+ OO a ROAR NAAR NRRL Nye
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A note about a friend of ours... |
invasion of Columbus; explain Hanukkah; and hold a Kwanzaa celebration.
they got a good one when they got Celia Bess!
We're happy for you CB but we will miss your quick wit, easy going nature and
commitment to justice, And we wish you every success!
A note from a friend of ours..
Dear CD CAAR,
12 November, 1993
! would like to share with the organization my deepest gratitude and
jreciation for my going away gathering on November 5, 1993. CD CAAR
has been extremely instrumental in my political development as well as
increasing my awareness of local, national and international affairs.
My relationship with this organization has reaffirmed and solidified
my commitment toward Seeking justice politically, educationally,
economically, and Spiritually. "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice
everywhere."
! would like to especially thank Mark for his kind words and continued
Support. 1 am indebted to "Mike" for her vision, commitment, dedication,
tireless energy, perserverance, organizing, constant vigilance, and most of
all her kind spirit.
Thank you for giving me an opportunity to be part of CD CAAR. J
remain invested in the struggle.
A luta continua Barry D.Walston
(Editor's Note: Barry eume up so well how instrumental CD-CAAR hae been in the
political development of so many of us - and how important Mike has been in
facilitating that development. Mike said to me - Pleage don't print that letter,
it's embarassing. But every ten years or eo it can't hurt to gay thanke!)
And notes for friends of ours...
F Some very special events: %
Feb. 7, 7:30 p.m. Molefe Asante at Union College yw
i, MAb. 17, 71390 pin, Angela Davis at Union College
(both Union events in the Memorial Chapel) Rox
Mar. 3, 8:00 p.m. Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela CX,
at Troy Music Hall
a, 2
BA
Capital District Coalition
7 e N -P
Against Apartheid and Racism Geesalaation
a project of the Social Justice Center U.S. Postage
33 Central Avenue
PAID
Albany, New York 12210 Permit No.509
Albany, N.Y.
Who is democracy really for?
, . °
How can you give concrete support for South African democracy -%
‘wana!
1.Inside is an urgent request from Nelson Mandela for aid in the upcoming elections.
Please read carefully and respond as generously as possible. ( Note: Some of you may have
received the same request in a direct mailing from Boston).
2.Save March 19th fora CD-CAAR fundraiser to benefit the South African election
fund and the Jessie Davis Defense Fund (see information on the Jessie Davis case on the
special guests to be held at "Yours 'R Us Jazz Club,” Barrett Street Schenectad
possi March 19th at 9:00 p.m.
ails to come...
NELSON MANDELA: "Nothing can be allowed to stand in the way of democracy;
not ignorance, not illiteracy, and most certainly not the advantageous resources
of those who wish to preserve their privileged positions, ...Only a democratically
elected government that reflects the real will of the majority can_ realistically
answer the cry for peace, jobs, and justice."
(from "A Personal Appeal from Nelson Mandela” to U.S. anti-apartheid workers and supporters to aid in the April 27,
1994 South African elections.)
ECUMENICAL TASK FORCE ON ECONOMIC MATTERS: “Our Faith calls us to a
pastoral concern for the people of our country who are victims of apartheid
injustice and mismanagement of the economy of this country. We are also called
to a prophetic responsibility to proclaim the values of God's reign over and
against the systematic economic distortions and imbalances created by, =
apartheid..."
(from a report “The Church, the Poor and Business: a Proclamation on Ethical Corporate Conduct in South Africa” written
by an Ecumenical Task Force on Economic Matters convened by the South African Council of Churches and the Southern
African Catholic Bishops Conference, May 1993)
i
An organization in transition:
The Capital District Coalition Against Apartheid and Racism
CD-CAAR becomes CD-CSAAR
The Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa and Against Racism
Box 3002 Pine Hills Station
Albany, New York 12203
A project of the Social Justice Center
March, 1995
A Message from Vera Michelson...
Remembering CD-CAAR
As we mark the one year anniversary of the April, 1994
elections in South Africa and the transition of the country from a
racist apartheid regime to a non-racial democracy under the
leadership of Nelson Mandela, the Capital District Coalition Against
Apartheid and Racism (CD-CAAR) is undergoing a reorganization.
The following CD-CAAR steering committe members - Vera Michelson, Mark
Mishler, Mabel Leon, Debbie Maxwell, Eileen Kawola and Roli Varma - will be
leaving. The new effort will be named the Capital District Coalition
for Southern Africa and Against Racism (CD-CSAAR pronounced CD-
CZAR). Members of the new steering committee are Josephine Burke Baptiste,
»~. Gail Byrnes, Tauheedah Madyun, Merton Simpson ( Chairperson), Oswald Sykes,
/ ™ and James Wright.
But before we end this chapter of CD-CAAR, I felt it important
that we pay tribute to the many people who played significant roles in
the life of the organization and the anti-apartheid struggle. Some of
these people are remembered for their continuous work in the organization and
some are remembered for their collaboration on special projects. Of course, this
chronology only touches on the highlights of the past 14 years. This is not an
attempt to capture it all. I know that we are compiling this list at great risk as it is
ry
guaranteed that we will omit people and organizations in this impossible task.
Comprehensive listings were not always available for all the projects and work we
did over the years. For any ommissions, Iam deeply apologetic.
I hope that this journey through the past 14 years will bring back fond
memories for all who have participated in this movement. We begin at the
beginning.
Apartheid came to Albany, New York in 1981 when the South
African rugby team, the Springboks, were scheduled to play a game
at Bleeker Stadium on i soni 22nd of that year. That summer of
1981 and the September Springbok rugby game is forever etched in
the mind of most Albanians.
bane
TEA Rianne leaked eH eee “am
. Never has there been such an exciting time - long meetings,
discussions about march routes, civil disobedience, organizing buses, reports on
the progress of campus organizing, the unions, Vets, the churches, trying to get the
city council to stop the game, pressure on Mayor Corning to stop the game, legal
briefs to get Governmor Carey to stop the game and leafleting every single event in
the Capital District. Countless hours were spent organizing forum after forum until
apartheid and rugby became the primary media issues of the summer. Never had
there been an issue which bound so many diverse people together so rapidly and
with such great conviction. Out of that organizing effort, the Capital District
Coalition Against Apartheid and Racism was born.
Some names that come to mind as instrumental in pulling off the effort are:
NAACP leadership E.J. Josey (moved to Pittsburgh), Mike Dollard, (E.J. Josey
and Mike Dollard later continued in leadership positions on the steering committee
during the early years of CD-CAAR) Clara Satterfield, Frank Pogue, and Harry
Hamilton. Others like Nebraska Brace, Brian O'Shaughnessy, Japhet Zwana,
ag 8 Kirwin, Greg Bell, Liz Pearson, Tony Smith, Frank itzgerald, Pear! and
Jim Campbell (deceased), Herb Crossman, Bob Rogers, Lillie McLaughlin, Bojj
Jordan, Irv Landau, Iris Berger, Liz Rifkin, Lester Wooten, Pat Beetle, Mike
Kozak, Rev.Louis Brewer, Karen Brammer, Delores Kirkwood Brown, David
Easter, Jim McCoy, Barry Sample, Dorothy Tristman, Howard Straker, Peter
Thierung, Scottie Wexler, George King, Darby Penny, Nancy Flowers, Pat
Purcell, a host of clergy and many organizers, some of whom we will mention
later. Some of these activists remained involved with CD-CAAR as the years went
on.
The organizing efforts culminated in an anti-apartheid rugby
demonstation of 3,000 people, in spite of postponements and a
pouring down rain and a changing schedule due to |
have the game cancelled. “ ‘ ree i
y RULE
: JORIT
When (my) Vera Michelson's apartment was raided by FBI, s
and city police the night before the rugby game and John toy is
Michael Young, Aaron Estes and Michelson were arrested, attorneys Anita Thayer
(long time steering committee member), Lanny Walter and Lew Oliver worked on
the defense. The charges against Michelson and Estes were thrown out. Michelson
and Estes pursued a civil suit against the city which was settled out of court for
$47,000.Prominent and controversial attorney William Kunstler was brought into
the case and Spearman and Young were acquitted after a two week long trial.
Recently the Albany Times Union ran a front pa
j ge story identifying
Michael Fitzpatrick as the probable FBI informant who lied about an arsenal of
weapons which were supposedly stashed somewhere in my apartment. |
Fitzpatrick is currently claiming that Qubdilah Shabazz hired him to
i
Minister Louis Farrakhan. (see enclosed article) wees caine
i ARICA Cnty eve BRINN MRRP cuir tre A EAN ans twain tebaeten EN peri Aa wets «tan Sen aa
After the Springboks went home members of CD-CAAR met to
discuss the future of the organization. Was it an ad hoc group?
Should it continue? Clearly the decisions was reached to carry on
and the rest, as they say, is history.
In the mid-80's the anti-apartheid struggle picked up steam
internationally. The Free South Africa Movement, the cultural boycott of
entertainers who performed in South Africa, the South African products boycott and
the divestment campaign all took hold in the Capital District as CD-CAAR grew to
national and international prominence.
In 1985, CD-CAAR joined the Free South Africa Movement by
participating in nationally coordinated actions against U.S. Federal
buildings. On Jan. 17, 1985, an anti-apartheid protest at the Leo O'Brien Federal
Building resulted in the arrest of 10 civic and religious leaders as they disobeyed
orders to leave the lobby. Among those arrested with much fanfare were Rev.
Robert Dixon, Isaac Bracey, Rev. Alvin Porteous, Nancy Burton, Lawrence
Wittner, John Funicello, Rev. Allan Delameter and Rev. Brian O'Shaughnessy.
On the cultural front CD-CAAR picketed almost every
entertainer who came through here who had ever performed in South
Africa in violation of the cultural boycott; Paul Anka, the Beach Boys,
Mightey Clouds of Joy, Della Reese, Johnny Mathis. But the biggest "hits" for CD
-CAAR, by far, were the Temptations, Ray Charles and Chick Corea. Charles and {4
Corea were picketed several times by CD- CAAR. In some very important victories
for the movement against apartheid and for CD-CAAR, the Temps and Chick caved
in under the pressure and wrote statements vowing not to return to South Africa
until apartheid had been defeated. (Because of the historical nature of
these documents, we are attaching them to this newsletter)
It is impossible to discuss our participation in the cultural
boycott without mentioning those with whom we actively
collaborated on the national level: Ron Wilkins (Unity in Action - Los
Angeles), Elombe Brath (Patrice Lumumba Coalition, New York City), Thandi
Geobshi (ANC, Atlanta), Norman Otis Richmond (Toronto), Shikhulu Shange, and
Georgia Urban (retired area jazz columnist), all of whom spent many hours on the
phone with us mapping out strategy and assisting in discussions with managers and
promoters.
Remember the many hours spent walking picket lines at the
Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Heritage Park, the Palace Theater,
and the Troy Music Hall? Local names immediatedly associated with the
cultural boycott (as well as many other campaigns) are Donna Perry, Odell
Winfield (steering committee), Barbara Henderer, David Mack, Pat Trowers
(steering committee), George Mallory, Carol Hausen, Larry Mauldin, Mary Scott,
Reszin Adams, Cleo Carter, Malcom Carter, Jim Wright (steering committee), Pat
Malone, Martin Manley, Jabari Penda, Masani Penda, Shirley Lumpkin, Tony
Scott, Ike Black, Naomi Jaffee (a tireless worker wherever she was needed), Mark
Mishler (steering committee), Mabel Leon (steering committee), Sue Ray, Thandi
and ieee ous (steering committee), Martin Manley, Reszin Adams, Fred ;
Kakumba (steering committee), John Funicello, Fred Pfeiffer. (Bulletin: CD-
CAAR members Pat Trowers and Craig Johnson met at the Ray
Charles/Saratoga Jazz Fest Boycott. They eventually tied the knot
and now live in Indiana.)
Names more closely associated with the OTB tennis boycott (as well
as many other campaigns) were Doug Williams, Les Davis, Roli Varma (treasuer
and steering committee), Bill Ritchie (steering committee), Mona and Mike Reddick
(steering committee), Joe Allen (Schenectady NAACP), Gary Pavlick and many
cultural boycott activists previously mentioned.
The divestment campaign to get NY State pension funds out of
companies that were in South Africa took off in 1985 and involved
thousands of people and hundreds of organizations around the state. Because
Albany is the Capital of New York, CD-CAAR hosted several statewide divestment
meetings and took part in many statewide committees. We remember Jim Bell
(deceased), Mai Ngai, and Cleve Robinson from District 65, New York City and
their hard work in this struggle. We salute PEF, CSEA NYPIRG, NYSUT, the
Black and Puerto Rican Legislative Caucus and SASU for the roles they
played...and John Funicello and for their tireless efforts to get labor involved. |
Also Bob Jaffee, Jane McAlevey, Rufus Collier, Jackie Ambrosia, Travis Plunkett,
Linda Wistar, Paco Duarte, Everett Joseph, Doug Bullock. Joe Walker of PEF
and past editor of Muhammad Speaks became an honorary member of the
steering committee.
On June 25, 1986 CD CAAR erected a 24 hour mock Shantytown
at the Capitol to symbolize the forced removal of Black South Africans from their
homes and to highlight the divestment campaign.
CD CAAR grew to understand that the problems of South Africa had a
direct effect on the southern region of Africa or what was commonly know as the
"front line states." Our work expanded to include Namibia, Angola
and Mozambique. CD-CAAR raised thousands of dollars for elections in
Namibia and schools in Mozambique. At times our attention also became focused
on U.S. foreign policy toward Haiti, Grenada, Cuba, Palestine, Zaire and Iraq as
we became involved in various educational forums nd anti-war efforts.
_ CD-CAAR was also co-convener of NESASN, the Northeast Southern
Africa Solidarity Network. NESASN was a network of anti-apartheid
organizations from nine surrounding states which took up many campaigns (Dollars
for Democracy in Namibia) and organized many regional conferences.
AACS Rg
The work of CD-CAAR was enhanced by a number of
wonderful South African and other African students who attended
colleges in the Capital District: Nathi Ncobo (teaching in Durban), Shobhna Gopal
(steering committee - now living in New Jersey), Natasha Levenson, Keke Tloti,
Sie,
Sipho Seepe, Motlagomang (Tlaks) Seepe, Theresa Williams (now working at
Union College), Zaida Kajee, Fredual Offori Atta (back in Ghana), Yvonne Sackey
(living in Maryland), Tebo Mogajane, Thuli Makahene and Yolandé-Chirwa (all
now studying in South Africa), and Sean Lewis (who is back in Capetown after
earning two Masters degrees - one from SUNYA and one from Pittsburgh - Sean is
loving Cape Town by the way).
The African connections were also greatly enhanced by visits to
Southern Africa by CD-CAAR members -Vera Michelson to an ANC conference
in Arusha, Tanzania; Michelson and Eileen Kawola - educational/political trip to
South Africa, Mozambique and Namibia with our friend Prexy Nesbitt; Barry
Walston as CD-CAAR's representative to South Africa during the 1994 elections.
Another international trip which added to our knowledge of anti-apartheid work was
made by Les Davis and Michelson - a conference on the Olympic sports
boycott in Stockholm. Attendance at United Nations NGO meetings by
several CD-CAAR members and the opportunity to present testimony at the U.S.
Special Committee Against Apartheid were other opportunities we took to broaden
our participation at the international level. We also were fortunate to count among
our members several who traveled to Cuba as part of the Venceremos Brigade:
on one trip - Eleanor Thompson, Vicki Smith, Crystal Camacho, Pat Trowers,
Celia Bess Cotton, Barbara Allen, Larry Mauldin, Vera Michelson. Other trips
included Mabel Leon and Mark Morris. The return of these Brigadistas always
meant that we would receive educational briefings.
Throughout the years CD-CAAR worked closely with several
national organizations. We have depended on their expertise and resources to
sustain our efforts. Some of these are the American Committee on Africa, The
Washington Office on Africa, The Mozambique Solidarity Network, Patrice
Lumumba Coalition, the National Alliance Against Racist and Political Oppression
and, of course, the ANC of South Africa and SWAPO of Namibia. We especially
acknowledge the ACOA for its timely responses to our requests for information,
ideas for campaigns, and the reams of instant press releases from South Africa.
On the local scene CD-CAAR was active on several fronts with a
concentration on police abuse. When Jesse Davis was murdered in 1984,
CD-CAAR joined with many other organizations in organizing protests, comnilinity
metings, and eventually pushing for a civilan police review board. Odell Winfield
took an early role in police abuse work. The Community Police Relations Board,
which was formed after many years of work, became the center of controversy for
many more years when it became obvious that its scope and powers were limited.
CD-CAAR's outspoken represenatives, Mark Mishler and then Vickie Smith
(steering committee) spent many hours trying to get the Board to be more
responsive to the community it served. Merton Simpson (co-chair, steering
committee) became a major voice against the way the Albany Police Department
does business.
CD-CAAR also participated in Anti Klan demonstrations in
Vermont and Albany (in coalition with the NAACP of Albany) and many other
sini SHAH) ANU ERAS EN
peace and justice marches in Washington, Philadelphia, and New York City. We
sponsored many well attended forums on racism, violence and the struggle for
justice and co-sponsored and participated in numerous community events.
Let us not forget some of the many friends of CD- CAAR who
came to speak in Metroland: Damu Smith, Jennifer Davis, Rob Jones, Vicki
Erenstein, Elombe Brathe, Sam
ori Marksman, Robert Chrisman, Imani Countess,
Prexy Nesbitt, Paula Rogovin, Manning Marable, Ambassador to the U.S.
Hippolito Patricio from Mozambique, ANC members Johnny Makathini (deceased),
David Ndaba, Neo Mnumzana, Tebogo Mafole, Victor Mashabela, Susan
Mnumzana, Solly Simelane, Curtis Nkondo, Jeannette Mthobi, Ben Magubane,
Lyndall Mafole, Mujaki Thulo, the ANC cultural group - SECHABA, South
African lawyer Johnny DeLang
, UDF member Murphy Marobe, SWAPO members
Helmut Angula, Monica Nashandi, Hingenerwa Asheeke, and Loide Shinavene.
CD-CAAR also worked closely over the years with the Black
and Hispanic Legislative Caucus of New York State - in particular,
David Patterson, Arthur Eve, and Roger Green.
In many of our efforts we collaborated with other oe ee in the
Capital District. Blacks in Government, the Urban League,
Labor and Religious Coalition,
CA, Capital District
Interdenominational Minister's Conference,
Solidarity Committee of the Capital District, Socialist Workers Party, Malcolm X
Study Network, Democratic Socialists of America, NAACP Schenectady, National
Lawyer's Guild, ASUBA, Capi
tal District Builders of Educational Achievement,
Capital Area Council of Churches, Arbor Hill Community Center, CISPES, The
Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, Delta Sigma Theta, Central America Solidarity
Alliance, A. Philip Randolph Institute, the Critical Black Issues Conference, Siena
College and the Neihbur Institue at Siena, College of St. Rose, Union College,
Junior College of Albany, SUN
Press.
Y at Albany, and Women of Color: Kitchen Table
Special mention goes to three organizations - the NAACP of
Albany and the.Social Just
Law and Justice, Inc.
ice Center of Albany amd the Center for
The most vivid recollection of CD-CAAR/ Albany NAACP collaboration
comes in the 90's when we remember the Anti Klan rally at the Capitol, drawing
overt 700 people and the demonstration to respond to the verdicts in the Rodney
King trial when over 1,000
closely with NAACP President
people rallied to express their opposition. We worked
Anne Pope to pull people together in record speed.
Anne's energy and positive outlook were fundamental to the success of these
events. We are proud to have collaborated with Anne on so many activities. Under
Anrie’s leadership the Albany N
strong voice against injustice.
CD-CAAR has been a
since our inception. The SJC is
District which work on issues o
AACP continues to provide the community with a
member of the Social Justice Center of Albany
the umbrella organization for groups in the Capital
f peace and justice. It is with their support that we
AAs pence dan anne laa Puna aoe uni PANETAPRPSIRSR MCHA PDO NTIM IAN He SHIMIHDNAL ron
(eA ontininnbbb ey pn AU eAba nels ir ae
were able to do newsletter mailings and mobilize many in the community to take
part in CD-CAAR events.
Our collaboration with The Center for Law and Justice, Inc. will
also be remembered by the many activites we co-sponsored to raise awareness of
police abuse in the community. We are sure, for exxample, that no one could forget
that spontaneous and noisy demonstration at Mayor Whalen's house. Alice
Green's work was key in insuring that Jesse Davis was not forgotten. With the
founding of the Center for Law and Justice, Alice has given the voices of justice a
vehicle to help focus community efforts around the criminal justice system. In spite
of adversity she just "keeps on keepin’ on.” We cannot think of CD CAAR without
thinking of the Center for Law and Justice.
Pastors who graciously hosted CD CAAR functions and were
active over the years: Rev.Robert Dixon (steering committee), Rev. William
Roland, Rev. Leonard Comithier, Rev. Alvin Porteous, Rev. Bob Lamar,
Rev.Louis Brewer, Rev. Carl Taylor, Father Kofi Amissah, Elder H Jeffress, Rev.
Allan Stanley, Rev.Ernest Drake, Rev. Robert Graves, Elder John Johnson, Rev.
Albert Newman, Rev. Joyce Giles (deceased), Rev. C.A. Everett, and Rev. Car!
Ware. And in mentioning the religious community we also remember our dear
friend, Art Mitchell, who passed away this year.
Other activists who have been involved from the mid-80's and the early 90's
include: Anne Frazier, David Aube, Dick Melita, da Rose (coordinated
newsletter bundling and mailing for several years), Verena Diemer, Gladys and
Jack Karlin, Ed Bloch, Frank Lownes, Leslie Wallace (deceased), Chris
Townsend, Barbara Winters (fomer director of the Urban League and steering
committee member), Linda Lisa and Larry Norville, Melanie Pores, Alice Brody,
Masani Penda, Ann Mattei, Larry Shajuyigbe, Yvette Scarlett (steering
committee), Vivian and James Mosley, Celia Bess Cotten (steering committee),
Barbara Allen, Brian Brown, Carl Swidorski, Eleanor Thompson, Silvestre
Wallace (living in New York, became a father), Tony Young (living in New York),
Vijay MacWann, Janice Mw Doris Robinson (moved to Springfield),
Arlena Adams (moved to New York City), Jeff Jones and Rekha Basu (Metroland
writers), Ethel David (remember all those summer nights when Ethel brought the
circus to Arbor Hill), Barbara Smith, Gloria DeSole, Sandy Lamm (moved to
Texas), Varsha Saxena, Suzy Persutti, Rad Anderson, Lisa Garcia, Joe Graham,
Jim Bouldin (steering committee), Anju Kapur, Sanjukta Gosha, Victoria Santos,
Peter Balint, Elba Matos, Richard Genest, Deborah Williams Muhammad, Willliam
Suggs, Ericka Wienman, Haziine Eytina, Dennis Nelson, Lorrie Robinson, Nii
Narty, Gail Byrne (steering committee), Stacey Dawes, Marc Morris and Deborah
Maxwell (steering committee).
We can also remember some joyous events - our five year anniversary, a
reception-jointly sponsored with the Black and Hispanic Legislative Caucus- in
conjuction with Nelson Mandela's release from jail (thank you William Kennedy
and Ossie Davis for a wonderful day!), and our ten year anniversay with the Last
Poets and Ade and Druis Knowles. And our dear friend Azzaam Hameed who
aeseg ‘
ae
4
performed at both anniversaries and the party at Jazz R Us to raise funds for the
elections in South Africa and has been there every time we needed him.
Aad everyone knows that most people who struggle know how to party.
CD-CAAR has been no exception. We remember long- into- the- night parties with
Bill Pendelton, Sir Walford and others at Dorseys’, Page Three, Holidaze, the
Mason Hall on Madison Avenue, the Blue Nile, Gibbey's and Van Ness’s.
Particular mention must be made of Eileen Kawola (steering committee)
who over the years, in addition to working on almost every CD-CAAR project, has
documented CD-CAAR's activities ina monthly newsletter which was distributed to
over 1,000 readers. Many have told us that the newsletter was well put together,
informative and was the key to maintaining a loyal network of committed activists
for such a long fime.
It oe a long time since all this began in the summer of 1981. Without
so many people working so long and so hard it would have been impossible for CD-
CAAR to grow into such a strong grassroots organization with national and
international connections. The political work we have been able to accomplish has
heen solid and principled. And while the struggle for justice must certainly still
continue, at this juncture in our organizational history it has been important for me
to look back, reflect and be grateful.
Finally { want to thank my co-chair, Merton Simpson, who has worked
with me over the years to pull all of this together. Merton and I were able to forge a
comradely working relationship which carried us through the difficult times. which
were many, and throught the victories, which were sweet. I wish him every
success in the difficult work ahead.
re
enter
PAANINOLAAN RANGER AAI LAALLiaLinnirtuen Wan ee
A Message from Merton Simpson
about the New Direction of — ae
| Many of you have been asking “where is the Capital District
Coalition Against Apartheid and Racism (CD-CAAR?") CD-CAAR
has undergone a reorganization and is changing its name to the
ge District Coalition for Southern Africa and Against Racism
(CD-CSAAR - pronounced "CD-CZAR").
There is a new South Africa. The democratic election of President Nelson
Mandela is a significant milestone in South Africa's history. It now becomes
important for us in our continuing support of South Africa to move from anti-
apartheid activities to activities which support investment in the development of the
country's struggling economy.
Although South Africa, with its highly developed industrial base, has great
potential for economic development,like so many other industrialized countries, its
development of the Southern African region , under the leadership of the Southern
African Development Community (SADC) rests with the rise of South Africa itself.
The countries of Southern Affica are rich in strategic, jet age minerals such as
vandium, titanium, manganese, platinum group metals, chromium, as well as gold,
diamonds and oil.
involved with democratic success in terms of their electoral ses. Yet due to
the legacy of colonialism, these countries are not in any position to fully exploit their
economic resources and, notwithstanding the hypocritical support Western
countries give rhetorically to the importance of supporting new
democracies, aid to Africa is actually decreasing.
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), incoming chairman of the Sub-Committee
on Foreign Operations, has suggested slashing the $800 million se for 1994-
95 year. The $800 million for 650 million people (less than $1.50 per person) is
S most disheartening in light of the shining democratic example just set by
elson Mandela and the people of South Africa.
It must be understood that the situation in Africa is only a variation on the
theme in the "New World Order." Despite the self serving claims by the United
States about the western victory in the cold war, the plight of the average American
under the "Contract on America" has never been worse.
In New York State we see the collapse of New York City. And the Capital
District area, heavy with state employees, will soon learn the true significance of
NAFTA and GATT as G.E., 1.B.M. and other major corporations shift within the
states and eventually out of the country entirely.
responsible for our economic decline must be discredited. What the majority of
people everywhere in the world are being subjected to is a carefully orchestrated
plan to marginalize people and maximize profit. Divide and conquer is the oldest
trick in the book but it still works.
So whether it is the "Contract on America,” the assault on affirmative action,
“Welfare Reform,” the "War on Crime/Drugs,” the death penalty, or anti-
immigration laws, the message for the majority of the worlds population
is that the economic elite no longer needs you and you are therefore
expendable.
From the Bronx to Bosnia, from Haiti to Harlem, from Russia
to —_—” or from Angola to Albany there is an unending assault on
all of us.
The Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa and Against
Racism sees our role as more vital now than ever before. In a
technocratic age where information access approaches mindboggling
dimensions, the ability to provide critical analysis is paramount.
However, we see our role as more than just social commentators. In
addition to educating, we feel it is critical that our knowledge be used
to fuel an activism that is as dynamic as the problems we face.
Itis not acceptable for the United States to use our tax dollars to place troops
in Haiti, when there is a horrific holocaust in Rwanda and grossly inadequate
peacekeeping forces and material aid. It is unconscionable to bail out the saving and
loan companies but take children off welfare. We must focus our activism through
direct lobbying efforts in conjunction with other organizations. Our history has
shown us whether it was democracy in South Africa or a $500,000 settlement
for the wrongful death of Jessie Davis, people united through active and
a 4
determined coalition efforts can achieve significant victories.
siienaianiiaiitone
We look forward to receiying the same level of support you
have provided us in the past and we are confident that the even
greater support to deal with the problems ahead will be forthcoming.
We thank you for your support and look forward to working with you
again.
A luta continua
{
Ahherten ~Pompan
Merton Simpson
Chairperson CD-CSAAR
{
The Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa and Against
Apartheid
Steering Committee Members
Josephine Burke Baptiste - President of the Capital District Rwanda Relief
Fund and an expert on the culture and traditions of Central Africa and vanious
Francophone countries.
Gail Byrnes - Member of the steering committe of CD-CAA R, a key liason
member and activist with the Center for Law and Justice, and a member of the
Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee of Troy Area United Ministries.
Tauheedah Madyun - Long term political activist, a member of Masses United,
the December 12 Coalition, and Roots Revisited.
Merton Simpson - Co-chair of CD-CAAR, Regional Council member of Blacks
in Government and a member of the Patrice Lumumba Coalition.
Oswald Sykes - Northeast Regional Representative of the National Association of
Black SCUBA Divers, Chair of the Shipwreck Committee (Current Project -
Henrietta Marie, a slave ship), President of the Sea Drifters Albany, and former
member of the United Nations Correspondents Association.
James Wright - Former President of the Albany Upstate Chapter of Blacks in
*
Government and an expert in communications and mass media.
Note:
Our a s will remain the same:
CD-CS
Box 3002 Pine Hills Station
Albany, New York 12203
We also will be a member of the Social Justice Center of Albany
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INFORMANT Michael Fitzpatrick in this
STAR DIRECTION. i SL-
THE FOLLOWING 15_A STATEMENT BY FAMED RECORDI«. _ “TISTS, THE TEMPTATION
sA STATE
t
At a meeting neld on Friday. June 29, 1984, at the offices of
our manager, Mr- Shelly Serger in Beverly Hills, CA, which we attended in
the company of Mz. Berger, Mr- Ron Wilkins (Patrice Lumumba Coalition anc
Gnaty in Action/Los Angeles) Mr. Tony Hall (Coalition %9 Close the Racist
South African Consulate and Unity in Action/Los angeles), and Mr. Vusi
shangasi (African National Congress) + the’ racial situation in gouth Africs
ang its relationship te the entertainment aommunity was made erystai clear.
This meeting and subsequent agreement were preceded py communi-~
cations among and between Mr. Shelly Berger, Ms. Vera Michaelson (Capitol
pistrict Coalition Against Apartheid and Raciam/Albany, New York), Mr.
Elombe Brath (Patrice Lumumba Coalition and Unity in Action Network/New
York), and Mr. Ron Wilkins.
When we performed in South Africa on May 25, 197@, we were unawe
of the immense propaganda and ‘economic value of our tour to this racist
regime whose apartneid system stands condemned by the world's people and
governments. we also did not realize that we were accepting an offer whic
had already been rejected by the Jacksons and, ironicaliy, which coin-
cided with Afrioan Liberation Day ~~ recognized internationalty as a day te
solidarity with oppressed African people.
after having discovered that cur tour was eounter-product:ve
to the Liberation struggie of the Black majerity we refused South Africa’ s
sffer of one million dollars for a ten day return engagement Last October.
We want it to be known that we sondemn the apartheid system
2
and vow not to return to South Africa until there is Biack majority Tule.
in she future, where possible, we will lend our talents and resources te
tne campaign for the elimination of apartheid. | ”
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA
June 29, 1984
if j i ' a e
er i eeetincta eet NOT,
o's BERGER, MANAGER 6/29/84
cae
=
a
July 2, 1985
CHICK COREA PROD.
2635 GRIFFITH PARK BLVD.
ANGELES. CA 90039
213) 660-597
To: Capital District Coalition Against ree th athe ARTISTS
Apartheid and Racism
Atten: Vera Michelson
From: Chick Corea
This is to reaffirm and state my position in regards to the apartheid
system in South Africa.
i oe Ss definately against this system and would like to see it abol-
ished.
2) 1 refuse to perform in any concert venue where there is any racial
discrimination and therefore will not perform again in South Africa until
the present apartheid system is abolished.
3) It should go on record that at the time I went to South Africa to
perform, I was unaware of the existence of the United Nations’ cultural
boyeott.
My wish is that we can bring the right pressures to bear resulting in
the abolishment of the apartheid system; and see a return of human rights to
CLL Goa.
Chick Corea
the blacks in South Africa.
c.c. Ron Wilkins, Unity in Action, Los Angeles
Special Committee Against Apartheid, United Nations
Elombe Brath, Unity in Action, New York City
Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa
And Against Racism
A Project of the Social Justice Center
Box 2003 Pine Hills Station
Albany, New York 12203
March 28, 1995
Dear Brothers and Sisters in struggle,
As you may know by now the Capital District Coalition Against
Apartheid and Racism (CD-CAAR) has undergone a reorganization and has
changed its name to the Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa
and Against Racism (CD-CSAAR - pronounced CD~-CZAR)
The members of the steering committees past and present would
first of all like to extend our sincere thanks to you for the support
you have given to the Capital District Coalition Against Apartheid and
Racism over the long years since we began in 1981.
Although Nelson Mandela is the President of a new South Africa,
our work -far fram being over - is only beginning. Now, more than
ever, the people of South Africa in particular, and Southern Africa in
general, need our support. While it is true that there is one person,
one vote, the economy of South Africa is still dominated by the Anglo-
American DeBeers monoply, along with a host of other multinationals.
At a time when South Africa needs massive economic support from
the West, we see major efforts in western countries, including the
United States, to decrease development aid for this fledgling
democracy. The countries of Southern Africa - Mozambique, Angola, and
Namibia - are still struggling against the effects of the former
apartheid regime's vicious wars of destabilization. Although
Mozambique and Angola have cease fires in effect, the UNITA forces in
Angola and RENAMO in Mozambique continue to attack civilian
populations. Namibia as a model new democracy faces the task of
building a new society with very little help from the west,
sanctimonious platitudes concerning support for democratic governments
notwithstanding.
Other crises face Africa as well. Most of the world is aware of
the tragic events in Rwanda where the people there have faced one of
the most horrific holocausts in history. A population of some 8
million people has suffered a death toll in excess of 3 million people
in the space of 12 months. The crisis is so grave that it is directly
destabilizing Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Zaire and by regional
interrelations has adverse consequences for all of Southern Africa.
are people of color at risk, but everyone with the exception of the
highest members of the ruling elite are considered expendable. So
whether it is the "Contract on America," the assault on affirmative
action, welfare reform, "the war on drugs," the death penalty, anti-
immigration laws - the word for the masses of people globally is “get
off the planet by sundown." “
From the Bronx to Bosnia, from Haiti to Harlem, from Angola to
Albany there is an unending assault on all of us. We can no longer
wait for charismatic leadership to guide us out of this global crisis.
We must collectively band together for a level of struggle that is
more complex than we have ever experienced.
' The Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa and Against
Racism is committed to coninuing the struggle for justice. We plan to
address both domestic and international issues. We can only do this
with your support.
In CD-CSAAR's first annual membership appeal we are asking for a
contribution of $5.00. (Upon receipt of your membership, we will send
you a membership card.) Of course, if you can give more it will be
greatly appreciated.
In solidarity,
f.
av ude wach CHE wT EN
Merton Simpson
Chairperson, CD-CSAAR
Pe ae ee a a a ee a ee a a
Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa
and Against Racism
Box 3002 Pine HIlls Station
. Albany, New York 12203
a project of the Social Justice Center
Enclosed is yearly membership dues: $5.00 $10.00 $25.00
Name
Address
(Make checks payable to Capital District Coalition for Southern Africa
and Against Racism (CD-CSAAR) and mail to above address)
