Today, March 30, In History

This Day in History 1891:

"Sockless" Simpson rallies populist farmers

Angered over low crop prices, high-interest bank loans and unaffordable shipping rates, farmers began to unite in self-help groups like the Grange and the Farmers' Alliances. Initially, these groups primarily provided mutual assistance to members while agitating for the regulation of railroads and grain elevators. Increasingly, though, they became centers of support for more sweeping political change by uniting to help form the nationwide third-party movement known as the Populists.

This Day in History 1948:

Henry Wallace criticizes Truman's Cold War policies

Wallace and his supporters were among the few Americans who actively voiced criticisms of America's Cold War mindset during the late 1940s and 1950s.

Today, March 30, is Palestinian Land Day.

Since 2004, the U.S. has stated support for a viable Palestinian state but at the same time has done little to check Israeli government activities that have fragmented the occupied West Bank. Expanded settlements, Israeli-only bypass roads, checkpoints, and the separation barrier cut deep into the Palestinian territory.

We believe the U.S. government must play a more constructive and even-handed role in Israel and Palestine.

AFSC has produced a new two-minute video about the fragmentation of the West Bank. With a new administration in Washington and the possibility of a fresh diplomatic approach in the Middle East, it’s an important time to raise this issue and to make our voices heard.

AFSC Westbank Action Site