WCES Justice with Peace Task Force Mission Statement

The mission of the Justice with Peace Task Force of WCES is to provide a forum for discussion and action for those residents of Watertown who oppose the US military response to terrorism or who are troubled by the US response and want to explore alternatives. Through education, public protection and legislative action, the Task Force will create a community presence that stands in support of justice, peace, common security and environmental sustainability through international cooperation and respect.

In support of our mission, we adopt the following principles:

• We are opposed to the use of military and economic aggression that targets countries and peoples to apprehend the few who are culpable. In our time, the cost of war is disproportionately borne by innocents and children. Those responsible for terrorist attacks should be brought to justice through genuine international cooperation and through judicial process based on the rule of law.
• We must not lose sight of human needs. Globally, in Afghanistan and other countries, we call for addressing serious humanitarian crises through genuine international cooperation under the leadership of neutral, independent aid organizations. Domestically, we oppose the diversion of resources away from basic needs of health, education and affirmative social supports.
• We stand in defense of our constitutional civil liberties and reject the rush to repressive measures. We cannot be secure by limiting our liberties, as some of our political leaders are demanding, but only by expanding them.
• We oppose all forms of discrimination and bigotry and deplore the violence that has been targeted toward Arabs, Muslims, and immigrant populations.
• We call for root causes of anti-American sentiment to be addressed. For example, millions of ordinary people in the Middle East and elsewhere are angered at US support for the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, the inhumane economic sanctions against Iraq, US support for repressive regimes, and the unwanted deployment of U.S. foreign military bases. The global reach of US corporations has perpetuated poverty and despair at home and abroad. Until these root causes have been addressed, the world will never be safe, and we will continue to betray the American ideals of freedom, justice, and democracy.
• We are committed to exploring nonviolent solutions to world problems.
• We welcome new members and collaboration with other local groups. We stand with those everywhere who are committed to justice, peace and the recognition of human dignity for all.

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