National support for Lt. Ehren Watada; Boston tonight.
Lt. Watada surrounded by community supporters at Tacoma press conference, June 7, 2006. Photo by Jeff Paterson thankyoult.org.
Lieutenant Ehren Watada refused an order to deploy to Iraq on grounds that it is an illegal war. His court martial, which began yesterday has drawn crowds near Fort Lewis. Through yesterday there were 38 demonstrations of support nationwide. Boston’s contribution will be tonight in Jamaica Plain.
This note from Gold Star Families Speak Out and People United for Peace:
Dear Friends,
Court martial proceedings begin today against Army Lt. Ehran Watada in Fort Lewis, Washington. On June 22, 2006, Watada stepped forward as the first commissioned officer publicly to refuse deployment to the Iraq War. He faces up to 5 years imprisonment if found guilty.
Please join the nationwide movement to support this courageous soldier.
There will be a candlelight vigil held from 5:30 – 7:30 PM at the JP monument located at the intersection of South and Centre Streets in Jamaica Plain in front of Curtis Hall and Unitarian Universalist church.
Boston City Councilor Chuck Turner,
Iraq War Veteran Halsey Bernard,
Melida Arredondo, wife of Carlos Arredondo the Gold Star Father who at Fort Lewis this week to support Watada,
and more…
Please plan to attend. Dress warmly and bring extra candles.
