Mikaela says:
We've reached a sad marker in our unjust, illegal war in Iraq, with 2,000 Americans killed and uncounted thousands of Iraqis. There will be vigils taking place here in Albuquerque and throughout the country. This is not about only recognizing the American cost of the war in people killed but taking this marker as one important opportunity to stand together in protest and solidarity with those around the world who hope for an end to war.
I have to say that I've never felt the palpable power of community as much as when protesting the start of the invasion in March 2003. There is agency in protest, in immersing yourself in the solidarity of those taking to the streets to fight for peace and an end to aggression. The media may not cover it and politicians may not care, but simply the act of taking a moment out of your everyday life to stand in community with those agonizing over the loss of life and growing injustice that we're outsourcing to the rest of the world is worth it. For itself. As an end in itself.
Passing cars, passing lives, passing people also see that there are others who feel as they do and have strength and courage -- even in such a small act of protest. It may give others the incentive to take steps in the same direction. And for those who disagree, it is a visible reminder that not all of us support this war. Not all of us are hoodwinked. Not all of us will remain silent.
I'm hoping there will be additional vigils not included on this list (please comment with more information if you hear of them), but these are events organized through MoveOn.org members:
| 26 Oct 06:30 PM | 2000 Too Many - 2 miles away Central and Carlisle (Southeast and Northeast corners) 61 registered participant(s) (200 maximum) Albuquerque NM 87119 Hosted by Laura Johnston Description My brother is deployed to Iraq on Nov 1st... I will do everything I can to keep him from being part of this terrible list ..... Please join me, bring signs from MoveON |
| 26 Oct 06:30 PM | NE Heights Vigil - 8 miles away NE Heights--Snow Park 25 registered participant(s) (120 maximum) Albuquerque NM 87112 Hosted by Louise Miller Description Mostly silent candlelight vigil to honor those who have been impacted by the Iraq War--~2000 US military deaths, thousands wounded, thousands of Iraqi deaths.... My intent is that this be a solemn, respectful, welcoming experience. We have permission from the City to use the space on the grass. Thanks in advance for your courage and participation. |
| 26 Oct 06:30 PM | 2000 Too Many - 10 miles away Demonstration at Montgomery and San Mateo 14 registered participant(s) (300 maximum) Albuquerque NM 87114 Hosted by Stuart Riley Description This will be a demonstration of respect. The theme of the signs displayed should be, "Bring Our Troops Home" and "How Many More". You can download signs from the MoveOn web site. If you come early, like 5 pm, you can show signs to the go home traffic. The message is, "Support Our Troops, Bring Them Home Now". |
| 26 Oct 06:30 PM | Candlelight vigil - 11 miles away in front of soccer park, adjacent to post office 15 registered participant(s) (200 maximum) corrales NM 87048 Hosted by Kim Mellor Description I will confirm if permission is necessary from the village and will post asap if not. On the shoulder, no pavement but some distance from the traffic; candles will be provided |
You can check throughout the day for vigils in your area here.
If nothing else, I hope we can all take a moment of silence to commemorate all the loss and to clear our minds to create the space for courage to take the next steps toward peace.
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