While walking North on Broadway from Union Square in midtown manhattan, I saw the following "Prayers for Peace" display at a church. There are ribbons representing the Americans that have been lost in the Iraq war. The number of US deaths confirmed by the DOD currently is 2,639. Yet, in the true spirit of peace, there is no recognition for the number of Iraqi civilians that have been lost in the war. According to the group IBC, these numbers are currently estimated at between 41,639-46,307. Other groups say this number is closer to 100,000 or more.
The creation of peace requires a lot more than demanding "respect for our troops." We need to develop respect for humanity. It requires a globally connected society that understands that all human tragedy has a negative impact on all of us. We must have compassion and understanding for all of our species, not just those that live in our own country, or are of a specific religion. War is not an acceptable means to create peace. We need a new paradigm that builds bridges rather than creating divisions and separation. Stand up to Washington with your vote and sign the Voters for Peace pledge today.
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