Arizona State News

Vol. 1, No. 2--October, 2004

For more information on the Arizona Democratic Progressive Caucus, email Connections@AzProgressive.us!

In its statewide meeting held in Bisbee, AZ, The Arizona Democratic Progressive Caucus endorsed opposition to Proposition 200, the so-called "Protect Arizona Now" initiative, and pledged to work for its defeat. Local anti Prop-200 organizers say that the initiative is masking as a voting reform law, but in reality it's an anti-immigration proposition. If it passes, it will have drastic negative impacts on the lives of many--not just immigrants. According to The Arizona Republic--no bastion for progressive ideology--"Proposition 200 doesn't prohibit anything that's not already illegal. It accomplishes nothing except to set up a cumbersome regulatory apparatus that may affect all citizens in one way or another." The Arizona Republic has also taken the stand that Prop 200 "...won't accomplish what it says it will. It may well burden state and local governments. Its provisions are so broadly written and vague that no one agrees on exactly what they mean. We believe this initiative would sew discord in our community."

The Arizona Democratic Progressive Caucus (AzDPC) has joined a coalition of Arizona activist groups and individuals working on events surrounding the October 13 Presidential Debate in Phoenix Valley. The event--billed as Democracy for Change--will offer an alternative message to the usual candidates' recitation of pre-packages sound bites. Through a variety of events and actions, the coalition has committed that Democracy for Change will create real dialogue on issues which really matter and exemplify a just, democratic and sustainable world.

The Arizona Democratic Progressive Caucus (AzDPC) has announced a post-election statewide week-end summit in Phoenix on November 13-14, 2004. On Saturday, the summit will include presentations from political and community leaders framing a discussion of how AzDPC and the progressive community can play a role in facilitating needed changes. On Sunday, AzDPC members will gather to discuss and select specific areas of organizational focus for 2005.

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