EXHIBIT M

It is sheer perverseness to assert that LSM concerns do not extend beyond U.S. borders.  As Americans – and particularly as American Lutherans – we find ourselves in a peculiar position with respect to international issues, one which calls for immediate response on our part.  This refers to problems of development and U.S. economic ties with Third World countries.  This refers also to the problem of Brazil.

In light of the recent publication of reports about the tortures in Brazil, and in light of the recent involvement of the LWF with the Brazilian situation – (through debate about Assembly site, through the decision to sponsor Don Hedler Camara for the Nobel Peace Prize, through its Statement on Human Rights and allocation of funds for assistance to political prisoners in areas like Brazil) – and, most importantly, in light of current U.S. support for the military regime in Brazil, the need is crucial for LSM to focus attention as well on this matter.

As a national body LSM should take immediate measures towards educating the public about the role of the U.S. in Brazil – economically, politically, militarily – and, indeed, about the role of the U.S. as such throughout Latin America.  In conjunction with such education – e.g. teach-ins for the community, leafleting, articles in journals, newspapers, etc., letters to editors, radio talk-shows, institution new courses on college campuses, etc. – steps should be taken toward coercing the U.S. government to change its position.  Appeals to national church bodies may provide a start for lobbying in Congress.  Efforts should be made to project the issues into forthcoming political campaigns.  Finally, funds should perhaps be set aside by the LSM – (if possible, by ALC, LCA, and MO) – for assistance to those within Brazil who are endeavoring to resist the present regime.  This applies especially to students within Brazil who by their actions against the regime risk loss of their academic status, risk “exile” to underground existence, and in some cases risk imprisonment.  Funds might be channeled to them through church bodies – (whose position should also be publicly examined!) – or through independent agencies – e.g. International Amnesty – or through student contacts (Werner Funds, Erich Ramminger).

                                                                        Kaycee Leopold