FightBack News, July 24, 2017
Minneapolis, MN – In response to the ever-escalating series of U.S. wars and interventions around the world, over 60 people joined a Minneapolis anti-war protest on July 22.
Korean American Sharon Chung told the crowd, “Since taking office, President Trump has engaged in dangerous saber-rattling, including threats of preemptive, unilateral action. In further escalation, the Trump administration announced just yesterday a ban on U.S. travel to north Korea.”
The protest was organized under the call of Say No to Endless U.S. Wars. The event was initiated by the Minnesota Peace Action Coalition (MPAC).
A statement issued by MPAC says in part, “The Trump administration is carrying out a stealth escalation of U.S. wars and interventions around the world. More U.S. troops are being sent to Afghanistan, there are threats of a new Korean war, more drone strikes in Somalia and threats of escalations in Syria and Iraq.”
The statement went on to say, “In recent weeks we have seen new war threats against Korea, U.S. Special Operations Forces being sent to the Philippines, escaping bombing in Iraq and Syria, and discussion of plans to sending thousands of additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan.”
“It urgent that all opposed these wars and interventions speak out,” the statement continued.
Speakers included representatives from several of the endorsing organizations.
Lucia Wilkes Smith of Women Against Military Madness (WAMM) said, “WAMM sees the connection between U.S. killing abroad and in the streets and alleyways of our cities and towns.”
Jennie Eisertt, of the Anti-War Committee stated, “It’s important that we keep showing up to say no to endless war and occupation. It’s important to know that regardless of who’s in office this is what will keep happening because of U.S. imperialism. It makes me proud to know that we are on the other side speaking out against them and their atrocities. “
Organizations that endorsed the protest included Anti-War Committee, Freedom Road Socialist Organization, Mayday Books, St. Joan of Arc Peacemakers, Socialist Action, Socialist Party (USA) Students for a Democratic Society (UMN), Twin Cities Metro, Twin Cities Peace Campaign, Veterans for Peace, and Women Against Military Madness.
