For the last five days, two dozen KFTC members, joined with dozens of Kentucky allies (from Jobs with Justice and other groups) and tens of thousands of allies from across the US and the rest of the world gathered in Detroit for the US Social Forum.

There were over 1,000 workshops focusing on a broad range of topics including environmental justice, anti-racism, immigration reform, lobbying, gay rights, anti-war, economic justice, non-violent civil disobedience, and much more.  There were also plenary sessions, actions, social events, and other activities.

KFTC members hosted two powerful workshops with about sixty people attending between them.  The workshops were “The Struggle For Justice in the Coalfields of Central Appalachia and Colombia” and “A Discussion About the Life and Example of Anne Braden.” 

       

Both were well-attended by an engaged group of people who asked good questions and seemed to get a lot out of the experience.

The Alliance For Appalachia (including KFTC members) set up a booth throughout the Social Forum to talk to people about mountaintop removal mining and other damages inflicted on communities by the coal industry.

KFTC members are just starting to really digest and analyze their experience this week and are getting a sense of what they’re bringing back to Kentucky with them.  Here are some parting thoughts from the last hours of the Social Forum:

“I’m bringing back a deeper knowledge and commitment to the interconnectedness of social change.  - Gina Chamberlain, Madison County Chapter

 “It’s overwhelming in a wonderful way to be here with so many kind-hearted people struggling for what’s best” - Becki Winchel, Jefferson County Chapter

“No matter how isolated we feel sometimes, we are part of this broader, bigger, energetic movement - and it’s good to be reminded of that.” - Vanessa Hall, Pike County Chapter

“This week has re-instilled my faith that America is a place for everyone… regardless of gender, physical ability, financial status, race, etc.  Some people forget that we are supposed to have inalienable rights, but here, it felt real.” - Howard Owens, Jefferson County Chapter

“I’m bringing back a sense of hope, grounded in the knowledge that this is a long-term struggle and we need patience.” - Steve Pavey, Scott County Chapter

 “I’m an old radical and I’ve never been around this many other radical people – including lots of young people in leadership roles.  It was an opportunity to kind’ve pass the torch to the next generation.” - Jack Norris, Jefferson County Chapter