Coordinator's Corner
by Shannon S.
Okay, the elections didn't go exactly the way we wanted them to.
It's easy to get down in the dumps about some of what happened, but here's the positive side:
* Democrats have control of the California Assembly. This means no fast-track anti-poor, anti-woman, anti-affirmative action, anti-gay, anti-ecology measures. While the Democrats aren't exactly all our friends, many of them can be shamed into doing the right thing. The other folks have no shame.
* Although Prop 209 passed, and even if it gets through the legal battles it is sure to encounter, there still is a federal constitution. This means that there is still some protection for people of color, the physically challenged, the aged, and women. Unfortunately, there remains no protection for lesbians and gays.
* Clinton remains in the white house (Mr., that is.) While this is a mixed blessing, rumor has it that Chief Justice Rhenquist is planning to retire some time within the next four years. This means that there is a chance to replace a Nixon appointee with someone who is probably going to be (ugh) centrist or slightly left of center.
* Leon Panetta appears to be preparing to run for governor. While Mr.
Panetta is queasy on the issue of choice, he generally does the right thing. He won't be a two-faced flip-flopper like Wilson, and it is likely he will support most of what we are working on. If Panetta is governor, he will also be making superior court judicial appointments.
More positive thoughts:
* I don't know how many of you watched the Clinton acceptance speech, but I found it very interesting that after Gore and Clinton's speeches, Bill, Al, Hillary, and Tipper all moved together and formed a line with Bill and Tipper on the outside and Al and Hillary on the inside. Then, Al and Hillary lifted their joined hands together first, while Bill/Al and Hillary/Tipper's hands went up next. It looked like an Al and Hillary victory to me...hmmmmm...
There's still so much to work on! So, here's the Action Mission for this month: (Do it right now, if you can!) * Bill has to make some cabinet appointments. There is some concern that he will not be as concerned about diversity as he was four years ago. He needs a reminder that most people who know what affirmative action really is support it, and that "America" expects his cabinet and appointments to look like America, and he needs to appoint women and people of color.
* Call the White House at: (202) 456-1111
* E-mail the White House at:
president@whitehouse.gov
* Mail a letter/post card to: (sample letter/e-mail below)
President Clinton, White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington D.C. 20500
Dear Mr President:
I am aware that you will have several openings in your Cabinet this next term. I also have been hearing that you are not as concerned with making diverse appointments as you were four years ago. Please consider this a clear and strong message that I expect you to appoint a Cabinet that reflects the diversity of this country. Women who elected you expect no less than equal representation for women and people of color in your Cabinet. With the recent setback on affirmative action in California, it is even more important that you show both strong leadership and a commitment to keeping the doors of opportunity open for women and people of color.
Sincerely,
(your name & snail-mail address here)
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Women's Suffrage Statue to Move to Capitol Rotunda
It took 70 years for women to win the vote; it took 75 years for Congress to decide to move a statue of three women's suffrage leaders back to its rightful place in the Capitol Rotunda.
UC Santa Cruz Responds to the Passage of Proposition 209
SANTA CRUZ, CA--Chancellor M.R.C. Greenwood of the University of California, Santa Cruz, has announced a five-part initiative that characterizes UCSC's approach to ensuring continued quality and diversity among the campus's student body. The new program, "Partnership to Ensure Access and Quality," has two intertwined objectives:
In making the announcement, Chancellor Greenwood stated, "I call upon the entire UCSC community to join me in ensuring the continued open access and academic excellence which characterize UCSC today. In the confusing aftermath surrounding Proposition 209, it is more important than ever that UC Santa Cruz communicates-and demonstrates-that we are accessible to all qualified students, and that we accept responsibility to join with our partners in all segments of education to prepare today's students for tomorrow's challenges."
Specific elements of this initiative include plans to:
* Focus on scholarship fundraising. (This includes a commitment of the UCSC Alumni Association to build its scholarship endowment from $200,000 to $1 million, as well as a plan to hire a development officer to generate more scholarship funds for campuswide use.)
* Enhance existing coordination and increase campus involvement with K-12 educational issues and opportunities. (The Chancellor's Educational Outreach Council, a newly appointed group chaired by UCSC's social sciences dean Martin Chemers, will recommend approaches for expanding UCSC's partnerships with K-12 schools and community colleges.) * Expand the successful "Take UCSC Home" program. (Begun last spring, this program encourages current students to visit their high schools as ambassadors of UCSC, giving them a chance to develop professional skills while sharing information about the campus's programs and services from the student perspective.)
* Increase partnerships with schools and community colleges throughout California, and increase communications with prospective students, their parents, and counselors.
(Utilizing the existing online application system, "Pathways," and expanding UCSC's innovative Success Team approach, UC Santa Cruz will ease student application and admission processes and will help students in their transition to UCSC. Currently, UCSC has direct online connections with 40 high schools and community colleges in the region and throughout California, more than any other UC campus, and this new focus will double that number within the next year. In addition, UCSC is helping build and maintain access to the information superhighway for regional schools. This is being accomplished through an innovative partnership between UCSC's Communications and Technology Services and the Santa Cruz and Monterey County offices of education.)
Chancellor Greenwood's statement emphasized that these initiatives represent the further development of ongoing efforts. "Drawing qualified students, including women and minorities, to UCSC is not about righting past wrongs. Rather, it is all about developing the talent we will need as a society to thrive in the next century."
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Kwanzaa and NOW have something in common, both are 30 this year!
Therefore, we thought a more in-depth look at Kwanzaa was in order. The International Kwanzaa Exchange (TIKE) Web page at tells us:
Kwanzaa is a unique African American celebration with focus on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement. Kwanzaa is neither political nor religious and, despite some misconceptions, is not a substitute for Christmas. It is simply a time of reaffirming African-American people, their ancestors, and culture. Kwanzaa, which means "first fruits of the harvest" in the African language Kiswahili, has gained tremendous acceptance. Since its founding in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa has come to be observed by more than 13 million people worldwide, as reported by the New York Times. Celebrated from December 26th to January 1st, it is based on Nguzo Saba (seven guiding principles), one for each day of the observance: * Umojo (Unity) stresses the importance of togetherness for the family and the community, which is reflected in the African saying, "I am We," or "I am because We are."
* Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) requires that we define our common interests and make decisions that are in the best interest of our family and community.
* Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) reminds us of our obligation to the past, present, and future, and that we have a role to play in the community, society, and world.
* Ujamaa (Cooperative economics) emphasizes our collective economic strength and encourages us to meet common needs through mutual support.
* Nia (Purpose) encourages us to look within ourselves and to set personal goals that are beneficial to the community.
* Kuumba (Creativity) makes use of our creative energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant community.
* Imani (Faith) focuses on honoring the best of our traditions, draws upon the best in ourselves, and helps us strive for a higher level of life for humankind, by affirming our self-worth and confidence in our ability to succeed and triumph in righteous struggle.
CELEBRATING KWANZAA
As it is always better to get an early start, I suggest that you begin the first week in December by making a checklist for the following items: A Kinara (candle holder); Mkeka (place mat preferably made of straw); Mazao (crops, i.e., fruits and vegetables); Vibunzi (ears of corn to reflect the number of children in the household); Kikombe cha umoja (communal unity cup); Mishumaa saba (seven candles, one black, three red, and three green); and Zwaidi (gifts that are enriching).
It is important that the Kinara not be confused with the menorah.
The Kinara holds seven candles to reflect the seven principles which are the foundation of Kwanzaa, while the menorah is a Jewish religious symbol that holds eight candles. If you don't have a Kinara and don't know where to get one, it is suggested that you use "kuumba" (creativity) and make one. A 2x4 or a piece of driftwood will do just fine, and screw-in candle holders can be purchased in most hardware stores. The Mkeka (place mat) shouldn't present a problem. While straw is suggested because it is traditional,
cloth makes an adequate substitute. If cloth is used, one with an African print is preferred. The other symbols are easy to come by and warrant no further discussion other than to caution against placing the Mazao (crops) in a cornucopia which is Western. A plain straw basket or a bowl will do just fine. One last note, even households with no children should place an ear of corn on the place mat to symbolize the African concept of social parenthood. All seven symbols are creatively placed on top of the place mat, i.e., the symbols should be attractively arranged as they form the Kwanzaa centerpiece.
DECORATING THE HOME
The Kinara along with the other symbols of Kwanzaa should dominate the room, which should be given an African motif. This is easily achieved and shouldn't result in too much expense. The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green. This should be kept in mind when decorating the home. Black, red and green streamers, balloons, cloth, flowers, and African prints can be hung tastefully around the room. Original art and sculpture may be displayed as well.
Source: McClester, Cedric (1994), Kwanzaa: Everything you always wanted to know but didn't know where to ask. New York: Gumbs & Thomas
A more in-depth look at Kwanzaa, it's background and history is available at the Kwanzaa information center.
Kwanzaa Yenu Iwe Na Heri - Happy Kwanzaa!
What is the Deal at Texaco?!
NAACP President & CEO Kweisi Mfume released the following statement about the NAACP's request for an investigation of Texaco, Inc:
"According to recent press reports, allegations have surfaced that executives of Texaco plotted to destroy evidence in a racial-discrimination lawsuit. In addition, a secret tape recording of Texaco executives discussing the case disclosed disturbing racist behavior on the part of those executives.
"The language and actions of Texaco executives as reflected on the taped recording of the meeting are outrageous and scurrilous. It is insulting and demeaning to millions of Americans that senior officials at one of America's largest companies would use racial slurs and make anti-Semitic jokes while allegedly planning to destroy evidence in a racial discrimination lawsuit.
"Coming on the heels of this week's passage of California's anti-affirmative action initiative, it further underscores the need to ensure equal opportunity and equal treatment for African Americans in society that is anything but colorblind.
"Officials at Texaco have a long way to go in terms of making their workplace a comfortable environment for people of all races and religious backgrounds.
"The NAACP is considering a number of actions to be instituted against Texaco. We will have more to say in that regard following our discussions with Texaco Chairman Peter I. Bijur."
Texaco can be reached at:
Address: 2000 Westchester Ave., White Plains, NY 10650
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to the hard-working volunteers at Democratic Headquarters in Santa Cruz and especially to Bonnie Hawley, Regional Coordinator for Santa Cruz and Monterey. She works very hard for very little in return. The least we can do is to acknowledge her! Thank you, Bonnie!
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First I had to figure out what it was. I was lucky in that chapter leadership were good people and friends who were patient with my inertia and actually helped me to recognize and acknowledge it.
Now, I've been concentrating on the enjoyable parts of associating with NOW, the people, the play of ideas, and the sisterhood (including my "honorary sisters".) I've been doing very small doses of activism - a few days of phoning for candidates instead of a few weeks, tabling for three hours instead of all day. I've come to the point where not every great idea has to be either accomplished or regretted. Sometimes they can just be enjoyed in concept.
Gradually, the color and enthusiasm is gradually returning to some things activist. The trick now is to follow that pace, and pick up doing things because I want to and not because of guilt. I am looking forward to the chapter's Holiday Salon, Women and the Arts, and to the state board meeting as places to renew connections, not necessarily as times to get things done.
How clearly I remember so many other feminists and/or activists almost preaching about the need to have fun, Carol Fuller and Liz Taylor-Selling in the infancy of our own chapter, and others, including Sarah Weddington, Molly Ivens, Patricia Ireland and Fanny Lou Hamer. In the post-election letdown and before the holiday rush, I am passing this message on to you.
Enjoy yourselves so you will be strong!
Job Opportunities
Editor's Note: The above is an example of affirmative action. The apprenticeship committee specifically states in their mailing that "The selection of applicants will be made on the basis of qualification alone, without regard to race, creed, color, national origin or sex. We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action program." Since Prop 209 passed, it will be interesting to see if SCCNOW receives any more job announcements from groups such as this. JP
HOLIDAY SALON
Salons historically were held by women in their homes, to combine social and intellectual sharings of the day. Sometimes important people would come into the community and women, who were often excluded from politics, industry, and business, would host an event to communicate, learn, discuss, argue, and/or enjoy current happenings and alternative thought.
Join us for hot drinks and desserts on Thursday, Dec. 5, 1996, at Diane's. Please call 662-9562 for directions.
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Advertising space is available. Ad rates are as follows
Ten Commandments of Womanhood
The Statue of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B Anthony, and Lucrecia Mott was dedicated in the Capitol Rotunda, the main circular area under the dome, in 1921. Almost immediately it was moved to the basement, where it has languished because Congress refused to spend the $75,000 to move it upstairs again, where visitors would more easily see it. The Women's Suffrage Statue Campaign raised the money, won a Congressional vote, and later this year the statue will be moved. There are currently no women's statues in the Rotunda.
~Feminist Majority Report, Fall '96
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(1) to participate in the improvement of preparation for university eligibility; and
(2) the active development of more scholarship funds to ensure access to UCSC for qualified students regardless of their economic backgrounds.
* Commit a $1 million endowment to help ensure in perpetuity the Karl S.
Pister Leadership Opportunity Program. (The Leadership Opportunity Program provides a two-year [$10,000 per year] scholarship for each recipient. The scholarships are awarded to students transferring from each of the region's thirteen community colleges.)
~UCSC World Wide Web page, Nov 6, 1996
Kwanzaa Yenu Iwe Na Heri (Happy Kwanzaa)!
submitted by Christian S.
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submitted by Christian S.
Phone: 914/253-4000
Fax: 914/253-7753
Web Site:
~ NAACP
Editor's Note: This just in - Rumor has it that Texaco settled with their employees for in excess of $100 million.
A Special Thanks
Surviving Burnout
by Julie S.
It came from out of the blue...Suddenly, I felt weighted down to inertia with activist things that used to give me a charge. Burnout had struck almost without warning. Looking back, of course, I should have seen it coming. NOW even has a chapter development paper on avoiding burnout (available on request from the chapter or National.) Too late. I didn't avoid it. Now, how to survive it?
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The Sheet Metal Apprentice & Journeymen Training Fund will be testing applicants in January or February of 1997 for future placement in the sheet metal industry in the tri-county area of Monterey, Santa Cruz, & San Benito Counties. All interested parties should contact the Castroville office on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays at 408/633-6151. Upon request, information and application will be forwarded.
Webster's note: If we could only get them to call it something other than "Journeymen"
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There will be a holiday salon at the residence of Diane Lamotte for SCCNOW on Thursday, December 5, at 7pm. The theme of this holiday salon is "Women in the Arts." Please invite friends and acquaintances to share their experiences in the world of arts.
Chapter Calendar
05 Holiday Salon-Women in the Arts. 7:00pm. At Diane Lamotte's home. Call 408/662-9562 for directions.
Community Calendar
(not sponsored or endorsed by NOW)
DECEMBER
01 World AIDS Day
01 Rosa Parks refused to give up seat on bus. 1955.
06 Hanukkah begins
10 International Human Rights Day
21 Winter Solstice
25 Christmas Day
26 Kwanzaa begins
Newsletter Policy
This newsletter is put out with volunteer labor for members & friends of Santa Cruz County NOW. The editor reserves the right to print and/or edit articles based on either style, size or content. Deadline for submission is the last Friday of the month prior to publication. Please submit to SCCNOW Editor, PO Box 1119, Felton, CA 95018-1119.
~ Business Card Ad: Member/3 month: $30, Member/6 month: $50;
Non-member/3 month: $45, Non-member/6 month: $75.
1/4-Page Ad: Member/3 month: $60, Member/6 month: $100; Non-member/3 month: $90, Non-member/6 month: $150.
Call 476-6882 for more info. Send material on disk in Mac format or via e-mail to jp@got.net.
All material submitted should have one's name and phone number on it. All items passed along from other printed sources or organizations must have the source clearly indicated. More complete explanation of newsletter policy is available upon request from the chapter address.
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Board Members:
Coordinator Shannon S 408/728-3988
Legislative Action Christian S 408/335-7221
Recorder Diane L 408/662-9562
Treasurer ?
Newsletter Jennifer P 408/476-6882
Membership Julie S 408/728-3988
Webster Christian S 408/335-7221
Chapter Phone 408/335-7704
Thou shall not be nor try to be superwoman.
Thou shall not forget other women once you've made it.
Thou shall not steal another woman's thunder.
Thou shall honor and protect family, whoever it may be, however it is structured.
Thou shall educate your daughters and your sons.
Thou shall vote, be politically active and contribute.
Thou shall be aware of tokenism.
Thou shall become a risk taker.
Thou shall rest, have fun and be healthy.
Thou shall never give up.
~presented by Assemblywoman Jackie Speier at the 1990 CAWAER Annual Conference
Two-for-the-price-of-one Gift Idea!
'Tis the season... Give a subscription to the SCC-NOW newsletter to a friend, family member, co-worker, anyone! Not only will you be helping them to be more informed, you will also be supporting the SCCNOW newsletter. Such a deal!! The newsletter is put together with much volunteer labor; however, a way to successfully encourage Kinko's or the US Postal Service to donate their services has not yet been figured out. So...
please consider giving a subscription or two this year. Another wonderful option would be to simply make a donation of any amount to the SCC-NOW Newsletter in honor of a loved one or admired person. The honorees will be listed in an upcoming edition of the newsletter. Please send the names & addresses of the recipients or the names of the honorees along w/ a check or money order ($15 each subscription) to:
SCCNOW Editor, PO Box 1119, Felton CA 95018.
Thank You &
Happy Holidays!
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