Community Voz

In this episode, C2C team members reflect on recent projects and give updates on events and things to come. We also discuss the necessity to pause the podcast until a new producer can be found. This is both a sad and hopeful moment. Our podcast has been live on KMRE since 2012, and we are so grateful to them for giving our ecofeminist news and information a home. We will be back!Taking a pause to rest, consider, and build is part of our movement building that often allows us to shift toward new possibilities we may not have seen if we had kept going in the same direction. Stay tuned for our reboot coming soon in the next few months. In the meantime, you can stay connected by following us on Instagram and Facebook, or send us a message here!RSVP to the cooperative farm work party happening on June 15th here.RSVP to our Peoples Participation Labs here.Songs in this episode:Little Fluffy Clouds - The OrbAlone Again Or - The DamnedSong to the Siren - This Mortal CoilSupport the Show.

In this episode, CommunityVOZ producers Elias Lopez and Liz Darrow talk with Movement Support Team members Ana Sofia, Liam, Mimi, Isaac, and Kira about what brought them to C2C, their favorite moments so far as part of the team, and some of the struggles they have faced as a part of movement building. We also say a bittersweet farewell to our magnificent co-producer Elias Lopez, who has brought so much to this podcast over the past two years. Best of luck in your new adventures Elias!Songs in this episode:Early Summer by Ryo FukuiA Horse with No Name by AmericaSupport the Show.

In this episode, Liz and Elias talk with Edgar, Rhys, Bodi, and David, C2C's digital, audio, visual, and social media producers, about our work. We discuss how our storytelling engages critically with context and how we hold the responsibility of telling the story of the movement. Music from the episode:Dark Eyes by Lila DownsRejoice by AJJSupport the Show.

In this Episode, Liz and Elias talk with Remy from Northwest Youth Services about how our work is uniquely situated in Bellingham, and how creative expression can lead to self actualization in the movement. Music from the episode:Movement 6 by Pharoah Sanders and Floating Points Support the Show.

Reportback of Marcha Campesina 2024, action at Washington Bulb Company, and batucada with Liz, Kira, Ana Sofia, and Elias. Support the Show.

"If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together."  - Lilla WatsonIn this episode, Kira, Ana Sofia, and Elias talk about white saviors in the movement. What are the consequences of purely altruistic motives? When does the work come back to benefit us? What core beliefs are at the heart of our care? Music from the episode: A Little Better by Alex FigueiraSupport the show

In this episode, Liz, Tara, Rosalinda, Ana Sofia, and Elias talk about a speech that Rosalinda gave at the Community Food Co-op in 2015. That speech, which is showcased in this episode, emphasizes the importance of centering farmworkers not only in our discussion about healthy produce, but also in the broader context of global social movements.  Music from the episode: Metamorfosis by Meridian Brothers & El Grupo RenacimientoSupport the show

In this episode, Movement Support volunteer Maleah Mader and Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner Amy Sothman talk with Liz Darrow and Tara Villalba about learning to listen to your body, navigating toxicity in a capitalist medical system, and healing ourselves and our communities through a Just Transition framework. Many thanks to Maleah for being willing to share your personal story so that others might learn what it looks like to ask for help and take the time that is truly needed to heal.*Thumbnail photo is Maleah with an original painting she made to represent the movement as a gift to C2C's art team.Songs in this episode:Mother Big River by Jessica PrattOwn Your Own by Yazmin LaceyEverything's Beautiful by Hiatus KaiyoteSupport the show

In this episode, Liz talks with Victor Rodriguez and Edgar Franks about the popular Emiliano Zapata quote "the land belongs to those who work it"  both in its local applications, and in the global struggle for labor rights and Indigenous sovereignty. Music from the episode:Cumbia de la Pendejita by Cumbias PoblanasI Like It by DeBargeSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow talks with Bonifacio Vega and his coworkers Martin, Adan, and Hilario about the ongoing development of their own roofers cooperative; how it started, what led them to pursue this path, and how it's going. Stay up to date with them on their Facebook and website. Support the show

In this episode, Liz, Kira, Elias, and Ana Sofia talk about the intersection of queer justice and labor justice, immigration policy, the 2024 election, and more. Music from the episode:If Your Love Cannot Be Moved by Stevie Wonder Fight Like Ida B and Marsha P by Ric Wilson Poetry by Roy HargroveSupport the show

In this episode, Liz and Elias talk with Aline Prata from WPJC and Yeye Ugas from ReproJustice about ecofeminism in the movement, the politics of care, parenthood, and International Women's Day coming up on March 8th. C2C will be hosting a celebratory event at Maritime Heritage Park from 4-6pm that day (disregard the mistaken claim at the end of the episode that the event would be from 6-8). Come join us!Resources from the episode:Yeye's article featured in The FrontReproJustice InstagramPinkwashing documentary Music from the episode:Bling Bling by Katu Mirim Support the show

Happy belated Valentine's Day! In this episode, we talk with Ian Lorenz and April Obi about their work with the Poor People's Campaign and a nation-wide march that will happen on March 2nd that all are invited to attend. The march in Washington will take place at the capital in Olympia. Use this link to RSVP.Music from the episode:Dinero by Santa Fe Klan Nakomitunaka by VerckysSupport the show

In this episode, we invite you all to come to a dignity dialogue this Saturday from 10am to 1pm as we process the impending suspension of the Immigration Advisory Board. RSVP here!We also invite you to participate in C2C's bi-monthly batucada drumming sessions on the first and third Thursdays of every month as we prepare some rhythms to play at the 2024 Marcha Campesina. Email c2cinfo@foodjustice.org for more info.  Music from the episode:Lipstick Lover by Janelle Monáe Son Shine by Sault Support the show

In this episode, Ana Sofia Garcia and Elias Lopez play audio from the events of the 2024 Farmworker Tribunal, as well as give context about their experiences there. Music from the episode:Corrido de Juanito by Calibre 50Soy de Rancho by El Komander Support the show

Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra, MST for short, Landless Workers Movement in English, celebrated their 40 year anniversary on January 22nd. Since the 80s, they have been organizing in the rural sectors of Brazil for farmworker rights through political advocacy, education, public health, and much more. In this episode, learn how C2C is aligned with their cause and honors their legacy. Helpful resources: What U.S. Organizers Can Learn From Brazil's Landless Workers MovementTen Economic Protests that Changed History Support the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow speaks with Melissa and Marcus from Serenity Outreach Services, and Beth from BOP Mutual Aid about the upcoming 3 year anniversary of the sweep of Camp 210.  January 28th is the day the people of Bellingham commemorate this sweep of militaristic proportions against an encampment on the lawn of city hall. BOP Mutual Aid is organizing a vigil and supply drive on the 28th in downtown Bellingham from 3:30 to 6pm, the location will be announced the day of. Stay updated with BOP on their Instagram @bopmutualaidMusic from the episode:Driven to Tears by The Police Thorns and Roses by Shafiq HusaynRise by Solange Support the show

In this episode, we welcome Ana Sofia Garcia to the C2C media team! We also discuss and hear from Immigration Advisory Board members about Hannah Stone's ordinance to suspend the Immigration Advisory Board indefinitely.Read more about the board suspension and how you can stand in solidarity with immigrant community members here.Songs in this episode:La Rosa de los Vientos by MakizaSubterranean Homesick Blues by Bob DylanSupport the show

Happy holidays! It is community members and C2C allies that power this show, so for our final episode of the year, we showcase the music that our guests have brought to the show since last January. From post-punk to protest anthems, norteño to hip-hop, this playlist is bound by no genre, thank you all for your contributions and for listening, and enjoy the start of the new year!Music from the episode:Honour the Fire by Killing Joke Youth Against Fascism by Sonic Youth System Virtue by Emma Paki Les Fleur by Minnie Riperton Boca Llena by Y La Bamba Todo Cambia by Mercedes Sosa No House by Rob Rosenthal Mariposa de Barrio by Jenni Rivera No Nos Moveran by Los Lobos River by Leon Bridges Girl on Fire by Alicia Keyes Shock by Ana Tijoux Fight Like Ida B and Marsha P by Ric Wilson Fubu Forever by Mike FlossCumbia Sobre El Mar by Quantic Support the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez speak with Denzel Caldwell, an organizer of the Black Nashville Assembly, about how grassroots self-governance happens in spite of electoral politics. We examine the structure of the assemblies that Denzel is familiar with organizing as we prepare for our own People's Movement Assembly this Saturday. Come join us to put these dreams of participatory democracy into action. We will be gathering at 1295 E Bakerview Road from 10am -2pm. You can RSVP here. Denzel also participated in a webinar on assemblies with FUJ's very own Edgar Franks. Check out the entire recording of that here.Music from the episode:Fubu Forever by Mike FlossSupport the show

Beyond the timelines and limited outcomes of elections, communities all over the world find ways to engage in priority setting and movement building to meet their political needs. In this episode, co-producers Elias Lopez and Liz Darrow talk with Josh Cerretti about strategies for organizing together through Peoples Movement Assemblies.RSVP to our upcoming Peoples Movement Assembly here.Songs in this episode:Practice by Jamila WoodsAttitude by Bad BrainsRun Deep by Deva MahalSupport the show

In this episode, Liz, Kira, and Elias talk about the new Hunger Games movie, the Black Friday strike at Macy's, and an acceptance speech that Rosalinda Guillen gave for the ACLU Washington Dwell in Possibility Award. Check out the full award ceremony here.  Rosalinda's section begins at 1:28:00.Music from the episode:Which Side Are You On? by Peter Seeger A Spell, A Prayer by Corinne Bailey Rae Support the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez discuss the aftermath of the latest election season and our next steps forward as C2C and as community. We ground this conversation in the literature and philosophies of renowned author Arundhati Roy, whose ideas still serve as the keystone of C2C's organizing. It is important to spend time reexamining these foundational ideologies of the movement to assess how we will move forward. Her writing also catapults us into conversations about the recent extremes of violence in the occupation of Palestine, and how we can cultivate solidarity and trust in this time.  Resources from the episode:List of Arundhati Roy's books Storytellers' Studio interview with Roy (played in episode)Arundhati Roy acceptance speech (European Essay Prize 2023)Music from the episode: Gratitude by Beastie Boys Go West by Liz PhairSupport the show

In this episode, Elias and Liz talk with Lucy Madrigal about her campaign for Mount Vernon city council as the final days of both Lucy and Liz's campaigns rapidly approach. We are also joined by Faviola from the UFCW 3000 union, as well as Lynn from the Skagit County Democrats, who offer their resounding support for Lucy and celebration at the end of this long campaign season. Music from the episode:Shock by Ana TijouxSupport the show

In this episode, Elias Lopez gives a reportback on this year's Food Chain Workers Alliance Summit that took place in Springdale, Arkansas to protest working conditions and child labor at Tyson's meat packing plant. Through audio of the protest, interviews, and panel discussions, we uncover the connections between our labor organizing struggle across all sectors of the food chain, and across the nation, for the empowerment and liberation of all workers. Check out some of the organizations that were present at the summit below:FCWAVenceremos Warehouse Workers for Justice Trabajadores Unidos por la Justica Mississippi Workers' Center for Human RightsMusic from the episode:Raisins by Ryo Kawasaki The Sisters by Weldon Irvine Support the show

In honor of ballots dropping this week, members of the Solidarity Economy Team tackle yet another word that has been co-opted by mainstream electoral processes: progressive. Also introducing our new Civic Engagement Coordinator Kira Munson! And candidate for Bellingham city council ward 1 Eamonn Collins stopped by our office for a completely different reason but we roped him into the podcast. Don't come around if you don't want to talk about the issues and potentially take a selfie!Read about the four major goals of the Progressive Era (1897-1917) here.Find a (more) truly progressive voters guide here.Songs in this episode:Dreams by The CranberriesKing of Anything by Sara BareillesHigher Love by Whitney Houston and KygoSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez speak with Dahr Jamail about his latest book titled We Are the Middle of Forever: Indigenous Voices from Turtle Island on the Changing Earth. In reflecting on Dahr's career, the climate crisis, and settler colonialism, this episode seeks an answer to whom, in the midst of polycrisis, we are obligated and how we uphold these responsibilities. Check out Dahr's book talk this Thursday the 12th at 7pm at the Majestic (1027 N. Forest, Bellingham WA).Resources from this episode:Holding the Fire Podcast on resilience.orgMusic from this episode:Hold That Spirit by Raye ZaragozaSemba Dos Ancestrais by Janine MathiasSupport the show

In this episode, Fiona Martinez, from the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center, provides a reportback of a celebration hosted by the WPJC for the International Day of Peace. You will hear about the events of the day, speeches from two award recipients, as well as a poem that Fiona wrote and recited at the event that encapsulated this year's theme of Transforming Justice. Music from the episode:Boca Llena by Y La Bamba Cumbia Sobre el Mar by Quantic Ventana Especial by Filip y WoppeSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Lucy Madrigal break down the importance of co-governance in their communities of Whatcom and Skagit counties respectively. Sharing their unique perspectives on the margin between community organizing and government responsibility, they provide insight into the upcoming election for city council and the platforms that they are cultivating. Support Liz and Lucy's campaigns here:https://www.lizdarrow.com/https://www.lucy4ward1.com/Music from the episode:If I Was President by Las CafeterasI'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers No Nos Moveran by Los Lobos Support the show

In this episode, you will hear a compilation of audio from a webinar hosted by various statewide organizations in the collective formation of the Just Futures project. Featured here are the voices of C2C and Familias Unidas por la Justicia representatives who participated in the webinar.  Learn more about the Just Futures Project here.Music from the episode:Color of Autumn by Nujabes Ism by Heidi MartinReasons by Minnie Riperton Feelin the Same Way by Norah Jones Support the show

In this episode, Edgar Franks, political director for Familias Unidas por la Justicia, gives an update on federal policy as it relates to farmworker justice. Also, Lucy Madrigal, Alfredo and Alia Juarez, and Beatriz Godinez give a reportback about a recent solidarity march in support of HR 1511, which will update the registry bill from the 1970s to include 8 million additional undocumented people in the United States.music in this episode:Quédate Conmigo by Eslabon Armado y Grupo FronteraSupport the show

On August 6th, 2023, Community to Community Development, Nikkei Northwest, the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center, and Whiteswan Environmental collaborated on a community walk through what is now known as Bellingham's Old Town.  The purpose of the walk was to educate participants about all of the racial violence and oppression that are a part of the history of this place, and to acknowledge the influences that continue that oppression to this day.  This podcast episode contains live audio and speeches from that event.Sign the petition to revive a Coast Salish longhouse at Xwotqwem (Whatcom Creek) here. music in this episode:River by Leon BridgesSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow, Sophia Rey, Elias Lopez, and Brenda Bentley talk about the latest IAB meeting and the major setbacks that are currently being felt. In this conversation, anger is examined as a center of productive strength as we navigate a contentious relationship with city officials.Resources from the episode:The Uses of Anger by Audre Lorde Letter written to the mayor and city council by the IAB Music from the episode:The Emperor's New Clothes by Sinéad O'ConnorThe Last Day of Our Acquaintance by Sinéad O'ConnorSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Rosalinda Guillen speak with Shirley Williams and Sandy Fugami about an upcoming walk that will take place on August 6th to remember Honesto Ibarra, a farmworker who died working in unsafe conditions. The conversation weaves together narratives of displacement and assimilation that are felt similarly among many marginalized communities in Whatcom County. From Honesto Ibarra, to James Okubo, these stories verge on forgotten yet are central to our understanding of our place and time together.Join us on August 6th at 10am! Meet at 1600 H Street, where we will begin the walk. Resources from the episode:Whiteswan Environmental website Whiteswan House of Healing petition Music from the episode:Pido a la Paz by Rosa Martha Zarate MacíasSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez talk with Sonja Lerner, a member of the No Whatcom Jails abolitionist group, as well as Josh Cerretti and Aline Prata from the Whatcom Peace & Justice Center, about the current organizing efforts that surround the proposal to build a new jail for Whatcom County. As we explore the historical and ideological foundations of this proposal, we open up new ways of imagining a society without punishment. The episode concludes with audio from a rally held on July 11th to dissuade county council members from voting in favor of this proposal appearing on the ballot in November.  Resources from the episode:The Vera report No Whatcom Jails Music from the episode:Fight Like Ida B and Marsha P by Ric Wilson Colonial Mentality by Kokoroko Support the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow speaks with housing advocates about a new plan to get everyone in our community housed. They call it The Big Lift. An important function of this episode is to contextualize this new housing platform within the shifting political scene of Bellingham. As we face upcoming changes to civic leadership with this new election cycle, it is an important time to ask ourselves what emergencies in our community need immediate addressing, and what will we turn to for guidance. The Big Lift plan is an important start. Below you will find the finalized plan in its entirety, as well as an article by the Bellingham Herald that provides an overview of the topic. The Big Lift - Housing Landscape Platform Bellingham Herald articleMusic from the episode:Season of the Witch by Donovan Support the show

In this episode, Rosalinda Guillen, with the rest of the Community to Community leadership team, guides us through the white supremacist forces that shape local civic engagement. While engagement looks different for everyone, these forces often invalidate and silence marginalized communities. Out of this framework, Community to Community endorses Liz Darrow and Lucy Madrigal in the race for Bellingham and Mount Vernon city councils respectively. You will hear directly from them about their progressive platforms, and how the future of electoral politics will include the voices of all people, not just the privileged few. Support Liz and Lucy's campaigns here:https://www.lizdarrow.com/https://www.lucy4ward1.com/ Music from the episode:Youth Against Fascism by Sonic Youth If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next by Manic Street Preachers Echo by Incubus Support the show

In this episode, Liz, Edgar, Tara, and Lucy discuss the inequity of the ongoing conversation about climate change, as well as how we might challenge dominant narratives about climate doom. Music from this episode:My Island Home by Jessica Mauboy Girl on Fire by Alicia KeysUs by Ruby Ibarra Further Resources:Rise: From One Island to Another Support the show

In this episode, Liz and Elias talk with Yonzo and Ezma, two graffiti writers in Bellingham facing charges for vandalism, about their deeply rooted and intricate subculture. Join us as we work through issues of cultural stigma and criminalization, while collectively shifting our gaze to the clandestine forms of art that color our city.  Music from this episode:Sugar Water (Coldcut remix) by Cibo MattoSlipped Disc by Lizzy Mercier DesclouxGreat Five Lakes (Cornelius remix) by Buffalo Daughter Support the show

In this episode, we chat with Isabella James, from Children of the Setting Sun Productions' Young & Indigenous podcast, about the ongoing work of CSSP, the use of land acknowledgments in our community, and our capacity to build lasting relationships between communities. Check out the Young & Indigenous podcast here!Book recommendation from this episode:Jesintel by Children of the Setting Sun ProductionsMusic from this episode:Sisters & Brothers by KhruangbinEl Camino de Mi Alma by Hermanos GutierrezShiva Shankaram by Munay Gente Aberta by Erasmo Carlos Support the show

Liz Darrow and Sophia Rey, two members of the Immigration Advisory Board, discuss the hypocrisy of local government and the use of the word "collaboration." This episode is for those wanting an update on the struggle to fund an immigrant resource center in the city of Bellingham, as well as for those feeling exhausted by the labor of making change in a bureaucratic system that seeks to uphold the status quo.  Music from this episode:Tipping Strings by The Knights Letter From Yokosuka by NujabesSupport the show

En este episodio, las promotoras hablan sobre la Marcha Campesina 2023, sus experiencias, la caminata, y la gente del movimiento. Canciones en este episodio:Coplas de Arcadio Hidalgo de Los FolkloristasNiños Campesinos de El Teatro CampesinoJusticia, Tierra y Libertad de ManáDon't Put Me Down (If I'm Brown) de El Chicano Support the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez collect audio on the ground at the 2023 Marcha Campesina. Through an assortment of audio, the events of the day will unfold through interviews with attendees and organizers, as well as testimonies from workers.  Here are a few important resources mentioned in the episode:nogrocerymerger.comMount Baker Roofing - (360) 733 0191 Call to demand they stop retaliating and working with union busters, and instead negotiate with workers to meet their needs.John Paul Cevallos - (909) 561 3850Call to demand dignity for workers and let the union busters know that we as a community are watching them.Support the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez talk with Bellingham based community organizers about a new city-wide ordinance criminalizing public drug use that just went into effect. We analyze the disproportionate impacts this new ordinance will have on unhoused and BIPOC communities. Referenced in this episode: So You're Thinking About Becoming an Abolitionist by Mariame Kaba Give the Police Departments to the Grandmothers by Junauda PetrusSupport the show

In this episode, Liz Darrow and Elias Lopez talk with the C2C Artivism Team about the experience of making art for social change. Through the challenges and rewards, creativity never fails to strengthen community.  Music from the episode:Re Fresh by Common Market System Virtue by Emma Paki Les Fleurs by Minnie Riperton Watch the CAGJ Art and Activism Webinar here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HLPj8JWoRM Support the show

In this episode, Jill Mangaliman from On the Frontlines reports back from a rally at Founders Day in Seattle and we talk with several workers at Starbucks for an update on contract negotiations and working conditions.You can support the Relief Fund for PNW Starbucks Workers here.Learn more about Starbucks Workers United here.Listen to Hailey's picket line playlist here. Songs in this episode:Voulez Vous by AbbaShoop by Salt n PepaSupport the show

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Una delegación de campesin@s con las Promotoras de Whatcom y Skagit participaron en el décimo año del tribunal campesin@. Las promotoras de C2C reflejan sus experiencias y hacen un repaso de este gran evento. Canciones en este programa:De Paisano a Paisana de Los Tigres del NorteLágrimas Del Corazón de Grupo Montéz de DurangoMariposa de Barrio de Jenni RiveraSupport the show

The 10th annual Farmworker Tribunal took place in Olympia, WA on March 14th, 2023. In this episode, co-producers Elias Lopez and Liz Darrow discuss some of the traditions observed at this tribunal and play for you audio from the tribunal itself, including declarations from farmworkers and reactions from witnesses who came to observe and commit to supporting the next ten years of farmworker organizing in Washington State.Support the show

In this episode we welcome Elias Lopez, the newest co-producer on CommunityVOZ! Elias and Liz talk with Morgan Nichols and Edgar Franks about all the different ways to find a "home", communities where we feel a sense of safety and belonging, from our families to political spaces to landscapes. We also talk about the 10th Annual Farmworker Tribunal in Olympia and a recent campaign launch party we all attended.Songs in this episode:A partir de Mañana by Alberto CortezEl Derecho de Vivir en Paz by Victor JaraCambia Todo Cambia performed live by Jose PerezLa Llarona performed live by Hope Jose DaySupport the show

More than 56% of people living in Bellingham are renters, and there is no such thing here as permanently affordable housing. In this episode, Tara Villalba of the Bellingham Tenant's Union and Rebecca Quirke from Tenant's Revolt join us to talk about the housing crisis and what is being done (and not done) and the local and state level. Music in this episode:Faucets Are Dripping by Malvina ReynoldsNo House by Rob RosenthalSupport the show