DON'T see your item listed?!? Don't let us make that mistake again! Please send your calendar listing to CCAWR (at) aol.com with the subject heading “CALENDAR.”

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FEATURED ITEMS:

Saturday, May 14 – “Activists: Know Your Rights!” a presentation by the Chicago Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild. What can you expect at a demonstration? What are your rights to protest, march and rally? Has the USA PATRIOT Act changed these rights? What happens if you are arrested? If you are not a United States citizen, how will an arrest or conviction affect your immigration status? What is happening in other cities? Join a panel of activists and attorneys from the National Lawyers Guild who will present their understanding of current law, your rights and what to expect if you are arrested at a demonstration. Presenters will include local NLG attorneys Melinda Power, Janine Hoft and Susan Compernolle. 1 pm – 3 pm, DePaul University College of Law, 25 E. Jackson, Room 803 (wheelchair accessible).

Thursday, May 19 – On Malcolm X’s birthday and the eve of an important court date, demand justice for Howard Morgan, shot 25 times by four white Chicago cops on February 21st. Morgan remains handcuffed to his hospital bed with $2 million bond, deemed a “flight risk” despite his nearly fatal injuries and his barely being able to walk. The next day, May 20th, Morgan’s lawyer, Leo Holt, will file a motion to get Morgan’s bail reduced. On May 19th, please join a community rally for justice - 7 pm at Old St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 531 N. Kedzie Avenue. Speakers include: Rev. Paul Jakes, President of the Christian Council on Urban Affairs; Bera Davis, President of the West Side NAACP; Marshall Hatch, President of the West Side Branch of Rainbow/PUSH; Luster Jackson of the Chicago Committee to Defend the Bill of Rights; Pat Hill of the African American Police League, and more. Sponsored by the Christian Council on Urban Affairs.

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ONGOING - 24/7 Union Picket - Support the Congress Hotel Strikers! Congress Hotel, 520 S. Michigan. Sponsor: HERE Local 1. Info: www.congresshotelstrike.info

Friday, May 13 – Historian Anne M. Martinez discusses “Crossing \Over: Mexican Labor and the Color in 1920s Chicago,” examining how labor and religion shaped the Mexican experience of race in Chicago in the wake of the Mexican Revolution . 3-5 pm, Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton.

Friday, May 13 – “More Booggie Less Bombs,” anti-war fest with bands, speakers, food and more! DePaul Student Against the War will be hosting the 3rd Annual “Booggie Not Bombs” fest from 12 noon – 10 pm. Join us for a day of protesting US imperialism! Featured speaker is Kathy Kelly of Voices in the Wilderness! Bands include: Insurrect- (political thrash from Cleveland); Cadre- (left-wing folk); Cadionauts-(political electro dance); Shoplifter- (electro clash dance); D Nick-(political hip hop); Ryan Harvey of Riot Folk and more! don't miss out. it's free. it's fun. shake your hips and destroy empire all in one. It's at the Lincoln Park Campus in the quad (on Fullerton between Kenmore and Clifton). Info: Depaulnowar (at) yahoogroups.com

Friday, May 13 - Please attend the public meeting of the DuPage County Election Commission at 9 am, 421 North County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL. Upset with the direction our country is going? The ONLY way to change it is to demand open, fair and accurate elections...and that begins on a local level and YOU! You could pour your time, money, soul and passion into whatever cause is close to your heart and it can all evaporate in the abyss of that black box. Each week, we're learning more troubling matters about elections here in DuPage County. We've learned that some precincts transmit their results via modem to a central tabulator -- the easiest method to hack. Just one person can change the results of an election by hacking into the central tabulator. Just one person can change the results of millions of votes via software, which cannot be examined by us or government election officials because it's a corporate "trade secret." We've learned that the Commission intends on putting a stop to poll watchers asking questions at the end of election day as results are tabulated and transmitted, saying we are "interfering." FOIA requests are being denied and we're being told that data is no longer available, although it should still be kept by law. We've learned that the Commission doesn't appreciate open dialogue during public meetings. Address your concerns to the Commission or support those of us who will be talking -- strength in numbers! Info: jakmail (at) sbcglobal.net

THRU Friday, May 13 - The University of Chicago’s Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture invites you to “Aliens of Extraordinary Ability: A Symposium on Immigration, Alienation, and Contemporary Art,” 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at the Biological Sciences Learning Center at the University of Chicago, Room 001, 924 E. 57th Street. “Alien of Extraordinary Ability” is an immigration status created by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Services, and refers to foreign nationals who possess specialized knowledge or abilities that are considered “outstanding” or “internationally recognized.” Once approved, Aliens of Extraordinary Abilities are allowed to stay and work in the United States without institutional or corporate sponsorship. Albert Einstein, for example, was granted this status. Though it is an official status created by the U.S. government, the phrase “alien of extraordinary ability,” does not escape its science fiction overtones. The symposium intends to playfully explore issues that are otherwise separate, but are brought together by this phrase. The event features visual artists Maria Paschalidou (Greece), Anni Holm (Denmark), Sandie Yi (Taiwan), Pam Nogales (Peru) as well as performance scholars Mshai Mwangola (Kenya) and Paul Edwards (United States). Free and open to the public. Info: www.exaliens.com or 773.702.8063.

THRU Saturday, May 14 – Come to the Speaking Ring Theatre Company’s production of Bertolt Brecht’s “Caucasian Chalk Circle,” an anti-war folktale of a mother and child during wartime. 8 pm, Holy Covenant United Methodist Church, 925 W. Diversey. Info: 312.458.9374

THRU Saturday, May 14 - Regina V. Polk Women's Labor Leadership Conference in St. Charles, IL.

THRU Saturday, May 14 - 5th Annual Chicago Anarchist Film Festival in Wicker Park. The Chicago Anarchist Film Festival celebrates 5 years of radical cinema in the city that is the birthplace of May Day and where Emma Goldman is buried. Selections for the three nights of screenings come from mainstream, mass-released features, rediscovered classics, and the efforts of filmmakers engaged in social change. Each night of the event offers a selection of videos and clips that are grouped according to theme. The organizers of the three-day Festival welcome anarchists, the anarcho-curious, anarcho-friendly, and others to enjoy the program. Schedule of events: May 12 - “The Struggle: Life and Debt – Globalization's impact on Jamaica,” narrated by author Jamaica Kincaid. Libertarias – Escaped nun joins a women's militia during the Spanish Civil War. Carlo Giuliani, A Boy – Carlo's last days as recounted by his mother and comrades. Assorted Shorts – I Thought I was seeing Convicts, Tortured by Joy; May 13 – “Community Despite Capitalism” and “Catching Out” – A peek inside the culture(s) of train hopping. “156 Rivington” – The story of the famous ABC No Rio community space in NYC. “Apple Grown in Wind Tunnel” – Healthcare, industrial waste, cooperation and capitalism. “Wattstax” – Legendary concert in honor of the Watts Revolt and the black experience; May 14 – “No War But the Class War” and “What to Do in Case of Fire” – German radical militants reunite when evidence of a past action resurfaces to threaten them. “Wild Horses” – An anarchist and a banker take an unexpected road trip through Argentina. Assorted Shorts – 6 Minutes of Hardcore Riot Porn, a Few Young Proles. All screenings are at High School, 1542 N. Milwaukee, 3rd level from 6:30-9:30 pm. Films projected from VHS or DVD. A donation of $5 requested each night. Program subject to change.

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Saturday, May 14 – “Activists: Know Your Rights!” a presentation by the Chicago Chapter of the National Lawyers Guild. What can you expect at a demonstration? What are your rights to protest, march and rally? Has the USA PATRIOT Act changed these rights? What happens if you are arrested? If you are not a United States citizen, how will an arrest or conviction affect your immigration status? What is happening in other cities? Join a panel of activists and attorneys from the National Lawyers Guild who will present their understanding of current law, your rights and what to expect if you are arrested at a demonstration. Presenters will include local NLG attorneys Melinda Power, Janine Hoft and Susan Compernolle. 1 pm – 3 pm, DePaul University College of Law, 25 E. Jackson, Room 803 (wheelchair accessible).
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Saturday, May 14 – “The Cost of War,” a teach-in at the UIC College of Nursing, 845 S. Damen, 10 am - 2 pm. Topics include uranium weapons, VA underfunding, the military budget impact, and more. Sponsors: UIC Students for Social Justice, American Friends’ Service Committee, Chicagoans Against War & Injustice, North Suburban Peace Initiative, Voices In The Wilderness, Vietnam Veterans Against the War, and Education Not Empire. Info: healthnotwar-chicago (at) yahoogroups.com

Saturday, May 14 - Chicago Filmmakers presents its “Who Wants Short, Shorts?,” part of its Dyke Delicious Series co-presented by T's Restaurant and Bar. 6-9 pm screening, 8-9 pm social hour, Chicago Filmmakers, 5243 N. Clark Street. Features local, national and international dyke film and video entertainment. We will be aiming for your funny bone, heart, mind and other parts of your anatomy. Wear your cutest, sexiest shorts to enter our Short, Shorts Contest. Prizes will be awarded!

Saturday, May 14 – Author and Haymarket historian William Adelman will host a program including visits to the Haymarket monument, Forest Home Cemetery and more. 1-5 pm, Chicago Historical Society, Clark & North Ave.

Saturday, May 14 – “Our Echoing Demands: The Legacies of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas Today.” Speakers include Jon Davidson of Lambda Legal and Gary Orfield of the Harvard Project on School Desegregation. 2 pm, Harold Washington Library, 430 S. State Street.

Saturday, May 14 – 40th Anniversary of Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. This legendary Chicago neighborhood jazz program turns 40, with performances celebrating that fact by Roscoe Mitchell, Malachi Thompson, Kahil El'Zabar, Harrison Bankhead, and more. 8 pm, HotHouse, 31 E. Balbo.

Saturday May 14 – “Kalabush,” Adonis Florides & Theodoros Nikolaides’s film satire of a Syrian illegal immigrant in Cyprus, 8 pm, Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State Street.

Saturday, May 14 – Peace Fest benefit -- all ages show at 1st Trinity Community Center, 643 W. 31st (take the Dan Ryan to 31st street, than west.to the big church). This is a very comfy auditorium with couches. $5 donation, free food, BYOB. Here’s the performance schedule: 5 pm, D.J.'s start out; 6 pm, “Left”; 7 pm, “Egnaro”; 7:40 pm, “Donor”; 8:30 pm, “Voice Box”; 9 pm, “Psycer Hexic”; 10 pm, “Genral Patton & His Privates”; and 11 pm, “Crusters.” Info: gnrlpatt (at) ameritech.net

Saturday, May 14 – “Preserving Affordable Housing” is the featured topic at 8 pm on CAN TV’s Channel 21 program “Community, Media & You.” The Lawndale community is facing the loss of 1,000 units of project-based Section 8 housing, one example of a growing trend that 150,000 households may face over the next five years. Tony Fuller of the ACORN Housing Corporation and Wyvonia Pickett of ACORN Tenants United join Gene Moreno of the Chicago Rehab Network to discuss affordable housing preservation with host Thom Clark.

Sunday, May 15 – “Chicago Progressives, Let’s Get Our Damn Act Together…and Get Ready for the Economic Collapse.” Catch up on issues we’re all connected to, also let’s figure out how to get superorganized and work together on all the important issues!: environment, economy, peace, justice, and equality. 6-8 pm, Lincoln Restaurant, 4008 N. Licoln (Irving and Damen). Info: Marjorie Zamora, Dept. of Peace Coalition, 708.246.7363

Sunday, May 15 – “Walk for a Just Peace in Israel and Palestine.” Rally in Ridgeland Commons in Oak Park, IL, followed by the Walk, and finishing with a potluck and Advocacy Buffet. Confirmed speakes include: Ali Abunimah, co-founder of the Electronic Intifada (www.electronicintifada.net/), vice-president of the Arab-American Action Network, and regular commentator in national and international broadcast and print media such as CSPAN, BBC, CNN, NPR, and MSNBC; Eyas Alhomouz, co-founder of the Palestine Right to Return Coalition (Al-Awda) and has organized many events around the Palestinian issue; Kevin Coval, a poet and performance artist who has performed on four continents in seven countries at universities, high schools, and conferences; Avner Efendowicz, who was a soldier and an officer in the Israeli invasion into Lebanon in 1982, during which his political opinions shifted sharply to the left, and refused to serve following a tour of duty in the occupied territories; Emily Hauser, an American-Israeli writer who has covered the modern Middle East for a wide range of American and Israeli publications since the early 1990s; Jimmy Johnson, a researcher and organizer for the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions (ICAHD) who recently returned to the US after spending five months in Jerusalem and the West Bank; Mansour Aziz Mansour, who is engaged with the Popular Committee Against the Wall; and Prex Nesbitt, a Chicago-based activist and educator who was active in the movement which helped end South African apartheid.

Sunday, May 15 – “The Impact of American Foreign Policy on Africa.” 10 am, Third Unitarian Church, 301 N. Mayfield. Speaker tba.

Sunday, May 15 - Erin Merryn discusses her new book, “Stolen Innocence: Triumphing Over a Childhood Broken by Abuse.” Now a 19-year-old college student, Erin Merryn was 11 when a trusted relative began sexually abusing her. This powerful, hopeful memoir recounts both the experience and her path toward confrontation, and then recovery. 4:30 pm, Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark Street. Info: 773.769.9299 or wcfbooks (at) aol.com.

Sunday, May 15 – Las Manos Gallery hosts “Ordinary Goddesses Discuss the Details,” a series of short monologues by cartoonist Nicole Hollander, Jackie Taylor, and Stephanie Shaw. 5:30 pm, Las Manos Gallery, 5220 N. Clark Street. Info: 773.728.8910.

Sunday, May 15 - Silk Road Theatre Project's Al Kasida Staged Reading Series proudly presents “Ten Acrobats in an Amazing Leap of Faith,” by Yussef El Guindi, directed by Stuart Carden. “Ten Acrobats” represents a first in American theatre, a Muslim-American family drama steeped in both Muslim identity and the American experience. An Egyptian immigrant family struggles to find their place within American society, navigating inter-generational conflict, their Islamic faith, and the values of two cultures. In evoking universal themes of faith, culture, belonging, and desire, “Ten Acrobats” adds a new chapter to the American immigrant narrative as captured on stage. The staged reading will be followed by a Q & A session with playwright Yussef El Guindi. Free and open to the public. 12:30 pm, The Chicago Temple, First United Methodist Church, 77 W. Washington Street, Chicago Lower Level. Info: jamil.khoury (at) gilloury.com, 312.236.6881, or www.srtp.org

Monday, May 16 – “Courting Disaster?: The Revolutionary Tranformation of Marriage,” with Stephani Coontz, author of "Marriage, A History: From Obedience to Intimacy or How Love Conquered Marriage" and Director of Research and Public Education, Council on Contemporary Families and Professor of History and Family Studies at Evergreen State College. The event is sponsored by the University of Chicago’s School of Social Service Administration, the Center for Gender Studies, and the Center for the Study of Race, Politics, and Culture. Noon – 1:30 pm, SSA Lobby, 969 E. 60th Street. Beverages and dessert provided and there will be books sales on site. Persons with a disability or who feel they may need assistance should contact Sid Colton at 773.702.1145.

Monday, May 16 – “Regret to Inform,” the exquisite and tragic stories of widows of the Vietnam War, part of Civic Cinema and Cafe Society’s films on veterans and war series. 6 pm, Ron's Barbershop, 6041 W. North Avenue, Oak Park, IL. Free and open to the public.

Monday, May 16 – “Vietnam, Long Time Coming,” the story of disabled and able-bodied Vietnamese and American veterans brought together on a journey of reconciliation, part of Civic Cinema and Cafe Society’s films on veterans and war series. 6:30 pm, Chicago Public Library, Lincoln Park Branch, 1150 W. Fullerton Avenue. Free and open to the public.

Monday, May 16 - Young Feminist Book Group at Women & Children First Bookstore discusses “Without a Net: The Female Experience of Growing Up Working Class,” ed. by Michelle Tea. Our book group for feminists in their 20s and 30s talks about this collection of essays by writers who grew up scamming, stealing, and hustling to get food on the table during childhoods scarred by their parents' dead-end dreams and jobs. Ask for 10% off when buying for the group. 7:30 pm, Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark Street. Info: 773.769.9299 or wcfbooks (at) aol.com.

Monday, May 16 – “A Taste for Every Palate,” a food, wine and fine art experience to benefit Women’s Services at Howard Brown Health Center, featuring Alpana Singh, master sommelier and host of WTTW Channel 11’s “Check, Please!” Howard Brown is Chicago’s low cost health center for Chicago’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered community. Activists Ellen Franks and Deborah Mell will be honored with the Cornerstone Award. Also featured will be new artwork by Chicago artists Diane Christiansen, Lora Fosberg, Jeremiah Ketner and Anna Kunz, who will denote 50% of the night’s art sales to Howard Brown. Hosted at Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood. VIP Reception (tickets $125), 5:30 - 6:30 pm. General admission, 6:30 - 9:30 pm. General admission tickets: advance $75; at the door $85. Tickets available online at www.howardbrown.org/tickets.asp

Monday, May 16 - "Just Fill It!" Rally. Birth control? No. Viagra? Sure! This is exactly the attitude we're seeing from some pharmacists in Illinois. If this seems as wrong to you as it does to us, we encourage you to join us in Springfield as we rally for pharmacy access to prescription contraceptives! Planned Parenthood and several other organizations will meet near the Lincoln statue on the East side of the capitol building to voice our support for Gov. Blagojevich's historic emergency rule requiring pharmacies to fill prescriptions for birth control. A special legislative committee will soon begin to review the rule, and it has the power to suspend the rule and prevent it from becoming permanent. A large rally on the capitol steps will be a powerful, persuasive act that the committee can't ignore! www.ppaction.org/ct/NpqOFup1EX6S/http://www.ppaction.org/ct/NpqOFup1EX6S/. Need a ride? Planned Parenthood affiliates around Illinois are coordinating transportation options. For more information on availability and schedules in your area, please send an email to: pas (at) plannedparenthoodcouncil.org Invited speakers: Governor Rod Blagojevich, Senate President Emil Jones, Jr. (D-14), Senator Iris Martinez (D-20), Senator Carol Ronen (D-7), Representative Sara Feigenholtz (D-12), Representative Rosemary Mulligan (R-65). Supporting Organizations: ACLU of Illinois, African American Women Evolving, Inc., Chicago Legal Advocacy for Incarcerated Mothers, Chicago Social Forum, Citizen Action Illinois, Health & Medicine Policy Research Group, Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Illinois Planned Parenthood Council, Law Students for Choice, MergerWatch, Mujeres Latinas en Acción, NARAL Pro-Choice America, National Organization of Women Illinois, Planned Parenthood of the Chicago Area, Planned Parenthood of the Decatur Area, Planned Parenthood of East Central Illinois, Planned Parenthood Heart of Illinois, Planned Parenthood of the St Louis Region, Planned Parenthood of the Springfield Area. 12 noon, east lawn of the State Capitol in Springfield (Lincoln statue at Second and Capitol Streets).

Tuesday, May 17 – Come to the only Illinois screening of “Kaya Taran,” Sashi Kumar’s film drama of the 1984 anti-Sikh massacre that followed the assassination Indira Gandhi and the anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat in 2002. A discussion with the director follows the screening. 7 pm, Saint Xavier University, Butler Reception Room. Sponsor: South Asian Progressive Action Coalition. Info: 773.298.3375

Tuesday, May 17 – “Stop the CTA Cuts!” An open forum on the struggle against CTA cuts, fare hikes and layoffs, featuring Eric Hampton, a 26-year veteran CTA worker recently fired for advocating "illegal strike action" (tentative speaker); Cliff Willmeng, a Labor's Militant Voice activist recently arrested at a protest against CTA cuts at Frank Kruesi's house; Jose Giuseppe Martin, a Midwest Unrest militant also arrested at protest and the other half of the "Kruesi Two." 7 pm at the Chicago Temple, 77 W. Washington, 2nd floor. This event organized by Midwest Unrest and Labor’s Militant Voice. Info: www.midwestunrest.net/fightorwalk, 773.250.7060, midwest_unrest (at) riseup.net, www.laborsmilitantvoice.com, 773.913.8068, or LMVchicago (at) yahoo.com

Tuesday, May 17 - International day of Free Burma demonstrations, including one in front of Chicago's French Consulate. Demand French oil company Total's withdrawal from the Yadana gas pipeline, site of human rights abuses such as murder, extortion, rape, torture, and forced labor. Come join Chicago's first ever Free Burma demonstration in an International Day of Free Burma Action! Students and activists who support the popular movement for human rights and democracy in Burma will demonstrate at 205 N. Michigan Avenue (in front of the French Consulate), 11 am - 12:30 pm. The French government needs to be told to put pressure on the French oil company, Total, which has built a natural gas pipeline through Burma (Myanmar) that has been the site of severe human rights abuses such as forced labor, forced relocation, extrajudicial executions, torture, rape, and arbitrary arrest. This is the same pipeline that was the focus of recent controversy involving the California oil company, UNOCAL, who recently settled the lawsuit against them claiming liability for human rights abuses for $10 million. Please come and show your solidarity with the millions of people in Burma who suffer under the ruling military dictatorship, the State Peace and Development Council. Info: cmoon (at) uchicago.edu, 773.732.4365, www.uscampaignforburma.org or www.burmacampaign.org.uk

Tuesday, May 17 thru Friday, May 20 – Café Society discussions on “What Do We Owe Veterans?” Tuesday: 7-8 pm at Café Mestizo, 2123 S. Ashland Avenue (Spanish Speaking), or at 7:30-8:30 pm at Intelligentsia Coffee, 3123 N. Broadway; Wednesday: 7-8 pm at Buzz Café at the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL, or at 7- 8 pm at Pause, 1107 W. Berwyn Avenue (at Broadway); Thursday: 7-8 pm at Caffe De Luca, 1721 N. Damen Avenue, or at 7-8 pm at Valois, 1518 E. 53rd Street; Friday: 5-6 pm at Ron's Barber Shop, 6041 W. North Ave., Oak Park, IL. Sponsored by The Public Square at the Illinois Humanities Council. The programs aim to promote participatory democracy by creating space for public conversations.

Wednesday, May 18 - “Kalabush,” Adonis Florides & Theodoros Nikolaides’s film satire of a Syrian illegal immigrant in Cyprus, 8 pm, Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State Street.

Wednesday, May 18 - Join the Ride of Silence at 7 pm at Daley Plaza (Dearborn and Washington). The ride of silence is bicycle ride to honor cyclists who have been injured or killed by cars, to raise awareness that we are here, and to demand that we all share the road. It will start and end at Daley plaza, and be about ten miles. There will be time to memorialize bikers killed by cars before the ride. Info: www.rideofsilence.org

Wednesday, May 18 – “Vietnam, Long Time Coming,” the story of disabled and able-bodied Vietnamese and American veterans brought together on a journey of reconciliation, part of Civic Cinema and Cafe Society’s films on veterans and war series. 6:30 pm, Chicago Public Library, Lozano Branch, 1805 S. Loomis Street. Free and open to the public.

Thursday, May 19 - Maria Amparo Escandon: Gonzalez & Daughter Trucking Co. Screenwriter/director John Sayles calls this novel, whose incarcerated narrator enthralls her fellow inmates with tales of a father-daughter trucking team—”1,001 Nights in a Mexicali women’s prison.” 7:30 pm, Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark Street. Info: 773.769.9299 or wcfbooks (at) aol.com.

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Thursday, May 19 – On Malcolm X’s birthday and the eve of an important court date, demand justice for Howard Morgan, shot 25 times by four white Chicago cops on February 21st. Morgan remains handcuffed to his hospital bed with $2 million bond, deemed a “flight risk” despite his nearly fatal injuries and his barely being able to walk. The next day, May 20th, Morgan’s lawyer, Leo Holt, will file a motion to get Morgan’s bail reduced. On May 19th, please join a community rally for justice - 7 pm at Old St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 531 N. Kedzie Avenue. Speakers include: Rev. Paul Jakes, President of the Christian Council on Urban Affairs; Bera Davis, President of the West Side NAACP; Marshall Hatch, President of the West Side Branch of Rainbow/PUSH; Luster Jackson of the Chicago Committee to Defend the Bill of Rights; Pat Hill of the African American Police League, and more. Sponsored by the Christian Council on Urban Affairs.
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Thursday, May 19 – “Daley’s Chicago: City For $ale,” a public forum sponsored by the International Socialist Organization, the UIC International Socialist Club, the NEIU Socialist Club and the HWC Socialist Club. 7 pm, Harold Washington College, Room 319, 30 E. Lake Street. "He wields near-imperial power, and most of Chicago would have it no other way," Time enthused about Richard Daley in naming him one of the country's five best mayors. Daley, Time declared, has used his power "to steer the Windy City into a period of impressive stability, with declining unemployment and splashy growth." Never mind that one in six Chicago families subsists below or near the poverty line. Growth? Forget the uncounted thousands who've been forced out of neighborhoods thanks to rampant gentrification. Then there are the proposed $55 million in "doomsday cuts" to public transit that would cut service by almost 40 percent and lay off 2,000 workers. Next comes Renaissance 2010, the handover of 100 public schools to private business, putting kids under corporate control and gutting the teachers' union contract, even as 800 teachers face layoffs next year. On top of Renaissance 2010, there's now the threat of millions in cuts in funding to Chicago Public Schools. Attend this forum to discuss what activists, union members and community members are doing to fight these brutal cuts and attacks on the living standards of poor and working Chicagoans—and to discuss where these attacks come from and what we can do to build a fight against them. Info: 312.458.9380, chicago_socialists (at) yahoo.com or www.socialistworker.org

Friday, May 20 - Committee on Pilipino Issues (CPI) and Act Now to Stop War and End Racism (A.N.S.W.E.R) present "Philippines, The 'Second Front of the U.S.War Against Terror' - Mindanao: An Eye Witness Report." 6:30 pm, UNITE-HERE, 333 S. Ashland Avenue. Mindanao is a rich land under constant war and intervention. From the Bangsamoro Island of Mindanao, a land of 18 million Muslims, Christians, and Indigenous People. Hear an eyewitness report from Johneric Concordia, Chair of Kabataang maka-Bayan (Pro-People Youth) USA, who has returned from a four month integration trip in Mindanao, Philippines. Johneric will be sharing an in-depth perspective of the ongoing struggle of the Bangsamoro people in their fight for self determination and rights to ancestral lands. As the Philippines has been declared as the 2nd Front in Bush Jr's so-called "War on Terror", Mindanao and its people face continuous hadships, exploitation, human rights violations and oppression perpetrated by the U.S.backed Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo regime. Info: CPI (at) PINOY.ORG, answerchicago (at) gmail.com or 773 878-0166

Friday, May 20 – Press conference for Howard Morgan just before his court date. 9 am on the steps of the courthouse, 26th and California (see details under May 19th event listed above).

Friday, May 20 – “Resistance 2010: Rock Against Recruitment!” Studio Colibri, 2032 W. 18th Street (just west of damen), 6 pm -11:30 pm. ALL AGES $6 donation, $3 high school student (no one turned away). Featuring: Dusty Bottomz and Gustav Mandible (hip hop); Skokie (Ska); Tras de Nada (anarcho-punk); Gilead 7 (Hip Hop); Jack Frost (Hip Hop); and Influence (Hip Hop). The Chicago Public School System is the most militarized in the country. Every day, recruiters patrol the halls of our junior high schools, high schools, community colleges, and universities looking for fresh bodies to send to war. JROTC and ROTC programs drain school districts of financial resources and indoctrinate the youth. Join the movement to stop military recruiting and say NO to the Army of One!

Saturday, May 21 – Stop Military Recruiters at Navy Pier, Chicago! Meet at park in front of Navy Pier, 10:30 am. Help pass out information to counter military recruiting by the U.S. military on Armed Forces Day. Students, youth, veterans and parents say “No Recruiters in Our Schools,” “No Senn High School Naval Academy!” and “No JROTC and ROTC in Our Classrooms!”

Saturday, May 21 – “Not Your Average Housing Fair,” presented by Latinos United and the Near Northwest Neighborhood Network/Humboldt Park Empowerment Partnership, a free, comprehensive housing fair going above and beyond the average housing fair based on home ownership! The fair will cover everything from housing discrimination, to local affordable housing waiting lists, to tenant /landlord rights, to block clubs, to homeless services, to homeownership and more, through booths and workshops in English and Spanish. It will also serve as an organizing tool to engage residents in locally-based efforts to stabilize the community. Live artistic interpretations related to housing from the Youth Action Team members of the community and others complement the event. “Not Your Average Housing Fair!” will be geared toward the greater West Town, Humboldt Park, and Logan Square communities, but all are welcome! Sponsored by Washington Mutual and the Office of Alderman Billy Ocasio. 10 am – 1 pm, Humboldt Park Fieldhouse, 1440 N. Sacramento Avenue. For info or to host a booth, call Katie Van Tiem of Latinos United at 312.782.7500, or Rubén D. Feliciano of the Near Northwest Neighborhood Network at 773.489.0383

Saturday, May 21 – Civil Liberties Benefit for the Chicago Committee to Defend the Bill of Rights, honoring The Hon. Abner J. Mikva and Bennett J. Johnson, Jr. Mikva is a former Chief Judge, U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, former member of Illinois legislature and U.S. House of Representatives, and former White House counsel to President Bill Clinton. He will address the crowd on the subject of “Law vs. Order.” Johnson is former President of the Evanston branch of the NAACP, Vice President of Third World Press, and co-founder of Protest at the Polls. Program: 11:30am – Noon, special reception with honorees; Noon – 1 pm, buffet; 1 pm – 2 pm, program. Tickets: $100 -- special reception with honorees, names listed in program book, buffet and program; $50 -- buffet and program; $25 -- program only. To reserve tickets either send a check to CCDBR, 1325 S. Wabash, Suite 105, Chicago IL 60605 (checks can be made out to CCDBR or – for a tax deduction -- to the Bill of Rights Foundation), or call or email to make your reservation, 312.939.0675 or ccdbr (at) pobox.com. Please indicate the quantity and category of tickets/donations you wish to record. All tickets will be held at the door.

Saturday, May 21 - Support Benton Harbor two years after the rising. Two years ago, after another poor and Black resident of Benton Harbor, Michigan, was killed in a police chase, Benton Harbor was rocked by an uprising that lasted several nights and garnered the small town national attention, refocusing the national spotlight on police brutality. But the nature of our country, our media and our mindsets leaves us with very little memory, and the people of Benton Harbor, across the lake from Chicago, has bave been forgotten. Reverend Edward Pinkney, who works with the Black Autonomy Network of Community Organizers, has recently been arrested, and called for a protest rally to continue the struggle on May 21st, at Noon. More details will be posted shortly, and it is requested that people begin organizing caravans NOW! Chicago made a big showing two years ago at rallies called for by local activists like Rev. Pinkney, so let's show them that we haven't forgotten.

Saturday, May 21 and Sunday, May 22 - Hemp Fest Montrose & the Lakefront at Cricket Hill. Bands playing so far include 9MM, Smoke, Tribal Moon, Hells Funk, Secret Agent Bill, Fashion Bomb, Frequency Below, Starrunner, and Genral Patton & His Privates. Many acoustics, speakers and poets. Food by the Heartland Café. Free admission - bring a blanket! Band schedule is Saturday: Hi Noon -Roadcrew; 1 pm - Tribal Moon; 2 pm - Frequency Below; 3 pm - Hell's Funk; 4 pm - Secret Agent Bill; 5 pm - Charlie Pierce; 6:30 pm - Blizzard Of Ozz; 7:30 pm - Fashion Bomb; 8:30 pm - 9MM. Sunday: Hi Noon - Electric Medicine; 1 pm - New Fuze; 2 pm - The Flock; 3 pm - Might as Well; 4 pm - Genral Patton & His Privates; 5 pm – Smoke; 6 pm - The Giving Tree; and 7:30 pm – Starrunner. We gather to change the laws, not to break them. Info: gnrlpatt (at) ameritech.net

Sunday, May 22 - Free film/discussion program showing “Peace, Propaganda and the Promised Land: U.S. Media and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.” The program is co-sponsored by the Countryside Social Action Committee, Not In My Name (www.NIMN.org), Northwest Suburban S.U.S.T.A.I.N (www.nwsustain.org/). 1:30 pm, Countryside Unitarian Church, 1025 North Smith Road, Palatine, IL. Info: sustainnwburbs (at) yahoo.com

Sunday, May 22 – The Studs Terkel Awards 2005, 3:30 pm on Chicago’s CAN-TV Channel 21, featuring tributes to Lu Palmer, Vernon Jarrett and Grant Pick, wit and wisdom of awardees Tracy Baim, John Conroy and Mary Schmich, and Studs Terkel himself. For more about this year's winners and pictures from this great event, go to www.newstips.org/interior.php

Monday, May 23 – Forum regarding protesters at gay Pride. Present and/or speaking at the event: Bill Greaves, Mayor Daley’s Liason to the LGBT community; Bennett Lawson, representative of Ald. Tom Tunney; Jenny Mutation of the Chicagoland Anarchist Network; a representative from 23rd District Town Hall police station; and Bob Schwartz of the Gay Liberation Network. 6:30 pm, Merlo Public Library, 644 W. Belmont.

Monday, May 23 – “A Critical Look at Antonio Negri’s Multitude.” 6:30 pm, News & Letters, 36 S. Wabash, Room 1440. Info: arise (at) newsandletters.org or 312.236.0799

Monday, May 23 – “No Vietnamese Ever Called Me N**ger,” part of Civic Cinema’s and Cafe Society’s film series on veterans and war. This film features interviews with three African-American Vietnam veterans about the racism they encountered in the armed forces, both in training and at the front and their feelings of resentment about the fact that after they allegedly fought for the freedom of others in Southeast Asia, they returned home to find that discrimination and poverty still existed. 6 pm, Ron's Barbershop, 6041 W. North Avenue, Oak Park, IL.

Tuesday, May 24 thru Friday, May 27 – Café Society discussions on “How the Media Has Shaped Our Perceptions of War.” Tuesday: 7-8 pm at Café Mestizo, 2123 S. Ashland Avenue (Spanish Speaking), or at 7:30-8:30 pm at Intelligentsia Coffee, 3123 N. Broadway; Wednesday: 7-8 pm at Buzz Café at the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL, or at 7- 8 pm at Pause, 1107 W. Berwyn Avenue (at Broadway); Thursday: 7-8 pm at Caffe De Luca, 1721 N. Damen Avenue, or at 7-8 pm at Valois, 1518 E. 53rd Street; Friday: 5-6 pm at Ron's Barber Shop, 6041 W. North Ave., Oak Park, IL. Sponsored by The Public Square at the Illinois Humanities Council. The programs aim to promote participatory democracy by creating space for public conversations

Thursday, May 26 - Art "Chat Daddy" Sims and the entire Real Deal Staff in association with Afrocentric Bookstore are honored to welcome the legendary Michael Eric Dyson, Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania Avalon Foundation Professor in the Humanities, Department or Religious Studies, Ph.D. Princeton University. Join us for a very stimulating debate on his latest masterpiece, “Is Bill Cosby Right? Or Has the Black Middle Class Lost Its Mind?” Now available on the anniversary of Bill Cosby's infamous assault on the black poor during his NAACP Awards speech on May 17, 2004. Nothing exposed the ever-increasing divide in black America today more starkly than Bill Cosby, the comedian-cum-social critic, when he lamented what he sees as a lack of parenting, poor academic performance, sexual promiscuity, and criminal behavior amongst what he called the "knuckleheads" of the African-American community. Even more surprising than his own comments, however, was the fact that the audience laughed and applauded. Michael Eric Dyson deconstructs Cosby's speech and offers a critical and much needed reassessment of the social and cultural issues facing America's black poor. Displaying the critical prowess and commitment to struggling African Americans that have made Dyson the nation's preeminent spokesman for the hip-hop generation, Is Bill Cosby Right? Named by Essence magazine as one of the nation's "50 most inspiring African Americans," Dr. Michael Eric Dyson has been dubbed by the Philadelphia Inquirer as "a major American thinker and cultural critic." Dr. Dyson earned a Ph.D. from Princeton University in Religion. After teaching posts at Chicago Theological Seminary, Brown University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Columbia University and DePaul University, he is presently the Avalon Foundation Professor in the Humanities, and Professor of Religious Studies and African Studies, at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Dyson has written ten books in ten years, ranging from works on cultural criticism, race theory, religious thought, philosophical reflection and gender, and sexual studies. He has also written four books on "biocriticism" - works that use biography to probe social themes and cultural politics. These include “Making Malcolm: The Myth and Meaning of Malcolm X,” named a New York Times "notable book of 1994" and one of the outstanding black books of the 20th century by Black Issues Book Review; “I May Not Get There With You: The True Martin Luther King, Jr.,” a national bestseller that was also nominated for an NAACP Image Award; “Holler If You Hear Me: Searching for Tupac Shakur,” his best-selling treatment of the slain rapper and icon; his most recent bestseller, “Mercy, Mercy Me: The Art, Loves and Demons of Marvin Gaye.” Dyson has also published “The Michael Eric Dyson Reader” and “Why I Love Black Women,” a national bestseller that won the 2004 NAACP Image Award for outstanding nonfiction literary work. Dyson is also an ordained Baptist minister, radio commentator for NPR's Tavis Smiley Show, contributing writer for Philadelphia Magazine, and frequent guest on the nation's leading cultural and political television shows. Before all of his success, the former church pastor was a teen father on welfare in his native Detroit who worked in several factories before starting college at 21. That may explain why, despite being termed a "superstar professor" by the Washington Post, author Nathan McCall simply calls Dr. Dyson "a street fighter in suit and tie." Jack's Java, 9649 S. Western (plenty of lot & off-street parking). Doors open at 7:30 pm, Chat begins promptly at 8 pm. $10 donation. Info: 773.239.JAVA or www.jacksjava.com/

Thursday, May 26 - Niles Township Democratic Meetup. Roy Parrish, the only GI counselor for Viet Nam Veterans Against the War, will talk about the plight of Iraq War veterans, as well as the benefit cuts, diminished health services, and other problems facing veterans of all wars. In addition, a representative of Chicago Youth for Conscientius Objectors will explain how young people (and their parents) can handle military recruiters, become a conscientious objector, and more. 7 pm, Edwardo's, 9300 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL. Info: visit illinoisdemnet.com or email lkyarrow (at) yahoo.com

Thursday, May 26 – Vigil for anti-police brutality activist May Molina on the one year anniversary of her death in police custody. 7:30 pm, Belmont & Western police brutality.

Thursday, May 26 - Michael Eric Dyson at the Harold Washington Library. No other information available.

Friday, May 27 - Critical Mass Bike Ride, 5:30 pm, Daley Plaza. Info: www.critical-mass.org

Friday, May 27 - Free film/discussion based on “Peace, Propaganda, and the Promised Land: U.S. Media and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.” 7 pm at the Elmhurst Public Libary, 125 S. Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. Co-sponsored by Not In My Name (NIMN), a predominantly Jewish group that opposes the U.S. backed Israeli occupation of the Palestinian land seized in 1967, and the Committee for Justice and Peace in Israel and Palestine (CJPIP). Info: 312.409.4845.

Friday, May 27 – Homofrecuencia presents “Noche de Arco iris: Queer Prom 2005.” Students and community activists met recently in Pilsen to begin planning a ‘prom’ for youth who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and their allies. The planning committee, which is mostly Latino, feels that it is important to create visibility for the queer community that already exists in Pilsen. “Many young LGBTQQ people that attend high schools from the area don’t get to enjoy their school’s prom as other kids do” said Tania Unzueta, senior producer of Homofrecuencia, a Spanish-language LGBTQ show that broadcasts from Radio Arte. Although this is not the first time that a ‘prom’ for LGBTQ teens is planned in Chicago, it is the first time that it is done outside of the well established gay neighborhood of Boystown. Pilsen is a predominantly Mexican neighborhood. “That’s part of the point,” said Unzueta, “we want to create a safe space for us within our own communities. We want to be who we are, where we live.” Tickets are $10. Doors open at 7 pm, Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum, 1852 W. 19th Street. Homofrecuencia is a production of Radio Arte WRTF Chicago. Radio Arte is a youth initiative of the Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum. For more info or tickets, call Tania at 312.455.9455, x108 or tania (at) radioarte.org. More info: www.wrte.org/homofrecuencia

Friday, May 27 and Saturday, May 28 - Concert for peace, sponsored by Amnesty International. Includes 18 punk, ska, metal, grunge, reggae, and other bands of different tastes. Location t.b.a. Info: 708.899.4313 or seanski35 (at) aol.com

Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29 – “Gunner Palace,” first-hand accounts of the war in Iraq from "The Gunners" whose barracks are the bombed-out pleasure palace of Uday Hussein (nicknamed Gunner Palace), situated in the heart of the most volatile section of Baghdad. Part of Civic Cinema’s and Cafe Society’s films on veterans and war series. 2 pm on both days, Facets Cinematheque, 517 W. Fullerton Avenue. Admission: $9

Sunday, May 29 - Open organizing meeting against the CTA cuts. No Layoffs or Firings! No Fare Hikes! 2 pm, 36 S. Wabash, Room 1440 (News and Letters office, half a block south of the Madison "L" stop). The CTA is planning massive service cuts to go into effect July 17. This includes increasing cash fare to $2, a reduction of service by 36%, completely eliminating 54 bus routes as well as the Purple Line, and laying off 2000 CTA workers. These cuts are an outright attack on poor and working people across the city. The politicians aren't doing anything to stop this. We have to take matters into our own hands. Everyone who is interested in putting pressure on the CTA and the City to stop the cuts is welcome. Pass on the word! In attendance at this meeting will be members of: The Arsenal Collective; The Black Autonomy Network of Community Organizers; Blackstone Underground (Southside Anti-Capitalist Group); The Industrial Workers of the World; Labor's Militant Voice; Midwest Unrest; News and Letters; and more ... Info: www.midwestunrest.net/fightorwalk or 773.250.7060

Monday, May 30 – Vietnam Veterans Against the War Memorial Day ceremony. Info: 773.276.4189

Tuesday, May 31 - Local author Jeff Libman will read from his new book, “An Immigrant Class: Oral Histories from Chicago's Newest Immigrants” at an event to benefit Literacy Works, a not-for-profit group that supports more than 40 literacy programs around Chicago. Suggested donation: $10. 7:30 pm, Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark Street. Info: 773.769.9299 or wcfbooks (at) aol.com.

Wednesday, June 1 - Wellington Avenue UCC Progressive Film Series features “Hotel Palestine: Killing the Witness”, a powerful film documenting the US military’s killing of Spanish journalist José Couso in Iraq. The Palestine Hotel was to be a safe-space for members of the international media, including unembedded reporters who were capturing the essence of war. On April 8th, 2003 a US tank aimed and opened fire on the hotel. 7 pm, Wellington Avenue United Church of Christ, 615 W. Wellington Avenue (Broadway and Wellington). Admission Free.

Wednesday, June 1 and Thursday, June 2 – The media landscape is changing fast. Internet communications are exploding. Daily newspaper circulation is down. Cable TV news is hot; network TV news is not. Non-profit and public interest groups need to rethink and retool their communications and media strategies. There is nowhere better to do that than at 2005 Community Media Workshop, “Making Media Connections Conference,” all day both days, Columbia College Chicago, 1104 S. Wabash Avenue. Keynote speakers are Alex Kotlowitz, investigative journalist and award-winning author speaking on “Ways to Improve Coverage of ‘Real’ Chicago Stories,” and Mary Mitchell, outstanding journalist and noted Sun-Times columnist speaking on “How the Media Can and Should Get Real.” Workshop and panel discussion topics include: SPIN 101: Media Boot Camp; Jump-Start Your Creativity: Writing For The Media And The World; Become A Better Storyteller; Power Pitching: The Phone Call Worth 1000 Words; Secrets Of Effective Powerpoint Presentations; The Art Of The Television Interview; Stop Being A Bore: Use Creativity In Your Media Communications; Reaching the Editorial Page; What’s Happening to Radio; Online Publications; Journalism for Social Change; Working with Columnists; What¹s Happening with the Chicago Sun-Times and Tribune; Going National; Accessing Public Radio; How Blogging is Transforming the Media Landscape; The Changing Weekly Newspaper; What's New with Magazines; Local Television Possibilities; Creating Media Relationships; New Thoughts on Press Kits and Media Publications; A Primer on Political Communications; How and Why to Blog; Successful Media Campaigns; Fighting for Funding; Hiring and Working with PR Agencies; Internet Marketing Tips; How Not to Give a Speech; Success Stories; Special Events That Work; and Fighting for Funding. The conference is a unique opportunity to meet with working journalists, pitch your stories to them, and improve your media communications skills. Workshops will be available. For more information and reserve your place at the conference, go to www.newstips.org.

Friday, June 3 thru Sunday, June 5 - RadFest/Midwest Social Forum, an annual weekend conference for progressive activists organized by the Havens Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The central purpose of the forum is to contribute to social movement building by providing organizers, activists, community members, and intellectuals the opportunity to come together to discuss issues, strengthen networks, and devise strategies for progressive social, economic, and political change. In recent years, the forum has grown considerably, and this year’s program is by far the biggest yet. It includes over fifty panels and workshops (including plenary sessions on “The New Voting Rights Movement” and “Building a Multi-Racial Movement”), strategy sessions designed to foster strategic coordination among participating organizations and individuals, a RadFilmFest hosted by Free Speech TV, musical performances by Taste Emcees ( www.gorillapromo.com/spot_taste.html ) and One Drum (www.onedrum.net/), visual art displays, and daytime recreational activities. Lake Geneva Campus of Aurora University in Williams Bay, WI, about 50 miles southwest of Milwaukee, 70 miles southeast of Madison, and 80 miles northwest of Chicago. Info: complete program, logistical information and to register at www.radfest.org or info (at) havenscenter.org

Saturday, June 11 – Pride Kickoff! “I Was a Teenage Feminist,” part of Chicago Filmmakers’ Dyke Delicious Series, presented in conjuction with Chicago N.O.W. 6 pm and 9 pm screening; 8 - 9 pm social hour at Chicago Filmmakers, 5243 N. Clark Street. Filmmaker and former Chicagoan Therese Shechter in person for the Chicago premiere of her new documentary, “I Was a Teenage Feminist” (2005, 67 mins.). Is feminism dead, hibernating, or trapped below the radar? Have the goals of the '70s been accomplished or has Victoria's Secret won out? “I Was a Teenage Feminist” is a first-person journey into the movement that once sparked social revolution, yet now commonly evokes discomfort, indifference and even disdain. Armed with a video camera, an inquiring mind, and an irreverent sense of humor, Shechter crisscrosses the country and her own psyche in the hope of reclaiming feminism as a source of personal and political power.

Sunday, June 12 - The Chicago Committee to Free the Cuban 5 presents “Butterflies on the Scaffold,” about how an historically poor and abandoned Afro-Cuban neighborhood of Havana is transformed by beautiful and charismatic drag queens. Cuba’s first and only “dragumentary” takes us on stage for the show, backstage for the preparation, and out to the community, where interviews with community leaders who how their attitudes changed and their insight grew. In English, with Spanish subtitles, at 2 pm, DePaul University’s Lincoln Park Campus, Schmitt Academic Center, 2320 N. Kenmore, Room 254 (near the “Fullerton” stop on the Red Line “el”). Info: 773.376.7521, 773.465.0177, or uscubachi (at) hotmail.com

Thursday, June 16 – The Irish American Heritage Center presents “Bloomsday 2005,” its sixth annual event celebrating the legacy of writer James Joyce. On June 16, 1904, writer James Joyce met his wife, Nora Barnacle, and immortalized the date in his monumental epic, “Ulysses.” Modern Joyce aficionados have denoted June 16th "Bloomsday"; a day set aside throughout the world to honor the great man and his controversial and thought-provoking works. Entertainment will include readings, music and song presented by notables from Chicago’s theater and music community. The group will perform excerpts from Joyce's “A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man,” “Dubliners,” “Ulysses” and “Finnegan's Wake,” as well as biographical detail on Joyce's life. Directed by Center member, Josephine Craven, the evening will begin with cocktails at 6:30 pm and dinner at 7:30 pm at the irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox. The cost for the celebration is $40 and includes wine and soft drinks with dinner. International Joyce, a traveling exhibit on the life of James Joyce, sponsored by the Cultural Division of the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, will be on display at the Center during the month of June. The Irish American Heritage Center fosters the practice, study and celebration of Irish, Celtic and Irish-American cultural traditions. Membership in the Center is open to anyone with an interest in these traditions. Info: 773.282.7035 or www.irishamhc.com.

Thursday, June 16 thru Sunday, June 19 - The 17th Onion City Experimental Film and Video Festival. Onion City presents a diverse selection of the best in experimental film and video from around the world over four days. Check our website or contact us in mid-May for a complete schedule. Opening Night on June 16 will be held at the Gene Siskel Film Center and will feature a specially selected program of new work by some experimental film greats.

Thursday, June 16 – The Iraq Labor Tour in Chicago. Info: lduncan (at) igc.org

Friday, June 17 thru Thursday, June 23 - African Diaspora Film Festival. Info: www.Facets.org

Friday, June 24 - Critical Mass Bike Ride, 5:30 pm, Daley Plaza. Info: www.critical-mass.org

Saturday, June 25 - New Date of Spring Fundraiser for the Urban Life Center. The Urban Life Center Spring Fundraiser originally scheduled for Saturday, April 30, has been moved to Saturday, June 25 at 7 pm at the Bailiwick Theater, 1229 W. Belmont. If you’ve already purchased a ticket from Urban Life Center, it can be applied to the June 25 event. Refunds are also available for your donation. Info: www.urbanlifecenter or call Sarah at 773.363.1312 if you’d like a refund.

Saturday, June 25 – Annual Chicago Dyke March. Assemble at 1:30 pm at the Trumbull Elementary School's playground on the corner of Ashland and Foster.

Saturday, June 25 and Sunday, June 26 - Conference on IWW Centenary, UIC, centenary (at) iww.org

Sunday, June 26 – Join the Gay Liberation Network contingent in this year’s Gay Pride Parade!! Whether gay or not, all who agree with our slogan for this year’s contingent, “Money for Health Care, NOT for Warfare,” are welcome to participate! Meet at the corner of Halsted and Diversey at 11:30 am. Info: LGBTliberation (at) aol.com or 773.209.1187

Thursday, June 23 thru Saturday, June 25 - “Souls' Fire,” the second national conference of the African American Roundtable of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry, focusing on the theme, "Re-Imagining Black Religious Identity: Race, Class, Gender & Sexuality.” African American LGBT people of faith spearhead a conference in Chicago to discuss race, class and sexuality in the church. “Souls' Fire” presents a rare opportunity to hear African American lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people of faith from around the country -- along with their straight allies -- speak publicly about some of the most controversial issues in the church today -- race, faith, gender, class and sexuality. The conference also breaks new ground by bringing together scholars, artists and faith community leaders for collaborative, cross-disciplinary discussion. Panelists will include religion scholars, artists, pastors and social service workers. Participants include Johari Jabir of the University of California, Santa Barbara; Juan Reed of St. Martins Episcopal Church, Chicago; Maurice Charles of the University of Chicago; and Irene Monroe, doctoral candidate at Harvard Divinity School and religion columnist. On Thursday, June 23rd the conference will be at the University Church, 5655 S. University Avenue; on Friday, June 24th the conference will be at the Chicago Theological Seminary, 5757 S. University Avenue; and on Saturday, June 25th, the conference will be back at the University Church. For Friday and Saturday events, register in advance through the CLGS website www.clgs.org. The advance registration fee is $25 until May 31. The fee after May 31 is $35. Tickets are available at the door. Sponsor: The Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry and The African American Roundtable of CLGS, which seeks the full inclusion of black lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in communities of faith in support of social justice for LGBT people by fostering dialogue about the intersections between faith and sexuality among black church and faith leaders (including scholars of religion), black church congregations, black LGBT persons and between each of these constituencies. Co-sponsors: Chicago Theological Seminary,Pillar of Love Fellowship Church, St. Martins Episcopal Church, MOCHA Collaborative,YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago-Loop, and SAFE Services LGBT Program. Info: www.clgs.org or contact the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry at 510.849.8206,
800.999.0528, or clgs (at) clgs.org

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On-Going Events:

Daily, 7-9 am - Democracy Now! is now in Chicago! Amy Goodman, Juan Gonzalez, and their guests are a daily independent source of news on matters like the occupation of Iraq. WZRD, 88.3 FM

Mondays thru Fridays, 3:45 pm - Hear Pacifica's Free Speech Radio News on WZRD 88.3 FM

Mondays thru Fridays, 6 pm - Hear Pacifica's Free Speech Radio News on WLUW 88.7 FM.

Mondays, 6 pm - Peace Pledge Chicago meetings, 2502 W. Division.

Mondays, 7-9 pm - 1st Monday of the month - Monthly meetings of Andersonville Neighbors for Peace, at N. Shore Baptist Church, 5242 N. Lakewood, room 131 (Lakewood is three blocks E. of Clark, and the church is one block N. of Foster).

Mondays - First Mondays of each month - Department of Peace Coalition meetings. 7 pm, Thomas Ford Library, 800 Chestnut, W.ern Springs. (MarjorieZ (at) DOPC.us)

Tuesdays, 8 am - Silent Presence for Peace at the Federal Building - Peace Vigil, Federal Plaza, Dearborn & Jackson. 8th Day Center for Justice: 312.641.5151

Tuesdays, 9 am - noon - Progressive radio show on WZRD-FM, 88.3 FM

Tuesdays, 6-7 pm - Weekly protest against the occupation of Iraq, N.W. corner of 95th and W.ern Ave. Proceeds the weekly 7:30 pm meeting of S. Siders for Peace at the Beverly Unitarian Church, 10244 S. Longwood Dr, Chicago. Info: lswolf (at) imaxx.net

Tuesdays (second Tuesday of each month) - “Beyond Today” Peace and justice organization general planning meeting. 6:30 pm, non-violence study group, 7:30 pm, main meeting. Ravenswood Fellowship United Methodist Church, 4511 N. Hermitage (Sunnyside & Hermitage). Info: BeyondToday (at) beyondtoday.com or www.beyondtoday.com/

Tuesdays, 7 pm, 2nd & 4th of each month - Hyde Park Committee Against War and Racism weekly meeting at University Church, 57th and University, Chicago. Info: www.chicagoantiwar.org/hydepark/hpcawr.html

Wednesdays, 3 pm - Food Not Bombs: Meals for the Hungry. Loyola El Station.

Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 pm - Women in Black silent vigils, Fountain Square, Evanston, IL, corner of Davis Street and Sheridan. Info: katiejean (at) boxobjorn.com

Thursdays, 1:30 pm - “The Ministry of Truth,” a weekly haven for left-wing thought and comment with Chicago Media Action's Mitchell Szczepanczyk. WHPK 88.5-FM radio. Info: msszczep (at) midway.uchicago.edu or whpk.uchicago.edu

Thursdays, 5-6 pm - “Party from Damascus” radio program on WHPK, 88.5 FM. Politics plus Arab music - shaabi, pop, dabke, khaleeji and MORE!

Thursdays, 7:30-9:30 pm - Neighbors for Peace weekly meeting. St. Nicholas Church, 806 Ridge Ave. Evanston (3 blocks W. of the Main St. 'L' station).

Thursdays, 7 pm - S.side Slam. Open Mics at N'diga Coffee & Books, 3510 W. 63rd Street. List opens at 6 pm, performances begin at 7 pm. Bring a gently used book and get in free ($2 otherwise, performers free, no cookbooks please). Non-smoking, children friendly environment. Info: 773.925.2517

Thursdays, 9 pm - Homolatee, Queer Words and Music, hosted by Scott Free. No Exit Café, 6970 N. Glenwood. www.scottfree.net/homolatte.html

Fridays - Health Care Professionals Vigil for Peace and Witness Against War; an ongoing weekly Friday vigil in front of the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center at 820 S. Damen Avenue, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Saturdays, 9 am - “Live from the Heartland” progressive radio show. WLUW 88.7-FM. Info: www.heartlandcafe.com

Saturdays, 9 am - “This Is Hell” irreverent radio show. WNUR 89.3-FM. Info: www.thisishell.net

Saturdays, 2-4pm - N.side Peace Gathering. Three Cornered Island of Peace: Milwaukee, Logan & Kedzie Aves. Protesting war and empire since Sept. 2, 2003. Info: www.mundopaz3 (at) hotmail.com">hotmail.com

Saturdays, 5 pm - Food Not Bombs serving at 18th Street and Loomis.

Sundays, Noon-1 pm - Not In My Name weekly vigil: End Israel's occupation of the W. Bank, Gaza Strip & E. Jerusalem. Water Tower Place, 830 N. Michigan. For more info, go to www.nimn.org

Sundays, 3 pm - Come to the intersection of Fullerton, Lincoln and Halsted for a free, healthy, vegan meal brought to you by Food Not Bombs.

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Emergency Response Plan to War & Racism
Sponsored by the Chicago Coalition Against War & Racism

1. If the U.S. starts another full scale war on another country besides Iraq, a protest will take place at 5 pm+ at the Federal Plaza, Adams & Dearborn Streets, Chicago, the day the bombing begins. There will be a larger follow up protest at the same time & place the day after.

2. In the event of a provocative attack on community leaders or organizations in the Chicago area, CCAWR has constructed a phone tree to mobilize the community to quickly protest the attack, whether at a police station, federal government office, or other appropriate place. To get on the Emergency Response phone tree / e-mail list and receive regular calendar updates such as this one, send your contact information to CCAWR (at) aol.com
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Chicago Coalition Against War & Racism
CCAWR (at) aol.com