Chilean women prisoners
SYDNEY — Seventy people attended an International Women's Day celebration on March 9 organised by the Human rights group ADEPU-Chile. The evening focused on the plight of 17 women political prisoners being held in the men's prison in San Miguel. ADEPU-Chile has called upon individuals, organisations and political parties in Australia to call for the release of all the political prisoners still in Chilean jails. In the case of the 17 women, in the meantime, it is calling for their immediate transfer to the women's prison in Santo Domingo.
The evening included poetry reading, dance and the Latin American musical group Amaru. The audience also heard a statement from the 17 women which said, "Our cause is that of the people, of struggling, of hopes and dreams and the construction of a nation for all the people." For more information about the campaign contact Rodrigo on 824 2417.
Bankstown protest
SYDNEY — A dozen East Timor supporters demonstrated and distributed leaflets to passers-by outside Bankstown Courthouse on March 14, where four activists were appearing after being arrested in an occupation of Paul Keating's office on February 27. The initial action was to demand asylum for nine East Timorese who had occupied the Australian embassy in Jakarta. The case was adjourned until July 22, when a further action will be organised. Photo by Stephen Langford.
East Timor Solidarity forum
CANBERRA — Fifteen people met at the Australian National University on March 13 to discuss the solidarity campaign to free East Timor. The forum was organised by the socialist youth organisation Resistance. Activists encouraged participation in the August 25 national day of action being planned by solidarity and East Timorese independence groups in Australia.
Help needed
BRISBANE — On February 4 at the Paddington Skate Bowl a free concert with four young Brisbane bands was held. The crowd was relaxed until the police turned up and started confiscating equipment, claiming that they had received complaints that it was too loud.
David Wilson, who was taking pictures, was told by the police to stop or they'd arrest him on assault charges for using a flash! When Justine Hansberry, a friend of Wilson's, defended him, police called her a "stupid bitch" and told her to shut up. An argument broke out and police arrested Hansberry, handcuffing her; she was later charged with obstruction and using insulting language. Wilson was arrested later and charged with assaulting a police officer, obstruction and disorderly conduct.
Hansberry and Wilson will appear in court on March 29. If you can remember seeing any of the events mentioned and can help, please contact Lisa Young on (07) 3254 0565.