Events

WHAT:  Portlanders are called upon to participate in the international event, Stand Up and Take Action to End Poverty Now! Last year, this international event commanded participation by two percent of the world's population, which stood up en masse to hold their governments accountable for the achievement of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and the elimination of extreme poverty.
    A suggested $10 donation is requested for participation in the Stand Up event, with all proceeds going to Mercy Corps and the Oregon Food Bank. While at the event, participants will be invited to grab a lunch bag, enjoy Zambian dances, and learn about legislation that will aid the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Additionally, participants will be offered opportunities for helping lawmakers care about this legislation through postcard, letter, email and phone communication.
    At the end of the day, after participants have taken their Stand Up pledge, performances will be provided by pianist Thomas Lauderdale, and African storyteller, Loveness Wesa.
WHEN: Saturday, October 17, 2009, from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Portland State University's Hoffman Hall, located at SW 12th and Harrison.

The United Nations Millennium Development Goals are as follows:
       Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger
       Achieve universal primary education
       Empower women
       Reduce child mortality rates
       Improve maternal health
       Combat HIV/AIDS
       Ensure environmental sustainability
       Develop a global partnership

The United Nations set forth the Millennium Development Goals with the intention of ultimately eradicating poverty by the year 2015. Due to the global economic crisis, these goals are not currently receiving priority treatment by governments.

Stand Up in Portland is being produced in partnership with PSU Model United Nations, Mercy Corps, World Affairs Council of Oregon, Bread for the World, Portland Area Global AIDS Coalition, Jubilee Oregon, Portland Roasting Coffee Company and Oregon Food Bank. For more information contact Kate Alexander at kachanteuse@gmail.com or (520) 205-2344. Or, watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VO8tRC-gd8.