FARABUNTERRA

From: The SHARE Foundation: Building A New El Salvador Today
in El Salvador (La Mesa)!

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The Institute for Policy Studies
Invites you to the
33rd Annual Letelier-Moffitt Human Rights Awards


Thursday, October 15, 2009
National Press Club Ballroom, 13th Floor
529 14th Street NW, Washington, DC

5:30 PM: Reception and Light Fare
7:00 PM: Human Rights Program


International Award
La Mesa Nacional Frente a la Minería en El Salvador
Presented by U.S Representative Michael H. Michaud (D-ME)


Domestic Award
Domestic Workers United
Presented by Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis (invited)

Purchase Tickets by September 30th and receive the early bird discounts


About the Recipients

La Mesa Nacional Frente a la Minería en El Salvador

La Mesa Nacional Frente a la Minería en El Salvador has struggled against huge odds to make El Salvador the first country in the world to ban gold mining. Historically high gold prices have spurred increased exploration and exploitation worldwide, yet this grassroots movement has succeeded in blocking permits for mining in El Salvador. This represents an incredible victory for those who have fought against the environmental devastation and community displacement caused by open-air pit mining. Currently, however, global mining firms are attempting to undermine this victory by suing the government of El Salvador, alleging violations of the investment rules in the Central America Free Trade Agreement. By standing up to these major mining companies, La Mesa Nacional is setting an example of civic engagement and improving the quality of life for all the people of El Salvador.

Domestic Workers United

Domestic Workers United (DWU) is an organization of Caribbean, Latina, and African nannies, housekeepers, and caregivers. Founded in 2000, DWU is dedicated to building power, establishing fair labor standards, and raising the level of respect for over 600,000 domestic workers in the New York area. Currently, they are the driving force behind a "Domestic Workers Bill of Rights" that is moving through the New York State legislature and could serve as a national model. This membership organization engages not only in political action but also in community activism. It educates workers about their rights, offers classes in English as a second language and basic computer literacy, and runs a leadership training program. DWU is helping build a powerful movement that will one day end exploitation and oppression for all.