THE RIGHTS OF THE LIVING faced unprecedented peril in the Fall of 2001. The need to redefine and to declare firmly the rights of the living became imperative to the Berkeley forum which had gathered in late September, 2001, to examine the peace of the planet and the health of its human and other creatures.
Powerful factions are joining in a prolonged war with the planet. In glaring evidence, these factions, released from national constraints, will no longer allow the earth and its living to thrive and evolve as they had for millions of years.
In the 21st Century, the planet would be permanently divided: Resources on the one hand and the exploiters of resources on the other. The goal of this division: Power over the living and an unending supply of disposable commodities and weapons. The result of this division: Death of all ecosystems and communities.
During the three days of the Second Redwood-Sequoia Congress the delegates debated, amended and finally adopted the set of rights for the planet and the living which soon became known as the Berkeley Principles.
While the Principles are named for the locale where they were promulgated, they are meant for the world. The RS Congress voted to disseminate copies of the Principles widely and strongly suggested that individuals, businesses, unions, organizations and governmental leaders in all communities adopt these Principles.
A Registry of those who sign onto the Principles has been established at the organization which hosted the Second Redwood-Sequoia Congress. This Registry will also appear as names only on the host website.
Just as the Sullivan Principles made an impact on the apartheid culture of white South Africa, it is intended that the Berkeley Principles have a similar or greater impact on the apartheid culture promulgated by the globalizing factions.
Those who feel that these Principles speak for their concerns are also urged to make photo-copies and show them to their friends, associates, educators, local businesses, unions, organizations, and elected officials.
Copies of the Principles are also being forwarded by the RS Congress to national and world leaders for their endorsement. Others are welcome to suggest the Principles to leaders of their choice. Multiple coverage will work to our advantage.
The Principles on parchment paper, suitable for framing, can be ordered from the address below. The cost is $5.00 postpaid.
To adopt the Berkeley Principles and have your name and city added to the signator list, you may either download a copy, sign and return it or send the following by email or snail mail:
I HEREBY ADOPT AND SUPPORT THE BERKELEY PRINCIPLES:
NAME
ORGANIZATION
Date:
Return adoptions to:
• Redwood Sequoia Congress, c/o Berkeley Fellowship of Unitarian Universalists, 1606 Bonita, Berkeley, CA 94709
• email: rscongress@bfuu.org
