 Peace monument on the capitol grounds. "May Peace Prevail on Earth" is printed in four languages, including Arabic. Photo by Michael Heggen. |
Day 724 March 2003 Today was an invigorating day as we had much support from communities throughout Oregon who were here for an environmental lobby day. Others came out to voice their opposition to Oregon's version of the USA PATRIOT Act, Senate Bill 742--so many, in fact, that four overflow rooms were full of people who came to speak in opposition to the bill. Eighty people signed up to speak in opposition, but none in support. This bill as introduced would define the new crime of "terrorism" in extremely broad terms and substantially weaken Oregon's "181 laws", which prevent local law enforcement from acting as agents for the INS and prohibit local law enforcement from gathering information about an individual's political, social, and religious affiliations without a criminal investigation. For additional information about this dangerous bill, please see the Oregon ACLU web site. The Judiciary Committee hearing for SB 742 only lasted a couple of hours. The committee chair (and sponsor of the bill), Sen. John Minnis (R-Fairview, near Gresham), promised to have another hearing and to "narrow the focus" of the bill further. After the hearing, about 150 people came outside and supported us in vigil and protest by demonstrating and singing. Several peace coalitions were there: North Coast Peace Coalition, Silverton People for Peace, and Oregon Peaceworks; the Sierra Club and other concerned citizens gave us much hope and courage by offering their assistance and encouragement in this endeavor. We were saddened, though, to hear the news of the latest casualties in this illegitimate and illegal war. Frustration is reaching a fever pitch amongst ordinary citizens, and the issue is becoming more polarizing and contentious. I feel that we are often dismissed by some as neglecting our "patriotic duty" to "support the troops". Personally, I feel that there can be no greater support for the troops than working to end the war that will destroy many lives and families on both sides. Occasionally, through dialogue between ourselves and those who perceive themselves to be in opposition to our cause for peace, we find that common ground is attainable when the emphasis is on human lives and the ramifications posed when our troops are sent in to wage war. Seeds of peace and more hopeful tomorrows are being tossed into the wind with prayers for roots taking hold in even the most unyielding ground. Our most loving thoughts and prayers are with all around the world waging peace and justice! In hope and struggle, --Michele, Ryan, Bruce, Nathan, Devionne, Cathy, and the
rest of the Capital Gang |
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