey through these countries, the marchers have been received by the Secretary-General of the UN, Ban Ki-Moon, by Nobel Peace Prize Laureates, national presidents, parliamentarians, and hundreds of mayors. But the reception has also been popular; two examples were the 80,000 youth who greeted the international base team in a concert in Chile and 12,000 school children in the Philippines who formed a giant peace sign, among many other massive events.
Regarding the daily lives of the marchers, the accommodations were at times comfortable but other times austere: the marchers slept in Buddhist monasteries, makeshift homes, and even in a fallout shelter. There were threats of a tsunami, earthquakes, and typhoons, and they marched in temperatures ranging from 40 degrees to below zero.
During the tour, they encountered people made homeless by typhoons in the Philippines, Hibakushas, or survivors of the Hiroshima bomb, and millions of families torn apart by wars in Korea and Palestine. They visited memorials to the millions who died in wars in Europe and Asia, places where torture is still being carried out, and witnessed the border conflicts between India and Pakistan, Israel and Palestine, within the Balkans, and in Tijuana, at the border between the United States and Mexico.
They saw children working in Asia, Africa and America, and battered women worldwide. "On the journey, everything has happened to us, including moments of great meaning, where the demands of the past converged with the aspirations of the future. Moments of a connection with the people that allowed us to communicate with them, surpassing languages, cultures, races and beliefs," said de la Rubia, who is also coordinator of the international association World Without Wars and Without Violence, the convener of the March.
Gemma Suzara of the Philippines relayed her experience with the March: "It is one experience that I will remember for the rest of my life …the giant peace sign created by thousands of school children lead me to think that if we really work together as one body and we believe in ourselves, we can surpass any limit."
Bhairavi Sagar, from India, who travelled with the team through Europe, Africa and the Americas, explained in her testimony "Being born in the country of the Father of Nonviolence - Mahatma Gandhi – a man, who dedicated his life so that our country achieved freedom and because of whom I am standing here today as a free unchained human being. Now, it is my turn to give to the future generations – to put in my bit to leave a world for them worth living with dignity and happiness".
Tony Robinson from the UK who travelled through 30 countries spoke from the heart and said "...in Japan we met the Hibakushas, the survivors of the atomic bomb. One of them said to us: ‘Thank you, thank you. This is so important!' I was translating her words while I was trying not to break into tears because of the strong empathy I felt with the terrible suffering that this woman had lived through and with the feeling of not being worthy of her gratitude."
The speeches went on and   Giorgio Schultze, European spokesperson of the World March and member of the Middle East and the Balkans teams, said: "We crossed the wall that divides Israel from Palestine and now more than 200 social leaders, veterans of Al Fatah, are asking us to help them build a nonviolent army that might communicate and open the doors towards reconciliation and start a new history of peaceful coexistence between Palestinians and Jews". The event finished with the words of  Tomas Hirsch, Latin-American spokesperson of the World March, who mainly spoke about the future of the Humanist Movement, the organization that propelled the World March.
Shortly after 7:30 pm, when the sun had slipped behind the mountains of the Andes Range, the event finished with the greeting of, "Peace, Force and Joy" of all those present.

#####

Following the conclusion of the World March at Punta de Vacas on 2 January 2010 there were the various meetings of the Parks Commissions and the Organisms - the Community, Humanist Party, Convergence of Cultures, World Without Wars, World Center of Humanist Studies. Also of Silo's Message, and Pressenza.

http://humanistmovement.net/

#####

The News Agency for Peace and Nonviolence
Ref:  Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency
PRESSENZA IPA, an International Press Agency, specializes in news and information related to the subject of Peace and Non Violence.

PRESSENZA - INTERNATIONAL PRESS AGENCY seeks to provide a renewed atmosphere of human understanding and cooperation and expand the broadcasting space that focuses events, persons and initiatives who promote Peace and Non-Violence.
We invite you to be our Partner, subscribing to our Agency and reproducing our material. Also suggesting material of your own, which could be useful from the optic of Peace, Disarmament and Non Violence.  This is an opportunity to help in building a new worldwide consciousness of peace and understanding, so necessary in this very delicate historical moment.
The entire contents of our news can be used by our subscribers for free, provided the source is mentioned.
You will also find additional information about our Agency at: http://www.pressenza.com/main/aboutUs

Please, do not hesitate to contact us, at info@world.pressenza.org
http://world.pressenza.org/

*****

Walking Hong Kong to the Water
by
Tony Henderson
a Hong Kong humanist’s story
updated to 2010
download in PDF format from:
http://home.pacific.net/~tonyhen/

********************************************
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.

FEEDBACK
TONY HENDERSON, editor/correspondent
My phone (852) 29840094
G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
E-mail: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk http://humanistassociationhongkong.yolasite.com/
MyWeb: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/
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The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific
- among friends of universal humanism
Vol II, Number 27 - December 2009
**********************************************************

Page 1 -    EDITORIAL
Page 1 -   World March for Peace and Non-Violence
Page 2 -   "Charter for a world without violence"
Page 5 -    HUMANIST PARTY (India) Promotion Team
Page 5 -    The Israel-Palestine Question - one humanist’s statement and proposal
Page 6 -    Nuclear Power
Page 7 -    Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA, International News Press Agency
Page 8 -    Centre of Work
Page 9 -    Contact information

Editorial,
    The World March for Peace and Non Violence is drawing to its grand finale at Punta de Vacas in the great Aconcagua, or Andes, on the Chilean side of Argentina. Our hearts and thoughts with be with all our valiant friends who will be there celebrating with joy. The event is a triumphal climax for all the work Silo has accomplished over all these years. A marvelous work in the true meaning of the term. An extraordinary man who has done an extraordinary thing and the entirety is now launched into a more splendid future than any of us could have imagined. However, it’s done... and it’s a Work In Progress!
    The Humanist Movement has changed in terms of its structure and working relations. India has its Promotional Team established so let us see how that develops. The first in Asia under the new conditions.
    Here in Hong Kong we have our Humanist Association, as mentioned in the previous newsletter, founded in the same moment as the Humanist Parties worldwide, therefore want to join the federation of humanist parties under the International Humanist Party title. We held one meeting hoping to revamp our executive committee in concert with these changes but only two people came to the meeting so this is still a task. We need to develop the Chinese side, not just the international membership. Do consider becoming an active member of this committee.
    I myself am moving at a tangent to what went before in relation to the activities of the Universalist Humanists by moving my attention over to the efforts at establishing a local Park of Study and Reflection (Hong Kong). As this is a big and long term project, first efforts are going into establishing a Centre of Work, later to become a Centre of Studies. In relation to that endeavour I am applying for an apprenticeship in one of the Disciplines of School: Materials, Energetics, Mental, and Forms. See: www.silo.net for details. If you have an interest to start the levelling studies prior to following this same path then do get in touch. The final article of this newsletter tells about that activity.Tony Henderson
Editor
World March for Peace and Non-Violence
"So that the voices of millions who yearn for peace can be heard as they call for the end of war and all forms of violence."
Began in New Zealand October 2, 2009 and concluded in the South American Andes Mountains, January 2, 2010.
World Without Wars - and without violence
International co-ordinator Rafael de la Rubia - rafael@marchamundial.org     http://www.worldmarch.info/   http://blog.theworldmarch.org/
http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/
"Charter for a world without violence"

The "Charter for a world without violence" is the result of several years of work by individuals and organizations that have won the Nobel Peace Prize. A first draft was presented to the 7th Summit of Nobel Prizes in 2006 and the final version was approved in the 8th Summit in December 2007 in Rome. Its viewpoints and proposals are very similar to those of the March.
    On November 11, 2009, during the 10th World Summit  to be held in Berlin, the Nobel Peace Laureates will present the Charter for a World without Violence to the promoters of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence who will act as emissaries of the document as part of its effort to raise the global consciousness about violence.  Silo, the founder of Universalist Humanism and the inspiration for the World March, will speak about the meaning of Peace and Nonviolence in the present moment.

CHARTER FOR A WORLD WITHOUT VIOLENCE

    Violence is a preventable disease
    No state or individual can be secure in an insecure world. The values of nonviolence in intention, thought, and practice have grown from an option to a necessity. These values are expressed in their application between states, groups and individuals.
    We are convinced that adherence to the values of nonviolence will usher in a more peaceful, civilized world order in which more effective and fair governance, respectful of human dignity and the sanctity of life itself, may become a reality.
    Our cultures, our histories, and our individual lives are interconnected and our actions are interdependent. Especially today as never before, we believe, a truth lies before us: our destiny is a common destiny. That destiny will be defined by our intentions, decisions and actions today.
    We are further convinced that creating a culture of peace and nonviolence, while a difficult and long process, is both necessary and noble. Affirmation of the values contained in this Charter is a vital step to ensuring the survival and development of humanity and the achievement of a world without violence.
    We, Nobel Peace Laureates and Laureate Organizations,
    Reaffirming our commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights ;
    Moved by concern for the need to end the spread of violence at all levels of society and especially the threats posed on a global scale that jeopardize the very existence of humankind;
    Reaffirming that freedom of thought and expression is at the root of democracy and creativity;
    Recognizing that violence manifests in many ways, such as armed conflict, military occupation, poverty, economic exploitation, environmental destruction, corruption and prejudice based on race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation;
    Realizing that the glorification of violence as expressed through commercial entertainment can contribute to the acceptance of violence as a normal and acceptable condition;
    In the knowledge that those most harmed by violence are the weakest and vulnerable;
    Remembering that peace is not only the absence of violence but that it is the presence of justice and the well-being of people;
    Realizing that the failure of States to sufficiently accommodate ethnic, cultural and religious diversity is at the root of much of the violence in the world;
    Recognizing the urgent need to develop an alternative approach to collective security based on a system in which no country, or group of countries, relies on nuclear weapons for its security;
    Being aware that the world is in need of effective global mechanisms and approaches for nonviolent conflict prevention and resolution, and that they are most successful when applied at the earliest possible moment;
    Affirming that persons invested with power carry the greatest responsibility to end violence where it is occurring and to prevent violence whenever possible;
    Asserting that the values of nonviolence must triumph at all levels of society as well as in relations between States and peoples;
    Beseech the global community to advance the following principles:
    First: In an interdependent world, the prevention and cessation of armed conflict between and within States can require the collective action of the international community. The security of individual states can best be achieved by advancing global human security. This requires strengthening the implementation capacity of the UN system as well as regional cooperative organizations.
    Second: To achieve a world without violence, States must abide by the rule of law and honor their legal commitments at all times.
    Third: It is essential to move without further delay towards the universal and verifiable elimination of nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. States possessing such weapons must take concrete steps towards disarmament, and a security system that does not rely on nuclear deterrence. At the same time, States must sustain their efforts to consolidate the nuclear non-proliferation regime, by taking such measures as strengthening multilateral verification, protecting nuclear material and advancing disarmament.
    Fourth: To help eliminate violence in society, the production and sale of small arms and light weapons must be reduced and strictly controlled at international, regional, state and local levels. In addition there should be full and universal enforcement of International disarmament agreements, such as the 1997 Mine Ban Treaty, and support for new efforts aimed at the eradication of the impact of victim-activated and indiscriminate weapons, such as cluster munitions. A comprehensive and effective Arms Trade Treaty needs to be enacted.
    Fifth: Terrorism can never be justified because violence begets violence and because no acts of terror against the civilian population of any country can be carried out in the name of any cause. The struggle against terrorism cannot, however, justify violation of human rights, international humanitarian law, civilized norms, and democracy.
    Sixth: Ending domestic and family violence requires unconditional respect for the equality, freedom, dignity, and rights of women, men and children by all individuals, institutions of the state, religion and civil society. Such protections must be embodied in laws and conventions at local and international levels.
    Seventh: Every individual and state shares responsibility to prevent violence against children and youth, our common future and most precious gift. All have a right to quality education, effective primary health care, personal safety, social protection, full participation in society and an enabling environment that reinforces non-violence as a way of life. Peace education, promoting non-violence and emphasizing the innate human quality of compassion, must be an essential part of the curriculum of educational institutions at all levels.
    Eighth: Preventing conflicts arising from the depletion of natural resources, in particolar sources of energy and water, requires States to affirmatively and, through creation of legal mechanisms and standards, provide for the protection of the environment and to encourage people to adjust their consumption on the basis of resource availability and real human needs.
    Ninth: We beseech the UN and its member states to promote appreciation of ethnic, cultural and religious diversity. The golden rule of a non-violent world: Treat others as you wish to be treated.
    Tenth: The principal political tools for bringing into being a non-violent world are functioning democratic institutions and dialogue based on dignity, knowledge, and compromise, conducted on the basis of balance between the interests of the parties involved, and, when appropriate, including concerns relating to the entirety of humanity and the natural environment.
    Eleventh: All states, institutions and individuals must support efforts to address the inequalities in the distribution of economic resources, and resolve gross inequities which create a fertile ground for violence. The imbalance in living conditions inevitably leads to lack of opportunity and, in many cases, loss of hope.
    Twelfth : Civil society, including human rights defenders, peace and environmental activists must be recognized and protected as essential to building a nonviolent world as all governments must serve the needs of their people, not the reverse. Conditions should be created to enable and encourage civil society participation, especially that of women, in political processes at the global , regional, national and local levels.
    Thirteenth: In implementing the principles of this Charter we call upon all to work together towards a just, killing-free world in which everyone has the right not to be killed and responsibility not to kill others.
    To address all forms of violence we encourage scientific research in the fields of human interaction and dialogue, and we invite participation from the academic, scientific and religious communities to aid us in the transition to non-violent, and non-killing societies.
    Nobel Signers:
•  Mairead Corrigan Maguire
•  His Holiness the Dalai Lama
•  Mikhail Gorbachev
•  Lech Walesa
•  Frederik Willem De Klerk
•  Archbishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu
•  Jody Williams
•  Shirin Ebadi
•  Mohamed ElBaradei
•  John Hume
•  Carlos Filipe Ximenes Belo
•  Betty Williams
•  Muhammad Yunus
•  Wangari Maathai
•  International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War
•  Red Cross
•  International Atomic Energy Agency
•  American Friends Service Committee
• International Peace Bureau
    Supporters of the Charter:
• Mr. Walter Veltroni , Former Mayor of Rome
• Mr. Tadatoshi Akiba , Mayor of Hiroshima, President of Mayors for Peace
• Mr. Agazio Loiero , Governor of Calabria Region, Italy
• Prof. M. S. Swaminathan , Former President of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs, Nobel Peace Laureate Organization
• David T. Ives ,Albert Schweitzer Institute
• George Clooney, actor
• Don Cheadle , actor
• Bob Geldof, singer
• Peace People – Belfast (Northern Ireland)
• Memoria Collettiva, Association
• Basque Governement
• Hokotehi Moriori Trust, New Zealand
• World without wars and without violence
• World Center for Humanist Studies (WCHS)
• The Community (for human development), International Federation
• Humanist Association of Hong Kong
#####

HUMANIST PARTY (India) Promotion Team
Group promoter:
SUDHIR GANDOTRA , DELHI , INDIA - sudhir@sudhirgandotra.org
Members:    
RAGHAVAN V, COCHIN, INDIA - Raghavan@humanistparty.org
MAYA RAMACHANDRAN, CHENNAI, INDIA -  Maya@humanistparty.org
JOE     WINSTON, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA - jwinston@humanistparty.org
JAYNA SHAH, MUMBAI, INDIA -
Jayna@humanistparty.org

#####

The Israel-Palestine Question - one humanist’s statement and proposal
By Tony Henderson
    As I noted, or came to understand while listening to Ahmadinejad in situ, in Tehran 2008 during a conference on Gaza, people are not listening clearly to his words. He is not denying the holocaust, he is saying the Zionists are overplaying it, harping on about it, thus justifying their ‘defensive’ occupation of Palestine.
    Ahmadinejad makes it clear that his stand is not against Jews or the Jewish faith, but against the Zionists, and that Zionism does not have any religious base. Regarding the words 'wiping out', the Parsee was mistranslated. The reference was 'off the map' meaning Israel should not exist at all and was an entity placed on top of, smothering, Palestine.
    This was done by a hegemonic western clique that happened to have the power to do so and ignored what would happen to already present Palestinians and what has happened and is continuing to happen - the strategic Suez Canal was a focus then, until oil took over, bringing in the West’s motive.
    Sadly, the Jewish peoples have suffered from repression as recorded from long ago for whatever reason to more recent times when they were banned from taking up crafts and trades in Europe - for example in the jewellery industry - and were thereby forced to become moneylenders. Economically herded like that they stuck to their own much as many do today in many countries and the term ghetto came into use.
    Even my mother would whisper, "He's a Jew," for her own reasons as our local watchmaker mused over the broken watch he was asked to mend. I only felt an odd bewilderment. Our Jewish family doctor was a well appreciated man and his son's were well spoken and cultured and I came to understand that is common among Jewish people - something interesting there.
    However, to view Ahmadinejad's statements as anti-Jewish confuses Zionism with being Jewish, the majority of Jews are not Zionists, just like the majority of British are not ardent nationalists, they are patriotic but not extremists or racists to think their culture is more worthy than that of others.
    Speaking of removing Israel from the map means there should be no such place and thus, the two-state solution was not welcomed by those taking a strong stand on Palestine. They say Palestine can stand on its own and can be a home to Moslems, Jews and Christians who can live together peacefully as they have done for generations - actually, until the Christian Crusaders arrived with their violent discriminatory religiosity.
    This is why the referendum by all the people of that region was called for by Iran's spokesman. Given there is an Islamic majority of course this will bring what this group favours into play but that is the way of democracy -  with the proviso that the minorities have their voice and be cared for as an integral part of the whole.
    Israel must leave the territories it unlawfully-illegally occupies, namely, those outside of Israel proper, the Golan Heights, the West Bank and the Gaza strip.
    Although generally portrayed as a democracy, de facto discrimination of its minorities and its actions in the occupied territories is criticized by the international community and human rights groups inside and outside these territories.
    The UN has criticised Israel’s, 'excessive emphasis upon the State as a 'Jewish State'' adding it, ‘encourages discrimination and accords a second-class status to its non-Jewish citizens.' "This discriminatory attitude is apparent in the continuing lower standard of living of Israeli Arabs as a result, inter alia, of higher unemployment rates, restricted access to and participation in trade unions, lack of access to housing, water, electricity and health care and a lower level of education, despite State party's efforts to close the gap."
    Since the second Intifada began in September 2000, ordinary freedoms in the occupied territories have been constricted, making life impossible, mainly affecting the West Bank that is restricted by hundreds of checkpoints, roadblocks, barriers and the Separation Wall that has taken 10% of Palestinian territory on the pretext of security.
    Movement restrictions have split the West Bank into six geographic units - North, Centre, South, the Jordan Valley, the northern Dead Sea, and East Jerusalem. Movement is severely restricted within and between them, with grave impacts on normal economic life - Palestinians are effectively prisoners in their own land.
    In the Gaza Strip, the Rafah crossing to Egypt, the only entry and exit point for the 1.5 million Palestinian residents, was kept completely or partially closed by Israeli authorities for most of the year. The passage of goods was similarly restricted with prolonged closures of the Karni merchandise crossing, the only one permitted.
    What is needed is trust between the parties so the process of reconciliation can start. That will entail a huge effort. However, when the other side (Iran) is saying something it is better that people listen clearly.
    Before I went to Tehran I was not open to these different angles, these different perspectives. Having sat through and participated to some degree and befriended such a wide variety of characters of the like not ordinarily encountered, from widely divergent cultures as Uganda, North Africa, Lebanon and Afghanistan - of course Iran itself, I have a new-found respect for the Islamic-Arab group of peoples - of course, that's why travel is such a good thing.
    We humanists need to call on all our friends: Jewish, Muslims and Christians and all those from the Middle East and Arabic speaking lands to promote the needed dialogue and positive interchanges with Israel to start building those roads that lead to peace.
    Further, most countries started off with a situation of grey-area legality as they were formed under pressures of war and colonising imperialistic actions and likewise Israel has a controversial birthright but it is likely that the situation cannot now be reversed so the reality today demands that a two-state solution be the goal. Confederation could be brought into play as part that solution.
    As for the historical appeal by some Zionists that the Palestinians in residence across the territory were descendants of the early Jewish predating the Common Era made by the protagonists of Zionism - such as David Ben-Gurion, who immigrated to Ottoman Palestine in 1906, shocked by the pogroms and anti-Semitism of life in Eastern Europe, there is no historical backing for such claim.
    To hark back to ancient times misses the point besides covering up the present reality which demands that people live in harmony and co-operate and settle matters without violence and indeed with compassion for those in dire straights - which is the situation of a lot of Palestinians and not a few among the Israeli people.
    Simply speaking, it would be easier if the demand for a Jewish state be dropped and a secular state of Israel be accepted, and, instead of carving Jerusalem into sectors of creed, make it an open city which doubles as the joint capitals of Palestine and Israel, with shared responsibilities.
    If anyone is unfamiliar with the close ties between Islam and Judaism at the time of the birth of Islam (as I was) Karen Armstrong’s fine book Muhammad - a western attempt to understand Islam is a worthy read. The two religions with their one God can easily live side-be-side despite being on different ‘sides of the hill’.

#####
NUCLEAR POWER
Letter to the Editor, South China Morning Post, published Sunday 6 December, 2009.
Re: Why power companies must clean up their act, by Andrew Brandler, CEO of Chine Light & Power Holdings who states: "...and have begun to build more nuclear and natural gas, alongside renewables, in Asia." (SCMP 24 November, 2009)
    We are not mentally ready for nuclear power and we are already abusing our access to today-cheap energy sources like coal, oil and nuclear energy, in the way these are costed today.
    The governments run everything, in all countries, and people have no choice nor do they have a say in their own affairs so power companies - for example - can do what they want and put to the media statements that are biassed and speak from a commercially-interested providers point of view only.
    Nuclear power is touted as cheap and clean. It is neither.
    No nuclear power - means no nuclear weapons.
We are dumping nuclear waste because we don't know what else to do with it. This is a nuclear time bomb dropped on future generations.
    If we had unlimited amounts of energy we would massively produce an even greater quantity of non-essential consumer products for the economically developed nations upper stratas which would pollute to an even greater extent our Earth.
    That drive for overt spending would further fuel the haves capability to consume in greater quantities the fruits of the Earth, causing even more depletion of the common flora and fauna, and deepen the problems of over-fishing and niche habitat depletions which is a problematic indicator of wholesale killing of entire species.
    Megacities need mega solutions thus the rise of agribusiness but it is these monstrosities and their insatiable demands that are at root of the major problems of food and water shortages today. We are ruining the countryside to sustain the unstustainable.
    Given that this argument about nuclear power has been ongoing for decades it is clear that big business tied into systematised government behaviour is unlikely to change, unless ordinary people come out in strong opposition.
    The way forward is to consume less, demand government transparency to achieve adequate and affordable medicare and housing, go the way of public transport systems, build regional co-operation in regard to energy supplies, ferment regional trade, de-centralised marketing and distribution where producers meet their own needs locally and then supply outside the territory, and scale down everything from irrigation dams to government control where a municipality decides for itself within the federated framework - and controls its own budget in entirety.

Dear Tony,
Your very good letter, for which I thank you, establishes a clear link between humanism and environmentalism, between mankind and the Earth as well as making the point that the likes of power companies and agrobusinesses are working in favour of neither.
Best
Fabian

#####
The News Agency for Peace and Nonviolence
Ref:  Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency
    PRESSENZA IPA, an International Press Agency, specializes in news and information related to the subject of Peace and Non Violence.
PRESSENZA - INTERNATIONAL PRESS AGENCY seeks to provide a renewed atmosphere of human understanding and cooperation and expand the broadcasting space that focuses events, persons and initiatives who promote Peace and Non-Violence.
    We invite you to be our Partner, subscribing to our Agency and reproducing our material. Also suggesting material of your own, which could be useful from the optic of Peace, Disarmament and Non Violence.  This is an opportunity to help in building a new worldwide consciousness of peace and understanding, so necessary in this very delicate historical moment.
The entire contents of our news can be used by our subscribers for free, provided the source is mentioned.
    You will also find additional information about our Agency at http://www.pressenza.com/main/aboutUs
Please, do not hesitate to contact us, at info@world.pressenza.org
Sincerely, Mrs. Silvina Sotelo
On Behalf of the Department of International Relationships
Pressenza International Press Agency
http://world.pressenza.org/


#####


Hong Kong
Centre of Work project, looking at a future
Small Hall -
of the network of
Parks for Study and Reflection -

Dear friends,
We have received the first memorandum from the 21st and 22nd of November gatherings at Punta de Vacas (Argentina) that had input from the commissions of the main Parks.
    This is just a further note to make sure people in any form of contact locally are kept up-to-date with the news.
    As mentioned we seek a quiet place where we can continue with the studies of School that have been initiated in the Regional Parks. We are reminded that the local centres are autonomous and not dependent on any other Park.
    Now we need first a Centre of Works, with a meeting room and lodging for a maximum of 12 people (for overnighting). Later this can be developed into a Centre of Studies. We need high-speed Internet connection.
    The Parks are used for leveling work, by the postulants of School that want to be accepted as apprentices, disciples and masters of School.
    They are also used to work with the Formative Manual for Members of the Humanist Movement, and, Manual of Silo’s Message, besides being open for meetings, gatherings, etc. of the Humanist Association of Hong Kong and Silo’s Message members. Use is coordinated under a booking calendar. Everyone to pay, no exemptions.
    Whereas I have been traveling to the Asia Region Park, the Khandaroli Ashram, outside Mumbai, with some regularity it is impractical economically to expect people to go so far and the idea is from now to do the studies locally, but for this we must have the proper conditions.
    March 20 is the next milestone when the works will be implemented in Hong Kong.
    This engagement is not a therapy, not a humanitarian-type effort nor a charity, it is revolutionary, it is a Way of Self Liberation, thus an ongoing process without limit.
    Please make yourself known if you want to participate.
   
Peace, Strength and Joy
Tony - 29840094
http://www.asianashram.net/
http://hall-inner-light-china.blogspot.com/
http://www.silo.net/

********************************************


The Humanist Association of Hong Kong newsletter - Asia-Pacific.
Want to receive this newsletter among friends of the new universalist humanism regularly? Email: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk
Humanist Association of Hong Kong, membership fee HK$50 a year, due each January.
Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.

FEEDBACK
TONY HENDERSON, editor/correspondent
My phone (852) 29840094
G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
E-mail: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk 
http://humanistassociationhongkong.yolasite.com/
MyWeb: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/

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The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific

- among friends of universal humanism


Vol II, Number 26 - September 2009

**********************************************************


Page 1 -    EDITORIAL

Page 1 -   World March for Peace and Non-Violence

Page 2 -   World March for Peace and Non-Violence programs in Oceania and Asia

Page 7 -   International film makers join hands to document peace march

Page 7 -   Important message to members of the Humanist Movement

Page 7 -   Humanist Association of Hong Kong - Elections to Executive Committee

Page 8 -   Contact details for the organisms of the Humanist Movement

Page 9 -   Overview of the Underpass - Silo and the Humanist Movement

Page 10 - Obama - UN security council summit

Page 12 - World March supports Obama suspending anti-missile shield

Page 13 - Burma - At least 110 political prisoners released

Page 14 - Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency

Page 14 - Contact information


Editorial,

    The World March for Peace and Non Violence is at the forefront of the activities of the Humanist Movement and its organisms. We provide links to the March's various Internet portals so you can have a quick meander among the sites and see for yourselves what is taking place - far too much to give in synthesis in this little newsletter. However, we do provide a rough guide to the various events that will spring up on the passage of the World March Base Team across Asia as the team leave Oceania.

    The Humanist Movement is undergoing a radical transformation and anyone wanting to join our ranks had better now proceed via one of the organisms, all details below.

    Here in Hong Kong we have our Humanist Association, founded in the same moment as the Humanist Parties worldwide, therefore we are committing to join the federation of humanist parties under the International Humanist Party title. We are revamping our executive committee as well in concert with these changes. Do consider becoming an active member of this committee, see below for details.

    Also included here is an accolade to Silo as he steps aside from any role directly influencing the Humanist Movement, where, in the past, he has played a pivotal role.

    The most recent speech by President Obama at the UN was significant and reflects our priorities as seen in the campaigns we are waging against nuclear weapons. For this reason we repeat his words here, as a reminder to all of us engaged in the efforts to achieve this urgent need.

Tony Henderson

Editor


World March for Peace and Non-Violence

"So that the voices of millions who yearn for peace can be heard as they call for the end of war and all forms of violence."

Begins in New Zealand October 2, 2009 and concludes in the South American Andes Mountains, January 2, 2010.

World Without Wars - and without violence

International co-ordinator Rafael de la Rubia - rafael@marchamundial.org     http://www.worldmarch.info/    

http://blog.theworldmarch.org/

http://world.pressenza.org/

http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/

World March for Peace and Non Violence

The world's first 93-day, six- continent peace march, has announced that Friday, Oct. 2, the

International Day of Nonviolence, is the start date for both its worldwide march and corresponding series of cultural, educational, and social events taking place in more than 100 countries to abolish nuclear weapons and reject violence of all kinds.

    The march begins in Wellington, New Zealand with an international team of 25 marchers who will cross through Asia, Europe, Africa, and North and South America before reaching Punta de Vacas, Argentina, on January 2, 2010.  The group will carry the Hiroshima Flame for the duration of the journey.

    Launched by the international organization, World Without Wars, the World March has been endorsed by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, Jimmy Carter and other Nobel Peace Prize winners, Noam Chomsky, seven presidents, hundreds of world leaders, including President Obama's Kenyan grandmother and celebrities like Yoko Ono, Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, thousands of organizations and more than a million citizens.

    Locally in Hong Kong endorsers so far include Elsie Tu, the prominent social activist, and former elected legislator; Ronnie Tong Ka-wah, the human rights legislator; and Earthwalker Paul Coleman, who walked all the way to Beijing from Hong Kong in a China Greening only to be denied access to the Olympic Games owing to bureaucratic excesses.

http://www.worldmarchhongkong.org/


#####

WORLD MARCH PROGRAMS IN ASIA-OCEANIA


New Zealand

Complete details at:

http://www.fusecreative.co.nz/worldmarch/index.html


September 26, 2009

International team arrives in Auckland

The International team i.e. those doing the entire World March, will arrive in Auckland along with a number of mayors, celebrities and others participating in the New Zealand section. Join us to welcome them to New Zealand.

   

September 27 2009

Auckland Peace Walk Launch

Join the international team and celebrities for the launch of the Auckland Peace Walk – a walking route through the city visiting historic and contemporary peace heritage sites and monuments, ending at St Matthew-in-the-City, where Auckland was declared a Peace City on 23 September 2007.


September 28 2009

Tourist activities for International Team

The International Team enjoys some typical Kiwi tourist activities including a visit to Te Puia Thermal Village, Huka Falls, Taupo natural hot springs, a bungy jump at Gravity Canyon and a visit to Lindale agricultural centre and farm.


September 29/30 2009

Blessing at Rekohu (Chatham Islands)

The international team travels east to Rekohu – the first point in New Zealand to see the morning sun. There they will hold the World March opening blessing ceremony hosted by the Hokotehi Moriori Trust and commemorating the 500 year-old Moriori Peace Covenant.


October 1 2009

Civic reception Wellington

The international team and other visiting guests are welcomed at the Mayoral Chambers of Wellington – a declared Peace Capital and nuclear-weapon-free zone.


October 2 2009

World Peace March Starts

World Peace March starts from the Gandhi statue in front of the Wellington railway station and continues through key peace heritage sites in Wellington before heading off around the world.


#####


AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY

3rd October - 6pm Press Conference and Welcome Activity at Victoria Park, Broadway (next to the University of Sydney)

MAIN SYDNEY EVENT

4th October - 11 am arrival Peace gathering and the formation of the word  "P E A C E" by participants on Bondi Beach (the south end), followed by a social gathering afterwards next to the Bondi Pavillion.

World March for Peace and Nonviolence Bondi Beach, Sydney, October 4, 11:00 am

Don't forget to change your clocks (daylight saving begins then)

5th October 10 AM -  Farewell of the international team at Kingsford Smith International Airport


MELBOURNE

    * Carlton Piazza/Argyle Square, Lygon Street, Carlton 2-4pm Saturday 3rd October

    * Unitarian Peace Memorial Church, 110 Grey Street, East Melbourne if wet weather prevails

    * Jonathon Welch's 150+ voice choir, speaker on meditation, and others (yet to be confirmed)

    * Speakers for all aspects of "Positive Steps to Peace for self, family, community and The World"

    * Longa Kanga Conga

    * Face painting for children

    * Bring a blanket to sit on and a lunch to munch on

The following are the speakers at Melbourne Event:

    * Marco Inglessis, world environmentalist

    * Francesca Izzo, international paediatrician

    * Dr. Bill Williams, Director Med Assoc Prevention of Wars

    * Susan Carew, international peace clown

    * Marisol Salinas, racial harmony and justice activist

    * Lilly Kitchen, meditation and peace practitioner


BUNDABERG, Queensland

A huge warm invitation to all who live in Bundaberg / Wide bay /Qld. An event is being organised for Oct 11.Further info & show of support in any shape way or form please contact:

Selina Williamson 0403 180 892

selinawilliamson@msn.com

many blessings on our journey to peace

CASTLEMAINE, Victoria

Castlemaine is 130 Km north west of Melbourne Victoria.

A Castlemaine March for Peace starting at Kaweka Park, entry in Hargraves Street where there are wattles planted by Japanese folk from Hiroshima - moving then to  the Market Place and spelling out peace - concluding then on Agitation

Hill at the new war memorial/peace garden to conclude. Some singing at either end.

Timetable - 10 a.m. start, 10.30 Market Place, 11.00 a.m. conclude at Agitation Hill. 3rd October!

Rev Ken Parker will lead the March and Mayor Philip Schier will speak. All welcome to join for this brief interlude to reflect on Peace in the world,in the home and in community.


#####


Philippines - Manila

October 2: Mega Human Non Violence sign in Rizal High School.

5.10. Manila, Philippines

Arrival and social gathering with local World March team


6.10. Manila, Philippines - Activities in the metropolitan area of Manila:

8:00-10:00 Courtesy visit to Mayor of Pasig

10:30-12:00 Cultural event at Rizal Technological University

12:00-14:00 Symbolic March for Peace and Nonviolence

15:00-19:00 World March event at San Andres Sports Complex

16:00-20:00 Visit to the House of Representatives


7.10. The Philippines - Activities in other locations:

10:00-14:00 Events in Taguig

11:00-13:00 Events in Lucena City

Possibly participation in an event in Zamboanga City, Mindanao


#####


Malaysia

Highlights

6pm - 10pm

Street Festival at Jalan Bangkung with performances by Malaysian artists, exhibitions by NGOs, food stalls, and vendors.

8.30pm - 9pm

"Reclaiming the Night" Lantern Walk starting from Jalan Bangkung. Bring along your Lanterns/ Tanglungs and join us for this historic walk for peace and non violence!

9pm - 12am

Peace Dance at Leonardo's Wine Loft - Retro dance party. Come dressed in 60s and 70s style!


#####


Bangladesh

9.10. Dhaka

00:15 Arrival of Base Team members

9.10. Dhaka, Bangladesh

11:00-12:00 Press conference at Dhaka Reporters Unity

16:00-17:00 March on the streets, Press Club – TSC, Dhaka University

17:20-Cultural Event in TSC, Dhaka University

19:10-Coffee Meeting with different groups, University Teachers, NGO's and World March organizing people.

10.10. Departure of BT members


#####

Nepal - Kathamandu

10.10. - 11.10.

Representative of the Foreign Ministry, Anjan Sakya, welcomes Base Team at Airport

Events in Kathmandu

Joseph Higher Secondary School Letters Competition topic Peace and Non violence in Kathmandu.

Activity with "Shanti Malika" a federation to 18 different organisations, including: "Jagaran Nepal", "Mahila Surikchya Dabab Samuha" "Gramin Swastha  sikchy sewa guthi", "A.B.C. Nepal" "Ihricon", "Dakxin Asia adabasi mahila manch", "Nagaric Awaz", "Mahila Kanun Bikash manch", "Sathi", "CIWIN Nepal","CAC Nepal","Mahila Margadarsan","Sap Nepal", "Didi Bahini", "Samanata","Insec", "Sancharica Samuha", and "Dalit Mahila Sangh".

Same in Panauti from Sarswati School.

Events in Nepalgunj


#####


Hong Kong

2 October 2009 - Unitarian Universalists Hong Kong supports World March for Peace and Non-violence with a discussion on the topic: "Non Violence, the Legacy of Gandhi"

Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm

Place: World Peace Cafe, 21-23 Tai Wong St, East Wanchai, Hong Kong Island

Language: English and Cantonese

Discussion materials:

Gandhi's Non-Violence  http://www.socialchangenow.ca/mypages/gandhi.htm

Application of Non-violence  http://mkgandhi.org/nonviolence/phil4.htm

Religion Vs. No Religion  http://mkgandhi.org/nonviolence/gstruggle3.htm

Unitarian Universalists Hong Kong  http://uuhk.org

World Peace Cafe  http://worldpeacecafe.hk

Dim-Sum Discussion

October 2, 9am, Mui Wo, Lantau Island

Dim-sum breakfast celebration at Silver Restaurant. Discussion about the World March for Peace and Non-violence - open invitation.


#####


INDIA

11.10.09 - Delhi: Arrival of WM Team From Dhaka & Kathmandu

Around 15 Members

12.10.09 - Prayer Meeting at Gandhiji's Smrithi Rajghat

By all Team

12.10.09 - March on the Streets From Rajghat to 30 Jan. Marg, New Delhi

By all Team

12.10.09 - Meeting with NGOs and Leaders at Gandhi Smrithi, New Delhi

By whole Team

12.10.09 - Classical Music Programe - Delhi

12.10.09 -  Press Meet, Delhi

The team will divide into four

13.10.09 - One team goes to Kerala

13.10.09 - Second team goes to Chennai with programme around Tamil Nadu

13.10.09 - Third team goes to Amritsar

13.10.09 - Reception of WM Team  & Prayer Meeting at Golden Temple & blessing of the SGPC, Amritsar

13.10.09 - Visit to  Border to hold joint Peace Ceremony and an Asking to end conflicts and for the establishment of permanent peace between the two Nations  - Waghah/Atari.

Fourth team goes to Mumbai

13.10.09 - 11am, visit place where Gandhiji stayed  - Manibhavan Mumbai

13.10.09 - 4pm, inauguration of Painting by Artist Francis Jhangir Art Gallery Mumbai

13.10.09 - 6pm get together at SP Jain Institute, Bhavans College, Andheri, Mumbai

14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS Kalina Campus, Mumbai

14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS University Campus, Churchgate, Mumbai.

14.10.09 - Meeting with College Students/NSS, Central Mumbai.

14.10.09 - 11am, get together with Cultural Leaders at Trichur Kerala

14.10.09 - 6pm Public Meeting, Trichur Kerala

#####

Pakistan

8th Oct, 2009 World March Guests will be received from Wagha Border, Lahore.

9.00 PM Dinner with World March, Guests in Food Street, Purani Anarkali, Lahore (Informal discussion)

9th Oct, 2009: 10.00am, Dialogue with Students of University of the Punjab

02.00pm, Dialogues with NGOs/Political Parties/Groups

05.00pm, Press Conference

09.00pm, Football Match (Flood Light)

10th Oct, 2009 11.00am, Departure for India (Leave from Wagha Border)

Note 1: Tentative, a few changes might be made; note 2: If Najam Sheraz confirms participation, we can organize in Punjab Football Stadium, otherwise it will be in Model Town, Lahore.


#####

16.10. South Korea

Peace Pilgrim at the Neutral Zone, Gangwha Island: Press conference, festival

Life Peace Forum in Seoul


October 17: Kobe, Japan, Frank Chase giving a talk on Space Weapons at Wantage Books.


17.10. South Korea and Japan

Seoul, South Korea:

Participatory events by organizations

Peace march for the children and youth at the conflict zone

Fukuoka, Japan:

11:00 Welcome exchanges and a short march with citizens

Hiroshima, Japan:

14:00 Entrustment Ceremony of Hiroshima-Nagasaki Protocol

18:00 Peace and Nonviolence appeal in Candle Message event


18.10. South Korea and Japan

Gangwon Province, South Korea:

Peace concert and events in the demilitarized zone

Kyoto, Japan:

15:00 Peace and Nonviolence appeal at an anti-war rally


19.10. South Korea and Japan

Seoul, South Korea:

Lunch meeting with the WM Korea committee

Confession and meditation for peace and reconciliation

Seoul Peace Statement

Tokyo, Japan:

17:00 Peace message and song exchanges with youth and citizens


20.10. Seoul, South Korea

Visit to the National Assembly

Peace Talk Forum


#####


World March for Peace and Nonviolence:

International film makers join hands to document peace (video)

Courtesy of pressenza.com

On October 2, 2009 through January 2, 2010, filmmakers from several countries will join the World March for Peace and Nonviolence to document the march for peace across the world.

    The film documentary project intends to chronicle the World March as it passes through 98 countries in six continents.  It would be a documentary intended to account the impact of the march across borders, touching on stories from communities, highlighting cultural perspectives and community efforts towards attainment of global peace.  The three-month long endeavor will also document any cross-cultural encounters as well as the highs and lows of the marchers, the forums and celebrations along the way, capturing the messages of the people to the world.

    More countries could still step up to the challenge to film the World March as it progresses across their lands.   For now, here is the line-up of participating directors for this global project representing nine out of 98 countries.

    Gabor Dettre will film in Hungary as well as support the other European directors.

    Eduardo Gozalo will film the passing of the Middle East leg of the World March through Alexandria, Egypt and is forming a group of directors in Turkey.

    Maher al Sabbagh will film in Syria, touching on the Muslim vision of nonviolence with the same approach of filming from the perspective of the Hindu culture, as emphasized by Hitesh Gusani.

    Luis Mandoki will film in Mexico, Mario Pozzi-Escot in Peru, Fredrico Dueñas in Colombia, and Julia Vargas in Bolivia.

    The directors will create their own scripts focused on their particular interests.

    These documentaries will be combined in a sole documentary as a unified recording of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence which will be presented at international film festivals.


#####

Humanist Association of Hong Kong - Elections to Executive Committee

Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Financial Secretary, Secretary General; Assistant Secretary plus Department Heads according to interests, for example:  Refugees & Migrant Workers, the Environment, Culture, Asia-Oceania Affairs, Press & Public Relations, etc - your choice.

All positions open.

Please inform this office before 8 October, 2009 of your intent to stand for an office. Voting in person by all interested persons 20 October, 2009, Open Air Café, rooftop, the Fringe, Central, Hong Kong. The list of candidates available at the table. In the new moment of our Association we would like to see a friendly informality that nurtures active participation in the affairs of Hong Kong. Aim: "Humanize Hong Kong"

   

#####

IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL MEMBERS OF THE HUMANIST MOVEMENT

Hello friends of the Humanist Movement.

Mailing list for the Humanist Movement:    

worldmarch@humanism.org

    We would like to encourage every member of the Movement to subscribe to the mailing list worldmarch@humanism.org.

This list will be our main communication means till January 2010, when it will be closed. All the old mailing lists of the Assembly, Councils, Co-ordination Bodies, etc. belonging to the previous stage will be closed soon.

    All messages referred to the Movement and to the March will go through this list!

To subscribe, go to the website 

http://worldmarch.humanism.org/list/

and register your name, surname, country of residence, and your email address.

    A few minutes later you will receive an email to confirm your intention to subscribe to the mailing list and to confirm your email address.

    If you wish to confirm your subscription to the mailing list, you should reply to that email by pressing "reply" with or without writing a message of your own. Doing so, you will remain already subscribed. 

    If you do not receive the confirmation email, try the process again or else send your data to muty@ciudad.com.ar or marco@makeko.com , and they will help you to subscribe.

    This list will be operative till January 2010. During this period, the different mailing lists and email addresses of the organisms in formation will be made operative:


The Community mailing list:

info.lcmundial@gmail.com   stating name, surname, and country of residence, expressing your willingness to join that mailing list.

Inquiries:  juntaprommundial@lacomunidad.org.ar

Website of materials: http://lacomunidadmundial.blogspot.com/


Humanist Party International mailing list:  hp-international@googlegroups.com

Exchange mailing list: hp-international@googlegroups.com

Registration: send an email to info.hp.int@gmail.com including name, surname and country of residence, expressing your willingness to participate in the mailing List.

Enquiries:  epromo.ph@gmail.com


World without Wars and without Violence mailing list:

info-www@googlegroups.com

General mailing list (for information) : Hinfo-www@googlegroups.com

Registration:  through: http://groups.google.com/group/info-www or by sending a message to admin.infowww@gmail.com

Exchange mailing list (for promoters): write a message to promo.eb.msg@gmail.com in Spanish or to wwwpromoteam@gmail.com in English. You should state your name, surname, country  of residence and your email address.

Contact: wpt.www@googlemail.com


Convergence of the Cultures mailing list:

convergenceofcultures_world@convergenceofcultures.org

Informative mailing list:

convergenceofcultures_world@convergenceofcultures.org

Registration:  Connect to:

http://www.convergenceofcultures.org 

    On this page web enter your name, surname, country  of residence and your email address. After a few minutes you will receive an email to confirm your intention to subscribe to this list and to confirm your email address;  if you want to confirm your subscription to the list, you will answer to that message with a Reply without adding anything else. With this you will already be inscribed.

Contacts:  analiadellacasa@gmail.com  and marco@makeko.com


World Centre of Humanist Studies mailing list         

cmehumanistas@googlegroups.com

General list:   cmehumanistas@googlegroups.com

Registration:  web http://groups.google.es/group/cmehumanistas/boxsubscribe

Contact:  equipopromotor@cmehumanistas.org

Website  http://www.cmehumanistas.org

Thank very much,

Dario


World March for Peace and Non-Violence

Participation in the mailing list of the "World March."

·         We also invite to this mailing list the supporters of the March who, while not belonging to the Movement, wish to support it actively so as to reach its maximum worldwide diffusion.

·          The mailing list will be operative in different languages, and its objective is information and coordination of the different activities and initiatives that are being carried out regarding this joint action.

·         To make the information of the March circulate through this mailing list will be made a priority.

·        We propose that similar mailing lists are created in every country. Thus, whoever wishes so may subscribe to this list as well as to his/her own country mailing list.

If you want to participate in this mailing list, you should subscribe as follows:

Get in touch through:      http://worldmarch.humanism.org/list/

    In this website you should register your name, surname, country of residence, and your email address. A few minutes later you will receive an email to confirm your intention of subscribing to the mailing list and to confirm your email address. If you wish to confirm your subscription to the mailing list, you should reply to that email with a Reply. With it, you will remain already subscribed.

    If you do not receive the confirmation email, try the process again or else send your data to Muty (muty@ciudad.com.ar) or Marco ( marco@makeko.com ), and they will help you to subscribe.

A strong hug,

Dario Ergas

Humanist Movement


#####


Overview of the Underpass - Silo and the Humanist Movement

By Tony Henderson

To speak of the Humanist Movement is to speak about a very open-ended urge from time past when people, us humans, started considering our core values as such, in an effort to understand more clearly what made us human as against another type of creature, horse for example, or whale.

    Humanists are concerned with the bringing about of a society fitting humans that is harmonious, happy, egalitarian, just and progressive.

    The term Movement points at a turning into the future of that investigation and effort and presumably a positive evolutionary development in the sense of better adaptation for humankind.

    The deeper thinkers associated with this movement, those thinkers pertinent to certain epochs, to certain lands, were later called humanists - as against whatever other current was influencing human societies.

    Harking back from today, in Europe, the most obvious humanist influences came at the time of the Renaissance, but further back in time, over in Arabia it was the likes of Abu-al-Ala al-Maarri (or Abu'l-'Ala al-Ma'arri) (973–1057), Arab writer and poet - see his "Quatrians..." who was noted as a humanist, distinguished by his hatred of injustice, hypocrisy, and superstition.

    Long before that the Buddha had exhorted people to be rational, to be sensible and reasonable. He advised people to not waste time over distant matters like the origin and the end of the world, existence of God and an unchanging soul and so on, but to first attend to the immediate task of removing human misery.

    The Chinese will reach back into their own history and will speak of Confucius, always the choice made when any thinking Chinese is asked for the first humanist of China. 

    It is this loosely knit humanist movement that was the target of the early Siloists in their endeavours to push, to nudge as it were, the set direction onto a course away from the abyss posited by the building of nuclear weapons, by the armies poised at the ready, by destructive and provocative invasions and annexed territories.

    This realignment - away from the abyss and towards a happy life - is being accomplished by those so-intending protagonists that on the one hand are attending to the internal state of the so-engaged humans, the members of the Humanist Movement as it began to be called in the 1980s - previously it was simply the Movement - who by study and reflection are taking responsibility for their own ‘internal bomb of violence'. This source of suffering was built-in as a matter of course, over time, living in what was considered a normal life in a competitive, materialistic and aggressive industrial society - where even farming was gradually losing its local connections. 

    Also, on the other hand, simultaneously, by engaging in programs of change in proximate society to bring about a better life for other people, seeing our common need for a decent healthy environment, housing, life-long welfare, employment opportunities, security and all the usual ancillaries to a balanced life.

    Fundamental to these latter efforts at transforming society, a doctrine was launched into the public domain, various aphorisms and seeds of ideas that are useful as references, ready for those moments when someone might want to get a better grasp on the situation ‘as is', in relation to ‘as could be'.

    Forty years or so have passed since the launch of Silo's theme on surpassing suffering and by today multitudes of friends have taken part and a wide array of action fronts have sprang into activity. Formal organizations engaging with political and social issues are established and others of a more cultural dimension. These continue to act in the dynamics of the never-still human ferment today.

    It is at this juncture that Silo has removed himself from that pivotal role of orientation of the entirety of the operation of our Humanist Movement, depositing Universalist Humanism, and leaving this flux of human life on planet Earth with the effects of that well-disposed nudge.

    We bid him farewell and good fortune in his new prospects and of course shower him with our grateful thanks.

    Meanwhile, the Humanist Movement careers on into the future at startling pace, the guidelines embedded in those who now take up the task of further nudging the avalanche-like progress of the human race, guiding it away from the darknesses, instinctively and intentionally bringing it toward the light.


http://www.silo.net/Index.php

   

#####

Remarks by US President Obama at the UN Security Council on Nuclear Non-Proliferation & Nuclear Disarmament on September 24, 2009


THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

_____________________________________________________________________________

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT

AT THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL SUMMIT

ON NUCLEAR NON-PROLIFERATION AND NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT

United Nations Headquarters

New York, New York


THE PRESIDENT: The 6191st meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is before the Council in document S/Agenda/6191, which reads, "Maintenance of international peace and security, nuclear proliferation, and nuclear disarmament." Unless I hear any objection, I shall consider the agenda adopted. Agenda is adopted.


    I wish to warmly welcome the distinguished heads of state and government, the General -- the Secretary General, the Director General of the IAEA, ministers and other distinguished representatives present in the Security Council chamber. Your presence is an affirmation of the importance of the subject matter to be discussed.

    The Security Council summit will now begin its consideration of item two of the agenda. Members of the Council have before them document S/2009/473, which contains the text of a draft resolution prepared in the course of the Council's prior consultations. I wish to draw Council members' attention to document S/2009/463 containing a letter dated 16 September 2009 from the United States of America, transmitting a concept paper on the item under consideration. In accordance with the understanding reached earlier among members, the Security Council will take action on the draft resolution before it prior to hearing statements from the Secretary General and Council members. Accordingly, I shall put the draft resolution to the vote now. Will those in favor of the draft resolution contained in document S/2009/473 please raise their hand? The results of the voting is as follows: The draft resolution is received unanimously, 15 votes in favor. The draft resolution has been adopted unanimously as Resolution 1887 of 2009.

    I want to thank again everybody who is in attendance. I wish you all good morning. In the six-plus decades that this Security Council has been in existence, only four other meetings of this nature have been convened. I called for this one so that we may address at the highest level a fundamental threat to the security of all peoples and all nations: the spread and use of nuclear weapons.

    As I said yesterday, this very institution was founded at the dawn of the atomic age, in part because man's capacity to kill had to be contained. And although we averted a nuclear nightmare during the Cold War, we now face proliferation of a scope and complexity that demands new strategies and new approaches. Just one nuclear weapon exploded in a city -- be it New York or Moscow; Tokyo or Beijing; London or Paris -- could kill hundreds of thousands of people. And it would badly destabilize our security, our economies, and our very way of life.

    Once more, the United Nations has a pivotal role to play in preventing this crisis. The historic resolution we just adopted enshrines our shared commitment to the goal of a world without nuclear weapons. And it brings Security Council agreement on a broad framework for action to reduce nuclear dangers as we work toward that goal. It reflects the agenda I outlined in Prague, and builds on a consensus that all nations have the right to peaceful nuclear energy; that nations with nuclear weapons have the responsibility to move toward disarmament; and those without them have the responsibility to forsake them.

    Today, the Security Council endorsed a global effort to lock down all vulnerable nuclear materials within four years. The United States will host a summit next April to advance this goal and help all nations achieve it. This resolution will also help strengthen the institutions and initiatives that combat the smuggling, financing, and theft of proliferation-related materials. It calls on all states to freeze any financial assets that are being used for proliferation. And it calls for stronger safeguards to reduce the likelihood that peaceful nuclear weapons programs can be diverted to a weapons program -- that peaceful nuclear programs can be diverted to a weapons program.

    The resolution we passed today will also strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. We have made it clear that the Security Council has both the authority and the responsibility to respond to violations to this treaty. We've made it clear that the Security Council has both the authority and responsibility to determine and respond as necessary when violations of this treaty threaten international peace and security.

    That includes full compliance with Security Council resolutions on Iran and North Korea. Let me be clear: This is not about singling out individual nations -- it is about standing up for the rights of all nations who do live up to their responsibilities. The world must stand together. And we must demonstrate that international law is not an empty promise, and that treaties will be enforced.

    The next 12 months will be absolutely critical in determining whether this resolution and our overall efforts to stop the spread and use of nuclear weapons are successful. And all nations must do their part to make this work. In America, I have promised that we will pursue a new agreement with Russia to substantially reduce our strategic warheads and launchers. We will move forward with the ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, and open the door to deeper cuts in our own arsenal. In January, we will call upon countries to begin negotiations on a treaty to end the production of fissile material for weapons. And the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference in May will strengthen that agreement.

    Now, we harbor no illusions about the difficulty of bringing about a world without nuclear weapons. We know there are plenty of cynics, and that there will be setbacks to prove their point. But there will also be days like today that push us forward -- days that tell a different story. It is the story of a world that understands that no difference or division is worth destroying all that we have built and all that we love. It is a recognition that can bring people of different nationalities and ethnicities and ideologies together. In my own country, it has brought Democrats and Republican leaders together -- leaders like George Shultz, Bill Perry, Henry Kissinger, and Sam Nunn, who are with us here today. And it was a Republican President, Ronald Reagan, who once articulated the goal we now seek in the starkest of terms. I quote:

    "A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. And no matter how great the obstacles may seem, we must never stop our efforts to reduce the weapons of war. We must never stop until all -- we must never stop at all until we see the day when nuclear arms have been banished from the face of the Earth."

    That is our task. That can be our destiny. And we will leave this meeting with a renewed determination to achieve this shared goal. Thank you.

    In accordance with the understanding reached among Council members, I wish to remind all speakers to limit their statements to no more than five minutes in order to enable the Council to carry on its work expeditiously. Delegations with lengthy statements are kindly requested to circulate the text in writing and to deliver a condensed version when speaking in the chamber.

    I shall now invite the distinguished Secretary General, His Excellency Ban Ki-moon, to take the floor.


#####


WORLD MARCH PRESS RELEASE

SUPPORT FOR OBAMA IN SUSPENDING THE ANTI-MISSILE SHIELD

    Today, the 17th September 2009, with just a few days to go before the start of the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, US President, Barack Obama, has announced the suspension of the anti-missile shield project in central Europe, better known as "star wars".

    It is a very important gesture of détente and peace by President Obama and we want to highlight it and applaud it around the world.  We support all efforts of the US President to advance towards global nuclear disarmament.

    We applaud the courage of the Czech people who have sustained the fight against the defence shield through recent years maintaining their opposition to the Defence project with protests, marches, hunger strikes and all forms of non-violent struggle.  We recall the denunciation by Jan Tamas, leader of the non-violent movement against the bases in the Czech Republic when he explained that this is not a defensive project but rather an offensive one because it would allow nuclear attacks to be launched leaving an enemy unable to respond, something that would oblige Russia to start an arms race.

    This gesture by President Obama shows that a great moral strength is being born to confront the violence of global economic powers and the power of the military-industrial complex that today operate out of the control of nation states.

    We celebrate this news and we invite Barack Obama to support the World March for Peace and Nonviolence, something that has already been done by almost 20 National Presidents and Governments of the World.

Rafael de la Rubia, International Spokesperson of the World March

President of World without Wars

www.marchamudial.org

www.mundosinguerras.org

rafael@mundosinguerras.org

Tel: +34 665827072


#####


Burma - 20 September 2009

At least 110 political prisoners released - (Mae Sot – Thailand)

    The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (Burma) (AAPP) can confirm that so far 110 political prisoners have been released from 23 different prisons in Burma.

    The 110 released include 38 members of the National League for Democracy, including 3 MPs; 20 women; 11 former political prisoners; 4 monks; 4 journalists; 10 members of the Human Rights Defenders and Promoters Network; 6 members of the 88 Generation Students; and 1 lawyer.

    On the evening of September 17, 2009 in Rangoon, state-run MRTV carried a news bulletin announcing that 7,114 prisoners were to be released "on humanitarian grounds."

Tate Naing, AAPP Secretary +66(0)89-899-7161

Bo Kyi, AAPP Joint-Secretary +66(0)81-324-8935

U Aung Myo Thein - Assistant Association for Political Prisoners (Burma)

Contact: info@aappb.org, info@fbppn.net

Web: http://www.aappb.org, http://www.fbppn.net


####


Latest World March for Peace and Non Violence newsletter:

http://www.theworldmarch.org/index.php?secc=boletin


#####


Stay in touch, join one of our Forums, participate!

Asia-Pacific:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/asianforum/

Hong Kong: 

http://groups.google.com/group/HongKongNodeAsiaPacificForum?hl=en

Hong Kong Lantau island:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LantauForum/

Bangladesh:

http://www.bangladeshhumanistforum.org/

Nepal:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/nepalhumanistforum/

#####

Twitter - tonyhen

go to twitter.com - sign on and follow tonyhen - simple


#####

The News Agency for Peace and Nonviolence

Ref:  Subscription to PRESSENZA - IPA International News Press Agency

Dear Director or Editor in Chief:

With this letter, we intend to introduce PRESSENZA IPA, an International Press Agency that specializes in news and information related to the subject of Peace and Non Violence.

PRESSENZA - INTERNATIONAL PRESS AGENCY seeks to provide a renewed atmosphere of human understanding and cooperation and expand the broadcasting space that focuses events, persons and initiatives who promote Peace and Non-Violence.

    Moreover, during this Year, the main focus of Pressenza will be the complete covering of the World March for Peace and Non Violence, an international event which will cross the whole planet and already counts on the support of thousands of personalities, institutions and organizations, among them several Nobel Prices.

    We invite you to be our Partner, subscribing to our Agency and reproducing our material. Also suggesting material of your own, which could be useful from the optic of Peace, Disarmament and Non Violence.  This is an opportunity to help in building a new worldwide consciousness of peace and understanding, so necessary in this very delicate historical moment.

The entire contents of our news can be used by our subscribers for free, provided the source is mentioned.

    You will also find additional information about our Agency at http://www.pressenza.com/main/aboutUs and about the World March for Peace and Non Violence at http://www.theworldmarch.org/

Please, do not hesitate to contact us, at info@world.pressenza.org

Sincerely,

Mrs. Silvina Sotelo

On Behalf of the Department of International Relationships

Pressenza International Press Agency

http://world.pressenza.org/


#####

The Humanist Association of Hong Kong newsletter - Asia-Pacific.

Want to receive this newsletter among friends of the new universalist humanism regularly? Email: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk

Humanist Association of Hong Kong, membership fee HK$50 a year, due each January.

Material from this newsletter may be freely reprinted with this attribution: Source: The Universal Humanist Newsletter - Asia-Pacific - or the bylined writer.


FEEDBACK

TONY HENDERSON, editor/correspondent

My phone (852) 29840094

G/F, 49 Kau Tsuen, Mui Wo, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

E-mail: tonyhen @ humanist.org.hk 

Web: http://home.pacific.net.hk/~tonyhen/


 

The main ideas of

Universal Humanism

1. placement of the human being as central value;

2. affirmation of the equality of all human beings;

3. acknowledgment of personal and cultural diversity;

4. tendency to the development of knowledge beyond that accepted as absolute truth;

5. affirmation of the freedom of ideas and beliefs;

6. rejection of violence.

human rights, social justice, non-discrimination, non-violence, co-operative systems, freedom of choice, freedom of belief, social activism.

 

 JOIN - email tonyhen@humanist.org.hk

HK$50 a year, payable each January by hand

Elections to our Executive Committee forthcoming. All positions open: chairman, vice-chairman, general secretary, treasurer and assorted deputies.

Political secretary; social justice secretary; youth secretary; environmental secretary; minorities secretary; cultural secretary and more, according to disposition and interest.

There is no queue, just get in touch if interested!


take the square

Photo below: Full house attendance at Coffee Shop Arch, in Shanghai, that was the venue for a talk given by the Humanist Association chairman in 2004.

Our Association has active links with Australia, Bangladesh; Philippines; Nepal, India, Japan and Pakistan. We are part of the Asia-Pacific Humanist Forum, see photo below - Mumbai launch - March 2007.

Document of the Humanist Movement
Humanists are women and men of this century, of this time. They recognize the achievements of humanism throughout history, and find inspiration in the contributions of many cultures, not only those that today occupy center stage. They are also men and women who recognize that this century and this millennium are drawing to a close, and their project is a new world.
Humanists feel that their history is very long and that their future will be even longer. As optimists who believe in freedom and social progress, they fix their gaze on the future, while striving to overcome the general crisis of today. Humanists are internationalists, aspiring to a universal human nation. While understanding the world they live in as a single whole, humanists act in their immediate environments. Humanists seek not a uniform world, but a world of multiplicity: diverse in ethnicity, languages and customs; diverse in local and regional autonomy; diverse in ideas and aspirations; diverse in beliefs, whether atheist or religious; diverse in occupations and in creativity. Humanists do not want masters, they have no fondness for authority figures or bosses. Nor do they see themselves as representatives or bosses of anyone else. Humanists want neither a centralized state nor a para-state in its place. They want neither armed gangs nor a police state in their place. But a wall has arisen between humanist aspirations and the realities of today's world. The time has come to tear down that wall. To do this, all humanists of the world must unite.

I. Global Capital
This is the great universal truth: Money is everything. Money is government, money is law, money is power. Money is basically sustenance, but more than this it is art, it is philosophy, it is religion. Nothing is done without money, nothing is possible without money. There are no personal relationships without money, there is no intimacy without money. Even peaceful solitude depends on money. But our relationship with this «universal truth» is contradictory. Most people do not like this state of affairs. And so we find ourselves subject to the tyranny of money - a tyranny that is not abstract, for it has a name,
representatives, agents, and well-established procedures.
Today, we are no longer dealing with feudal economies, national industries, or even regional interests. Today, the question is how the surviving economic forms will accommodate to the new dictates of international finance capital. Nothing escapes, as capital worldwide continues to concentrate in ever fewer hands - until even the nation state depends for its survival on credit and loans. All must beg for investment and provide guarantees that give the banking system the ultimate say in decisions. The time is fast approaching when even companies themselves, when every rural area as well as every city, will all be the undisputed property of the banking system.
The time of the para-state is coming, a time in which the old order will be swept away. At the same time, the traditional bonds of solidarity that once joined people together are fast dissolving. We are witnessing the disintegration of the social fabric, and in its place find millions of isolated human beings living disconnected lives, indifferent to each other despite their common suffering. Big capital dominates not only our objectivity, through its control of the means of production, but also our subjectivity, through its control of the means of communication and information.
Under these conditions, those who control capital have the power and technology to do as they please with both our material and our human resources. They deplete irreplaceable natural resources and act with growing disregard for the human being. And just as they have drained everything from companies, industries, and whole governments, so have they deprived even science of its meaning - reducing it to technologies used to generate poverty, destruction, and unemployment.
Humanists do not overstate their case when they contend that the world is now technologically capable of swiftly resolving the problems in employment, food, health care, housing, and education that exist today across vast regions of the planet. If this possibility is not being realized, it is simply because it is prevented by the monstrous speculation of big capital.
By now big capital has exhausted the stage of market economies, and has begun to discipline society to accept the chaos it has itself produced. Yet in the presence of this growing irrationality, it is not the voices of reason that we hear raised in dialectical opposition. Rather, it is the darkest forms of racism, fundamentalism, and fanaticism that are on the rise. And if groups and whole regions are increasingly guided by this new irrationalism, then the space for constructive action by progressive forces will diminish day by day.
On the other hand, millions of working people have already come to recognize that the centralized state is as much a sham as capitalist democracy. And just as working people are standing up against corrupt union bosses, more than ever citizens are questioning their governments and political parties. But it is necessary to give a constructive orientation to these phenomena, which will otherwise stagnate and remain nothing more than spontaneous protests that lead nowhere. For something new to happen, a dialogue about the fundamental factors of our economy must begin in the heart of the community.
For humanists, labor and capital are the principal factors in economic production, while speculation and usury are extraneous. In the present economic circumstances, humanists struggle to totally transform the absurd relationship that has existed between these factors. Until now we have been told that capital receives the profits while workers receive wages, an inequity that has always been justified by the «risk» that capital assumes in investing - as though working people do not risk both their present and their future amid the uncertainties of unemployment and economic crisis.
Another factor in play is management and decision making in the operation of each company. Earnings not set aside for reinvestment in the enterprise, not used for expansion or diversification, are increasingly diverted into financial speculation, as are profits not used to create new sources of work. The struggle of working people must therefore be to require maximum productive return from capital. But this cannot happen unless management and directorships are cooperatively shared. How else will it be possible to avoid massive layoffs, business closures, and even the loss of entire industries? For the greatest harm comes from under-investment, fraudulent bankruptcies, forced acquisition of debt, and capital flight - not from profits realized through increased productivity. And if some persist in calling for workers to take possession of the means of production following nineteenth-century teachings, they will have to seriously consider the recent failures of real socialism.
As for the argument that treating capital the same way work is treated will only speed its flight to more advantageous areas, it must be pointed out that this cannot go on much longer because the irrationality of the present economic system is leading to saturation and crisis worldwide. Moreover, this argument, apart from embracing a radical immorality, ignores the historical process in which capital is steadily being transferred to the banking system. As a result, employers and business people are being reduced to the status of employees, stripped of decision-making power in a lengthening chain of command in which they maintain only the appearance of autonomy. And as the recession continues to deepen, these same business people will begin to consider these points more seriously.
Humanists feel the need to act not only on employment issues, but also politically to prevent the State from being solely an instrument of international capital, to ensure a just relationship among the factors of production, and to restore to society its stolen autonomy.

II. Real Democracy Versus Formal Democracy
The edifice of democracy has fallen into ruin as its foundations - the separation of powers, representative government, and respect for minorities - have fallen into ruin. The theoretical separation of powers is nonsense. Even a cursory examination of the practices surrounding the origin and composition of the different powers reveals the intimate relationships that link them to each other. And things could hardly be otherwise, for they all form part of one same system. In nation after nation we see one branch gaining supremacy over the others, functions being usurped, corruption and irregularities surfacing - all corresponding to the changing global economic and political situation of each country. As for representative government, since the extension of universal suffrage people have believed that only a single act is involved when they elect their representative and their representative carries out the mandate received. But as time has passed, people have come to see clearly that there are in fact two acts: a first in which the many elect the few, and a second in which those few betray the many, representing interests alien to the mandate they received. And this corruption is fed within the political parties, now reduced to little more than a handful of leaders who are totally out of touch with the needs of the people. Through the party machinery, powerful interests finance candidates and then dictate the policies they must follow. This state of affairs reveals a profound crisis in the contemporary conception and implementation of representative democracy.
Humanists struggle to transform the practice of representative government, giving the highest priority to consulting the people directly through referenda, plebiscites, and direct election of candidates. However, in many countries there are still laws that subordinate independent candidates to political parties, or rather to political maneuvering and financial restrictions that prevent them from even reaching the ballot and the free expression of the will of the people. Every constitution or law that prevents the full possibility of every citizen to elect and to be elected makes a mockery of real democracy, which is above all such legal restrictions. And in order for there to be true equality of opportunity, during elections the news media must be placed at the service of the people, providing all candidates with exactly the same opportunities to communicate with the people.
To address the problem that elected officials regularly fail to carry out their campaign promises, there is also a need to enact laws of political responsibility that will subject such officials to censure, revocation of powers, recall from office, and loss of immunity. The current alternative, under which parties or individuals who do not fulfill their campaign promises risk defeat in future elections, in practice does not hinder in the least the politicians' second act - betraying the people they represent.
As for directly consulting the people on the most urgent issues, every day the possibilities to do so increase through the use of technology. This does not mean simply giving greater importance to easily manipulated opinion polls and surveys. What it does mean is to facilitate real participation and direct voting by means of today's advanced computational and communications technologies.
In real democracy, all minorities must be provided with the protections that correspond to their right to representation, as well as all measures needed to advance in practice their full inclusion, participation, and development.
Today, minorities the world over who are the targets of xenophobia and discrimination make anguished pleas for recognition. It is the responsibility of humanists everywhere to bring this issue to the fore, leading the struggle to overcome such neo-fascism, whether overt or covert. In short, to struggle for the rights of minorities is to struggle for the rights of all human beings. Under the coercion of centralized states - today no more than the unfeeling instruments of big capital - many countries with diverse populations subject entire provinces, regions, or autonomous groups to this same kind of discrimination. This must end through the adoption of federal forms of organization, through which real political power will return to the hands of these historical and cultural entities.
In sum, to give highest priority to the issues of capital and labor, real democracy, and decentralization of the apparatus of the State, is to set the political struggle on the path toward creating a new kind of society - a flexible society constantly changing in harmony with the changing needs of the people, who are now suffocated more each day by their dependence on an inhuman system.

III. The Humanist Position
Humanist action does not draw its inspiration from imaginative theories about God, nature, society, or history. Rather, it begins with life's necessities, which consist most elementally of avoiding pain and moving toward pleasure. Yet human life entails the additional need to foresee future necessities, based on past experience and the intention to improve the present situation. Human experience is not simply the product of natural physiological accumulation or selection, as happens in all species. It is social
experience and personal experience directed toward overcoming pain in the present and avoiding it in the future. Human work, accumulated in the productions of society, is passed on and transformed from one generation to the next in a continuous struggle to improve the existing or natural conditions, even those of the human body itself. Human beings must therefore be defined as historical beings whose mode of social behavior is capable of transforming both the world and their own nature.
Each time that individuals or human groups violently impose themselves on others, they succeed in detaining history, turning their victims into «natural» objects. Nature does not have intentions, and thus to negate the freedom and intentions of others is to convert them into natural objects without intentions, objects to be used.
Human progress in its slow ascent now needs to transform both nature and society, eliminating the violent animal appropriation of some human beings by others. When this happens, we will pass from pre-history into a fully human history. In the meantime, we can begin with no other central value than the human being, fully realized and completely free. Humanists therefore declare, « Nothing above the human being, and no human being beneath any other. »
If God, the State, money, or any other entity is placed as the central value, this subordinates the human being and creates the condition for the subsequent control or sacrifice of other human beings. Humanists have this point very clear. Whether atheists or religious, humanists do not start with their atheism or their faith as the basis for their view of the world and their actions. They start with the human being and the immediate needs of human beings. And if, in their struggle for a better world, they believe they discover an intention that moves history in a progressive direction, they place this faith or this discovery at the service of the human being.
Humanists address the fundamental problem: to know if one wants to live, and to decide on the
conditions in which to do so.
All forms of violence - physical, economic, racial, religious, sexual, ideological, and others - that have been used to block human progress are repugnant to humanists. For humanists, every form of discrimination, whether subtle or overt, is something to be denounced. Humanists are not violent, but above all they are not cowards, and because their actions have meaning they are unafraid of facing violence. Humanists connect their personal lives with the life of society. They do not pose such false dichotomies as viewing their own lives as separate from the lives of those around them, and in this lies their coherence.
These issues, then, mark a clear dividing line between humanism and anti-humanism: humanism puts labor before big capital, real democracy before formal democracy, decentralization before centralization, anti-discrimination before discrimination, freedom before oppression, and meaning in life before resignation, complicity, and the absurd. Because humanism is based on freedom of choice, it offers the only valid ethic of the present time. And because humanism believes in intention and freedom, it distinguishes between error and bad faith, between one who is mistaken and one who is a traitor.

IV. From Naive Humanism to Conscious Humanism
It is at the base of society, in the places where people work and where they live that humanism must convert what are now only simple isolated protests into a conscious force oriented toward transforming the economic structures. The struggles of spirited activists in labor unions and progressive political parties will become more coherent as they transform the leadership of these entities, giving their organizations a new orientation that, above short-range grievances, gives the highest priority to the basic
proposals advocated by humanism.
Vast numbers of students and teachers, already sensitive to injustice, are becoming conscious of their will to change as the general crisis touches them. And certainly, members of the press in contact with so much daily tragedy are today in favorable positions to act in a humanist direction, as are those intellectuals whose creations are at odds with the standards promoted by this inhuman system.
In the face of so much human suffering, many positions and organizations today encourage people to unselfishly help the dispossessed and those who suffer discrimination. Associations, volunteer groups, and large numbers of individuals are on occasion moved to make positive contributions. Without doubt, one of their contributions is to generate condemnations of these wrongs. However, such groups do not focus their actions on transforming the underlying structures that give rise to the problems. Their approaches are more closely related to humanitarianism than to conscious humanism, although among these efforts are many conscientious protests and actions that can be extended and deepened.

V. The Anti-Humanist Camp
As the people continue to be suffocated by the forces of big capital, incoherent proposals arise that gain strength by exploiting people's discontent, focusing it on various scapegoats. At the root of all such neo-fascism is a profound negation of human values.
Similarly, there are certain deviant environmental currents that view nature as more important than human beings. No longer do they preach that an environmental catastrophe is a disaster because it endangers humanity - instead to them the only problem is that human beings have damaged nature. According to certain of these theories, the human being is somehow contaminated, and thus contaminates nature. It would have been better, they contend, had medicine never succeeded in its fight against disease or in prolonging human life.
«Earth first!» some cry hysterically, recalling Nazi slogans. It is but a short step from this position to begin discriminating against cultures seen to contaminate or against «impure» foreigners. These currents of thought may be considered anti-humanist because at bottom they hold the human being in contempt, and in keeping with the nihilistic and suicidal tendencies so fashionable today, their mentors reflect this self-hatred.
There is, however, a significant segment of society made up of perceptive people who consider themselves environmentalists because they understand the gravity of the abuses that environmentalism exposes and condemns. And if this environmentalism attains the humanist character that corresponds, it will direct the struggle against those who are actually generating the catastrophes - big capital and its chain of destructive industries and businesses, so closely intertwined with the military-industrial complex.
Before worrying about seals they will concern themselves with overcoming hunger, overcrowding, infant mortality, disease, and the lack of even minimal standards of housing and sanitation in many parts of the world. They will focus on the unemployment, exploitation, racism, discrimination, and intolerance in a world that is so technologically advanced, yet still generates serious environmental imbalances in the name of ever more irrational growth.
One need not look far to see how the right wing functions as a political instrument of anti-humanism. Dishonesty and bad faith reach such extremes that some exponents periodically present themselves as representatives of «humanism.» Take, for example, those cunning clerics who claim to theorize on the basis of a ridiculous « theocentric humanism.» These people, who invented religious wars and inquisitions, who put to death the very founders of western humanism, are now attempting to appropriate the virtues of their victims.
They have recently gone so far as to «forgive the errors» of those historical humanists, and so shameless is their semantic banditry that these representatives of anti-humanism even try to cloak themselves with the term «humanist.»
It would of course be impossible to list the full range of resources, tools, instruments, forms, and expressions that anti-humanism has at its disposal. But having shed light on some of their more deceptive practices should help unsuspecting humanists and those newly realizing they are humanists as they re-think their ideas and the significance of their social practice.
VI. Humanist Action Fronts With the intention of becoming a broad-based social movement, the vital force of humanism is organizing action fronts in the workplace, neighborhoods, unions, and among social action, political, environmental, and cultural organizations. Such collective action makes it possible for varied progressive forces, groups, and individuals to have greater presence and influence, without losing their own identities or special characteristics. The objective of this movement is to promote a union of forces increasingly able to influence broad strata of the population, orienting the current social transformation.
Humanists are neither naive nor enamored of declarations that belong to more romantic eras, and in this sense they do not view their proposals as the most advanced expression of social consciousness or think of their organization in an unquestioning way. Nor do they claim to represent the majority. Humanists simply act according to their best judgment, focusing on the changes they believe are most suitable and possible for these times in which they happen to live.