take public action against the war in Iraq and drop the charges against
the Holy Name 6.
The Catholic Church had officially condemned the war in Iraq even before
the first bombs fell. Yet Cardinal George continues to meet with notorious
war criminals and while he speaks of "peace," he does not call for an
immediate end of the occupation.
On Easter Sunday six courageous anti-war protestors spoke truth to power.
By their witness they have brought the reality of war home. Their actions
have sparked necessary discussion and debate regarding the war in Iraq
internationally. This war can no longer be ignored by the broader
religious community and the American people.
Yet with resistance comes state repression. The Holy Name 6 are facing
trumped up felony charges that could result in lengthy prison terms. This
is the time for Cardinal George to speak up and insist the City drop all
charges against the defendants.
publicly, the Cardinal has described these peaceful protesters' actions as
violent. The Cardinal should take lessons from Pope John Paul II and apply
his Christian values to this case. Cardinal George is quoted as saying,
"In that witness, I think we can be grateful to those who interrupted this
holiday." If the Cardinal truly believes this then he must speak out
against the state repression and police brutality the Holy Name 6 have
faced.
We also demand that both the Pope and the Cardinal refuse to meet with
President Bush next week. Instead, we invite them to stand together in the
face of unjust war and call for all troops to be brought home.
This evening we will bring these demands to the doorstep of Cardinal
George. We are calling for a peaceful vigil in front of Cardinal George's
mansion at 1555 North State Parkway (North Ave and State St). Supporters
of peace and the Holy Name 6 will gather at 6:30pm with candles and signs.
End the war now!
Free the Holy Name 6!
