Gentrification: What Works? Rage, Reform, or Both?

 ✊ Gentrification: What Works? Rage, Reform, or Both?

Lately, I saw a video that stopped me cold — protesters in Mexico City walking into upscale restaurants, calmly saying “Buenos días”… and then smashing the windows.

They weren’t criminals. They were angry citizens.

Their message?

“We’re being pushed out. You’re not welcome if you’re displacing us.”

It was a protest against gentrification — a phenomenon we know all too well here in Vancouver, though we react to it very differently.

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🌆 Vancouver vs. Mexico City: Two Worlds, One Problem

In Vancouver, gentrification creeps in quietly. Cafés, yoga studios, and condos replace co-ops, low-income housing, and corner stores.
We hold peaceful rallies, sign petitions, and speak at city council — if anyone even listens.

In Mexico City, frustration spilled over. Residents, especially in Condesa and Roma, are watching their rents double or triple because of Airbnbs and remote workers from abroad.
They didn’t wait. They acted.

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💭 So What Actually Works?

Let’s get real: gentrification is a global force — driven by investment capital, tourism, and policies that favour developers over people.

So what strategy is more effective at stopping it?

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🔥 Direct Action (like Mexico City)

• Grabs media and political attention
• Shocks the public out of complacency
• Builds solidarity through shared urgency
• Forces leaders to address the crisis

But it’s risky. Protesters can be arrested, vilified, or ignored — and without follow-up, the system often stays the same.

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🧾 Formal Advocacy (like Vancouver)

• Works within laws and policies
• Wins incremental legal gains
• Builds long-term coalitions

But it’s slow. It often lacks urgency. And let’s face it — developers are always 10 steps ahead.

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✅ So What’s Most Effective?

The answer:

Both. Together. Coordinated. Relentless. Human.

The most successful housing movements mix disruption with reform:

• Barcelona elected a former housing activist as mayor.
• Berlin passed a vote to reclaim 240,000 corporate-owned apartments.
• New York tenant unions combined protests with legal support to freeze rent increases.

What do these movements have in common?
They didn’t play nice, but they didn’t go it alone either.

---

📣 Vancouver, Wake Up

We can’t politely beg our way out of a housing crisis.

It’s time to raise our voices, organize at the grassroots, and support those who take risks to demand justice.

We need:

• Tenant organizing
• Community land trusts
• Airbnb regulation enforcement
• More housing taken OFF the market

And yes, we might need more noise — the kind that wakes people up before it’s too late.

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📝 Final Thought

Gentrification doesn’t just erase buildings — it erases communities, culture, and connection.

Let’s not lose who we are while pretending it’s all just the market at work.

Sometimes change needs a hammer. Sometimes it needs a pen.

But it always starts with people refusing to stay quiet.

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July 4th? Protests Across the U.S. — And They're Not Over Yet

 🇺🇸 What Happened on July 4th? Protests Across the U.S. — And They're Not Over Yet

Posted by Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita
July 5, 2025

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This year’s Independence Day looked very different across the United States.

Instead of fireworks and family barbecues, millions of Americans hit the streets in protest. The message? Freedom, democracy, and justice are under threat — and people are rising up to defend them.

From New York to Los Angeles, Salt Lake City to Tampa Bay, citizens gathered in what organizers called a “Free America” movement — resisting the sweeping authoritarian trends many associate with the current Trump administration.

🔥 Highlights from the July 4th Protests:

• Nationwide Mobilization:
  Protests were organized by the Women’s March and dozens of grassroots coalitions. These rallies targeted issues such as:

  • Civil rights rollbacks
  • Immigration raids
  • Cuts to Medicaid and social programs
  • Threats to reproductive rights
  • Dismantling of environmental protections

• Houston Defies Restrictions:
  Even after their permit was denied, protestors gathered at City Hall in Houston. It was small but powerful — an impromptu act of defiance.

• Southern California's Ghost Town Celebrations:
  Entire communities, especially in Los Angeles suburbs, canceled July 4 events. Why? Fear of ICE raids and surveillance. People were too scared to gather in public.

• Creative Resistance:
  Across the country, people used music, art, cookouts, and even projection mapping to share messages of hope, unity, and resistance.

---

👣 Are Protests Still Happening?

Yes.
Though July 4th was the peak, events continue today — July 5th — and are expected to roll into the weekend. Some are smaller community-led gatherings, while others are coordinated marches.

---

💬 Why It Matters:

These protests are not just political — they are deeply personal.

People are marching because:

• They’re scared.
• They’ve lost access to healthcare.
• They’ve been targeted by raids.
• They feel democracy slipping away.

It’s not just one issue. It’s everything. And it’s reaching a boiling point.

---

🌎 Final Thought from Zipolita:

I often write about justice, human rights, and the struggle to be seen and heard. This movement feels like a warning bell. People are trying to hold on to what little freedom they have left — and they’re doing it with courage, creativity, and conviction.

The protests are not the end. They are the beginning.

Stay informed. Stay strong. ✊🏽

---

Sources:

• Axios
• AP News
• Houston Chronicle
• People

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From Darkness to Indifference: A Human Crisis / De l’obscurité à l’indifférence / De la oscuridad a la indiferencia

 

Here are the translations in French and Spanish 

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🇫🇷 French Translation

De l’obscurité de New York à l’indifférence glaciale de Vancouver – Sommes-nous vraiment si différents ?
Par Tina Winterlik alias Zipolita

Il fut un temps — pas si lointain — où New York représentait à l’échelle mondiale le symbole de l’obscurité urbaine. La criminalité faisait rage, la violence était une norme quotidienne, et les gens avaient cessé de se soucier des autres. Ils passaient à côté de personnes agressées, attaquées, ou pire encore. Le célèbre meurtre de Kitty Genovese en 1964 dans le Queens est devenu une histoire glaçante racontée dans le monde entier — une jeune femme poignardée à mort devant son appartement, tandis que des dizaines de témoins auraient regardé ou entendu… sans rien faire. Des rapports ultérieurs ont suggéré que l’histoire avait été exagérée, mais peu importe la vérité : l’impact fut immense. Nous étions choqués par l’apathie.

Times Square dans les années 70 et 80 était rempli de cinémas porno, de trafiquants de drogue et de prostitution. Le Bronx était littéralement en feu, les propriétaires abandonnaient leurs immeubles, et les crimes étaient si courants que personne ne tressaillait en entendant des cris la nuit.

C’est facile de secouer la tête et dire : « Wow, ça devait être horrible. »

Mais… nous sommes ici maintenant. À Vancouver. À Surrey. En 2025.

Et je dois poser la question :
Avons-nous vraiment changé ? Ou sommes-nous simplement arrivés au même point ?

J’ai vu des gens — des êtres humains réels, vivants — allongés sur les trottoirs. Pas seulement endormis. Pas seulement drogués. Certains, j’en suis sûre, étaient en train de mourir… et tout le monde passait à côté. Personne ne vérifiait. Personne n’appelait le 911. Les gens les contournaient ou les enjambaient, les yeux rivés sur leur téléphone, pressés d’aller vers quelque chose de plus « important ».

J’ai vu la vie quitter des visages, et toujours personne ne bougeait. Je suis restée figée tandis que d’autres détournaient le regard. Et je me pose cette question, et je vous la pose à vous qui lisez :

Et si c’était VOUS, allongé au sol ?
Victime d’une crise cardiaque.
D’un AVC.
D’un anévrisme cérébral.
Effondré sous la canicule sur un trottoir brûlant en juillet.

Ne voudriez-vous pas que quelqu’un s’en soucie ?

Ce que nous vivons actuellement à Vancouver et Surrey n’est pas seulement une crise du logement ou de la santé. C’est une crise humaine. Une crise de lien, de compassion, de conscience. Et même si nous pointons du doigt — à juste titre — les systèmes corrompus et les gouvernements défaillants, nous devons aussi nous regarder nous-mêmes.

Parce que ce qui rend une ville vraiment sombre, ce n’est pas seulement le crime ou la pauvreté.
C’est quand les gens cessent de se soucier les uns des autres.

Nous y sommes. Nous sommes arrivés. Et nous devrions le crier sur tous les toits.

Mais peut-être, juste peut-être, qu’en parlant, en partageant ce que nous voyons, en refusant de détourner les yeux — nous pouvons commencer à revenir du bord du gouffre.

Alors je vous le demande à nouveau, avec amour et urgence :
Dans quel monde voulez-vous vous réveiller demain ?

Parce que nous sommes en train de le construire aujourd’hui, à chaque choix que nous faisons… de nous soucier, ou pas.

💔😢

– Tina Winterlik / Zipolita

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🇪🇸 Spanish Translation

De la oscuridad de Nueva York a la fría indiferencia de Vancouver – ¿Realmente estamos tan lejos unos de otros?
Por Tina Winterlik alias Zipolita

Hubo un tiempo — no hace tanto — en que la ciudad de Nueva York era el símbolo internacional de la oscuridad urbana. El crimen era rampante, la violencia era la norma diaria y la gente había dejado de preocuparse. Caminaban como si nada mientras otros eran asaltados, atacados o peor. El infame asesinato de Kitty Genovese en 1964 en Queens se convirtió en una historia escalofriante contada en todo el mundo: una joven fue apuñalada hasta morir frente a su apartamento mientras decenas de testigos supuestamente miraban o escuchaban… sin hacer nada. Informes posteriores sugirieron que la historia fue exagerada, pero la verdad no importaba tanto como su impacto: nos horrorizó la apatía.

Times Square en los años 70 y 80 estaba lleno de cines porno, traficantes de drogas y prostitución. El Bronx literalmente ardía mientras los propietarios abandonaban los edificios, y el crimen era tan común que nadie se inmutaba ante los gritos en la noche.

Es fácil negar con la cabeza y decir: «Vaya, qué horrible debió haber sido eso».

Pero… ahora estamos aquí. En Vancouver. En Surrey. En 2025.

Y tengo que preguntar:
¿Realmente hemos cambiado? ¿O simplemente hemos llegado al mismo lugar?

He visto personas — seres humanos reales y vivos — tiradas en las aceras. No solo dormidos. No solo drogados. Algunos, estoy segura, estaban muriendo… y todos pasaban de largo. Nadie se detenía. Nadie llamaba al 911. La gente simplemente los rodeaba o los pasaba por encima, con los ojos en sus teléfonos, apurados por llegar a algo que, en ese momento, parecía más importante.

He visto la vida desvanecerse de los rostros, y aun así nadie reaccionaba. Me he quedado paralizada mientras otros apartaban la mirada. Y me pregunto, y te pregunto a ti que estás leyendo esto:

¿Y si fueras TÚ quien está tirado en el suelo?
Por un infarto.
Un derrame cerebral.
Un aneurisma cerebral.
Colapsado por un golpe de calor sobre una acera abrasadora en julio.

¿No querrías que alguien se preocupara?

Lo que vivimos ahora en Vancouver y Surrey no es solo una crisis de vivienda o de salud. Es una crisis humana. Una crisis de conexión, de compasión, de conciencia. Y mientras señalamos con el dedo a los sistemas corruptos y gobiernos rotos — con razón — también debemos mirar hacia dentro.

Porque lo que realmente oscurece una ciudad no es solo el crimen o la pobreza.
Es cuando la gente deja de importarles los demás.

Ya estamos allí. Hemos llegado. Y deberíamos estar gritando eso desde cada rincón.

Pero quizás, solo quizás, al alzar la voz, al compartir lo que vemos, al negarnos a mirar hacia otro lado — podamos comenzar a alejarnos de ese precipicio.

Así que pregunto de nuevo, con amor y urgencia:
¿En qué tipo de mundo quieres despertar mañana?

Porque lo estamos construyendo hoy, con cada decisión que tomamos… de importarnos, o no.

💔😢

– Tina Winterlik / Zipolita

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New York’s Darkness to Vancouver’s Cold Indifference

From New York’s Darkness to Vancouver’s Cold Indifference – Are We Really So Far Apart?

By Tina Winterlik aka Zipolita

There was a time — not too long ago — when New York City was the international symbol of urban darkness. Crime was rampant, violence was a daily norm, and people stopped caring. They walked by as others were mugged, attacked, or worse. The infamous 1964 murder of Kitty Genovese in Queens became a chilling story told around the world — a young woman was stabbed to death outside her apartment while dozens of witnesses reportedly watched or heard and did nothing. Later reports suggested the story was exaggerated, but the truth didn’t matter as much as the impact: we were shocked by the apathy.

Times Square in the 1970s and ’80s was filled with porn theaters, drug dealers, and prostitution. The Bronx was literally on fire as landlords abandoned buildings, and crime was so common that no one flinched at screams in the night.

It’s easy to shake our heads and say, “Wow, how awful that must’ve been.”

But… we’re here now. In Vancouver. In Surrey. In 2025.

And I have to ask:
Have we really changed? Or have we simply arrived at the same place?

I’ve seen people — real, living humans — lying on sidewalks. Not just asleep. Not just high. Some I am certain were dying… and everyone walked by. No one checked. No one called 911. People just stepped around them or over them, eyes on their phones, rushing to whatever mattered more in that moment.

I’ve watched the life fade from faces, and still no one flinched. I’ve stood stunned while others looked away. And I ask myself and ask you reading this:

What if it was YOU lying on the ground?
From a heart attack.
A stroke.
A brain aneurysm.
Collapsing from heatstroke on a scorching sidewalk in July.

Wouldn’t you want someone to care?

What we’re experiencing now in Vancouver and Surrey is not just a housing crisis or a healthcare crisis. It’s a human crisis. One of connection, of compassion, of consciousness. And while we point fingers at corrupt systems and broken governments — rightly so — we also need to point inward.

Because what makes a city truly dark isn’t just crime or poverty.
It’s when people stop giving a damn about each other.

We’re there now. We’ve arrived. And we should be screaming that from every corner.

But maybe, just maybe, by speaking out, sharing what we see, refusing to look away — we can begin to pull ourselves back from that edge.

So I ask again, with love and urgency:
What kind of world do you want to wake up in tomorrow?

Because we're building it today, with every choice we make to care… or not.

💔😢

– Tina Winterlik / Zipolita

Has Vancouver Lost Its Heart

Has Vancouver Lost Its Heart? ❤️💔🤔😢Lessons from New York and a Call for Compassion

By Tina Winterlik (Zipolita)

Yesterday, a horrifying scene unfolded on the streets of Vancouver. A man was on fire, and most passersby simply walked by. It wasn’t until someone in a car stopped that help arrived. This shocking incident has left me deeply shaken and questioning what’s happened to our sense of community.

It reminded me of the stories I once heard about New York City in the 1970s and 1980s. Back then, the city was notorious for its crime, violence, and apathy. Tales of people walking past others in need—or even ignoring cries for help—painted a grim picture of urban life. But then, supposedly, things got better. Initiatives to reduce crime and foster community pride were credited with turning the tide.

Has Vancouver reached that same breaking point now? And if so, can we learn from New York’s transformation?

The Cold Reality of Vancouver Today

Over the years, Vancouver has changed dramatically. What was once a city known for its beauty and community spirit has become cold and detached. Fear, apathy, and division now seem to define our interactions.

This detachment has many layers. The COVID-19 pandemic created a culture of isolation and mistrust. Social interactions became tinged with fear, and even as restrictions eased, the scars of those years remain.

At the same time, the city’s extreme inequality and housing crisis have created visible suffering. Poverty, addiction, and mental health struggles are everywhere, and many residents feel overwhelmed or unsure how to help.

For newcomers, the challenges are different. Fear of racism or distrust of authorities may keep some from getting involved. Even though Vancouver’s police force is now more diverse, the history of misconduct still looms large, especially for those who are racialized.

And then there are policies that, while designed to protect, inadvertently create more disconnect. For example, bus drivers—who have faced violent attacks—are now instructed to avoid engaging directly with passed-out passengers. This combination of fear, apathy, and systemic breakdown has made Vancouver feel colder and more divided than ever before.

What Can We Learn from New York?

New York’s transformation was far from perfect, but it offers lessons. Community-focused initiatives, neighborhood policing, and increased civic engagement helped shift the culture. People began to reclaim their streets and rebuild trust in one another.

Vancouver now faces a similar choice. Do we accept this growing indifference, or do we act to create a city where no one is left behind?

Rebuilding Vancouver’s Compassion

One of the best ways to heal a community is through connection, and art, gardening, and shared meals are powerful tools for bringing people together. Here are some ideas to foster empathy and rebuild trust in Vancouver:

1. Community Art Projects:

Organize murals or public art installations that reflect local stories and cultures.

Host art workshops in parks or community centers to bring people together to create and connect.

Support initiatives like street performers or pop-up galleries that celebrate the city's diversity.

2. Gardening for Connection:

Create more community gardens where residents can grow food, share knowledge, and build friendships.

Incorporate gardening into schools, encouraging young people to learn about sustainability while connecting with neighbours.

Host gardening days where people come together to beautify neglected spaces.

3. Soup Kitchens and Food Programs:

Establish more community kitchens where people can cook and eat together, breaking down barriers through shared meals.

Encourage restaurants and grocery stores to donate surplus food to local programs.

Organize "soup nights" where neighbors gather to cook, share, and connect.

4. Skill-Sharing and Volunteering:

Start free workshops where people can teach each other skills like sewing, cooking, or repairing household items.

Partner with local businesses to sponsor volunteer days focused on helping the unhoused or cleaning up public spaces.

5. Storytelling Events:

Host storytelling nights where residents can share their experiences, building empathy and understanding across diverse groups.

Create spaces for newcomers to share their journeys and connect with long-time residents.

6. Youth-Led Initiatives:

Encourage young people to lead projects like clothing drives, tree-planting events, or community cleanups.

Provide mentorship programs that teach youth about leadership and compassion.

A Call to Action

Vancouver has the potential to turn things around, but it requires all of us to step up. Let’s rebuild our city by fostering connection, compassion, and care. Whether it’s through art, a shared garden, or a simple act of kindness, we can make a difference.

This city is our shared home. Together, we can ensure that Vancouver becomes a place where no one is ignored, and everyone feels they belongs

VOTE for Bernie New York & Feel the Wave of Democracy!!

Let's shock the world on 4/19 by helping #Bernie win #NewYork! Canvass, Phonebank, VOTE! #NewYorkCity #NY #NYPrimary pic.twitter.com/fUddU7Mtfy

— Teabar.com (@MAHAMOSA) April 18, 2016

Tomorrow's the day! I am watching closely from Vancouver BC Canada.
I have see big rallies and people are really engaged.

So turn up, turn out and VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!!!

COME ON NEW YORK, THE WORLD IS WATCHING & COUNTING ON YOU!!!



Here's some related links
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/03/calls-of-voter-supression-and-vote.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/03/bernie-on-foreign-policy-wise-words.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/03/bernie-people-will-not-accept-oligarchy.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/03/bernie-is-most-trusted.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/03/bernie-wins-alaska-hawaii-washington.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/02/listen-to-truth-voteforbernie.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/02/vote-for-bernie-and-remain-engaged.html
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2016/04/big-protests-in-new-york-its-time-to.html

You all are so inspiring. We are unstoppable, Another world IS possible! #FeelTheBern https://t.co/LmFnNsKmfO #GOTV pic.twitter.com/KC5fyANgPJ

— People For Bernie (@People4Bernie) April 19, 2016

IMORTANT #NewYork law guarantees you paid time off to vote if your work falls during the polling times! #Bernie pic.twitter.com/PEnhcrQfjb

— Flowerchild4Bernie (@FiercelyZen) April 18, 2016

All Right! This is our guy #NewYork Constitution Pipeline Must Be Defeated - Bernie Sanders https://t.co/EtmoZ3oVJX

— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) April 18, 2016

Final New York rally for @BernieSanders in Long Island City before voters head to polls tomorrow pic.twitter.com/iuruDyoGNd

— Lauren Blanchard (@LaurenBlanch12) April 18, 2016

50 yrs ago Dr. King was building a beloved community for social justice. I felt that spirit w @BernieSanders tonight pic.twitter.com/Hqfz9HAeSY

— Danny Glover (@mrdannyglover) April 19, 2016

IT'S OFFICIAL: We made over 3,000,000 calls to NY state this weekend! We've ID'd the voters, let's get them to vote! pic.twitter.com/83ZE00UcJz

— People For Bernie (@People4Bernie) April 18, 2016

Bernie inspires. #CompassionCatchesFire #NYPrimary pic.twitter.com/zQht6ArfJg

— Project Bernie '16 (@ProjectBernie16) April 19, 2016

Tonight,the big apple showed their big hearts. Let's show the world the power of the political revolution #NYPrimary pic.twitter.com/KV7jyv1zoo

— People For Bernie (@People4Bernie) April 19, 2016

Big Protests in New York- It's time to RiseUp!

I've been so busy I didn't have a chance to share the BIG PROTESTS in New York yesterday. I'm just going to share a bunch of tweets here.

In the tunnel under Grand Central at the rally for a #HateFreeNY. #ShutDownTrump pic.twitter.com/OXRLci9mzc

— Allie Jane Bruce (@alliejanebruce) April 15, 2016

NYPD assaulting protestors, violent arrests happening on 50th st approachin 9th ave #NYPDKKK pic.twitter.com/cy4xsfT7Q9

— Millions March NYC (@MillionsMarch) April 15, 2016

Stand up against racism and bigotry! #HateFreeNY #ShutDownTrump #Stoptrump #NYC pic.twitter.com/T6ZXu7O1tN

— Matthew Bolton (@politicalmines) April 14, 2016

#ShutDownTrump pic.twitter.com/HAdlZO8UH0

— Marilynn (@marilynn_xo) April 14, 2016

Thousands of protestors surrounding the Grand Hyatt from all sides on 42nd st #ShutDownTrump #HateFreeNYC pic.twitter.com/Bwpt1dS4ht

— Millions March NYC (@MillionsMarch) April 14, 2016

.@suebu4peace is a grandma against #trump. "Because I'm normal" #dumptrump #nyc pic.twitter.com/k5GRbTZjzv

— Noreen Bowden (@NoreenBowden) April 14, 2016

Big anti #Trump protest outside #grandcentral happening now! #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/N6mQqYWtyO

— Sherwin Bryce-Pease (@sherwiebp) April 14, 2016

Protestors approaching Grand Hyatt entrance to shut down Republican Gala. #ShutDownTrump4Akai #HateFreeNYC pic.twitter.com/WorAd91ziv

— Millions March NYC (@MillionsMarch) April 14, 2016

A few arrest already. #HateFreeNY #DumpTrump #fightfor15 #DayofAction #Shutdowntrump pic.twitter.com/BtYNqPYtBE

— Nicky Ocean ⚓ (@SeaNick_) April 14, 2016

GOP + Trump = Party of Hate says banner on the Hyatt. #HateFreeNY pic.twitter.com/Viz8o9FG51

— Make the Road Action (@MaketheRoadAct) April 14, 2016

Reuters poll: Sanders 49% Clinton 48% - 2 weeks ago it was Sanders 45% Clinton 53% #FeelTheBern https://t.co/URvIrNvfTb

— Colleges For Bernie (@Colleges4Bernie) April 15, 2016

.@BernieSanders says we have an enemy. That enemy is #climatechange. #ActOnClimate #DemDebate #FeelTheBern pic.twitter.com/VWqqa0OtKI

— Mike Hudema (@MikeHudema) April 15, 2016

The Revolution Will Not Be Televised https://t.co/Y22S7vFJ3J #revolution #justice #corporategreed #history #future #united #solidarity

— Tina Winterlik (@zipolita) April 15, 2016

Once we hear truth, we never forget it. Respect and dignity are at the core of Bernie's foreign policy. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/qDKTRbHMxF

— Project Bernie '16 (@ProjectBernie16) April 15, 2016

Bernie is intellectually honest & unbiased in judgment. #DemDebate #NYPrimary #Buffalo #Syracuse #NewYork #NYC #NY pic.twitter.com/adMWbv4bZT

— Teabar.com (@MAHAMOSA) April 15, 2016

Almost 800 ppl arrested at Capitol to end corruption & voter suppression. Will #DemDebate candidates stand with #DemocracySpring?

— Democracy Spring (@DemSpring) April 15, 2016

Kids should NOT be punished for trying to get an education. #FreeCollegeTuition #DemDebate #BrooklynDebate #CNNDemocraticDebate

— Millennials 4 Bernie (@Bernlennials) April 15, 2016

Tense exchange just now between Sanders and Clinton. #DemDebate https://t.co/6dRMLRcpL5

— Huffington Post (@HuffingtonPost) April 15, 2016

#JusticeForAkai #FightFor15 in the fight on all fronts #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/xPm7amXBm2

— NYC ShutItDown (@NYC_ShutItDown) April 14, 2016

NYCC's Elva Meneses speaking at #FightFor15 national strike in NYC for $15 & a union NOW! #FastFoodGlobal pic.twitter.com/4mOTnzh8it

— NY Communities (@nychange) April 14, 2016

#StopTrump at the NY Grand Hyatt @TaxWallStParty pic.twitter.com/jWwwTPyYtq

— Chris Rieth (@riethc) April 14, 2016

Anti @realDonaldTrump protest in front of #grandcentral #nyc pic.twitter.com/ywO8A4f5i4

— Victor Prado (@NinjaV12) April 14, 2016

#FightFor15 pic.twitter.com/Q1F8S5rETY

— Occupy Wall Street (@OccupyWallStNYC) April 14, 2016

#shutdowntrump #DumpTrump #NYC pic.twitter.com/WdOfEGr8o3

— Peter Soeller (@SoellerPower) April 14, 2016

"Refugees welcome! Racists f-ck off" #ShutDownTrump rally pic.twitter.com/5lRLjoYfbB

— Alice Speri (@alicesperi) April 14, 2016

We're here at the #ShutDownTrump rally in NYC! #ShutItDown #DumpTrump pic.twitter.com/PtjDEJIvmr

— LetYourVoiceBeHeard (@BeHeard_Radio) April 14, 2016

YourAnonGlobal: RT actressnoir: Speakout @ #ShutDownTrump Rally in front of Grand Central..come on down #Election2… pic.twitter.com/AUM1HyrS4I

— Anonymous (@CovertAnonymous) April 14, 2016

Cmon #NYC - is there anything more important than joining together to #ShutDownTrump? Nope. Join us at #GrandCentral & fight for your city.

— Occupy Wall Street (@OccupyWallStNYC) April 14, 2016

Some signs from the #DumpTrump rally by the Hyatt. #HateFreeNY #MakeDonaldDrumpfAgain https://t.co/bIJRwPn1cc pic.twitter.com/CC8x41JZgs

— Tardigrade (@StopMotionsolo) April 14, 2016

Trump: the face of #Racism at the #TrumpProtest in #NYC pic.twitter.com/awMe3gCFD4

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) April 14, 2016

This exchange is getting heated, police kind of panicky asking them to stop #ShutDownTrump rally pic.twitter.com/k7M0IRS9aH

— Alice Speri (@alicesperi) April 14, 2016

Struggling poor workers have a Jumbotron with rap entertainment to kick off #shutdowntrump march in #NYC pic.twitter.com/HcWzWAozlK

— RebelPundit™ (@RebelPundit) April 14, 2016

Well this speaks for itself #HateFreeNY pic.twitter.com/ioFnKv2fr1

— Colleen Hagerty (@colleenhagerty) April 14, 2016

And so are his followers.#ShutDownTrump #HateFreeNY #DumpTrump pic.twitter.com/PVuj0fg5Jl

— Obedient Worker (@515LM) April 14, 2016

Remeber this?
Keith Olbermann ReadsStatement Released By The Wall Street Protestors https://t.co/bTnyQ4cvLF #Occupy #Wallstreet #Bernie

— Tina Winterlik (@zipolita) April 15, 2016

John Lennon - Power To The People https://t.co/5rrl78eR6e via #BernieSanders #FeeltheBern @BernieSanders #BernieinNY

— Tina Winterlik (@zipolita) April 15, 2016

Rise UP! RISE UP!! https://t.co/zwsO8BBTZk#TakeNYbyPhone @BernieSanders @People4Bernie #BernieSanders #FeeltheBern

— Tina Winterlik (@zipolita) April 15, 2016

HAPPY HUNGER GAMES!

Time the people RISE UP or it will be HAPPY HUNGER GAMES!!

RE: REFUGEES -"The New Colossus"-Statue of Liberty

Hmmm...Ahem....to all those not wanting Refugees.... were your parents or grandparents any of these millions of immigrants...see below..

The title of the poem and the first two lines refer to the Colossus of Rhodes, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The poem talks about the millions of immigrants who came to the United States (many of them through Ellis Island at the port of New York).

The "air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame" refers to New York City and Brooklyn, not yet consolidated into one unit in 1898.

Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame,
With conquering limbs astride from land to land;
Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand
A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame
Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name
Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she
With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statue_of_Liberty

The copper statue, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, a French sculptor, was built by Gustave Eiffel and dedicated on October 28, 1886. It was a gift to the United States from the people of France.

The statue is of a robed female figure representing Libertas, the Roman goddess, who bears a torch and a tabula ansata (a tablet evoking the law) upon which is inscribed the date of the American Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776. 

A broken chain lies at her feet. The statue is an icon of freedom and of the United States, and was a welcoming sight to immigrants arriving from abroad.

Related Links
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2011/05/rock-candy-revolution-tedxtalks.html 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statue_of_Liberty#/media/File:SOLparkParis.jpg

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6c/Head_of_the_Statue_of_Liberty_1885.jpg/330px-Head_of_the_Statue_of_Liberty_1885.jpg

Dedication

"President Cleveland spoke next, stating that the statue's "stream of light shall pierce the darkness of ignorance and man's oppression until Liberty enlightens the world".

"No members of the general public were permitted on the island during the ceremonies, which were reserved entirely for dignitaries. The only females granted access were Bartholdi's wife and de Lesseps's granddaughter; officials stated that they feared women might be injured in the crush of people. The restriction offended area suffragists, who chartered a boat and got as close as they could to the island. The group's leaders made speeches applauding the embodiment of Liberty as a woman and advocating women's right to vote"

Rock Candy Revolution See 13:13 Declaration of Independence

https://youtu.be/jFrPp8r_Lm4

Off+On Climate Movement- THE WORLD IS JOINING TOGETHER

http://350.org/power-through-paris/

Are YOU informed. PLEASE Take Action! Do Something!



Here's what I have done but I am working on more....

Keep the fossil fuels in the ground!! 
#NoTankers #NoPipelines #SaveOurCoast #NoLNGinBC

Ulali- Idle No More- Peoples Climate March- PARIS & BEYOND

What are you doing to Save Our Planet? 
Think how you can TAKE ACTION!

Ulali Project: Pura Fe', Jennifer Kreisberg, Charly Lowry, Layla Rose Locklear

http://purafe.com/ulali-project



From there website:
The Ulali Project made their debut in April 2014 at the River People Music Festival. Since then, the group has performed across the United States from New Mexico to the People’s Climate March in New York City. They perform familiar Ulali songs as well as new material, like the anthem, Idle No More.   The quartet is currently made up of Ulali founders, Pura Fe’ and Jennifer Kreisberg, and new additions, Charly Lowry and Layla Locklear.
For booking information, contact laylalocklear92@gmail.com

 https://www.facebook.com/FirstNationMusic
https://www.facebook.com/FirstNationMusic/info?tab=page_info
https://www.facebook.com/purafetrio
http://www.amazon.com/Pura-Fe/e/B000APWE6S
https://soundcloud.com/nuevaondarecords 

Ulali Project & Kontiwennenhawi Collaboration
https://www.facebook.com/mohawkfox/videos/10153218728355892/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulali
Ulali is a Native American women's a cappella group. Founded in 1987, it includes Pura Fé (Tuscarora), Soni (Mayan, Apache, Yaqui), and Jennifer Kreisberg (Tuscarora).
Ulali's sound encompasses an array of indigenous music including Southeast United States choral singing (pre-blues and gospel) and pre-Columbian music. Ulali's live performances address Native struggles and accomplishments.

http://www.idlenomore.ca/learn
http://www.idlenomore.ca/manifesto

"Idle No More calls on all people to join in a peaceful revolution, to honour Indigenous sovereignty, and to protect the land and water"

#IdleNoMore
#PeoplesClimate
#Ulali

Published on Sep 22, 2014

Indigenous leaders at the Peoples Climate March in New York speak to the urgency of Climate Change and the need for all of us to be #IdleNoMore. From the Amazon to the Arctic, Indigenous Peoples are defending our climate and teaching allies about how extractive industries are directly connected to sovereignty, colonization, and violence against Indigenous women.

Photo from Idle No More Video

http://www.idlenomore.ca/

http://www.idlenomore.ca/calls_for_change

Idle No More and Defenders of the Land, a network of Indigenous communities in land struggle, have joined together to issue this common call for escalating action. Our message is clear and in accordance with the principles of coexistence and mutual respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples. We call for Canada, the provinces and the territories to:

1. Repeal provisions of Bill C-45 (including changes to the Indian Act and Navigable Waters Act, which infringe on environmental protections, Aboriginal and Treaty rights) and abandon all pending legislation which does the same.
2. Deepen democracy in Canada through practices such as proportional representation and consultation on all legislation concerning collective rights and environmental protections, and include legislation which restricts corporate interests.
3. In accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples’ principle of free, prior, and informed consent, respect the right of Indigenous peoples to say no to development on their territory.
4. Cease its policy of extinguishment of Aboriginal Title and recognize and affirm Aboriginal Title and Rights, as set out in section 35 of Canada’s constitution, and recommended by the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.
5. Honour the spirit and intent of the historic Treaties. Officially repudiate the racist Doctrine of Discovery and the Doctrine of Terra Nullius, and abandon their use to justify the seizure of Indigenous Nations lands and wealth.
6. Actively resist violence against women and hold a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, and involve Indigenous women in the design, decision-making, process and implementation of this inquiry, as a step toward initiating a comprehensive and coordinated national action plan

 http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.ca/2014/09/idle-no-more-powerful-video-peoples.html

Ripple Effect: The People’s Climate March One Year Later

http://350.org/ripple-effect-the-peoples-climate-march-one-year-later/

http://350.org/ripple-effect-the-peoples-climate-march-one-year-later/

"We’re not organizing another march in New York City this year. Setting aside Star Wars and the Godfather, sequels are rarely better, and successful social movements rarely use the same tactic over and over again. Instead, we’re mobilizing this year in Paris and around the world. There will be actions in the US on October 18th, huge marches around the world over the weekend of November 28-29th, escalated action on December 12th, and more major demonstrations taking on the fossil fuel industry next April."

Hey Canada- It's Time for Change

The time is NOW! For all Canadians, indigenous and not, to work together and make a better future for our children. If not NOW, when?

Photos taken from Video- No Copyright Infringement Intended. Please contact for credits. Thanks

Posted on Vimeo

"400,000 people walked through the streets of NYC to make a statement to world leaders:
Act on climate change now! 

While many world leaders met in New York this week (Sept 23-26) to discuss how to act on Climate change Canada's PM Stephen Harper chose not to attend. Due to the aggressive expansion of the Alberta oil sands, Canada is set to become one of the world's worst climate criminals, while being left behind by the emerging renewable economy.

Meet the largest social movement of this decade and the greatest challenge yet faced by humanity.
Give Energy East A People's Intervention"

act.350.org/letter/energy_east/
Follow the growing movement
@TarSandsSolns
facebook.com/TarSandsSolutionsNetwork
Music: Ulali
Supplemental Footage:
Idle No More
Democracy Now
Video: zackembree.com

Prep for Hurricane Sandy. May the angels watch over you!

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Blog post by Tina Winterlik © 2012
tina_winterlik@yahoo.com
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/#!/zipolita @zipolita
http://gplus.to/zipolita Google+


It's definitely mind boggling to see how big this storm is. May the angels watch over you and keep you all safe. I have an aunt in New Jersey and I'm praying that her family and home will be fine. Here's some video and some info to help prepare you and keep you safe. We are saying lots of prayers for everyone and everything to stay safe.

Last night the power in Zipolite went out for about an hour. The whole town was black. Luckily I have a Survival candle- I bought it before Angel was born and it's come on every journey I have made and I always know where it is. It's cool, it lasts 36 and has 3 little candles in one and actually gives off quite a bit of heat. I got it at 3 Vets in Vancouver many moons ago but works great. I also have two hand chargeable flashlights and two lighters, so we were fine.  At first I panicked and thought "Oh no!" but I was more prepared than I thought. While we waited for the lights to come back on we made orange juice by  hand. 

*Note about the candles- we were very careful to set them on the tile floor in the middle of the room away from everything. A battery lantern is safer.

Once your all prepared and in a safe place, don't forget to meditate. See video "Message of Hope 2012" bottom of this page. http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.mx/2012/10/go-away-sandy.html  It will take your mind of things, make you think and help calm you.

http://ca.news.yahoo.com/blogs/geekquinox/hurricane-sandy-prepare-arrival-canada-221804941.html
With heavy rain, strong winds and the potential for heavy snow in some areas, and the dangers of flooding and power-outages that come with them, there are ways to prepare yourself, your home and your neighbourhood for Sandy's arrival. These steps will get you ready to face even the worst-case scenario.

Before the storm:

• Make sure you have ample drinking water. Fill pots, tubs or jugs with water from your tap, or buy bottled water
• Make sure you have plenty of food that does not require refrigeration and that can be safely eaten without cooking it
• Assemble a basic emergency kit
• Check that flashlights and other battery-operated devices (such as a radio) have fresh batteries
• Have cash on-hand, as bank machines and interac will not be working in a blackout
• Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas
• If you live in a house:
  • Tie down or remove loose items from your lawn and yard that may be blown around by the strong winds
  • Clear leaves and debris from your rain gutters, to help your home's built-in defenses keep it safe from water damage
  • Rake the leaves from your yard, and clear any leaves and debris from street gutters in front of your property, to keep rainwater drainage systems as clear as possible
  • If possible, cut down any dead branches or trees around your house, to reduce the chance of damage to your home or power-outages due to downed power lines
• If you live in an apartment building:
  • Be aware that winds at the top of a high-rise building can be significantly stronger than winds on the ground
  • Bring any items from your balcony inside, or tie them down to prevent them from being blow around.

During the storm:

• Stay indoors as much as possible
• Stay alert for warnings
• Watch out for your neighbours, so that you may help them in an emergency; we are all safer when we are all looking out for one another
• If you live in an apartment building, use the elevator as little as possible, as you never know when the power may go out
• If the power do goes out:
  • Do not use candles for light as they may cause a fire
  • Turn off all electronics and appliances
  • Turn off all lights except one — so that you will know when the power comes back on
  • Food in the refrigerator will last for roughly 24 hours (about six hours for dairy products), and food in the freezer will last for 24 hours if it is partially full, or up to 48 hours if it is completely full; each time you open the refrigerator or freezer door, this time will be reduced
  • Manage your food and water supplies, but do not ration water — drink when you are thirsty to avoid dehydration.

[ More Geekquinox: 2012 Mayan calendar doomsday prophecy debunked ]
If you absolutely must go out during the storm, use the utmost care possible.

• Watch out for flying debris and downed power lines
• Do not walk or drive through standing water, as the water may be far deeper than it looks, and any underlying current in the water may pull you or your vehicle along with it. Find an alternative route
• If there are absolutely no reasonable alternatives but to use a flooded road, try to stick to the highest part of the road (and thus the most shallow water) and if you are driving, be aware of the following hazards:
  • The road may collapse or be washed away due to the water, or the combined weight of the water and your vehicle
  • As little as 10 cm of water can seriously affect the maneuverability of the average car, and deeper water may potentially cause your vehicle to stall, cause your wheels to lose contact with the road, or both
  • Driving too quickly will cause a surge of water in front of your vehicle that could increase the potential of stalling or losing contact with the road
  • Driving past oncoming traffic, even slowly, may cause a similar surge of water, with similar consequences
  • If your vehicle does stall, restarting it immediately could cause irreparable damage to your engine
  • If your vehicle does become stranded in high water, you will need to abandon it immediately for higher ground or if you cannot do so safely, risk restarting it to escape the rising water
  • If your vehicle's wheels do lose contact with the ground, it could be carried along in the current
  • Once you are safely out of the water, your brakes will be wet and thus will not be as effective. Slowly depressing them several times will help them to dry out.

With heavy snow possible in some areas of central Ontario, further preparations may be needed (such as putting aside more food and water, and possibly having a generator to supply power for heating), as any power-outages experienced in those areas may take longer for emergency crews to repair.
More information on being prepared can be found at the Government of Canada's website.

Geek out with the latest in science and weather.
Follow @ygeekquinox on Twitter!

Dancing his way thru College

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Blog post by Tina Winterlik © 2012
http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/#!/zipolita @zipolita
http://gplus.to/zipolita Google+



Wow! I was in tears listening to Joshua, especially when he said his mom is in the shelter and he actually starting tapping because he was hungry. It's so cool that Ellen has helped him out this way!! Hurray!

Art History Up CLOSE & Personal- The Google Art Project

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Blog post by Tina Winterlik © 2011

http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.com 

Did you take Art History? I did! I did really great at it, and got an "A" in the class I took while in Langara's Photography program. I loved it but it was years ago and I've forgotten alot. BUT CHECK THIS OUT!

WOW, Google Art Project

http://www.googleartproject.com

Now I can teach my child about all these INCREDIBLE works of ART and she can explore them UP CLOSE, closer than you'd ever see them in a book or museum. So TOTALLY COOL!

Google Art History Project

We will be spending alot of time looking at all the different Masterpieces. You can Zoom in and out and move all around, really INCREDIBLE! How blessed we are to be able to share this!

Green World Campaign- New York

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Blog post by Tina Winterlik © 2011

http://tinawinterlik.blogspot.com 

So just came across this in Facebook from Four Years.Go

 Who shared this link with me. 

Text Tree

Happening tomorrow in New York - Re Green the World
http://www.vimeo.com/22616063

ReGreen the World from Marc Ian Barasch on Vimeo.

http://www.GreenWorld.org
This is our Green World Campaign-produced screen content for our " Times Square ReGreen the World" text TREE Earth Day initiative.

It will be on 10 jumbo screens in Times Square this Friday, April 22, 2011 (including the building-sized NASDAQ and American Eagle screens) as part of Earth Day New York 2011, turning the urban environment into a virtual forest at regular intervals. This work supports the United Nations Year of Forests 2011.

PSA designed and donated by leading ad agency David & Goliath (L.A., Frankfurt, London) and Stockholm-based FilmTecknarna. Production was funded by a grant from the U.K.-based CBD Charitable Trust.

Technical coordination of this complex project will be overseen by Tal Yarden, a leading New York video designer and multimedia programmer.

An interactive "treemometer" created by leading game designer Greg Roach will display real-time updates of contributors, creating a unique "positive feedback loop" in public space.

Project partners include EarthWays Foundation, CauseCast, the One Spirit Learning Alliance, Culture Shock Marketing, the Streaming Museum, Iva Kaufmann & Associates, Greg Roach & Spirit Quest World and Imagination, Inc.