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Women Against War |
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WAW Cosponsorship Calendar/Events
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Cheryl Bellus – Opening Remarks: On behalf of the members of Women Against War, thank you for coming today to view “Eyes Wide Open: New York.” This widely acclaimed exhibit, created by the American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker organization, has been touring the country since January 2004. Women Against War is honored to host the exhibit today, along with our co-sponsors, Albany Friends Meeting and Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace. This exhibit is a memorial to honor all who have lost their lives in the Iraq War. The 118 pairs of combat boots you see in the center grassy area represent each of the New York State servicemen and women who have died in Iraq. You will also see pairs of civilian shoes—these represent only a tiny fraction of the Iraqi lives lost in this war. Last Thursday, White House Press Secretary Tony Snow said about the 2500 American deaths in Iraq, “it’s a number.” Our hope in bringing this exhibit to you is to remind us that each of the 2500 American servicemembers and each of the tens and hundreds of thousands of Iraqi babies, children, women, and men is so much more than a number; each person who has died is an irreplaceable member of the human family. We grieve for the loss of each life; the loss of each person’s future; the loss of a family member, the loss of communities, and for the lost opportunity for connection and peace. Thank you for coming to share this memorial with us. Cheryl Bellus |
