Just Say No!

Congress votes on what to do in Columbia. Continue to send aid, or start scaling back on this infamous arm of the U.S. War on Drugs.

Coca in Peru

The Coca Wars have engulfed Columbia and even Bolivia. In Peru, where there was large civil unrest throughout the 90's, the regional gov't around Cusco has passed a law legalizing the growth of the ancient plant. This puts the national gov't in a tough position, and one worth watching as an indicator for where the Coca Wars are headed in South America as a whole. Read the BBC article.

Combating Unequal Distribution of Wealth

The U.S. continues to attract large numbers of "illegal" immigrants looking for work. A recent study offers some fresh numbers along with what many of these mainly Mexican people are doing once they reach the States. It seems that over 6 million people are working illegally in varied areas of the work force, from agriculture to dry-walling, to dishwashing. Much of the money earned by this sector of the workforce is sent home to families still living in the country of origin, like Mexico. This represents one of the few means of avoiding poverty in those areas, and just one way that people are trying to spread the wealth of the U.S. to those who are less fortunate.

"Crisis" in Bolivia

Bolivia is facing a national crisis due to protests and activism by what are largely indigenous groups. Even after 500 years, when the Europeans arrived, the indigenous peoples of this mostly Andean nation are still demanding their recognition and respect. See this CNN story, and this story for more background information on what is happening there.

No more Pot...

The U.S. gov't continues its backwards views on drugs and drug use. I just can not believe that pot smokers, especially those that benefit from the medicinal properties of the plant, are still considered criminals. The Supreme Court handed down a decision allowing federal prosecution of medical users from states where it has been made legal. Once again, our leaders show themselves to be less than adequate, and questionable as to their validity in such powerful roles.

Rogue Loggers in Brazil

In a clear example of the problems facing environmentalists who believe the Amazon needs to be saved, and logging slowed, 124 people were arrested in Brazil for their part in an illegal logging operation. Sadly, many state gov't employees had a hand in the ring of rogue loggers. They provided false permits among other things that allowed an estimated $370 million worth of forest to be harvested. These are the same people who are supposed to be protecting the forest. The power of money once again proves to be irresistible.

Zapatista Soccer!

In a great idea about how to raise consciousness about indigenous, migrant, and poverty issues, Marcos and the Zapatistas have challenged a soccer team from Italy (who have voiced support for the Zapatista cause) to a series of matches between the Italians and a team composed of Zapatistas. Znet posted a letter from Marcos that discusses his ideas about where matches should be held, and for what proceeds may be donated. While it may seem a bit farcical, there are some really good ideas presented, and events like these could greatly benefit those that live on the fringes of the wealthy around the world.