November 26, 1999

World Trade Organization (WTO) in Seattle It's hard to ignore the fact that the WTO is meeting in Seattle next week. SeattleWTO.org explains, "When the WTO was created, concerned citizens and public interest organizations warned that the combination of the WTO's pro-industry rules and powerful enforcement would pose a threat to laws designed to protect consumers, workers, and the environment. Almost five years later, there is a clear record: the cases settled under WTO rules show the WTO's bias against the public interest."

CARA is taking the following position regarding the WTO:

Given that the World Trade Organization has a record of overlooking human rights concerns in order to promote free trade, Communities Against Rape and Abuse opposes the power granted to the WTO to impose sanctions. When economic factors take precedence over the consideration of human rights, women and children in particular suffer. CARA believes in global accountability for human rights.

There are many events planned in protest of the WTO. For a full calendar, go to www.seattlewto.org on the web.

Committee Updates

Here is some of what we've been up to. If you would like to participate on a committee, please contact the appropriate person(s) listed.

Hiring
Job openings for community organizers and project coordinator will close on November 30, 1999. The Hiring Committee will be conducting applicant interviews the week of December 6. If you have questions or comments, contact Cary Petty.

Fundraising
CARA has hired Glenn Harris to spend two months helping us with fundraising planning for next year (and beyond). Glenn held his first training with the committee on November 21. There is a lot of work and brainstorming ahead. If you would like to be part of this exciting effort, please call Tony Norman.

Finance
The Finance Committee is looking to hire an accountant (contractual work) to help set up CARA's financial tracking system. If you have referrals, please contact Julie Bengston.

Upcoming meetings
Until we secure office space, all meetings are held at the Good Shepherd Center in Wallingford - 4649 Sunnyside Avenue North, Room 221.

Wednesday, December 1, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Board/Community Meeting. Agenda will be to discuss the membership structure of CARA.

Wednesday, December 8, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Board/Community Meeting. Agenda to be determined.

Wednesday, December 15, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Board/Community Meeting. Agenda to be determined.

Please watch for our December newsletter which will give meeting dates for the first quarter of 2000.