Blogging the WSF

Mumbai, Jan 17 - Apologies for not being more agressive about the blogging.  Jet lag and lack of computer access have conspired to keep the masses silent.  The first day and a half of the Forum has been a stunning success.  The typical complaints about lack of organization not withstanding, the general consensus among people I talk to is that much more of the social base is represented at this year's Social Forum than in Porto Alegre in the past.  The forum grounds are covered by organizations representing Dalit, adisava, tribal and workers' groups from India - from Orissa, from Kerala, from right around here in Mumbai.  There is certainly a communication gap b/t us -- many hand out their informational sheets only in Indian languages.  It is not always clear from an outsiders' perspective what makes the WSF relevant for these groups -- what do they hope to get out of it?  That is a question that I will be asking my South Indian comrades over the coming days.  There is plenty of opportunity for conversation as I am approached constantly by people representing orphans' groups, that are proposing a Social Forum Pakistan, and myriad other interests.  Most are very pleased to hear that their is mass resistance in the US to Bush Administration policies, and even over the language barrier most understand the phrase "US out of Iraq!," an issue of overwhelming concern to many of the Asian groups represented.

I will be participating on a panel on nation states in room B33 on the 20th from 5 to 8 pm at the World Social Forum.  Pls. check it out if you are around.  It is sponsored by networkideas.org, a fantastic online resource.  ALso, I can be reached at 011-91-98207-57289 (start with the 98 or try 098 if in country).  WIll try to post again sometime soon.