Community

Welcome to Eugene, the so-called Anarchist capital of the US. Brace yourselves, because this one was a WHOPPAH- we had five (as in 1.2..3…4….5!) prime organizations in the lovely lobby of the McDonald Theater. So let’s get crackin’ with… M.E.C.C.A.- Materials Exchange Center for Community Arts MECCA brought us both smiling faces and an art show replete with prime examples of community arts programs at their finest. On entering, everyone was greeted by some exceptional art made possible by this volunteer-run program that brings recycled arts education to children and adults through partnerships with schools, workshops, and classes in their wonderfully colorful headquarters. Eugene Peaceworks While the national struggle for Peace and Democracy may sometimes feel like listening to Bassnectar in your grandpa’s 1990 Ford Falcon that he shot through the door speaker when his favorite Tim McGraw song was interrupted, Peaceworks adds a dash of sanity to the struggle. Through facilitating alternative pro-peace media, providing counter-military recruitment, actively engaging the community with speakers and events, and maintaining a positive, locally oriented approach, Peaceworks is one of the most well-known and respected activist organizations in the Eugene community. Their spread at the event was also impressive, with petitions, pamphlets, peace

“What makes their programs work is participation, and that is where we can all lend a hand.”