Other grassroots exchanges with Iraqis complement the IFC vision. CODEPINK hosted a delegation of Iraqi women this spring who participated in vigils, met with legislators, and took part in public forums with Cindy Sheehan. Last month, CODEPINK took out ads in eight Iraq newspapers, pledging solidarity with Iraqis and offering words of condolence, support, and hope.
Medea Benjamin, CODEPINK cofounder, said, "We are thrilled by the feedback we are getting. The newspapers are reporting that they are swamped with calls from readers saying that this ad gives them hope and makes them realize there are Americans who support their desire to be free from foreign occupation. We must find ways to work together to end the bloodshed."
Even the U.S. military has become increasingly vocal in calling for a change of course. Several generals have said only diplomacy can bring an end to the war. Lt. Gen. Pete Chiarelli, commander of the Multinational Corps in Iraq, was quoted this spring saying: "A prosperous Iraq will be a peaceful Iraq. By creating jobs and opportunity, the government will take away a major source of support for violent movements."
The chorus for peace in Iraq is growing louder every day.
For more information:
Iraq Freedom Congress www.ifcongress.com
Code Pink Iraq Newspaper Ad www.codepinkalert.org/article.php?id=976
Satellite PEACE /IFC TV www.ifcongress.com/English/support-tv.htm
US Labor Against the War www.uslaboragainstwar.org
"Meeting Face to Face" The Iraq-US Labor Solidarity Tour Video www.meetingfacetoface.org
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