March 17, 2007 Anti-War Rally & Forum Summary

The day started with local rock trio Solidarity playing a brief set to get the crowd pumped up as people gathered for the 11 AM rally. The 3-song set ended with their recently released anti-war song entitled "War Cry".

As soon as the band was finished the crowd heard a brief welcome from our coalition chairperson, followed by an opening address from Windsor & District Labour Council president, Gary Parent. Margaret's speech, entitled "One Humanity One Struggle! What It Means Today" (view it here) touched on Canada's role in Iraq, Afghanistan, Haiti and other conflicts around the globe. She highlighted the fact that as the Canadian government is partnering with the aggressive government of George W. Bush, Canada's citizens are joining with others around the world (including many in the United States) to take a stand against war and occupation. Gary Parent then touched on how war affects ALL, and specifically workers of the world. He spoke about the strain war has placed on our economy, workers and our communities. Reiterating the theme that we are all in this together, Gary highlighted how many in the labour movement have also been at the forefront in the battle against war in Canada. Gary also discussed how activists for a multitude of issues need to build bridges and work together as one if we expect to change government policies or overcome the economic challenges we face ahead.

Participants then took to the streets, and marched alongside North America's busiest highway at the mouth of Canada's busiest border crossing with the United States. They made their way along Huron Church Road to a pedestrian overpass, where the crowd paused for a few moments above the NAFTA Super Highway which has taken so much from this community, and itself is a part of the machinery of war!

The march then progressed back along Huron Church Road, and ultimately brought the participants to the location of our discussion forum. When they arrived at the College Avenue Community Centre, marchers were treated to freshly brewed fair-trade organic coffee or a few other alternative beverage selections.

Those who stayed for the forum heard from several speakers, on a wide variety of topics (view the original program for the day here). A lunch - made possible with the assistance and contributions of many in our community - was also provided for forum participants after the first session. All in all it was a great day! If you would like to learn more about the presentations, discussion or results of this action please refer to the links below...

Presentations "One Humanity One Struggle! What It Means Today" - opening speech for the rally. "Not a Single Youth" - a report on Recruitment and Re-organization in Canada’s Armed Forces. "Canada's Role in Haiti" - Fact Sheet. "From Windsor to NOLA: Rebuilding New Orleans" - a presentation on Alternative Spring Break 2007. "Canadian Military Spending" - presentation notes. "Imperialist Creep" - looking ahead toward Iran (updated April 3, 2007).

Resolutions "In Support of March 17, 2007 Peach March" - passed by the CAW Local 200 membership prior to our event. "Redirecting the Defense Budget to Benefit Canadians" - passed unanimously by all in attendance.

External Links A 2.5 minute video posted on YouTube by one of the rally and march participants. A selection of photos from actions held around Canada and the world. A selection of photos from actions held around the world March 17 & 18. A Pan-African News Wire article written by Abayomi Azikiwe (one of the presenters from the U.S.).

Also, please be sure to visit our March 17, 2007 Photo Album to review more images captured during the day's actions. We would like to thank the following community partners for their various contributions to this event... CAW Local 444 CAW Local 200 Babar Bakery Nizam Produce Scherer Orchards Ten Thousand Villages Yasmeen Bakery Solidarity Band Ghina & Aida