Two hundred people took their opposition to the US Government’s foreign policies to the streets of Traverse City Saturday, March 20, 2004. Grand Traverse, Antrim, Leelanau, Emmet, Charlevoix, Benzie, Manistee, Crawford and Wexford Counties were represented. Banners declaring “Repeal the Patriot Act”, “Bring the Troops Home”, “Money for Books not for Bombs", End All Occupations: Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan” and “Celebrate Water; Celebrate Life” highlighted the five stops along the “reality tour” of downtown Traverse City. Short speeches decrying the targeting of Muslims, Arabs and South Asian and other infringement of our civil liberties, honoring both the civilian and military casualties of the war, including a reading of the names of 22 Michigan soldiers who have been killed, describing “occupation” as economic and political control of lives that affects all of us whether we are Palestinians, Iraqis, Mayan, Haitians, Afghanis or Americans, and finally celebrating the good works peace, justice and environmental groups have done in our area marked this historic memorial of the one year anniversary of the US attack on Iraq. The group did not encounter any troubles along the route; rather, many cars honked and gave “thumbs up” or the peace sign. The rally ended at Friends Meeting House with the sharing of delicious home-made soups and breads donated by supportive bakeries. Contributions were gathered to more than cover the moderate expenses for advertising the event and printing of a pamphlet entitled “Wage Peace, Not War”. Many thanks to all who helped put the day together. And more thanks to all who came and participated.
For a short video clip of the march:
http://ventingmedia.com
For ongoing peace, justice and environmental actions and events:
http://www.TraversePeaceAlerts.org
