Chicago Oxfam Action Corps

Join the Oxfam Action Corps and Head to DC!

2012-01-28T20:48:00.003-06:00

Concerned about poverty and hunger on a global scale, but not sure how to make a difference at the local level? Volunteer with the Oxfam Action Corps and find out how your efforts can change the bigger picture.

Oxfam Action Corps is currently recruiting new volunteers and organizers for 2012. Action Corps members work in key cities across the United States like Chicago to mobilize grassroots campaigns with Oxfam.

As an organizer, you will have the opportunity to build excellentleadership skills and attend a free Oxfam volunteer training in Washington DC! Limited space available. Applications are due by February 14, 2012.

Apply at www.oxfamactioncorps.org

New Year Social: Hang out at Goose Island with Oxfam!

2011-12-29T21:16:00.001-06:00

Want to start 2012 with something new? Heard about the Oxfam Action Corps, but waiting for the right time to join? Or, do you simply love Chicago's Goose Island Brew pub?

If so--our first meeting of 2012 is for YOU!

Come meet the Chicago Oxfam Action Corps for a New Year Social at Goose Island Brewery on January 19th, 2012 at 6:00pm. We will give a short introduction to the Chicago Oxfam Action Corps and our current campaigns. But, we mostly want to get to mix-and-mingle with all of you! Light appetizers will be provided and drinks will be available for purchase.

Please contact us at chicago.oxfamactioncorps@gmail.com if you have any questions. We hope to see you there!

What: Chicago Oxfam Action Corps' New Year Social Meeting
When: Thursday, January 19th
6:00pm-7:30pm
Where: Goose Island Brewery, Lincoln Park
The Siebel Room
1800 North Clybourn Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60614

Celebrate World Food Day on the Farm with the Action Corps - Crop Mob to Spence Farm

2011-09-16T21:45:00.001-05:00

Join us for the second annual Crop Mob to Spence Farm! Sponsored by Chicago Oxfam Action Corps, White Oak Gourmet, and the Spence Farm Foundation, we'll be celebrating World Food Day helping out on the farm.

Click Here to Register on Eventbrite

You'll be joining other Chicago area residents who are committed to a sustainable food supply. We'll be taking a bus from Chicago to Spence Farm 100 miles south of Chicago. Spence Farm in Livingston County was first settled in 1830. You'll be joining the Travis Family; Marty, Kris, and Will, descendants of the original settlers. We'll assist them with harvesting organic farm produce and with fall clean-up chores around the farm. Spence Farm supplies leading restaurants in Chicago like Frontera Grill and Blackbird with specialty produce and its famous Iroquois corn.

Because the farms are typically family owned and operated, most of the labor is done by hand. The term "Crop Mob" was coined by city dwellers who have an interest in sustainable agriculture and would like to help more than just by going to the farmer's market or joining a CSA. The "Crop Mob" gives the farmer(s) a valuable source of volunteer labor.

You'll need to bring the following for the trip:

Packed Lunch

Hand held gardening or pruning shears to help with the harvestng

Sturdy shoes or boots and a change of socks.

Gardening or work gloves.

A re-fillable water bottle.

A hat & sunscreen.

A sweater or light jacket.

Snacks for the trip down and return home.

Money in case you'd like purchase some products from the farm.

Spence Farm will provide beverages and snacks.

Children are welcome, however, but because the bus trip is 2 hours, and the inherent risks of working on a farm, this trip is more appropriate for children over 12 years of age.

The bus will depart from City Provisions Deli & Catering, located at 1818 W. Wilson, Chicago (Ravenswood) at 9:00 a.m., so please arrive No Later than 8:30 a.m

For those traveling to City Provisions via the CTA, they are just steps away from the Damen Brown Line stop, and the Damen bus. For those in vehicles, There's parking for your car anywhere in the gravel parking lot behind the shop (please don't park under the EL! City Provisions cannot be responsible for damage caused by tar falling from the tracks). For those on bikes, there are ample bike racks to lock your bike securely for the duration of the day.

Questions, need to carpool in from the 'burbs? Don't hesitate to phone Organizer Tom Leavitt at 847-754-0708.

Click Here to Register on Eventbrite

Soaring Global Food Price "Pressure Points" Mapped

2011-08-31T09:51:00.000-05:00

The people of Chicago have spoken:  rising food prices and hunger are issues that must be taken on today.  Deaths due to a lack of food must end.

The vast famine in Somalia and across the Horn of Africa is just one example of an area in which droughts, instability, and injustice have hit poor, small farmers first and the worst.  Oxfam America has compiled this interactive map--including stats and photos--to depict this global crisis and other areas being hit by rising food prices.  Check it out and spread the word!

Famine in Somalia: Realities of a Broken Food System

2011-07-24T23:15:00.000-05:00

With ongoing drought and food shortages across East Africa, the United Nations has declared a famine in parts of Somalia. The UN claims that "10 million people are on the verge of starvation" and Oxfam America reports that millions in neighboring Kenya and Ethiopia also struggle as thousands of refugees pour into refugee camps. This crisis has been the culmination of multiple factors. The lack of rainfall, for instance, has sliced harvests in half across Somalia and caused mass livestock losses for many communities already living in poverty.

Immediate humanitarian aid is needed to alleviate starvation and rising displacement across Eastern Africa. Yet, Oxfam America also emphasizes the need for a long term vision in dealing with the famine. Small farmers like those living in the drought-stricken areas of Somalia, for example, need support to develop sustainable farming economies in times of climate change. Stable and robust crop yields mean security for millions that rely on sustenance farming to support themselves and their family. Success for small farmers can mean a global stabilization of food prices and fewer conflicts in competition over resources and markets.

This famine demonstrates that we have reached a place of no return; it is time to address our broken food system. Let's not support more of the same policies that continue to leave 1 in 7 people chronically hungry and unable to feed their children. Let's ensure that everyone has the opportunity to grow food justly and a seat at the table in our future.

Photo Source: BBC News

Join us July 13th at our montly meeting!!!

2011-07-08T09:30:00.000-05:00

July is here already - summer is half over and we still want to do so much more. Please join us at our monthly meeting on July 13th at Barnes and Noble Cafe, DePaul Center, 1 E. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL. 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm.

This weekend we are tabling at the Dave Matthews Event! 8/7 we have a table scheduled for the Glenwood Sunday Market - We are firming up plans for Arlington Heights - and let's not forget our trip to the farm! So come and bring all of your great ideas because we want to hear them all.

We will also be discussing how biofuels play a big part of the new Oxfam Grow campaign and how we can get involved with communication to our Senators and Representatives.

See you Wednesday the 13th.

Chicago Tribune Editorial Endorses Oxfam Biofuels Position

2011-06-16T21:58:00.002-05:00

The Chicago Tribune recently published an editorial, Gotta Eat, that agreed with Oxfam's negative stance on biofuels:

Even if Obama gets through this dangerous summer without a crisis, he can't keep running the same risks. The Oxfam International development agency recently predicted that global food prices will more than double within 20 years, citing everything from climate change to flat-lining yields. Breathless reports designed to sound an alarm naturally invite skepticism, but the biofuel part of Oxfam's analysis rings true.

The U.S. needs a comprehensive energy policy that ends our reliance on food for fuel. We need it now, and we will need it all the more in the future.

New York Times Blog Mentions Oxfam Report On Food Prices

2011-06-16T21:54:00.000-05:00

At the New York Times' Green blog, Justin Gillis posted an article, World Food Supply: What's To Be Done?, that mentions Oxfam's recent report on food prices:

Oxfam, the global relief group, recently published an analysis of the food situation and the risks in coming decades. The themes echo many of my own findings and those of the Beddington report, but the Oxfam report has a sharper tone on certain issues, particularly relating to the behavior of corporations, investors and governments in rich countries. Raymond C. Offenheiser, head of Oxfam’s American branch, was recently on the radio talking about these issues. One of the major conclusions of the Oxfam report is that food prices could easily double from today’s high levels by 2030, with climate change likely to be responsible for a major part of that increase.

As I reported in my article, the governments of the developed world have acknowledged a need to invest anew in global agricultural development, but have been slow to fulfill the $22 billion of pledges they made on this issue in 2009 in L’Aquila, Italy. Numerous advocacy groups are attempting to track the status of the pledges. The latest accounting on this issue by the Group of 8 governments themselves was made public a few weeks ago in a document called the Deauville Accountability Report.

However, the watchdog groups have attacked that document, saying that it obfuscates the slow pace of spending by the governments. A group called ActionAid has published a detailed analysis, coming to the conclusion that, two years into a three-year set of pledges, the governments have actually spent only 22 percent of the pledged amount. Oxfam also discusses the status of the pledges in one section of a broader report.

A Table for 9 Billion

2011-05-23T12:56:00.000-05:00

Today our planet is facing its second large-scale food crisis in 3 years. Research shows that 1 in 7 people worldwide are chronically hungry and it's time to make this emergency a global priority.

Hunger is about power. Its roots lie in inequalities in access to resources and opportunity. And women face the greatest inequalities of all.

In response, Oxfam International is launching a global food justice campaign on June 1st to alleviate hunger and build a food system: one that produces enough for a growing population and empowers poor people to earn a living, feed their families, and thrive. In 2050, estimates show that our global population will reach 9 billion people and we want everyone to have a seat at the table.

To mark the start of this campaign locally, the Chicago Oxfam Action Corps will be setting "A Table for 9 Billion" at the Chicago Green City Market on Wednesday, June 1st from 7 am to 1 pm. We will have educational material about the current food crisis and opportunities for you to become a partner in our food justice campaign in Chicago.

Read more on Oxfam's Fact Sheet - Food For All: http://www.oxfamamerica.org/files/food-for-all-fact-sheet.pdf

All of us, no matter who we are, can do something to help. Join us on June 1st to find out what you can do to educate others and help get the word out.

If you are interested in volunteering or learning more, please email us at chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org

Budget cuts are nothing to laugh about

2011-04-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

Budget cuts are nothing to laugh about

By Gawain Kripke - 04/01/11 09:30 AM ET

Good news! Congress finally does what U.S. voters say they want and dedicates 13 percent of the federal budget to life-saving international poverty-fighting assistance.

April Fools!

As the current budget drama gripping Washington continues, foreign aid remains on the chopping block.

While all kinds of theatrics go on, some of us are waiting to see what will happen to the tiny fraction of the federal budget that is dedicated to the life-saving international health programs, emergency aid, poverty reduction, climate change adaptation and economic development assistance. Oxfam America’s doesn’t take funding from the US government, so our budget doesn’t depend on the answer. But we care because these programs make a big difference for poor people and developing countries.

Year after year, cutting international assistance is a talking point for politicians: “We have to take care of America before we send American money all over the world,” say some members of Congress. But it’s an easy thing to say, given the misperceptions Americans have about international assistance.

According to recent polling, Americans think 27 percent of the budget goes to foreign aid. Asked if they support cuts, most say yes. The funding level Americans settle on for foreign aid is somewhere between 10 and 13 percent of the federal budget.

The only problem, of course, is that the ENTIRE international affairs budget, which includes diplomacy and development, is just about 1 percent of the budget. And less than half of that is spent on poverty-focused development aid. So armed with the facts, voters could actually support INCREASING spending on foreign assistance by 1,000 percent? Given that Americans spend around the same amount on caring for their lawns as they do for programs that improve livelihoods and create lasting solutions to world poverty, I would hope they do.

Cutting half of foreign aid – or even cutting all of it – wouldn’t do much for the federal budget deficit. But it doesn’t stop politicians from supporting the foolish decision to cut it.

Pretending to close the yawning federal budget gap with cuts to foreign assistance is a terrible prank to play on:

• 5 million children and family members who could be denied treatment for preventative interventions for malaria,

• 3,500 mothers, more than 40,000 children under 5 in danger of dying due to reduced child survival interventions,

• 400,000 people who would be turned away from life-saving treatment for HIV/AIDS.

Even the threat of the government shutting down is disruptive and does damage. Important development and anti-poverty programs have already been put on hold due to the uncertainty; an innovative food security program focused on rice production in Cambodia has indefinitely postponed its March 28 launch, for example.

April fools is for laughs and kicks. But the pranks should stop when it comes to cutting life saving assistance.

Gawain Kripke is the policy director for Oxfam America in Washington.

Reposted from The Hill's Congress blog

International Women's Day in Chicago

2011-03-09T13:32:00.000-06:00

Madame Jacqueline Morette with Oxfam Staffers and volunteers after meeting with aides at Senator Mark Kirk's office. Madame Morette had a busy day during her visit to Chicago. After the visit to the senator's office she also presented at a public health class at the University of Illinois, Chicago, and was the guest of honor at the Oxfam co-sponsored International Women's Day event that evening. This was just one of Oxfam America's 100 events in 100 days held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day. The Chicago Oxfam Action Corps was honored to have her share her message with our guests that evening. She stressed that further involvement and resources are still needed to help the women's co-operative achieve their goals of improving livelihoods in her rural community. Please join us in asking your member of Congress to Support the International Affairs Budget. Ask them to vote against to cuts to funding for U.S. foreign aid programs – programs that help the world’s most vulnerable communities. Follow this link to tell your senators:

Don't cut out the world’s poorest communities!

In the heartland, a voice from Haiti

2011-02-18T11:45:00.002-06:00

“We farmers depend on rainfall: too much rain, you lose. Too little rain, you lose.”

Jacqueline Morette almost didn’t make it to Des Moines, Iowa, last Friday morning. She’d just arrived from the airport with moments to spare, though you’d never know it from her calm smile as she took her place onstage, facing an audience of hundreds of food and agriculture experts.

A farmer from central Haiti, Morette was part of a panel on tackling malnutrition—an issue she knew intimately.

“In Haiti … infrastructure in rural areas is in bad shape, or nonexistent. Much of the country is mountainous. We farmers depend on rainfall: too much rain, you lose. Too little rain, you lose,” Morette explained through a translator. “Despite our efforts, most Haitians are food insecure. A lot of our kids are malnourished.”

The panel marked the final day of the World Food Prize Symposium, an annual conference that brings together leaders from the sciences, academia, corporations, and governments. The theme of this year’s symposium was “Take It to the Farmer”, referring to the importance of supporting subsistence farmers worldwide. Though about 60 international farmers attended the conference, only a few took the stage as panelists.

As I listened from the front row, I thought about Morette’s difficult journey. First, visa issues delayed her US trip until the last possible moment. Then a missed flight stranded Morette and her translator in Chicago overnight. Thanks to a quick airport pick-up by Oxfam organizer Jim French, they’d made it in time for the panel—barely.

Morette’s fellow panelists included Liberia’s minister of agriculture and PepsiCo’s vice president of health, among others. Most showed PowerPoint slides, displaying charts about vitamin consumption and post-harvest losses, blocky and colorful as abstract art.

Morette simply spoke about her work as head of an Oxfam partner organization, the United Women’s Association of Pouille. She explained that most aid and services in Haiti focus on the capital, Port-au-Prince, leaving rural farmers at a disadvantage when it comes to fighting malnutrition.

“As you might know, we have a big gender gap in Haiti,” she said. “We seek to narrow that gap by improving women’s incomes. Since [we began] men have joined us to work together to improve agriculture and nutrition. … We educate people not only about cash crops, but about what to consume.”

During the question and answer session, an audience member asked Morette where she saw opportunities for local leaders like her to take charge of their own development.

“The fact that I’m here is already a big help,” she said. “[Oxfam] is in rural areas and sees what’s happening there. This is a big step for any organization, to go directly to the rural farmers.”

After the panel ended, a small crowd surrounded Morette, including a young Haitian-American graduate student who began a rapid dialogue with her in Kreyol. Two women sitting behind me, who’d been nodding along with her words, also rose to greet her.

“Thank goodness,” I heard one of the women say, reaching out a hand. “I’m so glad you’re here.”

Re-posted from Oxfam America's Blog on October 18th, 2010 | by Anna Kramer

Join us in Celebrating International Women's Day

2011-02-11T08:25:00.001-06:00

International Women's Day 100th Anniversary

March 7th, 2011

Help us celebrate in Chicago

Join the Action Corps as we celebrate International Women's Day on Monday March 7th.

This all ages, free event will include a reception, a film screening of the Oxfam short film, Sisters on the Planet and a panel discussion. We're honored to host Madame Jacqueline Morette, a Haitian farmer, activist and Oxfam partner. She will share with us her stories of food insecurity, injustice and her work to create change in her community.

Millions rely on the hard work and resourcefulness of women farmers. But although women produce 60 to 80 percent of the food in developing countries, they own just 2 percent of the land, and have few opportunities to earn a decent income. Climate change poses an added threat: erratic rainfall and droughts that disrupt the growing season. Today, many of these women farmers and their families are only one harvest away from hunger.

DATE: Monday, March 7, 2011

TIME: 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

LOCATION:

University Center Conference Chicago

Loop/River Room 2nd Floor

525 S State Street, Chicago 60605

Interested in volunteering or attending?

e-mail us

or call Tom Leavitt 847-754-0708

New Volunteer Meeting

2011-02-03T20:28:00.000-06:00

Action Corps New Volunteer Welcome Meeting

Join Us!

The Chicago Oxfam Action Corps welcomes all who are interested in learning about Oxfam America and the activities of the Action Corps in Chicago. We'll discuss Oxfam America's Economic Justice Campaign and our upcoming International Women's Day event on March 7th.

DATE: Wednesday, February 9, 2011

TIME: 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

LOCATION:

Grace Place - Grace Episcopal Church

637 S Dearborn St, 1st Floor Meeting Hall

Chicago, IL 60605

RSVP:

e-mail us

or call Tom Leavitt 847-754-0708

If you are passionate about helping to create lasting solutions to poverty and injustice and have a heart for service, we'd love for you to join us to learn about volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer with the Action Corps

2011-01-08T07:20:00.000-06:00

Campaigners bring progress to Cancun Climate Talks

2010-12-23T21:07:00.000-06:00

Cancun on the Ground: Poor People Losing Twice

2010-12-08T16:20:00.001-06:00

DECEMBER 7, 2010, 12:00 PM via Oxfam Action Corps San Fransisco

On the first day of week two of the UNFCCC climate negotiations, things are busy at the Cancunmesse exhibition hall, which is filled with hundreds of booths staffed by NGO, IGO, and national representatives. Among them are antipoverty development organizations such as Oxfam, WEDO, and CARE who are calling for the establishment of a fair global climate fund that will meet the needs and rights of the world’s most vulnerable communities. They, and scores of other attendees at the conference, believe that climate change poses an unprecedented threat to poor people who are already struggling to sustain their livelihoods and maintain food security, and that women and other marginalized groups are most vulnerable.

Yesterday afternoon at a press briefing titled Funding the Future organized by Oxfam International, six panelists shared their visions and experiences to help set the path to establish a fair global climate fund by week’s end. Top climate negotiators and ministers responsible for actualizing this goal are in Cancun right now and more are flying in this week. Although the first week of talks seems to have shown a fairly positive spirit and willingness to compromise on the part of many countries, a feeling of trepidation is present that the building pressure to make progress regarding emissions cuts and the Kyoto Protocol may result in insufficient time and energy for agreement on the establishment of a fair climate fund.

So what is this fund and how is it different from what Tim Gore, International Policy Advisor for Oxfam, calls the “spaghetti bowl of different climate financing channels” that currently exists? Well, as outlined in a letter signed by 215 civil society organizations released today at the press briefing, in order for the fund to be legitimate and effective it must:

Be established under the authority of the UNFCCC, a legitimate forum where all countries are represented.
Have equitable representation for developing countries on the board and not be donor country dominated.
Ensure consideration is given to gender and multicultural balance on the board.
Guarantee at least 50 percent of the resources of the fund are channeled to adaptation.
Be a one-stop shop with the vast majority of climate financing passing through the fund.
Ensure that vulnerable communities, especially women and indigenous populations, participate fully in decisions on uses and monitoring at the national level.

"There's a problem with the current system," explained Gore. "We think that the current arrangements for managing climate finances are really broken. They're not delivering the money to those that need it most and can spend it best."

Cate Owren, Program Director for WEDO, noted that, while climate financing is politically challenging, it should not be economically challenging because investments now save money in the future. She also reiterated that design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the fund will be crucial and will help prevent a negative impact on women and marginalized groups. Stories of climate adaptation needs and successes were shared by Alcinda Abreu, Mozambique’s Minister for Coordination of Environmental Affairs.

The briefing began and ended with the message that the establishment of this fund in Cancun will not only help developing countries adapt to the changing climate and adopt low-carbon development pathways, but also help rebuild trust in the negotiations. While a legally binding climate agreement seems almost certainly not on the cards for this round of negotiations, a fair global climate fund will hopefully produce tangible, concrete outcomes by Friday that addresses the need for both mitigation and adaptation assistance.

2010-11-09T00:26:00.000-06:00

Join Chicago Oxfam Action Corps for the Global Health Panel Thursday, November 18 7:00pm

10/10/10, the "Global Work Party."

2010-09-01T20:52:00.003-05:00

10/10/10, the "Global Work Party." This one day will be a MASSIVE opportunity to celebrate climate solutions at the local level--and put the pressure on our leaders while doing so.

Join other Chicago area residents who are committed to a sustainable food supply. We'll be taking a biodiesel bus from Chicago to Spence Farm in Livingston County 100 miles south of Chicago. First settled in 1830, you'll be joining the Travis Family; Marty, Kris, and Will, descendants of the original settlers. We'll assist them with harvesting their organic Iroquois corn and sorghum. The farm supplies leading restaurants in Chicago like Frontera Grill and Blackbird with specialty produce and its famous Iroquois corn.

Conventional agriculture accounts from 18 to 30 of all greenhouse gas emissions. Organic and sustainable farms like Spence Farm do not use the chemical and carbon-based inputs of conventional farms and are an important part in solving our climate crisis.

Because the farms are typically family owned and operated, most of the labor is done by hand. The term "Crop Mob" was coined by city dwellers who have an interest in sustainable agriculture and would like to help more than just by going to the farmer's market or joining a CSA. The "Crop Mob" gives the farmer(s) a valuable source of volunteer labor.

You'll need to bring the following for the trip:

Sturdy shoes or boots and a change of socks.
Gardening or work gloves.
A re-fillable water bottle.
A hat & sunscreen
A sweater or light jacket.
Snacks for the trip down and return home.
Money in case you'd like purchase some products from the farm.

Lunch will be provided. A suggested $20 donation is requested to cover the cost of transportation and lunch.

How to Get Involved Planning the Event: If leaving from Chicago, Contact Tom Leavitt at 847-754-0708 for transportation information regarding the biodiesel bus or directions.

Sign up on facebook:http://bit.ly/djGLV4

Or at the 350.org Global Work Day Web Site:

http://www.350.org/crop-mob-spence-farm

Monthly Meeting August 5th

2010-08-04T21:43:00.001-05:00

Join Us!

Join us for our Monthly Oxfam Action Corps Meeting. We'll discuss volunteer opportunities and Oxfam America's campaign supporting Food Security and Justice and the UN's Millennium Development Goals on Poverty.

If you are passionate about helping to create lasting solutions to poverty and injustice and have a heart for service, we'd love for you to join us:

CAFECITO coffee & sandwiches

26 East Congress Parkway, Chicago

312 922 2233

DATE: Thursday, August 5, 2010

TIME: 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

(please stay later to socialize if you wish)

Oxfam America press release:

2010-07-23T22:36:00.000-05:00

US Senate pushes off action on climate bill, poor people continue to suffer

Washington, DC -- In reaction to the announcement that climate change legislation is delayed by the United States Senate, perhaps indefinitely, David Waskow, climate change program director of international humanitarian organization Oxfam America, made the following statement:

“It is critical that the US pass legislation to deal with the oil spill and impacts on communities in the Gulf Coast, but the world cannot stand to hear, again, that the Senate will not act on climate change. While Senators go on their summer break, millions of poor people on the front lines of climate change around the world can’t take a break from the droughts and floods made worse by climate pollution.”

"Without a commitment that the United States will work with other countries to solve the climate challenge and build resilience to its consequences, we cannot move forward globally. All eyes are on the US to show leadership. Failure on this critically important issue is just unacceptable, but the Senate has failed to match the leadership in the House and the Obama Administration has abandoned the helm.”

“Time is ticking away. We urge President Obama to lead and Senators to get back to work determined to deliver legislation that cuts harmful pollution and invests in the resilience of poor communities on the front lines of climate change. ”

Congress passes law to end secrecy in oil, gas, and mining industry — Oxfam America

2010-07-15T17:05:00.002-05:00

Congress passes law to end secrecy in oil, gas, and mining industry — Oxfam America

Tell your Senators: Don’t Leave Poor People Out of the Climate Bill!

2010-07-01T12:52:00.000-05:00

The US Senate is finishing a clean energy and climate change bill – but there is pressure to leave out key provisions such as help for the world’s poorest people to prepare for the effects of climate change.

We can’t let them forget poor people. Poor communities are hit first – and worst – by climate change. Leaving these provisions out of the bill will leave billions of people in peril from worsening storms, droughts, and floods and undermine the pledge that President Obama made in Copenhagen to help those most affected by climate change.

Send a message to your Senators today and make sure they include support for international communities fighting for survival against climate change.

Click Here to send a message to your Senator:

July Monthly Meeting: Thursday, July 1st

2010-06-27T00:15:00.000-05:00

We're moving our meeting north this month to Uncommon Ground on Devon: 1401 West Devon Avenue, Chicago, IL

Join Us!

Plan to attend our Monthly Oxfam Action Corps Meeting. We'll discuss volunteer opportunities and Oxfam America's response to the pending Climate Change Legislation in the Senate. If you are passionate about helping to create lasting solutions to poverty and injustice and have a heart for service, we'd love for you to join us.

DATE: Thursday, July 1, 2010

TIME: 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. (please stay later to socialize if you wish)

LOCATION: Uncommon Ground

1401 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60660

Phone 773-465-9801

Hardest hit: El Salvador

2010-06-18T22:43:00.002-05:00

Because of more intense storms, drought, crop failure, and more, the world's poorest people are hardest hit by climate change. According to the World Bank's World Development Report 2010, even if global warming can be limited to just 2ºC, between one billion and two billion people may no longer have enough water to meet their needs. Climate adaptation projects, such as sealing water wells to prevent contamination during flooding, are already empowering vulnerable communities to survive – but hundreds of billions of dollars are needed to adequately fund adaptation.

Huge numbers like this are overwhelming. Fortunately, Oxfam's new short video series, called Hardest Hit: Survival strategies from the frontlines of climate change, cuts through the stifling statistics. Take a few minutes to learn from families taking the fight to climate change in El Salvador, Ethiopia, Louisiana, and Vietnam. Their stories are both shocking and inspiring, and they make the case for real investment in international climate adaptation projects.

Summer Volunteer Opportunities

2010-06-05T23:03:00.003-05:00

Concert and Festival Outreach Volunteer Opportunities. Interested in volunteering or attending? Have an event suggestion? Just let us know

July 31st - Elmhurst Green Fest

August 14th - John Mayer, Tinley Park, First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre

Lobby Visit to Illinois Senatorial Delegation on June 2nd

2010-05-26T14:11:00.001-05:00

Join us this Wednesday June, 2nd to visit the offices of Senators Richard Durbin and Roland Burris to urge them to support Adaptation Funding in the American Power Act which is now before the senate. We'll meet in the lobby of the Kluczynski Federal Building at 9:00am on Wednesday, June 2nd.

The address for the Kluczynski Federal Building is:

230 S. Dearborn, Chicago, IL 60604

We will urge them to act on climate change now. Innocent people, especially the world’s poorest, are suffering its impacts every day that we fail to act!

Help us to ask them to move forward on a comprehensive climate and energy solution now that meets the US's global commitments to the world’s most vulnerable people, and to work with Senator Reid right now to push this effort past the finish line.

As advocates for those affected most by climate change, we are deeply concerned that the American Power Act does not begin to fund international adaptation until 2019, and that funding levels are too low.

2010 Chicago Oxfam Action Corps Kick-Off Meeting

2010-05-08T22:09:00.000-05:00

Chicago Oxfam Action Corps Summer of Action Kick-off Meeting is Monday, May 24th

Meet fellow Oxfam supporters from Chicago, and kick-off an exciting summer with the Oxfam Action Corps! Jump in to volunteer with the Chicago Oxfam Action Corps or come just to learn more about what we do… This is the opportunity you've been waiting for, and now is your chance. We can’t wait to meet you!

WHAT: Summer of Action Kick-off Meeting

WHEN: Monday, May 24th, 7:00 - 8:00 pm

WHERE: Old St Pat's Church, 2nd Floor Meeting Rooms
711 W Monroe, Chicago, IL

WHY: This meeting will be a gathering of new volunteers (and a few vets) from all parts of Chicago who are interested in making this summer and beyond a forceful effort towards tackling hunger, poverty, and social injustice. Our aim is comprehensive climate legislation that includes adequate funding to help poor communities cope and build resilience to climate impacts! It’s time the U.S. steps up as a leader in the fight against climate change and takes a stand for the world’s most vulnerable communities. And we need YOUR help to accomplish this.

DIRECTIONS: Just off I90/94 at the corner of Monroe and DesPlaines.
Public Transportation: 2 blocks west and 1 block south of Ogilvie Transportation Center & Union Stations.
CTA bus routes 8, 20 & 156 run nearby.
"L" stop at Clinton(Lake St, Green/ Pink line) or Washington (Wells St, Loop).
Street Parking available on DesPlaines & two Pay Parking lots across the street.

2010-05-06T20:22:00.000-05:00

World Fair Trade Day Celebration in Chicago
Friday, May 7th
9:00am to 6:00pm
Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago
50 W. Washington Street Chicago, IL

Click Here for Info

Hosted by Chicago Fair Trade

2010-04-13T14:28:00.001-05:00

Democracy in Action! Chicago Oxfam Action Corps organizers Thomas Leavitt & Barb Sanders meet Rep Danny Davis

2010-04-13T05:03:00.001-05:00

We are asking them to include funds in the Climate Bill coming out of the Senate for people in poor & developing countries to proactively deal with the effects of global climate change.

2010-04-13T04:57:00.001-05:00

Lobby day on Capitol Hill. Oxfam Action Corps volunteers from eleven cities across the country will be meeting at the offices of our senators and representatives. to ask them

Reducing disaster risks: women raise their voices in the streets and in the courts — Oxfam America

2010-04-06T08:31:00.001-05:00

Reducing disaster risks: women raise their voices in the streets and in the courts — Oxfam America

Posted using ShareThis

2010-03-28T13:55:00.001-05:00

30th Annual Good Friday Walk for Justice. Fri, April 2nd - Noon to 3:00pm. The walk begins at Plaza - Northeast corner of Michigan & Congess Avenues. For more info go to www.8thdaycenter.org

Rains across Peru destroy crops, small businesses, and thousands of homes — Oxfam America

2010-03-24T18:50:00.001-05:00

Rains across Peru destroy crops, small businesses, and thousands of homes — Oxfam America

Posted using ShareThis

2010-03-22T21:46:00.001-05:00

It's World Water Day. Check out the unshaken campaign for Haiti ☛ http://bit.ly/aTznba

2010-03-22T12:30:00.000-05:00

WWD 2010: Clean Water for a Healthy World

Every year, 1,500 cubic kilometres of wastewater are produced globally. While waste and wastewater can be reused productively for energy and irrigation, it usually is not. In developing countries 80 percent of all waste is being discharged untreated, because of lack of regulations and resources. And population and industrial growth add new sources of pollution and increased demand for clean water to the equation. Human and environmental health, drinking and agricultural water supplies for the present and future are at stake, still water pollution rarely warrants mention as a pressing issue.

To do something about that UN-Water has chosen Clean Water for a Healthy World as theme for World Water Day 2010. The overall goal of the World Water Day on 22 March 2010 campaign is to raise the profile of water quality at the political level so that water quality considerations are made alongside those of water quantity.

UNEP has responsibility for taking the lead in 2010, UN-Water announced at a session during the Stockholm World Water Week in August 2009. Keep an eye on their site

2010-03-21T22:49:00.001-05:00

Monday, March 22 is World Water Day. Follow on Twitter using #WWD hashtag.

Help for Haiti Benefit Party

2010-03-20T14:56:00.000-05:00

The Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader String Band

Tom & Jackie with Dulce Cesar at the Help for Haiti Benefit Party on March 4th at Greenheart Shop Chicago

Haiti Benefit at Greenheart Shop

2010-02-24T09:25:00.001-06:00

2010 Chicago Oxfam Action Corps

2010-02-01T12:08:00.000-06:00

Concerned about poverty and hunger on a global scale, but not sure how to make a difference at the local level? Volunteer with the Oxfam Action Corps and help to change the big picture, starting with your community. Fight poverty and gain advocacy skills with the Oxfam Action Corps. Apply by February 15!

Hope for Haiti NOW

2010-01-22T16:26:00.000-06:00

Oxfam was selected as one of the seven aid agencies that will receive funds from George Clooney’s telethon! The telethon, “Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief” will be televised on all major networks tomorrow, Friday January 22^nd at 8pm ET.

Shakira, Alicia Keys, Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Hudson and many more artists will be part of the show.

Gather friends and family and host a telethon-viewing house party! And don't forget to call in!

Write a Letter to the Editor

2010-01-19T18:06:00.000-06:00

Given the media’s extensive coverage of the situation in Haiti, you can make a difference by writing a letter to the editor of your hometown newspaper, asking readers to do their part by contributing to relief efforts and calling for a brighter future for Haiti.

If you can write a LTE please email chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org and let us know! You can also email us if you need any talking points. Please see oxfamamerica.org for a lot of info and easy ways to make a contribution.

Make A Call Tomorrow!

2010-01-11T12:23:00.000-06:00

As you may know, climate legislation has been stalled in the Senate for months. But now, with the health care debate subsiding, it's time to show the Senate that there is significant public support to pass climate legislation this year.

Our first action in 2010 will be tomorrow, Tuesday, January 12th. Thousands have already pledged to call their senators. But we still need your voice!

Sign up today to call your senators during business hours:

http://www.1sky.org/call-in

With your help, we can send a strong message to the Senate on the eve of the 2010 campaign season: We won't stand by idly while you sacrifice our future to political expediency or wealthy lobbyists. Together, we will flood every single Senate office with phone calls and let them know that without their support for a bold climate bill they shouldn't be expecting our support in this year's election or elections to come.

Register now and you'll receive special instructions for your calls. Two calls to your senators will be a fast, easy, and effective way to let your voice be heard. Sign up today to make your calls.

International Womens Week

2010-01-07T20:46:00.000-06:00

Do you or anyone you know have an interest in attending International Women’s week in DC? It will be March 8-10. We are recruiting Sisters on the Planet Ambassadors throughout the nation to attend, 2 from each state. Email us at chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org if you had any suggestions on people we could recruit in the state to become an Ambassador and attend the event for Illinois. Oxfam will be paying for their transportation there. We are looking for Faith Leaders, Business Owners, Community Leaders, Academics, possibly local elected officials. Drop us a line!

Copenhagen COP OUT

2009-12-19T17:52:00.000-06:00

The ‘climate deal’ on the table in Copenhagen today is a triumph of spin over substance says Oxfam International. The deal – which has been announced by the US, India, China and South Africa - has not been endorsed by the EU and many other countries.

The deal provides no confidence that catastrophic climate change will be averted or that poor countries will be given the money they need to adapt as temperatures rise. Leaders have also put off agreeing a legally binding deal until the end of 2010.

Oxfam said the agreement must be endorsed by all countries and demanded that it be a floor not a ceiling on action.

Jeremy Hobbs, Executive Director of Oxfam International said:

“This deal barely papers over the huge differences between countries which have plagued these talks for two years.

“The deal is a triumph of spin over substance. It recognizes the need to keep warming below 2 degrees but does not commit to do so. It kicks back the big decisions on emissions cuts and fudges the issue of climate cash.

“Millions of people around the world do not want to see their hopes for a fair, binding and ambitious deal die in Copenhagen. Leaders need to get back round the table in early 2010 take the hard decisions they copped out of in Copenhagen.”

The deal

$100bn a year in climate cash for poor countries

This is an aspirational goal not a commitment – poor countries will have no confidence that they will receive the money they need to reduce their emissions and adapt to a changing climate.

$100bn is only half the money needed. The shortfall could mean that health workers in South Asia and Sub Saharan Africa will not get the $1.5bn they need each year to prevent climate induced deaths from malaria and diarrhoea.

There are no assurances that the $100bn will be additional to existing aid commitments. This means aid for education and health care could be diverted to pay for flood defenses.

The $100bn will not all be public money. Unless climate cash comes from public sources, there are no guarantees that it will reach the right people, in the right places, at the right time.

Spin

Global temperature rises kept below 2 degrees centigrade

Reality

The absence of any emissions reductions targets means there is no guarantee warming will be kept below 2 degrees centigrade. Climate science is clear on the need for deep emissions cuts by 2020. Specific targets are essential.

Shorbanu Khatun, a climate migrant at the summit with Oxfam said: “I came all the way from a displaced persons camp on the flooded coast of Bangladesh to see justice done for the 45,000 people made homeless by cyclone Aila. How do I tell them their misery has fallen on deaf ears?”

Copenhagen 101

2009-12-07T14:47:00.000-06:00

http://video.nytimes.com/video/2009/12/07/business/1247465985669/copenhagen-101.html

Check out this video (linked above) where the NY Times's Tom Zeller Jr. and Andrew C. Revkin, along with some people in Times Square, discuss the science and diplomacy behind the climate conference.

The Largest Global Action in HISTORY!

2009-10-27T11:03:00.000-05:00

What an amazing day and turn out! Thank you so much for such a terrific day of action. Here is the photo of the "Roger's Park Carbon Free Picnic and Music Festival" that took place in the brand new energy efficient Quinlan Life Science Building on Loyola's campus. The white boards are letters to Senator Durbin and Senator Burris that were asking for support on the current climate legislation, we collected over 200 signatures! Check out 350.org for this and more inspirational pictures of actions from all around the world! Over 180 nations participated!! Thanks to everyone who participated in a very successful day of climate action!

Oct 24th ACTION: Roger's Park Carbon Free Picnic and Music Festival

2009-10-16T14:54:00.001-05:00

We are collaborating with Loyola, Rogers Park, and 350.org to bring you a FREE event celebrating International Day of Climate Action! 24 October 2009 - 11:00am - 2:30pm 1050 W. Pratt Blvd Chicago, IL, 60626 With live music, local food, guest speakers, Sisters on the Planet showings, collective art projects, Action Corps volunteer sign-up and MORE! Visit http://www.350.org/RogersPark for more details or to RSVP! See you all there!

The no B.S. youth report from Bangkok

2009-10-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

http://www.stumbleupon.com/s/#6rGbBv/blogs.current.com/green/2009/10/06/the-no-b-s-youth-report-from-bangkok-introducing-the-adopt-a-negotiator-project//

The no B.S. youth report from Bangkok: Introducing the Adopt a Negotiator Project
October 6th, 2009 by Leah Lamb

As part of our 350 degrees of Copenhagen series we bring you this interview with the Adopt a Negotiator team members who are reporting back from Bangkok.

If you can’t keep up about what’s going on behind the scenes in preparation for Copenhagen…you shouldn’t feel alone. The information isn’t easy to find. The proof is in the pudding, as Joshua Wiese and Ben Jervey explain to us why they are working with a crew of trackers who are representing 12 countries from throughout the developing and developed world. They are reporting in 8 different languages, opening up these meetings to people all over the world. They video skyped (is that a new verb?) in to our studio from the Bangkok climate talks (which explains the strange hotel room in the background).

These negotiations are, quite literally, determining the fate of our planet. It’s easy to argue that they’re the most important meetings in the history of the world. But no “typical citizen” has any idea what goes on at international negotiations. We’re working to shine a light on the process–bring some transparency to a normally pretty opaque proceedings.

Adopt a Negotiator was launched at the Bonn intersessional talks in June, weʼll track the negotiations through Bangkok, then Barcelona, and on to Copenhagen, following the lead negotiators and delegates from 12 key countries, and sharing news and updates of their positions along the way.

You can follow them regularly on their blog at www.tcktcktck.org and www.adoptanegotiator.org. And of course, we’ll have more updates from them on Current Green.

CRUDE Documentary Screening: OCT 2-8!

2009-09-29T14:40:00.001-05:00

Please visit www.crudethemovie.com for more info including the trailer, playdates, photography, reviews and links to find out more information about the case and ways in which to get involved.

Opens Friday, October 2 in Chicago
ONE WEEK ONLY!

Gene Siskel Film Center
164 North State Street, Chicago · 312-846-2800

Showtimes:
October 2, 5, 6, 7: 6:00pm, 8:00pm
October 3: 3:15pm, 5:15pm, 7:45pm
October 4: 3:15pm, 5:15pm
*October 8: 6:00pm, 8:15pm

* Filmmaker Joe Berlinger in attendance Thursday, 10/8 @ 6pm & 8:15pm shows!

Oxfam Action Corps Celebrates International Day of Climate Action!

2009-09-26T11:51:00.000-05:00

Check out our post on 350.org for the event, and please spread the word! Do contact us if you would like to RSVP, volunteer, or share and idea for the action! chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org
http://www.350.org/node/7281

SAVE THE DATE: International Day of Climate Action

2009-09-24T22:22:00.000-05:00

Save the date: We're collaborating with 350.org to plan an event for International Day of Climate Action!

Chicago Oxfam Action Corps

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION

Saturday, October 24

3-6pm

Roosevelt University Campus

The event will feature Sisters on the Planet screenings, a guest speaker, tables of other allied organizations, Intelligensia coffee for you java fiends, and Greenheart goods. More organizations and details to come soon, check back!

Monthly Activist Meet-Up

2009-09-17T05:36:00.000-05:00

As we're nearing the end of the month, we're getting closer to our monthly Activist Meet-up, if you're interested in helping to plan events, this meeting will suit you well! Come find us at:

ARTISTS CAFE
412 S. Michigan (near Congress)
Thursday, Sept. 24th from 7:00-8:30pm
www.artists-cafe.com

We will be debriefing summer legislative visits around the ACES Act, celebrating the sign on letters received far and wide across the country in support of climate change legislation that includes the needs of vulnerable commuties, and spending the bulk of the time planning for an exciting event coming up... (drumroll please!)

Mark your calendars for:
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION
Saturday, October 24th
Roosevelt University Campus downtown
more details TBA

The event will be hosted jointly between the Chicago Oxfam Action Corps and Roosevelt University student activists and will include prominent speakers on the issue, fair trade tables, opportunities to snag a free Sisters on the Planet DVD for house parties to host your own screening night.

Check out Oxfam's new video!

2009-09-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

Climate Change Calls for Adaptation says UN

2009-08-31T18:44:00.000-05:00

Climate change is already happening and humans need to adapt, experts said
As researchers predict substantial changes to the environment because of global warming, scientists discuss how to get information about the scope of climate change into the hands of decision makers.

A five-day conference in Geneva aims to provide politicians and other decision makers with the data they need to make informed decisions when it comes to climate change, according to members of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the technical and scientific arm of the United Nations, which is hosting the conference.

"Even if we reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, the climate will continue to change," Gro Harlem Brundtland, the United Nations secretary-general's special envoy on climate change, said on Monday. "All countries will need to adapt to a changing and more erratic climate."

But the problem is not a lack of dire warnings about more storms, rising sea levels, droughts, and famine, but how the information is used, according to WMO Secretary-General Michel Jarraud.

"The problem is that much information on the climate is not used properly," Jarraud told reporters. "It's time to link technology and science with decision makers."

Climate justice

Annan said rich countries should make the biggest emissions cuts
The conference comes before world leaders and delegates are set to meet in Copenhagen in December in an effort to agree on a binding deal that would curb global warming before the Kyoto Protocol, the current compromise on reducing greenhouse gases, runs out in 2012.

Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan told delegates in Geneva that climate agreements had to be "radical, universal and binding" and have "climate justice at its heart." Annan said the people most affected by climate change were the poorest and least developed nations that contributed the least to pollution.

"The most advanced economies must take the lead by taking the most drastic (emissions) cuts," the former UN head said, while urging countries to share weather information and cooperate on climate issues.

Better data for the future

Politicians need good data as the basis of their decisions, Jarraud said
Climate change is already underway and will continue regardless of any compromises made at major climate negotiations, Jarraud added.

"Even if Copenhagen is successful on greenhouse gases, a certain warming (of the planet) will occur," he said, adding that improved knowledge of the climate could help manage water and food needs, in addition to preserving the environment.

Jarraud gave the examples of malaria and cholera, two potentially fatal diseases that spread in certain climate conditions. Better weather data can help health authorities know when and where an outbreak might occur.

"We need to anticipate change, we can no longer base ourselves on the past to take decisions for the future," he told journalists.

The information can also help reduce costs and benefit sectors of the economy, such as tourism.

"Climate change is here now and countries need tools to adapt to the changing climate," the WMO wrote in its invitation to the World Climate Conference.

The meeting of representatives from some 80 nations is the third World Climate Conference. The first took place in 1979 and the second in 1990. Those meetings are credited with leading to the creation of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which won the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

sms/dpa/AFP
Editor: Kate Bowen

article can be found at: http://ow.ly/nst3

Climate Rally TODAY @ NOON!

2009-08-31T09:45:00.000-05:00

Climate Rally TODAY starting at NOON! Sorry for the last minute info, but if you're downtown or in the area please stop by to support comprehensive climate change legislation!!

When: Monday August 31, 2009 from 12-1:30 pm
Where: Federal Plaza, 230 South Dearborn
Chicago, IL

Save the date Oct 24th for INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION leading up to Copenhagen!

2009-08-25T22:24:00.000-05:00

Rajendra Pachauri is the U.N.'s top climate scientist. He leads the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which every five years produces the authoritative assessment of climate science. Their last report, in 2007, helped set the target of 450 ppm (parts per million of CO2) that many environmental groups and national governments have adopted as their goal for Copenhagen.

As you all know, that number is out of date. When Jim Hansen and other scientists looked at phenomenon like the Arctic ice melt of the last two summers, they produced new data demonstrating that 350 is the bottom line for the planet.

But it's been hard to get that news out to the powers that be. So today it comes as enormous and welcome news that Dr. Pachauri, from his New Delhi office, said that 350 was the number.

"As chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) I cannot take a position because we do not make recommendations," said Rajendra Pachauri when asked if he supported calls to keep atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations below 350 parts per million (ppm).

"But as a human being I am fully supportive of that goal. What is happening, and what is likely to happen, convinces me that the world must be really ambitious and very determined at moving toward a 350 target," he told Agence France Presse in an interview."

This news makes it much easier for all of us to push hard leading up to the International Day of Climate Action on the 24th of October, and the UN Climate Conference in Copenhagen this December. Chicago Oxfam Action Corps is planning an event for 350, more info to come... Let us know your ideas or that you'll be there! chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org SAVE THE DATE! :)

Ice Cream Social Tomorrow (08/26)!!

2009-08-25T22:16:00.000-05:00

Come to the ice cream social at the hostel downtown tomorrow, look for us to turn in signed Durbin postcards and stay for the international festival! Free open house-- 24 E Congress Pkwy @ 4-7pm!!

Letter/petition to Senator Durbin

2009-08-11T22:56:00.000-05:00

Thank you so much for all your hard work! The next few weeks are even more crucial to our campaign for comprehensive climate change legislation; we have to get Congress to include aid for people in developing countries to adapt to climate change! The poorest people, especially those in impoverished countries, have the least capacity to cope with increasingly devastating impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, sea-level rise, drought, disruption of water and food supplies, and impacts on health. Climate change is quickly becoming a major driver of poverty around the world, while it undermines global stability and security, economic development and gender equity on a wide scale. The ACES bill is now approaching vote in the Senate. Chicago Oxfam Action Corps is committed to making sure that international adaptation is funded adequately in upcoming legislation, and that clean energy technology is transferred to developing countries as well.

Our country needs legislation to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the United States that are contributing to these impacts on impoverished countries. Yet even with substantial emissions cuts, we also need to put in place substantial assistance for poor countries to adapt to the widespread and serious consequences of climate change.

As we prepare to visit Senator Durbin during August recess, we want to present him with as many signed letters of support as possible! Lets make sure Senator Durbin knows his constituents need him to support adequate funding of international adaptation within climate change legislation. We expect a vote on ACES in the Senate in September. With the current version passed by the House only calling for 1% of the permits auctioned to go towards adaptation, we know we can get the Senate to increase that number!
Lets get as many signatures as possible to help the worlds poorest adapt to climate change!
Be sure to sign below and pass it on to everyone you can! :)

Loading...

**Oxfam Action Corps is also circulating a special sign-on letter for faith leaders and grassroots organization leaders... if you know someone we should ask to sign our letter to Senator Durbin please let us know!**

Activists Meet-up and Summer Potluck!

2009-07-20T18:56:00.000-05:00

So far, this has been a great summer! And now, with the victory of ACES passing in the House, we invite you to celebrate at the next Activists Meet-up with a summer potluck! This Thursday, July 23rd from 6-9pm in the backyard of 2047 W.19th Street come meet with us to discuss Oxfam's Senate strategy, chat with other volunteers, sign-up for future events, learn more about the Action Corps, work on our Sisters on the Planet collective art project, bring your favorite snack to share and enjoy each others company! Some food and drinks will be provided, feel free to bring stuff as well! RSVP at chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org and feel free to bring friends/family! This is our time to thank you for all your hard work with the Chicago Oxfam Action Corps so far!

We have some upcoming volunteer opportunities... let us know if you are interested in hosting a Sisters on the Planet screening or working at a Chicago summer festival; such as the Randolph St. Market Festival 7/25-26, where we will be collecting signatures and raising awareness about ACES and the human face of climate change. Looking forward to more fun with all of you, and continuing to fight for international adaptation and environmental justice!

VOTE this week on ACES ACT! Call/email your REP!

2009-06-26T13:03:00.000-05:00

The ACES bill is being voted on in the House right now! Below is an e-Action for you, just click on the link to email your Representative urging them to vote YES-- and to keep funding in the bill for international adaptation. Thanks for all your continued efforts!
Peace!
Maggie and Christina

URGENT: Vote this week!

Make sure Congress passes the climate bill AND keeps funding for the world's poor.

Email your Representative today! Go to:
https://secure.oxfamamerica.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1021

Thanks to you, the groundbreaking climate and energy bill now includes vital funding to help poor
This is a major accomplishment, but we still have a challenge ahead: we must strengthen and pass the climate bill as it moves through the U.S. Congress. Powerful oil and coal companies are spending millions to stop this historic climate bill.

Don't let big polluters undermine our progress – urge your Representative to vote YES on this bill.

This bill includes millions of dollars to help the most vulnerable communities in developing countries cope with the impacts of climate change and adopt renewable technologies – we can't let big oil and coal companies stand in the way of this opportunity!

The American Clean Energy and Security Act takes a big step in cutting domestic global warming pollution and helping vulnerable communities, both here and abroad. The funding in the bill to help developing countries is not perfect, but we will keep fighting to increase it as the bill moves through the U.S. Senate.

https://secure.oxfamamerica.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=1021

The United States is finally ready to face the climate crisis head-on. This bill takes a critical first step. Don't let this chance slip by.

Our upcoming events:

2009-06-15T16:45:00.000-05:00

Sisters on the Planet Screening 6/16 @6pm at greenheart shop! RSVP chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org and bring a friend! Refreshments provided, free event-- a great chance to shop at greenheart and sign up to volunteer this summer.

Peace Fest 6/19-6/21 noon-9pm in Lincoln Park! Free festival with a great vibe, let us know if you'd like to volunteer at the booth! chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org

Pride Fest Friday 6/26 3pm-10pm and Saturday 11am-10pm! Another super fun festival tradition in Chi-town you can sign up to be a part of!

Concerts coming up: The Fray 6/28 and Dave Matthews Band 9/26 you can volunteer for concert outreach and help get others involved in seeking environmental justice!

Our next Activists Meet-up will be Tuesday 6/30 @7pm at Efebos Cafe in Pilsen and all are welcome to join us! Refreshments and conversation are free! :)

Location change for screening!

2009-06-09T22:42:00.000-05:00

We have had such a good response to the Sisters on the Planet documentary screening that we have CHANGED the location to greenheart shop! They have a great community space and have so kindly offered it up for next Tuesday! The screening will still be on June 16th but will be at 6pm at 746 N. LaSalle St at the greenheart shop... spread the word! :)

Sisters on the Planet Screening

2009-05-28T16:52:00.000-05:00

You're Invited!

Come join us to see how four inspirational women are fighting back against climate change—and learn how you can help. We'll be screening the Sisters on the Planet documentary film:

When: Tuesday, June 16th, time TBA (6 or 7pm)

Where: 1317 W. Roscoe, Apt. 3
Chicago, IL 60657

Why: We know that climate change is affecting the most vulnerable communities already, and as women are the primary caregivers and responsible for gathering food and fuel, they are feeling the brunt of these impacts even deeper. Four women: Sahena, Sharon, Muriel, and Martina are inspiring leaders, uniting their communities and becoming advocates for the weight that these burdens place on women and creating local solutions. Come learn more about the impacts and how we can join in the movement to help them build their resiliency.

No need to bring anything, but if you want to definitely feel free.
Please drop us a line to RSVP at chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org.

Hope to see you there! To learn more about the project, check out this link:
http://www.oxfamamerica.org/whatwedo/campaigns/climate_change/sisters-on-the-planet

Activist Meet-Up

2009-05-28T16:35:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder for those of you who haven't been getting the emails - there is an Activist Meet-Up tonight!

ACTIVIST MEET-UP
Chicago Oxfam Action Corps... be a part of the solution!
Date:Thursday, May 28, 2009
Time:7:00pm - 8:30pm
Location:Cafe El Tapatio (3400 N Ashland Avenue -at Roscoe Street- Chicago, IL 60657)
Email:chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org

In addition to group actions and volunteer opportunities, you will get the chance to meet us (the volunteer organizers for Chicago Oxfam Action Corps) and learn more about Oxfam's campaign for comprehensive climate change legislation that would include international adaptation, our Sisters on the Planet project, Oxfam Action Corps, and have some refreshments at Cafe El Tapatio! :) It's shaping up to be a nice relaxed evening meet-up, hope to see you there! If you can't make it tomorrow, don't worry you're still in the loop; you can reply to us with any questions or to introduce yourself, and we will be sure to keep you all updated!

TAKE ACTION TODAY

2009-05-19T12:30:00.000-05:00

At this moment we urgently need support for a climate bill being debated right now in an influential committee of the US House of Representatives. We are asking for your specific help to call upon your Representative in the House to support a historic climate change bill.

Currently, the Energy and Environment Committee is drafting the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. This bill has the ability to transition our nation to clean and affordable energy, create quality jobs, and could generate crucial international financing to help vulnerable communities cope with the devastating impacts of increased floods, droughts, famine, water scarcity, disease, environmental migration, and armed conflict over resources.

It is essential that we get Congress to support a fair and safe bill by taking these two simple actions. (Even if your Representative is not on the Energy and Commerce Committee this is important to do, as all Representatives may soon vote on the bill.)

Two simple actions:

First, click this link and send this e-action. It only takes a moment. https://secure.oxfamamerica.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=983

Secondly, if your Representative is one of the following members of the Energy and Commerce Committee, please call his/her office: Bobby Rush (IL), Jan Schakowsky (IL), Elliot Engel (NY), Charles Gonzalez (TX), Anna Eshoo, (No. CA), Doris Matsui (No.CA), Peter Welch (VT), Jane Harman (So.CA), and Henry Waxman (Chair of Committee, So. CA). The full list of members can be found at http://energycommerce.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=160&Itemid=61

Simply call his/her office and ask him/her to support international adaptation on the Clean Energy and Security Act. We have provided you with sample text below that you can use as a guide. You can find your local office’s number using this online congressional directory, or contact his/her office in Washington DC by calling the Capitol Switchboard at (202)224-3121 and asking for him/her by name. Call during business hours. If you can’t, then call anytime and leave a message.

Please write us back!

Once you call, email us back at chicago@oxfamactioncorps.org and let us know how it went.

Thank you for all your hard work in helping us create solutions to poverty and injustice!

WHAT TO SAY: Draft phone text:

Hello, my name is [fill-in] and I am a resident calling to voice some comments on the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 that Representative [fill-in name] and other members of the Energy and Commerce Committee are currently working on.

First, it is very important that the bill allows for substantial funding for international and domestic adaptation by auctioning carbon permits. Adaptation funds will help poor and vulnerable communities around the world cope with more erratic weather and increased floods and droughts. Climate change is a global problem and it will require global solutions. Investing in international adaptation helps our world become less prone to conflict and migration. It is the right thing to do especially since the U.S. emits over 25% of the world's greenhouse gases.

Adaptation funding also gives low-income consumers in the U.S. access to affordable clean energy, and will allow our state and the larger U.S. to invest in green-collar jobs, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.

Finally, I want to voice my support for maintaining the emission reductions proposed in the original draft of the bill. In order to avoid future disasters we need an 80% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions below 2005 levels by 2050.

I want to thank Rep. [fill-in] for his/her active leadership as a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee. His/her guidance can help pass strong and effective climate legislation.

Urgent Action: Call your legislators!

2009-03-30T12:47:00.000-05:00

We have an urgent request for folks to call their Representative ASAP to encourage s/he to sign onto a letter addressed to Chairman Waxman, asking him to make sure he includes funding for international adaptation in his climate bill. Deadline is tomorrow at noon (Tuesday) so we need to get this out to folks to call as soon as possible. Email action alert and script is pasted below. Anything you can do to circulate this to your friends and family would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks so much!

____________________________________
I just got a call from our Washington, DC office. Rep. Waxman (D-CA) is deciding this week on whether to provide funding in a climate bill to help millions of the world's poorest people deal with the devastating effects of climate change. We need your help.

A letter is circulating right now that will show Mr. Waxman just how much support there is for assisting vulnerable people to cope with the climate crisis both at home and abroad. The deadline for Congressional members to sign on to the letter is NOON TOMORROW!

Can you take two minutes to call your Representative right now to help ensure that international funding to help the poorest countries deal with climate-impacts make it into this year’s climate legislation?

Here’s how:

1.) Dial your Representative’s office at 1-800- 814-2608 before tomorrow.
2.) Tell the staff person answering the phone that you’re calling to ask your Representative to please sign the letter addressed to Chairman Waxman urging him to include in his bill international investments for a global solution to climate change.
3.) When you’ve finished speaking with the Congressional office, click here to report back to us on how the call went.

The final step of letting us know how your call went is vital — it helps us know if you support this effort and is useful when we talk to Congress members. As you know, climate change is already having a devastating impact on poor countries. These countries are the least responsible for the climate crisis and are the least able to cope with its devastating impacts. Yet, developing nations are twenty times more likely to be hit with climate-related natural disasters. If funding for adaptation programs isn't included in this year’s climate change legislation, we will miss a major opportunity to help the world’s poorest people survive the effects of global warming. We also will make it almost impossible to secure a global agreement to solve the climate crisis.

Will you please make sure that our leaders know the how important international funding is? Call your Representative at 1-800- 814-2608 today! And then click here once you’ve called to report that you’ve raised your voice in Washington.

Thank you for your continued activism and support.

Sincerely,
Tim Fullerton
Oxfam America

Toll-Free Script: Greeting Message:[OPENING] Hello. Thank you for calling the Climate Change Take Action hotline. Your voice will make a difference! Rep. Waxman, the chairman of the House Energy and Commerce committee, is deciding this week whether or not to provide funding in a climate bill to help millions of the world's poorest people deal with the devastating effects of climate change. Right now, a letter is circulating that will show Mr. Waxman how much support there is for assisting vulnerable people to cope with the climate crisis both at home and abroad. In a moment, you’ll be connected directly to your Representative in Washington. Tell your Representative’s office your name and what city you live in, then tell them that you are calling to ask your Representative to please sign the letter addressed to Chairman Waxman urging him to include in his bill international investments for a global solution to climate change.

Pre- Transfer Message: Again, tell your Representative that you are a constituent by mentioning your name and what city you live in and, tell them that you are calling to ask your representative to please sign the letter addressed to Chairman Waxman urging him to include in his bill international investments for a global solution to climate change. Please hold and in a few seconds you will be connected. [TRANSFER TO LEGISLATOR]

Upcoming Concert Outreach

2009-03-15T23:11:00.000-05:00

Missy Higgins - March 13th

Bloc Party - March 28th

M.Ward - April 26th

Coldplay - July 25th

To find out more or to get involved with our concert outreach team, please email chicago.oxfamactioncorps@gmail.com

Upcoming Events

2008-09-02T18:36:00.000-05:00

COME OUT AND BE PART OF THE ACTION:
Let us know if you want to join in on any of the upcoming events!

Good Greens Festival
Saturday, September 6, 2008
DuSable Museum of African American History - 740 E. 56th Place
Farmers Market, healthful food preparation demonstrations, panel discussion, and free concert
Come table and enjoy the Festival!

SGI USA Think Peace Take Action Day
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Chicago Cultural Center - 78 E. Washington
Lecture by UN representative Hiro Sakura, members of SGI USA, DePaul University, Peace Alliance, and the United Nations Association
Come table and attend the lecture!

Sisters on the Planet Screening and Reception
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Gene Siskel Film Center - 164 North State Street
Premiere screening of Oxfam's Sisters on the Planet documentary followed by a reception and discussion
Come volunteer and watch!

Congressional Lobby Visits
Scheduled at times that work for you
Set up a personal lobby visit with Illinois representatives and senators

Oxfam Social! Come join us...

2008-08-15T15:38:00.000-05:00

As we are cruising through August, we wanted to extend the invite to come join the local Oxfam Community for an end-of-the-summer gathering! For the past several months, the Oxfam Chicago community has been out at concerts, street festivals, and activist breakfasts working to bring attention to the current effects that climate change has on poor communities around the world.

Come meet other like minded Oxfam supporters, see how "Oxfamers" have gotten involved in the past, learn about what's coming up in the Oxfam world in the future, and just have a good time! Friends are of course, always welcome.

WHEN: TUESDAY, August 19, 2008
TIME: 7:00 - 9:30

We'll have soda, beer and pizza, so in order to make sure our numbers are on point, please send us your RSVP to chicago.oxfamactioncorps@gmail.com.

Public Transit Directions: One block from the green and orange line Roosevelt
Stop & 2 blocks from the red line Roosevelt Stop.

Thanks, looking forward to seeing you there!
Christina

Coldplay!

2008-08-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

We've been rolling deeep at recent Coldplay shows at the United Center! A total of 20 volunteers out both nights talking to folks about Oxfam's mission and signing people up to get involved and support the work we're doing! 1,143 signatures, I believe..

Great time had by all, wonderful job on behalf of the volunteers who came out, thank you so much for your energy!

Activist Breakfast in Pilsen

2008-07-14T15:45:00.000-05:00

Time for another activist breakfast! We're switching it up and heading to Pilsen this month. Come join us!

Efebos Cafe
1640 S. Blue Island
(few blocks south of Roosevelt, few blocks west of Racine)
Saturday, July 19th - 10am

We'll be talking about (drumroll please..):

Outreach at the upcoming Coldplay concert
Other neighborhood street festivals
Upcoming release of Sisters on the Planet documentary (with a sneak preview!)
House Parties and an Oxfam Summer Social for late August
Updates about climate change and Congress, recent contact with Sen. Durbin's office and other local political opportunities
And finally... we'll be taking Obama up on his offer to help create the platform for the Democratic Party! (We'll also be submitting it to the Republican National Convention committee.)

Stop by to hear more about what's going on with Oxfam Action Corps here in Chicago! It's a busy summer, come be a part of the movement! Please RSVP to chicago.oxfamactioncorps@gmail.com.

If you're coming on the CTA:
Take the pink/blue line to the 18th St. stop, walk east (left out the doors) on 18th St. to the intersection of Loomis/Blue Island/18th - follow the diagonal just past the McDonald's. It's about 10-15 minutes from the loop/downtown area.

Hope to see you there!
Christina

Activist Breakfast this Saturday

2008-06-17T21:42:00.000-05:00

Hey hey everyone, we're kicking off a renewed monthly activist breakfast for Chicago area people interested in getting involved and just learning more while having some good conversation. Join us! The details are as follows:

Saturday, June 21st at 10am
Heartland Cafe
7000 N. Glenwood
(Rogers Park neighborhood)

We'll have light breakfast and a cup of coffee waiting for you :) I know Rogers Park can be a bit of a hike, if you have suggestions for upcoming months, favorite cafes, etc.. drop us a line: chicago.oxfamactioncorps@gmail.com

Hope to see you there!!

Who we are

2008-05-28T21:06:00.000-05:00

The Oxfam Action Corps is a group of dedicated volunteers in more than a dozen US cities who campaign with Oxfam to fight poverty. Our current campaign focuses on climate change and its effects on the world’s poorest communities. Learn more about Oxfam’s climate change campaign. As volunteers, we receive ongoing support from Oxfam, including campaign materials, policy strategies, and advice on community organizing. Each city has two trained volunteer “co-leaders” who welcome and orient volunteers throughout the year.

In Chicago the co-leaders are Jackie Jaimes (left) and Christina Bronsing (right). Come meet us, we need your energy and input! We want to hear from you - why do you want to see a more just world, what that would look like? We can help plug you in to some opportunities in Chicago to be a part of creating lasting solutions to poverty and social injustice.

From showing up at a one time event to being a core part of planning our efforts here in Chicago, there are many potential ways you can get involved:

Concert outreach
Tabling at festivals
Lobby visits to local legislative offices
Come to a monthly activist breakfast
Help organize a hunger banquet
Dropping literature off to key locations
Host a house party
Write a letter or editorial
Help get petition signatures
What ideas do you have?

__________________________________________________________

What have we been up to so far?

Since the training in Washington D.C. in early April, the Chicago Action Corps can chalk up:

Lobby visits on Capitol Hill with Sen. Durbin's office, Sen. Obama's office, Rep. Gutierrez's office and maintained contact locally since
Concert outreach at 5 venues
Gathered OVER 1,000 petition signatures in one day at the Green Apple Festival
2 Walks for Climate Justice, involving 65 volunteers
Tabling at Chicago Fair Trade Day
Another 1,200 signatures over 2 days at the Green Festival

Thanks to all the volunteers who have been a part of making this happen.. it couldn't be a reality without you.
Come get involved!
Email us at: chicago.oxfamactioncorps@gmail.com

Chicago Oxfam Action Corps

Join the Oxfam Action Corps and Head to DC!

New Year Social: Hang out at Goose Island with Oxfam!

Celebrate World Food Day on the Farm with the Action Corps - Crop Mob to Spence Farm

Soaring Global Food Price "Pressure Points" Mapped

Famine in Somalia: Realities of a Broken Food System

Join us July 13th at our montly meeting!!!

Chicago Tribune Editorial Endorses Oxfam Biofuels Position

New York Times Blog Mentions Oxfam Report On Food Prices

A Table for 9 Billion

Budget cuts are nothing to laugh about

Budget cuts are nothing to laugh about

International Women's Day in Chicago

In the heartland, a voice from Haiti

Join us in Celebrating International Women's Day

New Volunteer Meeting

Volunteer with the Action Corps

Campaigners bring progress to Cancun Climate Talks

Cancun on the Ground: Poor People Losing Twice

10/10/10, the "Global Work Party."

Monthly Meeting August 5th

Oxfam America press release:

Congress passes law to end secrecy in oil, gas, and mining industry — Oxfam America

Tell your Senators: Don’t Leave Poor People Out of the Climate Bill!

July Monthly Meeting: Thursday, July 1st

Hardest hit: El Salvador

Summer Volunteer Opportunities

Lobby Visit to Illinois Senatorial Delegation on June 2nd

2010 Chicago Oxfam Action Corps Kick-Off Meeting

Reducing disaster risks: women raise their voices in the streets and in the courts — Oxfam America

Rains across Peru destroy crops, small businesses, and thousands of homes — Oxfam America

WWD 2010: Clean Water for a Healthy World

Help for Haiti Benefit Party

Haiti Benefit at Greenheart Shop

2010 Chicago Oxfam Action Corps

Hope for Haiti NOW

Write a Letter to the Editor

Make A Call Tomorrow!

International Womens Week

Copenhagen COP OUT

Copenhagen 101

The Largest Global Action in HISTORY!

Oct 24th ACTION: Roger's Park Carbon Free Picnic and Music Festival

The no B.S. youth report from Bangkok

CRUDE Documentary Screening: OCT 2-8!

Oxfam Action Corps Celebrates International Day of Climate Action!

SAVE THE DATE: International Day of Climate Action

Monthly Activist Meet-Up

Check out Oxfam's new video!

Climate Change Calls for Adaptation says UN

As researchers predict substantial changes to the environment because of global warming, scientists discuss how to get information about the scope of climate change into the hands of decision makers.

Climate Rally TODAY @ NOON!

Save the date Oct 24th for INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CLIMATE ACTION leading up to Copenhagen!

Ice Cream Social Tomorrow (08/26)!!

Letter/petition to Senator Durbin

Activists Meet-up and Summer Potluck!

VOTE this week on ACES ACT! Call/email your REP!

Our upcoming events:

*Location change for screening!*

Sisters on the Planet Screening

Activist Meet-Up

TAKE ACTION TODAY

Urgent Action: Call your legislators!

Upcoming Concert Outreach

Upcoming Events

Oxfam Social! Come join us...

Coldplay!

Activist Breakfast in Pilsen

Activist Breakfast this Saturday

Who we are

Location change for screening!