Unprecedented environmental, social and cultural crises demand our attention. Many cultural interventions, social marketing campaigns, books, magazines, exhibitions, educational tools, television programs, films, charitable causes and other information design projects urgently require our expertise and help. Read the entire Manifesto at Emigre. 

We are facing serious challenges that pose grave threats to people and planet. The flip side of that is that we have been presented with many incredible opportunities to solve those challenges. As creative individuals we have the chance to open these channels of communication. We can take a side, we can be the change and we can inspire others to do the same. -jk-

In late April, as food & fuel prices rose, this letter was sent to our red state Republican Congressman. He’s been open to the ideas behind local food & sustainability and with our broken system, it’s a subject on people’s minds. For more information, go to Democracy Now! and search “food riots.” Their coverage has been impeccable, while the book Stuffed and Starved offers a critical look at food and justice. -jk- 

Savage Capitalism Fuels Food Riots

The images of food riots that we Americans see on our televisions are so very saddening and our hearts go out to those people around the world who are struggling to survive. But we all need to realize that our government policies are playing a direct role in this crisis. (more…)

We can no longer be spectators. Watch the entire series at This Brave Nation, then get to it. A fascinating and inspiring look at New Media, Environmentalism, Journalism, Civil Rights, Human Rights, Activism and on and on. -jk-

by Justin Kemerling

There is an unfortunate fact that I was confronted with recently. The idea that nationalism bubbles up from the bottom too. Sadly, for all the activists out there, this bubbling up is not only for the peace, justice & equality movements. Some people like feeling superior, and will fight like hell to keep it that way.

One of the origins for this poster project came from a gallery show several graphic designers participated in here in Lincoln. The work I designed called Paste Up For Peace was a 12 x 8 foot wall plastered with 11 x 17, B/W posters commenting on our current war situation. It was early 2006 and at that time 2168 U.S. troops had been killed.

Three of those posters are particularly relevant today, mid-2008. Whether it’s the theatrical absurdity of the “war on terror,” or that peace is simply an Impeachment or two away, these war issues keep lingering in our communities with a subtle, yet commanding presence. (more…)