Although i value the imc for its autonomy and editorial independence, i am uncomfortable with the series of photos by 'chumitsa' showing the apparent 'low turnout' at Sat. biojustice forum. why so many pics? how do those pics relate to/uphold the imc mission? i was at the saturday forum. The turnout was good, 300 - 400 attended, Yes, i wish more people attended to hear the incredible speakers, maybe a smaller venue might have been more appropriate. For those that could not attend, the imc can be a valuable resource.

the concern of low turnout is valid. I feel, however, that the way that concern was expressed was not constructive, trivialized the movement. The imc's strength comes from its ability to build trust, credibility, etc with various communities/organizers. if we had better relationships with the organizers, for example, the imc might have been notified about the 6/22 action at Albertson's, a grocery store chain. On Friday, folks engaged in 'voluntary labeling of GM foods at Albertson's. When the local media showed up, Albertson's responded by throwing the media out of the store and letting the activists complete their demo.

in los angeles, kpfk has severed ties and alienated itself from many activist communities. I hope the imc will continue to foster relationships, to be a valuable community resource to inform and promote justice.