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| Wednesday, June 10, 2009 |
| Film and Discussion: "THIRST" |
Is water part of a shared "commons," a human right for all people? Or is it a commodity to be bought, sold, and traded in a global marketplace? This documentary tells the stories of communities in Bolivia, India, and the U.S. that are asking these fundamental questions. Over a billion people lack access to safe drinking water. The corporate consensus for large dams and privatized, corporate water systems is challenged by experts and activists who assert that water is a human right, not a commodity to be traded on the open market. The film brings us to Bolivia where there's a full-scale insurrection against a water privatization contract with the US-based Bechtel Corporation. Tens of thousands of people battle police and the army to protect their water rights. The central story in the film takes place in Stockton, California. Mayor Gary Podesto proposes to give control of the water system to a consortium of global water corporations. He is surprised by the reaction as Stockton residents create a new grassroots coalition to demand a say in the decision. They are worried about price hikes, water quality, and layoffs of public employees, who tend to be women and/or people of color. African-American water plant supervisor Michael McDonald sees democracy itself at stake in this battle. In India, a grassroots movement for water conservation has rejuvenated rivers, literally changing the desert landscape. Led by Rajendra Singh, who locals call "a modern day Gandhi," the movement opposes government efforts to sell water sources to companies like Coke and Pepsi. Singh journeys across India to organize resistance, finding millions eager to join his crusade. Water activists from Bolivia, Stockton, and India all meet at the World Water Forum in Kyoto as part of a new movement against global water privatization. As the Forum reaches its final day, no one anticipates the explosive outcome. Wheelchair accessible around the corner at 411 28th Street. The evening begins with a social hour and optional potluck supper. The film starts at 7:30pm and a discussion will follow the film.
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| Time: |
7:30pm. |
| Location: |
Humanist Hall, 390 27th St. & 411 28th St., Between Telegraph & Broadway, below Pill Hill, Oakland. |
| Cost: |
$5 Donations welcome. |
| Info: |
510-681-8699, http://www.HumanistHall.org. |
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Wheelchair accessible. |
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