Sisters on the Planet Week of Action Events

From Biloxi to Burundi, women living in communities especially threatened by climate change are courageously leading the way in adapting to the consequences of a warming planet. Join us in the coming days as we spotlight their plight and call for action during the Sisters on the Planet Week of Action, March 8 (International Women's Day) through March 14. Dozens of events are being organized across the country. We'll even help you host your own.

Naturally, we're getting a head start here in Minnesota. Catch up with Oxfam Action Corps - Minnesota at one of these free events:

Sisters on the Planet Screening at Eastside Food Co-op
Friday, March 5, 7 pm - 8 pm
Eastside Food Co-op, 2551 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis
Climate change is already having a disproportionate impact on poor people in the US and abroad, and it's hitting women hardest. These are stories of inspiration, of hope, and of the power of people to bring about change. Sahena, Sharon, Muriel, and Martina might have very different lives, but what they share is a certainty that progress only comes about when you stand up and make your voice heard.

International Women's Day Celebration
Saturday, March 6, 8 am - 4pm
Coffman Memorial Union at the University of Minnesota
Keynote speaker Leymah Gbowee, workshops, film, performances, visual arts, arts and crafts vendors, and information tables from over 65 co-sponsoring organizations. Oxfam Action Corps Minnesota will present a workshop on Women and Climate Change from 10:30am-11:45am! Sponsored by The Advocates for Human Rights and the Human Rights Program at the University of Minnesota. For more information, visit The Advocates' website.

Letter Writing at the Monthly Meeting
Monday, March 15, 7 pm
Uncommon Grounds Coffee Shop, 2nd floor, 2809 E Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis
Everyone is welcome at our monthly meetings. This month, we'll do a re-cap of the Sisters on the Planet Week of Action and write short letters to our legislators on the issue of climate change and poverty, in addition to our regular planning.

Want to do more? Consider organizing your own event of any size. We want to help empower you to empower others. Free copies of the Sisters on the Planet DVD, background information, and posters are available. Show the video to your neighbors, church group, classroom, or any other venue. You'll be promoting awareness and action on the powerful human face of climate change. E-mail us at minnesota@oxfamactioncorps.org or call (612) 293-9831 for more information.

Defense Review Cites Dangers of Climate Change

Every four years, the United States Department of Defense publishes the 'Quadrennial Defense Review.' The Review assesses Defense Department operations and looks to future needs and threats to international security.

Among security risks highlighted in the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review, released today, are the destabilizing effects of climate change. It reinforces our calls for significant investment in international adaptation projects that will allow those most vulnerable better cope with the challenges set forth in the Review.

An excerpt from page 82:

"Assessments conducted by the intelligence community indicate that climate change could have significant geopolitical impacts around the world, contributing to poverty, environmental degradation, and the further weakening of fragile governments. Climate change will contribute to food and water scarcity, will increase the spread of disease, and may spur or exacerbate mass migration.

While climate change alone does not cause conflict, it may act as an accelerant of instability or conflict, placing a burden to respond on civilian institutions and militaries around the world."

You can read the entire Defense Review on the Department of Defense's website.

Pizza Lucé in Duluth to Host Haiti Benefit

Tuesday and Wednesday in Duluth! Pizza Lucé Duluth, in conjunction with Ubiquitous Bookings, is hosting an incredible two-night benefit to support disaster relief and long-term recovery in Haiti. The benefit features music, art, a raffle, and silent auction with contributions from over fifty community businesses and organizations. 75% of proceeds will be donated to Oxfam America's Haiti Earthquake Response Fund; 25% will be donated to the Kako Foundation, a Duluth non-profit working in Haiti.

The cover charge is $5 at the door. Raffle tickets will be sold throughout both nights for $3. Remember - all proceeds benefit critical relief work in Haiti! Check out the stellar lineup:

Tuesday, January 26, 2010 - Bluegrass Night
Doors open at 8pm; music begins at 9pm
Two Many Banjos
Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank
Rich Mattson

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 - Hip-hop/Reggae Night
Doors open at 8pm; music begins at 9pm
Crew Jones
2one8
Prince Paul
Miss Mae
DJ Horse Fist

Get complete details about the benefit on its Facebook posting. This is going to be two amazing evenings, and it couldn't be for a better cause. Thank you to the organizers and participating businesses and community organizations for making this possible. Keep your eye out for information about Oxfam America at the event. We hope to see you at Pizza Lucé in Duluth!

Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief

We received some very exciting news. 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 22nd at 7pm CST.

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!

Read more about Oxfam's response in Haiti at www.oxfamamerica.org.