It is probably unnecessary to remind most of you that Unijazz has been a continuation of the original Jazz Section since 1987. That is why we have decided to make efforts to protect the public space on Ka\u010derovo, the place where the Jazz Section was located. At present, a procedure is underway to permit the development of the \"Kr\u010dsk\u00e1 zahrada Residence\", but this development would encroach on a public green space of significant cultural and historical value.
\nSince 1976, it has housed the JS office, reading room, lecture hall and exhibition space, and has been the venue for a number of independent cultural events. Over the years, the \"Little House\", as we used to call the JS headquarters, became a place where visitors from all over the country headed. It functioned as an informal, and not reluctantly carried by the state authorities, centre of wider independent cultural exchange, distribution of samizdat and meeting of people from all corners of the federal republic allied to these interests. Much to the dissatisfaction of the communist establishment, in 1978 the Jazz Section became part of the International Jazz Federation of the Unesco Music Council, giving its activities an international dimension with a firm anchorage in the world cultural community. Among other things, this is why the idea of establishing a small park on the neglected hillside below Dome\u010dek was conceived to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II and the founding of the United Nations. The UN administration even gave permission for a memorial to commemorate these anniversaries. The Jazz Section purchased trees and shrubs, which were planted by members of the Association on the anniversary days of May 1985 in vacant lots along Ke kr\u010dsk\u00e9 slope and on the adjacent hillside. This area now includes dozens of trees and an avenue. Many of them were planted during visits to Czechoslovakia by prominent personalities who supported local independent cultural activities and thus symbolically confirmed this support. Kurt Vonnegut was the first to plant a tree in this avenue, and John Updike and the philosopher Gordon Skilling, among others, also have trees here.
\nThe trees planted 40 years ago have grown up and the resulting park, although now somewhat neglected, represents a link between a strong local identity and cultural and historical events. We feel that to jeopardise this tangible part of local history would not only be a tangible loss to Prague 4, but would represent a gross insensitivity to cultural heritage. The petition is addressed to the Prague City Council, because the matter goes beyond the local dimension of the Prague 4 Municipal District, which is familiar with the matter and receptive to our concern.
\nIt would be great if the park could be completely revitalized and restored to the extent of the original planting, including the avenue. We would be glad if you would support us in our efforts and add your signature to the petition. After all, the \"Little House\" was the forerunner of the Reading Room, where you will find the signature sheets.<\/p>\n