High School Youth Protest Potential War in Iraq

More than 1,000 people, mostly high school and college students gathered in downtown Chicago on March 3, 2003 with anti-war signs to protest a possible war in Iraq. A junior from Oak-Park-River Forest High School said, "We aren't here just to cut class. We're here in the cold because we oppose the war. I believe there is no good reason to go to war--it is simply wrong." This sentiment has been echoed by many youth throughout Chicago and the country as President Bush pushes for military action. "We refuse to be silent--we must not be silent when peace is at stake," insisted a young protester. Heavy police presence lined the perimeter of the plaza where the rally took place; however, the rally was peaceful and nonviolent.

When we think of protests we might recall events from the Civil Rights movement when tear gas clouded the streets, protesters were forced to the ground with water hoses, and violence erupted. Yet images also surface of protesters quietly holding candles in prayer, or slouching lifelessly, by refusing to move for police. History has proven that non-violent actions can be an effective way to respectfully, but passionately, voice opposition. As faithful citizens we are not only challenged to get involved in political and social issues which prevent peace, but we are also responsible for doing it a way that promotes peace, not violence. Learn more about two peace organizations rooted in the Catholic tradition of nonviolence, the Catholic Worker Movement and Pax Christi.

Excerpts from Daily South Town and the Chicago Tribune, March 2003.