As death toll mounts in Iraq, once again Long Islanders will march for peace this coming weekend in New York City.
Recently our Congressman, Tim Bishop signed on to the Murtha resolution which calls for withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. This might be looked on with favor by those constituents who have been urging him to oppose this immoral, unjust war.
However, after pledging not to vote for more funds for war in Iraq unless the White House had a plan for withdrawal, Mr. Bishop recently joined the majority of Congress in voting for approximately 75 billion dollars to fund operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mr. Bishop cites the addition of funds for Katrina relief as the reason for voting yes for the war bucks. Does this mean that the funds requested by New Orleans for housing and armoring the levees are on their way ? And why can't Congress vote for 75 billions for domestic programs which will re-build our cities instead of destroying Falluja and Najaf?
Mr.Bush says the war will not end on his watch. Unless Congress shows some backbone it will continue and our domestic needs for health care, education, and disaster relief and preparedness will not be met.
Meanwhile our soldiers and innocent Iraqi civilians continue to die, the US is seen as the enemy by a large part of the world, lessening our security and only the military contractors benefit.
This Saturday, April 29, readers may join their neighbors who will march for peace, justice and democracy in New York City.
See "Transportation for NYC March ..." for information on transportation from the South Fork or go to www.april29.org for details about the the march.
Tell Congress we want peace, not poverty.
