Posted by dawn on March 05, 2002 at 12:33:22:
the idea of a global justice movement is a good one. it's important to remember that this movement did not start at the wto protests in seattle though. maybe for a lot of middle class americans this is where it started but not for everyone.
i don't like the idea of antiglobalization for a number of reasons. first, it is not a constructive solution or idea, but merely critical and does not necessitate action, at least to me. the term might be okay if it was prefaced with "corporate" or "economic" anti globalization. but today it is important for workers, women, people of all nations unhappy or unable to survive with the status quo to globalize. it is also important for environmentalists to globalize because ecosystems are not national (or otherwise isolated) phenomenons.
>Do you agree that the impact of 9-11 on the global >justice movement has been largely limited to >effectively delegitimizing certain tactics--such as >protests that destroy property?
no. i think that the impact of 9-11 has created fear (at least in north america) of speaking out against violence and bomb dropping. i know that in my resistance to war, my friends and family have been divided and very emotional towards my views. protest has been affected very much on a personal level for many people.
>What are the possible initiatives that could emerge >from the World Social Forum (and similar events) that >could provide a compelling focal point for >mobilization and advocacy in the coming year?
i would like to see a number of things emerge. putting the eye on the way many people live in (over)"developped" nations as a major problem that needs to be remedied with a focus on alternative economies and local sustainability.
talking about ways to teach tolerance, and understanding to children.
i would like this forum to involve more listening by developped nations to other nations, givig them priority on the floor cause their problems are significantly more pressing.
Is the movement "stronger than ever" or has it passed its apex?
oh, i don't know. i hope that it is gaining strength still, resistance is fertile!
among this all, we can't forget the many people in