good news from Oregon

From Notes on the Atrocities:

You all recall one Oregon legislator's brilliant effort to turn protesting into terrorism, right? It was in all the blogs. Well, turns out the lunatics aren't running the asylum. Yesterday, the legislature atoned by offering two nice bills that would actually protect civil liberties.

Under House Bill 2047, police officers would be required to warn foreign nationals of their rights to communicate with their consulate, as described in the Vienna Convention. A second, related bill "requires notification to a foreign consulate when a child who is not a U.S. citizen is taken into protective custody," (of which 400 are annually). Now, the great part. Unlike Senator Minnis's bumble, which aroused mainly derision, these bills passed the house 55-3 and 58-0, respectively. You go, Oregon.

Hooray!

Emma's previous post is good reading for a lot of us:

Say what you will about pacifism, but this much is true: the war’s been magnificent for creating anger. I know I’ve sunk into a kind of torpid rage—something like being sleep-deprived but simultaneously jittery from too much coffee. Last week I pored over the news, ostensibly trying to “stay informed,” but aware that I was looking for evidence to support my growing hatred over the arrogance and stupidity of our administration’s actions.

(no subject)

More Iraqi civilian stories:

As units of the 101st Airborne moved into Najaf Tuesday, Iraqi civilians came forward on at least two occasions to point out minefields in their path. American commanders say that could be an indication that U.S. forces are beginning to win the trust of some Iraqis, a key goal of the U.S. and its allies in their fight to topple the government of Saddam Hussein.

(no subject)

Paul Wellstone's sons David and Mark have formed Wellstone Action, "a non-profit organization dedicated to continuing Paul and Sheila Wellstone's fight for progressive change and economic justice." One of their main goals is

to train and motivate thousands of people around the country to be active in politics and organizing. Wellstone Action will teach the distinctive Wellstone approach to politics. This approach integrates progressive ideals, ethical leadership and community organizing principles with a populist approach to electoral politics.

Wellstone was that too-rare thing, a genuinely good person who won elections. This seems like a good way to honor his memory.