Comrades- I forward this with the simple note that this has been one of *the* most important centres of resistance in the Belly of the Beast. Around a year ago, La Quena moved back into the hands of the community for which it was started, the Latin American community, with a tradition of helping revolutionaries in the "American Backyard". This note has been written by the current runners of the restaurant, the Simon Bolivar society. Remember the importance of coffee shops, from the French Revolution up to today, and all I can say on the matter is that this post is too modest as to La Quenas importance. I am but one of the people in the city who have a radical life as a direct result of this place, and beg of all of you to do what you can. Sincerely, Macdonald ********** La Quena Coffeehouse 1111 Commercial Drive Vancouver, BC URGENT Please distribute widely La Quena set to close July 31, 2000 For 18 years, La Quena Coffeehouse has been an important site for Vancouver's leftist political community, with a strong history of supporting revolutionary and anti-capitalist struggles around the world. As a centre for radical politics, it has been a unique resource for local activists in providing a free space for organizing and education, a public venue for political and fundraising events, as well as for musical and other cultural performances. As a coffeehouse, it is well known for its low-priced nutritious Latin American food. The Simon Bolivar Society, custodian of La Quena since the dissolution of the previous collective in late 1999, has exhausted its resources and is no longer able to continue running the space without financial and practical support. As a result, the coffeehouse is now up for sale, although any other serious alternatives will still be considered (sharing the space, membership sales, or..?); it would be a great loss to Vancouver's progressive political community if La Quena were to close permanently. Any progressive organizations or individuals who are interested in taking on La Quena or becoming involved in any way should come forward immediately. Contact the Simon Bolivar Society c/o email [EMAIL PROTECTED] or telephone (604) 324-0907 or its agent, Sylvia Shelton (604) 251-2144 Unidos Venceremos _______ Macdonald Stainsby. Rad-Green List: Radical anti- capitalist environmental discussion. http://www.egroups.com/group/rad-green [EMAIL PROTECTED]
