This was forwarded to the Women's Poetry discussion list by Marilyn Hacker
without any other information, such as the identity of its author ("Hugh")
or of the various groups composing the coalition. But it seemed worth
crossposting now so that people who might wish to attend would have advance
notice of the event. I'll post any updates that I see on other lists between
now and Oct. 7th--and I hope you will too. Thanks--Candice
> A large and diverse antiwar coalition is organizing a major gathering in
> New York City, in opposition to the current war and militarism, in support
> of peace through global economic and social justice, in defense of civil
> liberties, and in opposition to anti-Islamic, anti-Arab, or any racial
> bigotry or violence.
>
> In order to be able to build a LARGE NEW YORK event, the coalition has
> chosen SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7 -- approx. 3 to 6:30 p.m.
> Here's a summary of current plans:
> Brief initial rally at Union Square
> March up 6th Ave. to Bryant Park
> Rally at Bryant Park
>
> Our goal here is a massive public presence (in the tens of thousands) that
> will powerfully communicate the themes that our coalition is agreed
> on--in a way that will address the feelings of ordinary people and broaden
> the movement against military retaliation and racism.
>
> To carry this out, we see the day's activities having the following
> elements:
> * statements by survivors, victim's families and emergency workers of the
> WTC who oppose vengeance, war, racist attacks, etc.
> * striking visuals and props that convey our message
> * times of silence
> * mass chanting and call and response, with drumming, of agreed upon
> slogans
> * wearing of white should be encouraged--white is a color of peace and
> mourning in many cultures
> * carrying the flags of all the countries that lost people at the WTC (over
> 70 countries) should be encouraged
> * encouraging participation by religious folks, and stopping on the route
> in front of a church, mosque and synagogue to emphasize interfaith unity
> for peace
> * at the rally, relatively few and brief speeches by eloquent and respected
> individuals, along with culture and song by known artists
> * a candlelight vigil at sunset ending the activities
>
> Date/Time: Sunday afternoon doesn't interfere with Christian services in
> the morning and is okay for Muslims and Jews, whereas any time on Saturday
> can be a problem for observant Jews.
>
> Route: Union Square has been a space for mourning and peace vigils since
> the 9/11 attacks, so we start from there and take that sentiment to the
> rest of the city. If we spill out onto the street from Union Square, that's
> okay. Sixth Avenue is filled with shoppers on a holiday weekend, so
> hundreds of thousands of people will see and hear us and have the
> opportunity to join us. Bryant Park is big (as long as not too many tents
> are up) but not, like Central Park, so big that we could look small even
> with tens of thousands of people.
>
> We realize that we may have a very difficult time getting permits from the
> city, but we are asking elected officials and lawyers to work with us on
> this. Because it be might hard, we ask the coalition to give the working
> group some flexibility in getting the best route possible.
>
> Practice Compassion and Work for Peace and Global Justice.
>
> Love and Blessings, Hugh
------ End of Forwarded Message
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