Indonesia solidarity dinner

Indonesia solidarity dinner

By Karen Fletcher

BRISBANE — The local branch of Action in Solidarity with Indonesia and East Timor (ASIET) heard an update on the situation for pro-democracy activists in Indonesia from ASIET national coordinator Max Lane at a dinner at the Resistance Centre here on March 14.

Members and supporters were distressed to hear of further arrests of Indonesian activists and re-committed themselves to the campaign to free Indonesia's political prisoners. Lane emphasised the importance of support during an economic crisis in which where the poorest are suffering most. The radicals in the democratic movement are among the poorest of the poor.

Local singer/songwriter Mark Cronin sang his song "Budiman Sujatmiko", a tribute to the leader of the People's Democratic Party in Indonesia, and a new song by a Canberra songwriter commemorating the attack by three British women on a war plane destined for Indonesia. Poet John Tomlinson regaled the audience with dark, comic verse on the Asian economic and political crisis.

On March 28, a benefit for Indonesia's only female political prisoner, trade union leader Dita Sari, will be held. The event is being organised by ASIET, Resistance and the Brisbane International Women's Day Collective. ASIET is also organising a car pool to transport activists to the Asia Pacific Conference in Sydney at Easter. Contact Graham or Karen on 3254 0565.

From GLW issue 311