During a time of increased U.S./Israeli threats of an attack on Iran and the same false rhetoric that the “other” is a threat to Americans coming out of Washington that goes hand in hand with these threats there was a group of 150 people here in Chicago who are refusing to go along with this grave injustice being planned against the people of Iran. They came out to Federal Plaza Saturday afternoon to say “No War On Iran”. This rally and march coincided with 70 other actions across the country called by World Can’t Wait and other organizations to say No War, No Sanctions, No Assassinations against the people of Iran.
The events began with representatives from Midwest Antiwar Mobilization, ANSWER, Albany Park Neighborhood for Peace, World Can’t Wait, and an Iranian American all apeaking to the horro and disaster, war, sanctions, and assassinations would bring to the people of Iran.
There were Iranian Americans in the crowd with signs that put out the sentiment that while they hate the repressive Iranian regime that they do not want the U.S. or Israel to attack Iran because they know what a horror it would be for their families and friends in Iran.
An important note is that the speaker for World Can’t Wait really brought home what a disaster a war on Iran, especially as “all options are on the table” with regard to the type of war that the U.S. would wage and how it is our responsibility as the people living in this country to stop this war before it even gets started, ” what does it mean when Obama and Clinton repeat that “all options are on the table”? It means they are prepared to use nuclear weapons and or bomb Iranian nuclear facilities. The Union of Concerned Scientists has said that if the Bashyir nuclear power plant is bombed, it would lead to 300,000 deaths and millions more would be exposed to radiation through atmosphere. This is terrorism.” And ended with “Today is the start and WE ALL must commit to being out in the streets, making the case to neighbors, family, strangers. We’ve got to stop this war before it starts – The WORLD CAN’T WAIT!”
The rally was followed by a spirited march through downtown’s shopping district. At one point we marched by the Joffrey Ballet across the street. The dancers having heard us from below came to the window and waved and raised their fists in solidarity.
The point was made that today’s rally and march is but a beginning in stopping this crime of our government from being perpetrated on the people of Iran and that not only we must continue to resist and oppose such a crime being committed, but that we must call on others to join us.
Photos Courtesy of FJJ
