So we have passed the five year mark and pushed into the sixth year of our war in Iraq. It is something that many of you will agree is a horribly botched situation, for so many reasons. We have lost almost four and a half thousand US soldiers and needlessly taken the lives of close to one million Iraqis thus far. Despite the administration's relentless attempts to project positive progress along with the media's disgusting complacency in spinning the story, the situation continues to deteriorate.

I spent the other weekend down in DC assisting the organization Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW) in hosting an incredibly significant event on this fifth anniversary. 'Winter Soldier: Iraq & Afghanistan' consisted of three full days of testimony from Iraq war veterans and soldiers about their horrific experiences – not only surrounding the dehumanization and inhumanity of war abroad, but the blatant disregard our government shows for them and their health once they return.

Words cannot nearly describe the experience. It was incredibly moving to say the least and I found myself getting choked up even in the week following. I am still processing much of the experience and it will probably take some time still to let things settle. I was incredibly appreciative to have been present at this event, but it added such intensity to my disgust for this war and the powers that propel it that it causes me great frustration as well. That we have a Democratic party clamoring about change, while neither candidate has taken a progressive or humane stance against this illegal occupation, is also disheartening. What I do draw hope from is IVAW's growing momentum and support. By actively addressing both veterans and active duty soldiers in this war, they have the capacity to effect the most change yet. I would like to say the tides are turning – that this unjust war will be ended soon, but it will not happen by itself.

If you are interested in listening to or watching some of the testimonials from the weekend, I certainly urge you to do so. KPFA has archived audio from pretty much the entire event at http://warcomeshome.org, and video clips can be viewed on IVAW's site at http://www.ivaw.org/wintersoldier/testimony/video.

If any of this moves you and you feel like doing more, I strongly recommend exploring IVAW's site to learn more and considering making a donation to their efforts. This is one of the best ways by far to actually support our troops.


peace and solidarity,
ix