Here is Craig's write-up about our Caffrey for Congress 2014 campaign HQ grand opening and his request for you to support the campaign: THE TIME IS NOW!


Congressional Candidacy Responds to Earth in Crisis

September 20th marked the grand opening of the Caffrey for Congress 2014 campaign headquarters in Garberville, CA. The event went for twelve hours, featuring videos about global climate destabilization, the current political crisis in Syria, a radical environmental critique of the ecological situation, with discussion about organizing strategy and what needs to happen in response to an accelerating implosion of ecosystems, plus the medical uses of marijuana.

Andy Caffrey’s message is that a voice in congress is critically needed to represent the radical activist approach on behalf of a world in crisis. He is the only candidate in District 2 who has the experience, and is not beholden to any vested interests, and who consequently will push for effective systemic change immediately.

Throughout the day, friends and the curious came by to watch videos, enjoy prepared food and coffee, and discuss environmental and peace & justice issues. There were not nearly enough visitors, and money donations were minimal. The campaign needs to raise $500 right away to secure the rented campaign HQ space.

We discussed the reasons for the lower than expected turnout. Those present concluded that the general public is weary of huge planetary problems, the fact that the economy is hopelessly depressed due to bankruptcy from years of warfare, and this has led to citizens not being responsive, and instead, keeping themselves distracted from serious social matters.

There was analysis as to where the forces for social change are in District 2, having in years past been so visible. Earth First! in northern California was discussed, the question being asked where their large scale presence is now. Why have peace & justice protests gotten smaller? Has the social conscience become dysfunctional? Why did the weekly Friday protest in Garberville draw only four people? Where are all of the activists?

This led to a conversation about the decline in personal spiritual cultivation. A suggestion was made to encourage individuals to get centered, and then being fully mindful, answer their spiritual calls to action. Another view expressed is that we need to primarily be committed to this, and know that Divine intervention will take place if necessary; examples of recent Divine intervention worldwide were noted. Throughout the afternoon and early evening, we debated the degree of relevance of conventional political organizing versus radical activism versus Divine intervention.

All agreed that the presence of the Caffrey for Congress 2014 campaign HQ is crucial, and a weekly Wednesday 7PM Bioregional Conversion community meeting and Thursday 7PM political videos are scheduled. A primary concern is the fragmented activist community in District 2, and therefore the campaign HQ space is available for individuals and groups to do presentations. This will ensure that the present fragmented situation is overcome, and a return to the days of strong community solidarity and the circle of concern be realized once more.

It was the belief of all of the grand opening attendees, that this is most important, and everyone who shares our view is invited to make contact and be involved.

--Craig Louis Stehr, (craigstehr@hushmail.com and http://craiglstehr.blogspot.com/)

Andy Caffrey for Congress 2014 Campaign Headquarters
CaffreyForCongress.org
446 Maple Lane, Garberville, CA 95542
Telephone: 707-923-2114
Email: staff@CaffreyForCongress.org