Network Expands Focus to International Issues
Instead of dealing only with issues related to Montana, the Network's Board of Directors decided to focus more on international human rights. Both staff and board members have increasingly engaged in activities that, while occurring locally, are part of the global community. Examples of this are the peace movement and raising awareness about global economic issues like sweatshops and human rights abuses of multi-national corporations. The new focus will include devising educational program activities that will be taken to Montana communities. The Network will also identify and collaborate with other groups working on international issues.
One issue impacting many communities around the world is deregulation. Here in the United States, the "privatization" movement has been responsible for a wide array of attacks on public institutions, from the education system to poverty programs. Under the banner of "Free Trade," U.S. companies flee America, seeking the benefits of lax labor, environmental and other business regulations.
The Network's board feels that human rights advocacy must incorporate recognition of this in its work. Toward that end, the board has directed that the Network join other citizens groups in participating in the fight against utility deregulation here in Montana. Specifically, the Network is joining MontPIRG, the Northern Plains Resource Council, the Progressive Labor Caucus, Alternative Energy Resources Organization, WEEL and others in supporting Initiative 145, the effort to buy back the dams on our rivers and dedicate the power they produce to small consumers in Montana.