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Thursday 8th November 2001

Carnival Against Capitalism

Wellingtonians are having a Carnival against Capitalism on Friday November 9th as part of a global day of action against the World Trade Organisation as it begins its Ministerial Meeting in Qatar. Protests are being organised across the world, America, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Europe, and here in Aotearoa.

The demonstrations in Aotearoa are part of a worldwide movement for people not profit and community not capitalism. In opposing the structure of the WTO and its free trade agenda we are calling for self-determination from below, not domination from above said Nick Henry, a member of the organising collective.

The organising collective for the demonstrations has involved a wide variety of Wellington groups and activists who believe that the free trade policies promoted by the world trade organisation are destructive to people and the planet we live on. Since the bombing of Afghanistan the group has added a focus on opposing war and militarism.

When the New Zealand government offers the United States military support in return for a free trade deal, it is obvious that war and world trade are linked. War and trade are both used by those in power to maintain their position of privilege.

A convergence was held in Wellington on November 3rd and 4th to discuss the issues involved and promote positive alternatives. The weekend of workshops and discussions was attended by about 200 people.

The Carnival will involve a number of different events all relating to communities reclaiming control over the decisions that affect their lives. Different organisations, groups and collectives are taking responsibility for different activities on the day.

12:00: CTU Rally @ Midland Park

12:30: Anti-Militarism Demo @ Midland Park then Ministry of Defence to protest NZ involvement in Afghanistan

1:30: Demonstration Against Free Trade Agreements @ MFAT, the Terrace

3:00: GE Free demonstration @ Cuba Mall

4:00: Reclaim the Streets anti-bypass action @ Upper Cuba St

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Comrade Tuiono or Nick Henry Phone 025-321-123 or 473-8566

ON THE WEB: Wellington collective: http://www.mayday2001.org/wellington Peoples Global Action: http://www.agp.org

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