We write with gratitude to the many individuals, families, foundations and faith-based groups which have enabled dozens of remarkable Afghan activists to resettle in safer havens. We’re also grateful for relationships that continue developing between our international team and young Afghans hoping to resettle in another country. Some of us have known one another for over ten years. Some are meeting one another, through correspondence, calls, and zoom meetings, for the first time. We feel enlivened by shared challenges and growing resilience. Photo: Abdulhai Darya A bit of background for those who might just be learning about the “Afghan Generations” project: Following the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in August of 2021, an ad hoc team of internationals began regular zoom meetings, coordinating efforts to assist Afghan activists who, for security reasons, have asked that we not name them or their group. The inspiring efforts of young Afghans to share resources, seek equality, protect the planet and abolish all war, along with their willingness to host Western visitors, has sadly jeopardized their lives. Mutually beneficial relationships have developed over the past eighteen months leading to some very good news for those who have engaged in resettlement efforts. As of now, we’re relieved to offer this report: From among the former volunteers: six of the activists are now in Germany; six are in Brazil, five are in Canada, one young woman has joined her spouse in the Netherlands, eight (including one infant!) have been in Portugal since spring of 2022 and, on February 18, 2023, seventeen young Afghans (including one infant!) arrived in Portugal. Late last year, we were fortunate to connect with the Asociación Yaran, a group in Spain’s northern province, Galicia, dedicated to helping Afghans resettle in their region. Members of the Spanish team are exploring possibilities for obtaining student visas to Spain that would allow many of the people now on our list awaiting resettlement to begin University studies in Galicia. Before seeking refuge in another country, people fleeing Afghanistan must first cross into a country neighboring Afghanistan. For this reason, many have fled to Pakistan. Last year, our team of internationals worked with young Afghans in Pakistan to set up a safe space which housed young people awaiting visas to Portugal. Now, plans for a new safe space are underway. Two flats have been rented and furnished, and soon the young people who are living there will welcome 13 new housemates. We are hoping it will be possible for all of them to obtain student visas to Spain. In the past year, our group of internationals has appealed to a broad base of donors spanning several continents to raise funds covering visas to Pakistan, temporary housing in Pakistan, and airfare to another country. The projects underway in Portugal are models for humane, holistic and dignified resettlement plans. Now, looking toward northern Spain as a possible destination for young friends facing precarity and desperation in Afghanistan, we welcome your support. We’re grateful to the renowned permaculturist, Starhawk, and the NGO she works with: “The Alliance of Community Trainers,” for their willingness to be fiscal sponsors for our ongoing efforts. Below is information about making contributions. Please note that for U.S. taxpayers these contributions are tax deductible. For online donations: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/alliance-of-community-trainers/earth-activists-emergency-fund-for-afghan-relief Checks can be made payable to Alliance of Community Trainers with Afghan Relief written in the memo section, and sent to David Kast at: 311 S. 7th Avenue, Wausau, WI 54401 (The Alliance of Community Trainers will send U.S. taxpayers a statement of their charitable donation at the end of 2023). Dave Kast’s bookkeeping has been indispensable for us. He’ll continue keeping careful account of contributions and will regularly forward the checks to the Alliance of Community Trainers. It’s encouraging to see how the group that formed a caring, equitable safe space over the past year, in Pakistan, has guided newcomers to understand what worked so well for them during the difficult months they spent together. The buddy system has helped immeasurably, pairing young Afghans with people living outside the region, allowing lively exchanges and deepening relationships. We invite you to assist with this new fundraising effort, aiming to help young Afghans reach a safer haven, possibly in Spain (or elsewhere, should another option arise). Please consider sharing this letter with others, or, if possible, arrange a donation. And if you’d like to join the buddy system, welcome aboard! (write sarah.ball7@gmail.com) Sincerely, Kathy Kelly on behalf of an ad hoc international team seeking to assist Afghan activists facing crises. Note: Kathy Kelly is a previous contact for the WNPJ member group Voices for Creative Nonviolence - well know to Wisconsin peace and justice activists. Kathy Kelly<kathy.vcnv@gmail.com

One year ago, Russia launched a brutal, full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russia’s illegal and unjustified assault has galvanized many around the world to uphold the universal values of human rights, dignity, and freedom. As the conflict extends into its second year, let us continue to stand in solidarity with those impacted by this war and push for lasting peace. Click here to join our Quaker friends in writing the U.S. Congress to take steps to end this devastating war. You will be linked directly to your state leaders. Sent to WNPJ by the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes - Fond du Lac tabler@csasisters.org

On the way up the Potomac River to Washington, the peace boat will retrace Maryland’s founding in 1634. We will gather at the gravesite of Chief Turkey Tayac to honor his legacy and to show our respect to the Piscataway Nation. On the way back down the river, we will call out the dreadful radiological and chemical contamination of the entire watershed that is largely the result of military activities. February 27, 2023 Golden Rule DC Organizing Committee Online here. Learn more about the Vets for Peace Golden Rule ship - and No Nukes education here. Helen Schietinger, Pat Elder, Judy Allen-Leventhal, Julie Tayac Yates, Ross Yates, and Marc Imlay at the Wagner Community Center in the Moyaone Reserve at the Piscataway National Park Helen and Pat are working with the Golden Rule DC organizing committee. Judy Allen Leventhal is a member of the Accokeek Foundation, an organization that owns and administers much of the land in the park. Julie Tayac Yates is the daughter of Turkey Tayac who is buried in the Piscataway National Park. Julie is the Matriarch of the Piscataway Indian Nation. Julie’s husband, Ross Yates is standing in the background. Marc Imlay is a conservation biologist. Piscataway Indian Nation Chief Turkey Tayac (1895-1978) See this amazing one-hour documentary, The Flickering Flame – Life and Legacy of Chief Turkey Tayac. This is the story of the man who led the Piscataway Indian Nation and their revitalization in the 20th century. From his childhood to his work as an herbalist and traditionalist who embraced the advent of the American Indian Movement, to his last days and the campaign to have him buried in a national park that was once the ancient Piscataway village and burial site Moyaone. His fascinating life is shared in memories of friends and family. See, also, WETA's Turkey Tayac’s Fight for the Piscataway People See the informative comments at 33:40 by Dr. Julia King, Professor of Anthropology at St. Mary’s College of Maryland in this documentary The Discovery of the Zekiah Fort. Piscataway Chief Billy Redwing Tayac follows Dr. King at 40:26. At 49:00 the chief describes the sacred burial grounds at the Moyoane Reserve where we will hold our memorial service for Turkey Tayac, Chief Billy Redwing’s father. Photo: Artifacts from Zekiah Fort (St. Mary’s College of Maryland) **************************************** Plans for April 2, 2023 Julie Tayac Yates stands by an information marker in the Piscataway National Park that shows Turkey Tayac and others during the dedication of the park in 1968. The Wagner Community Center is owned by a private foundation and is situated entirely within the sprawling Piscataway National Park. We plan to gather here on Sunday, April 2, 2023 at noon. It is located at 2311 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek, MD. Plans call for an indigenous Indian potluck lunch to be served at 1:00 pm. We have formed a committee to hammer out the details of the entire event. Piscataway Park is located directly across the Potomac River from George Washington’s Mount Vernon. After lunch we’ll take a short drive to a parking area in the Piscataway National Park adjacent to a ½ mile boardwalk that leads to the ancient Piscataway burial ground where Julie’s dad, Turkey Tayak is buried. The Golden Rule will sail through the Great Lakes to Wisocnsin the beginning of September. Contact Vets for Peace in Milwaukee to be involved. Sent to WNPJ by Pat Elder - pelder@militarypoisons.org

Representatives Barbara Lee (CA) and Mark Pocan (WI) have re-introduced the People Over Pentagon Act in the House of Representatives, which would cut $100-billion from the Pentagon budget. The National Defense Authorization Act passed by Congress last December is the largest Pentagon budget ever, at $858 billion, an $80 billion increase over what was authorized in 2021. The USA spends more on its military than the next 9 countries combined.No nation can afford this! Upon introducing the bill, Rep. Lee said “Cutting just $100 billion could do so much good: it could power every household in the U.S. with solar energy; hire 1 million elementary school teachers amid a worsening teacher shortage; provide free tuition for 2 out of 3 public college students; or cover medical care for 7 million veterans.” Over half of the military budget goes directly to for-profit corporations and their executives. According to Rep. Pocan, “We can no longer afford to put these corporate interests over the needs of the American people. It’s time to invest in our communities and make meaningful change that reflects our nation’s priorities.” ASK YOUR REPRESENTATIVE TO CO-SPONSOR IT HERE. Action Alert sent to WNPJ by Milwaukee's Veterans for Peace vfpchapter102@gmail.com

Starting back on January 10th, the Building Unity Tour for Justice and Democracy invited all of the WI Supreme Court candidates to answer some of our questions. Two candidates have responded positively to us: Judge Everett Mitchell and Judge Janet Protasiewicz. Unfortunately, we haven’t gotten any response from Justice Kelly. Now, on Feb. 23rd, with the primary over and Judge Mitchell no longer in the race, we need Justice Kelly’s participation in order to hold any of the candidate forums that will help give Wisconsinites the information they need to make an educated choice on or before April 4th. Democracy only works with an informed electorate. We, the people, want answers before we vote on April 4th. We need leaders who are responsive to their electorate and not hiding behind big money television advertisements that often lie and distort the truth. Please write to the Justice Kelly Campaign. Ask him to participate with the Wisconsin Tour for Justice and Democracy’s Forums, or simply provide some answers to the people by sending them in an email. You can use our sample letter and email address that you will find here: https://tinyurl.com/BULetters4Justice or you can write your own letter. Help Justice Kelly see that this grassroots project has the support of people and groups, large and small, all across Wisconsin, who are ready to put democracy into the hands of the people - not just the “Big Money Players.” Sign up here to receive links to our virtual events and to receive updates like this one about the Tour. Follow the Tour - Show up in Solidarity - either in person or virtually! Check out our schedule for the details of all eight weeks of the tour. We will update this schedule often as tour stop plans are solidified. Register Here:https://tinyurl.com/RSVP4TourEvents Join virtually! Much of the tour will be streamed live to Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/buildingunitywi You can help by promoting the Wisconsin Tour for Justice and Democracy. Contact for more information: BuildingUnityWi@gmail.com

Once again we are witnessing horrible oversights and calculated errors that led to the 50-car train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. Once again humans, animals and the environment face unprecedented hazards and must fight for the truth and for the help they will need. It is reminiscent of ongoing efforts here in Wisconsin to clean up toxic waste and PFAS. Since 1990, WNPJ member group CSWAB has been nationally known as an “effective guardian of the environment.” Their ongoing effort to clean up the former Badger Army ammunitions plant has led to this recent RESOLUTION from January 26, 2023. The Badger Restoration Advisory Board calls on WDNR to expand environmental testing requirements for explosives and other contaminants and to “identify and enforce protective cleanup goals for all known and suspected contaminants including PFAS, mercury and asbestos.” It is a study in tenacity and diligence. Thankfully there are people taking the time to unravel these man-made disasters and demand accountability. Let us also learn to prevent them! ************************************************************************* *Spotlight on member group CSWAB* CSWAB - Citizens for Safe Water Around Badger An organization whose overall goal is to build a sustainable future which will preserve, and where possible, restore the integrity of natural systems – including soils, water, air, and biological diversity. www.cswab.org/ info@cswab.org Contact: Laura Olah 608-643-3124 E12629 Weigand's Bay So.,Merrimac, WI 53561 ​ Photo: Badger Restoration Advisory Board

Wisconsin is one of only a handful of states that has continued to reject additional funds from the federal government to expand Medicaid. Expanding Medicaid will help more low income people access better health care. Learn more here. In addition, we are facing an exacerbated healthcare crisis in which hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites could lose Medicaid coverage that they have been able to continue due to the federal public health emergency (PHE). The PHE has required states to allow people to remain covered by Medicaid but efforts are underway to end this provision, resulting in catastrophic loss of coverage in our state. We should be moving forward together towards covering as many people in our state with the best access to healthcare possible, not going even one step back by allowing people to be removed from Medicaid. What can you do? Sign PPC's petition to the WI Joint Finance Committee TODAY And SHARE it out to all your contacts!* Plan to attend PPC's Healthcare Day of Action at Madison's statehouse Wednesday March 22, 10am more details to follow. Register here if you can to join us! Fill out PPC's Get Involved form to connect with someone about finding a way to be involved that works for you * Share the petition with your friends, family, coworkers, congregations, and on social media. You can share the link or print a hard copy in English or en Español. If you collect hard copy signatures, please email wisconsin@poorpeoplescampaign.org to make a plan to get the pages delivered. Are you or do you know someone on Medicaid or excluded from Medicaid because you/they make too much money, because of immigration status or any other reason? Please get in touch with the campaign and learn how you can lend your voice and leadership to this fight! Email us at wisconsin@poorpeoplescampaign.org

Alfred Meyer, WNPJ chair from 2002 to 2007 and now living in New York, says, "Whenever I feel a bit down about the state of the Earth, I just read the WNPJ weekly events calendar." In this week's WNPJ e-bulletin: Action Alert on Palestine + Teen Writers Project against gun violence + MAN Tough Talk Series Kicks-off via zoom + other statewide events organized by WNPJ member groups… Action Alert from Cassandra Dixon of Mary House, currently working as a volunteer in Palestine. Please consider writing to your congressperson asking that the US State Department stand with the civilian population of Masafer Yatta and oppose the demolition of their homes, villages and livelihoods. Please visit https://act.uscpr.org/a/tell-congress-defend-masafer-yatta for more information, and an easy link to contact your senators and representatives. Congress and the Biden administration have approved $3.3 billion in US tax dollars for Israel in 2023, leaving all of us, as US taxpayers, with a share of responsibility for Israel’s actions. To read more about Cassandra’s work with Operation Dove in the South Hebron Hills/Masafer Yatta area, click here. *********************************************** Do you know a teen with a story to tell about gun violence? Member group WAVE is promoting a national program opportunity called "ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence." We're calling on TEEN WRITERS (ages 13-19) from across the country to write and submit short 10-minute plays confronting gun violence by April 20th. To all the young writers out there - or those with a voice who don’t know that they are writers, yet -we need you in this moment. We need you to channel your fear and frustration, your anxiety and anger, and, yes, your hope, into stories. - Stories that tackle the issue of gun violence. - Stories that show us that this is not normal. - Stories that show us how to be better. ​We need your voice now more than ever. With it, together we will say ENOUGH! Write the change you want to see in the world. Submission deadline April 20th Learn more about applying here…. ****************************************************** Madison Mutual Aid Network: Kick-off to their TOUGH TALKS Series - via zoom Tues, Feb 21 from 7 – 8 pm. From host member Randy Coloni: "I believe talking to one another and sharing our thoughts is a key element of getting along and feeling welcome and understood in our communities. We may not agree all the time, but the process of discussing our views is fundamental to at least understanding each other, and I believe such civil discourse can help prevent hostility and conflict. Plus, we learn from each other and may gain a new perspective or approach to an issue." It is in this spirit that the Madison Mutual Aid Network is proposing a series of “Tough Talks”, inviting all of you to join in facilitated discussions on topics that matter to our well-being, and which may not be getting talked about due to fear of disagreement, being judged, or just wanting to avoid confrontation. We invite both your participation and your suggestions of such topics; we offer the following topic to kick-off the series: How do you deal with someone in your neighborhood doing something you don’t like? e.g. dog barking, blowing leaves too early in morning, racist comments, etc. Find us on Zoom here..... Contact: Stephanie Rearick, steph@stephanierearick.com – Madison MAN Coop (grown from the late Dane County TimeBank) **************************************** Wisconsin. Remember to vote in the primary – Feb. 21st! February is Black History Month. Check out the "Power of Words" WNPJ posting - to learn about WNPJ member groups initiatives and statements regarding anti-racism. *************************************************** Upcoming Events this week for WNPJ groups Get details of all events at wnpj.org/event-calendar Sun Feb 19, 11:30 am Rage Against the War Machine Watch Party in Milwaukee. There’s a national demonstration in Washington, DC, demanding an end to the war in Ukraine. There is no local action in Milwaukee, but a Watch Party at 11:30 AM at the Peace Center at 1001 E Keefe Ave. Picket at Keefe and Weil St at 11 AM- 11:20 AM with Milwaukee Green Party and the End the Wars Coalition. More information: info@peaceactionwi.org Sun. Feb. 19th 6:00 pm George Floyd Uprising – book release event with Nevada! Meet at the Social Justice Center (1202 Williamson St., Madison) In the summer of 2020, America experienced one of the biggest uprisings in half a century. After George Floyd’s murder at the hands of Minneapolis police, angry crowds took to the streets night after night, fighting the police, looting, and eventually burning down the Third Precinct. Written during the riots, George Floyd Uprising (PM Press 2023) is a compendium of the most radical writing to come out of that long, hot summer. Hosted by the Madison Infoshop. jepeck@wisc.edu Tues Feb 21, 7 pm Webinar on Black Land Matters - Join Eric Anglada, Sinsinawa Mound’s Ecological Programming Coordinator, for the presentation of Black Land Matters via Zoom. At this crucial racial moment, it is important that all of us grapple with the connections between history, racism, land, food, Black-led agrarian projects and possibilities for reparations. Register by February 20 and the fee is $10 per person. Contact Arrangements at 608-748-4411 or visit our website at //www.sinsinawa.org/moundcenter for more information. Tuesday, Feb 21 at 6 pm Screening of "Seeking Asylum" - followed by a panel discussion. In a time of increased attacks on the rights and humanity of asylum seekers, this film powerfully follows one woman’s journey as she searches for safety for herself and her children. Reservations are required. Sent to WNPJ by WI Faith Voices for Justice rabbibonnie@charter.net Tues Feb 21, 5 – 6:30 pm JustDane February Service Fair – Madison Madison College South – Employment, housing, education. Contact: JustDane at info@justdane.org Thurs Feb 23, 12 noon - 1 pm Anti-Gun Vigil - Meet at Dunham's Sports, 2550 South 108th Street, West Allis, WI. There were 648 mass shootings in 2022, and already 40 this year. Last year, there were an estimated 20,138 gun deaths with 71, 600 licensed gun shops in the U.S. Sent to WNPJ by Casa Maria Catholic Worker. : casamariamke@gmail.com Thurs Feb 23, 7 pm WILPF Webinar: The Future in Our Pockets; Making Money Work for the Common Good. Join Lucille, Virginia, and Mary Sanderson of Alliance For Just Money as they present Just Money reform for WILPF & friends. Register here for the zoom link. Sent to WNPJ by Madison WILPF: WILPF-Madison wilpfmadison@gmail.com Thurs. Feb 23 - Our country's next execution in Florida. Governor Ron DeSantis has denied clemency for Donald Dillbeck and set his execution date for this date. Learn about Mr. Dillbeck here and sign this petition to request Gov. DeSantis reopen his clemency process. Congregation of St. Agnes CSA has gone on record to oppose the death penalty. On the day of an execution, a candle is lit and the inmate's name is mentioned in the liturgy. Please consider writing to death row inmates and contacting state governors. For a current list of names and addresses of inmates, click HERE. Contact Tracy Abler - tabler@csasisters.org Sat Feb 25, 12 noon – 1 pm Peace Action Weekly Stand for Peace. Meet at 92nd and North, Wauwatosa. Each week, a different vigil site in the Milwaukee area. Bring your signs for peace! Questions? Contact Peace Action WI - info@peaceactionwi.org or see https://www.peaceactionwi.org/ Sat Feb 25, 1 pm Building Unity Wisconsin Tour for Justice and Democracy in Beloit. Meet at the New Zion Baptist Church, 1905 Mound Avenue. Building Unity Wisconsin works to bring together Wisconsin based group for the causes of peace, justice, sustainability, and democracy. buildingunitywisconsin.org/ buildingunitywi@gmail.com Sun. Feb. 26th, 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm Really REALLY Free Market in Madison! at the Wil-Mar Neighborhood Center (504 S. Brearly at Jenifer St) Do you have items, clothing, books, food, seeds, skills, gifts, talents, services, love, listening, etc. of value that you’re willing to give away freely? Could you use some support, community and/or aid right about now? Nothing at this market is bought or sold! Any and all forms of sharing and aid welcome. Hosted by the Madison Infoshop jepeck@wisc.edu ***************************************************************** Read about all of these events and many more on our events page: https://www.wnpj.org/event-calendar And if your group would like to get your events posted in the weekly e-bulletin – JOIN US! https://www.wnpj.org/membership Interested in a yard sign? WNPJ has yard signs available! yardsigns@wnpj.org ******************************************************************* See our new Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/WisNPJ/ "Like" us and follow us! Questions? Contact info@wnpj.org and check out our website: www.wnpj.org !

Did you hear the good news? Last night (2/14) Governor Evers gave his state budget address, which included a plan to restore access to driver’s licenses for all Wisconsin residents, REGARDLESS of immigration status. He also included other pro-safe roads initiatives like accessible driver’s education and auto insurance. See the video and transcipt here. We applaud Governor Evers for listening to our demands and taking action, grassroots organizing works! Here’s what one member, and immigrant essential worker, Hiram Rabadan from Fond du Lac said: “I want to thank Governor Evers for recognizing me, and so many others like me, who just want to be able to drive without the fear that a routine traffic stop could end in my deportation and our family separation. We’ve been fighting for this right, the simple right to drive to work, to school, to the grocery store, etc. for too long. Gov. Evers is recognizing the urgency to finally restore our ability to drive and allow us to fully participate and contribute back to our communities.” However- This fight isn't over. It is likely that Republicans will challenge the Governor's plan. But, Voces De La Frontera will continue to fight and call on you to join us! Call your elected officials (click here to find) and let’s make sure this stays in the budget! Sample Calling Script: Hello, [state representative’s name]! My name is [name], and I live in [city name]. I strongly support Governor Ever’s plan to restore drivers licenses for all and would like your support. Winning Drivers licenses for all would have a major positive impact on ALL Wisconsinites, such as lower insurance costs for every driver, greater access to gainful employment, and safer roads overall. [Representative’s name], we are counting on your support and ask that you uphold drivers licenses for all. Thank you for your time. It’s time to restore drivers licenses for all, once and for all! Si Se Puede! vdlfa@vdlfa.org ******************************************************* Alert sent to WNPJ by member group WI Faith Voices for Justice: Bonnie Margulis

Cuba is now open to foreign travel, including from the U.S. and is one of the most vaccinated nations on earth. By far the best way to judge what Cuba and the people in Cuba are like today, is to go and see for yourself, either booking your own visit, or as part of a group. You can also go legally under U.S. regulations, usually selecting the "Support for the Cuban people" category of US-permitted travel to Cuba. There probably is no better way to support the Cuban people than to go there yourself, interchange and show good will and respect for our Cuban neighbors -- and to spend some money there as well. You can follow changes to the rules and options for such travel on our website, The WI Coalition to Normalize Relations with Cuba, as we will be working to post updates to travel regulations as they are issued (latest on May 9, 2022), and on new tour and travel opportunities. Based on prior positive experiences, we draw your attention to the upcoming trips listed below. CUBA SI/Sol y Luna Educational Travel & Tours — Cuba Educational & Solidarity Tour - March 3-13, 2023 2023 May Day Brigade Applications Lessons from Cuba: Exploring Art, Healthcare, Sustainability and Education — May 25- June 4, 2023 (apply by March 10, 2023) The 33rd Friendshipment Caravan — carrying humanitarian aid to the Cuban people since 1992 — is taking applications for the 2023 trip (July 15-29). Space is limited and applications are due April 1st. Learn more at www.wicuba.org | wicubacoalition@gmail.com

"I am afraid that by the time I get back to Palestine many of the villages I long to visit will be reduced to rubble. " Cassandra Dixon, contact for the WNPJ member group Mary House, has returned to Palestine this month to volunteer with Operation Dove in the South Hebron Hills/Masafer Yatta area. ACTION ALERT: Please consider writing to your congressperson asking that the US State Department stand with the civilian population of Masafer Yatta and oppose the demolition of their homes, villages and livelihoods. Please visit https://act.uscpr.org/a/tell-congress-defend-masafer-yatta for more information, and an easy link to contact your senators and representatives. Congress and the Biden administration have approved $3.3 billion in US tax dollars for Israel in 2023, leaving all of us, as US taxpayers, with a share of responsibility for Israel’s actions. Cassandra writes: The people that are so dear to me there are facing imminent forced eviction from their lands and demolition of their homes and schools to make way for Israeli military training in an area claimed by Israel as Firing Zone 918. On January 2 the Israeli army told Palestinian officials of their imminent plans to forcibly displace more than 1,000 Palestinian residents, including more than 500 children. Demolitions of homes, schools, water wells and animal barns have already begun, and residents go to sleep each night wondering if they will wake to the arrival of bulldozers. The evictions would constitute the largest forced removal of Palestinians from their lands since 1967. The people of Masafer Yatta have been struggling to remain on their lands for many years. In 1999 Israeli authorities forcibly removed about 700 people, demolishing their homes and stealing their property. Two villages were completely destroyed. Following this wave of demolitions residents won a temporary court order allowing them to return to their demolished homes pending a final decision. For more than two decades children living in Masafer Yatta have witnessed soldiers training for war amongst their homes, fields and schools. Israeli forces have repeatedly destroyed the few roads connecting the villages to education, medical facilities, and commerce and confiscated the water mains which were the only source of water for the villages. Last May, after many years of legal challenges, the Israeli High Court ruled against the villages and paved the way for the eviction of everyone living in Firing Zone 918. Operation Dove’s work in the South Hebron Hills is to stand with these families in their non-violent commitment to remain in their villages. This includes accompanying schoolchildren and families as they walk to school, graze their animals and tend their crops, and documenting the demolitions, arrests, detentions, checkpoints, road closures, settler attacks, and destruction of olive trees, crops and property that they endure. Protective presence provided by activists is not a large-scale solution to the violence that encroaches on children and families in Palestine. But over the years that I have visited these villages I have learned that supporting and participating in nonviolent efforts to confront militarism and occupation are necessary if we are ever to move beyond our addiction to militarism and violence. In these villages, children who were themselves exposed to threats and intimidation as they struggled to get to school have grown into young adults dedicated to a nonviolent response to the violence around them, and their steadfast commitment to living peacefully in their villages is an inspiration to us all. If you would like to make a donation to support the work of the Palestinian, Israeli and International peace activists working to support the families of Masafer Yatta, I would be immeasurably grateful. You can use PayPal at https://www.paypal.me/CassandraDixon or donate to Mary House online at https://tinyurl.com/donateToMaryhouse. Or you can mail a check to Mary House at 3579 County Road G, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965. Donations to Mary House are tax deductible, and will be used to help the house serve prison visitors while I am away. (And to all of my Madison friends who have so kindly hired me to work on their houses and passed on my name to friends, thank you so much! Please remember me – I’ll be looking for carpentry and painting work when I get back at the end of March.) With gratitude, Cassandra Dixon Mary House of Hospitality 3579 County Road G, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 Phone: 608-844-4162 E-Mail: maryhousewis@gmail.com Website: http://themaryhouse.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryHouseofHospitality And on February 14th, Cassandra sent this update: Haroun abu aram died from gunshot wounds from 2 years ago when he was shot in the neck by soldiers while trying to prevent them from stealing his neighbors generator. He has been paralyzed all this time. It is so sad here. https://mondoweiss.net/2023/02/two-years-after-he-was-shot-and-paralyzed-harun-abu-aram-succumbed-to-his-wounds/

We live in a time where truths are twisted and lies are told to maintain status quo. The racism embedded in our educational and judicial systems are as old as the this country and deeply ingrained. Which means it is not enough to call out lies. In order to heal, creative ways to articulate and celebrate new ways of thinking are needed. One of the efforts of WNPJ is to amplify the voices of our member groups. Searching websites for initiatives and statements regarding anti-racism led to finding these: * Twenty years ago, building on previous efforts, Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa formally committed themselves to become an Anti-Racist congregation… dedicated to eradicating institutional racism and the belief system of White supremacy. * And this statement from the Madison Friends Meeting on the murder of George Floyd. * Or this pledge from the Board of Echo Valley Hope. There is tremendous power in our collective. Every demand for Justice holds healing. Every denial of hatred is Abolition. Every step towards Peace is power. (photo:Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa)