We Can Do This!

28th January 2002 Well…I don’t know about you, but I’m glad to be in 2002. Fresh energy, fresh ideas. And here is one idea that moved immediately to action for me. I went to a fund-raiser for Rep. Barbara Lee, the courageous congresswoman who cast the lone vote September 14 against giving President Bush extended war powers. As I watched and listened to her throughout the event, I thought to myself: This woman is the Real Deal. She is a warrior for peace and justice, a voice for all who believe in a compassionate patriotism. Read Rep. Lee’s own words, “Why I voted against war.” I decided on the spot… Read More

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Why I voted against war

Feminist/Progressive Writers The Personal Is Political Congresswoman Barbara Lee Why I voted against war The Baltimore Sun – October 6, 2001 Washington – On Sept. 11, terrorists attacked the United States in an unprecedented and brutal manner, killing thousands of innocent people, including the passengers and crews of four aircraft. Like everyone throughout our country, I am repulsed and angered by these attacks and believe all appropriate steps must be taken to bring the perpetrators to justice. We must prevent any future such attacks. That is the highest obligation of our federal, state and local governments. On this, we are united as a nation. Any nation, group or individual that… Read More

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The Personal is Political

18th September 2001 In our grief and our anger about the recent terrorist attacks on America, each of us is making choices about how we will respond. Feelings of powerlessness and rage can be like a sedative – lulling us into thinking there’s nothing to be done but more violence. For me, the challenge is to stay awake. My heart aches for so many lost and for their families and friends left with a sudden blunt stillness. As much as I want to turn away from all the news coverage, some part of me knows that I must keep looking. It means something deep and hopeful that each of us… Read More

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Statement of Rep. Barbara Lee

Feminist/Progressive Writers The Personal Is Political Statement of Rep. Barbara Lee on the floor of the House of Representatives September 14, 2001 Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart, one that is filled with sorrow for the families and loved ones who were killed and injured in New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Only the most foolish or the most callous would not understand the grief that has gripped the American people and millions across the world. This unspeakable attack on the United States has forced me to rely on my moral compass, my conscience, and my God for direction. September 11 changed the world. Our deepest fears now… Read More

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Avalon Reviews from Listeners…

6th September 2001 Here are some more messages from listeners who are enjoying Avalon. I guess I’ll never get over the overwhelming surge of gratitude that washes over me whenever I get notes like these. Each piece of feedback is like a blast of adrenaline. I deeply appreciate every person who has taken the time to write me about their experience of my new music. Onward and Outward!   More Avalon Reviews from Listeners… I am also a singer songwriter, retreat leader and writer. Last weekend at a retreat, I distributed tiny hand-held mirrors and played your song “Woman in the Mirror” for the Christian lesbian retreat members so they… Read More

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