I wanted to start by introducing myself as foreign policy contributor to the Liberty Restoration Project. I am a veteran of the Iraq War, a student in Kansas, and an activist for Iraq Veterans Against the War.  I would like to thank Catherine and the LRP for inviting me to share some of my experiences and perspective with you all.

As the sixth anniversary bears down upon us and I have been tasked to organize events in our area and speak to various groups in KC Metro, I am increasing alarmed by the attitudes of the situation we are now in. Tonight I met with planners for a major event near the Plaza and the question was put forward, “What do Iraq Vets (IVAW) think about the Presidents plan to extend the withdrawal“.  First of all, to speak on behalf of such a diverse group of individuals is flattering at best. Many people don’t realize the make up of our organization and the fact that it represents several facets of the political spectrum here at home.  I will generalize in saying that our organization wasn’t satisfied with the original withdrawal date, an extension of which is upsetting but somehow, expected. In addition, the thought of leaving 50,000 troops in theatre for “non-combat purposes” is truly at the heart of the problem.  If we can’t understand what incited violence towards us to begin with, how will the people of Iraq ever see peace in the region?  This “new” plan continues our occupation of Iraq, promotes U.S. hegemony in the Middle East, diverts our nations wealth to nation building, and turns our military into the world police.  All of which were the foreign policy of the last administration.

Later during the meeting the question of the surge of troops to Afghanistan came up. Someone commented, “...at least that’s where Osama Bin Laden is from.”  Does this give us the authority to wage war on an entire nation? Furthermore, how does anyone know that Bin Laden is still even there, let alone alive? Last reports from U.S. intelligence states that they had no idea where he was whether that be in Afghanistan or Pakistan. Awkwardly enough, browsing the FBI Most Wanted list results in no mention specifically that charges Bin Laden with the September 11th attacks. This of course is all semantics because we are illegally occupying both countries and are nowhere nearer to our goals catching the perpetrators of the terrorist acts on that day.  What we certainly must do is hold our leaders accountable for their decisions and communicate our grievances regardless of the party that sits in office. This seems to escape some of my friends on the left. What would we have said if Bush extended a withdrawal date or called for a surge of troops in Afghanistan? Former President Bush did not get a pass and neither should President Obama.

We will not waiver in our efforts to see a speedy end to the occupation in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Americans are still over there and continue to lose their lives. Hundreds of thousand of innocent continue to be extinguished by our flawed policies.  Peace and justice both here and abroad continue to remain elusive. Suggested promises of changing course will not prevent us from taking to the streets this year or any day the troops remain on foreign soil.

So what are we planning?  We have two major events on the horizon in KC while also acknowledging the huge March on the Pentagon. On March 14th we will reach out to Iraqi refugees in our area to be an example of humankind’s ability to live together in peace. Peace Race for the Human Race Vigil and Rally will take place at Mill Creek Park in KCMO at 3:30PM and will feature speakers, music, activities, and activism. A relay will take place to promote peace and a ”Race for Peace”  happening (otherwise known as a mass performance art piece) will encourage public involvement. Next the refugees, vets, and volunteers will come together to prepare an Iraqi dinner. Breaking Bread Together will take place at the Community Christian Church on 4601 Main at 5:30PM.  We believe that peace begins with communication and our example locally should be emulated by our leaders in Washington. I encourage you all to remember that this issue lingers and we should not be confused whether to recognize the anniversary this year as we have before. Nothing has changed.

Will Stewart-Starks

President, KU Iraq Veterans Against the War and their Supporters