Task Force on the Americas Statement Dec 30, 2021

                       Long Live the Memory and Example of Chuck Kaufman!

Task Force on the Americas mourns the horrible news that Chuck Kaufman has died. On December 28, he passed away from natural causes at his home in Tucson, Arizona. He was 69.

As a long-time leader of the Alliance for Global Justice, Chuck built an organization that has steadfastly opposed US aggression and intervention in Latin America and the Caribbean. AFGJ not only worked in the Americas;  they supported Occupy Wall Street and dozens of other organizations challenging US racism, exceptionalism, Israeli apartheid and much more.

When there was confusion about the situation in Nicaragua in 2018, Chuck was clear.  As someone said, “Chuck was a  defender of the right of countries to defend themselves and the need to convey to people in the West the successes and achievements of revolutionary governments in the face of US hostility and aggression.”

Chuck led or initiated dozens of solidarity delegations, and many TFA members knew him personally.  A few of the shocked reactions are as follows:

“Chuck is a hero of the solidarity movement.”

“He was such a gift to all of us, a tireless comrade.”

“His sense of humor never failed to bring laughter even in perilous situations. ”

“He was a giant who relished challenging the established order.”

“It’s so so sad. I thought Chuck would live forever. We needed him to live forever.”

Chuck set the highest standards of good humor, respectful debate, sharp analysis and unwavering solidarity.

With his favorite Flor de Caña rum, made in his beloved Nicaragua, let us honor and toast our fallen comrade.

Chuck Kaufman Presente!