Submitted by Whatcom Peace & Justice
Please join Whatcom Peace & Justice Center (WPJC) at Structures Brewing on September 17th from 3 to 6 p.m. as we celebrate and honor labor and immigrants’ rights advocates, Alfredo Juarez Zeferino (Lelo) and Betsy Pernotto, during WPJC’s 20th International Day of Peace. With Labor Day just around the corner, let’s continue to celebrate by supporting and honoring two community members who have dedicated themselves to ensuring the safety and equity of workers in Whatcom County.
Recognized by the United Nations since 1982 and the City of Bellingham since 2017, the International Day of Peace stands as a vibrant platform for envisioning a world free from violence, weaponry, and oppression. This year’s theme, “Transforming Justice,” emphasizes peaceful approaches to prevent and address systemic violence and interpersonal harm.
In the context of current affairs that have tested our resilience, this theme is our rallying call. It’s a call to action against the surge of domestic and militarized police violence during the pandemic, the setbacks in safeguarding LGBTQ+ youth, censorship of books and sex education, carceral expansion and threats to labor and reproductive rights. “Transforming Justice” speaks to the pressing need to reevaluate conventional notions of justice and safety, advocating for preventive, educational, and care-centric strategies to cultivate a peaceful society.
To enhance the event’s festive atmosphere, local drag artist Nävouny Divinne will deliver a performance highlighting the transformative power and talent within the BIPOC LGBTQ+ community. WPJC is also excited to announce that Seattle-based Forró band, Foleada, will be performing live so that attendees can dance and celebrate together. Forró is the heartbeat of Northeast Brazil, and it draws on many musical styles, from Afro-Brazilian music like samba and baião to European polkas. Forró dance borrows from Cuban salsa and Samba de Gafieira, a Brazilian ballroom dance. Come dance your heart out with us at Structures Brewing!
There will also be interactive ways to participate during the event, including an activity to envision a transformed world, our silent auction, and visiting the booths at the Info Fair offering attendees a chance to engage with critical issues, community grassroots organizations, and local initiatives. Our Info Fair will feature Whatcom Care, Amnesty International, Jobs with Justice, Bellingham Tenants Union, Birchwood Food Fighters and a Laos woman-led organization called Legacies of War. Come learn about their work on local and global scales and how you can get involved!
This is a family-friendly event with free childcare and youth-friendly activities provided for the duration of the event.
For more information about the event, how to donate, or to get involved with Whatcom Peace & Justice Center, please visit WhatcomPJC.org/IDP2023. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook.
Embarking on its 21st year, the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center remains dedicated to promoting lasting peace, social justice, and a culture of nonviolence locally and abroad through partnerships, education, and direct action. Connect with us by visiting our community resource hub at 1220 Bay St., joining our Alternatives to Military Service training, or supporting our Transformative Justice Learning Lab Pilot Program. To learn more about our endeavors, contribute as a financial sponsor, or volunteer, please contact Executive Director Aline Prata at (360) 734-0217, office@whatcompjc.org, or visit www.WhatcomPJC.org today!
Feature photo of Lelo Juarez at 2023 Marcha Campesina by Sattva Photos
