It's perhaps fitting that it's a grey day here in the Washington area as we take time to remember and reflect on the events of 5 years ago. There will be many events, speeches, and commentaries today, but we wanted to take a step back and offer a more prayerful reflection. The Center of Concern's "Education for Justice" program has produced a short prayer service that probably captures best the questions and mixed emotions many of us feel on this day. It is available for download (a PDF file) on the front page (right hand side) of their website. In addition, we will be offering action items today geared toward efforts to end violence and promote peace.

          SIGN THE DECLARATION OF PEACE         

From the various antiwar groups, a new coalition of peace and justice organizations has formed to call on Congress to establish a concrete and rapid plan for peace in Iraq. The Declaration of Peace, while perhaps not a perfect statement, provides a strong articulation for the need for a new strategy in Iraq and to reject the politics of fear and advance sensible, proactive steps to build the more peaceful and just world. In addition, the coalition has a number of different activities planned to help build toward the International Day of Peace on Sept. 21.  Click here for more information and to sign the Declaration. 

          SUPPORT NEEDED FOR LANDMINE BAN (from the USCCB)         

Right before the August recess, Senators Leahy (D-VT) and Specter (R-PA) introduced the Victim-Activated Landmine Abolition Act of 2006 (S. 3768), to prohibit the United States from procuring landmines and other victim-activated weapons. The bill currently has ten co-sponsors, but more are needed to help move it forward. 

This bill would bring the U.S. more closely in line with the international consensus on landmines - expressed in the 1997 Ottawa Mine Ban Treaty (which bans the production, stockpiling, transfer and use of anti-personnel (AP) landmines) signed by 150 countries, which the U.S. has not yet signed.  Given the historical evidence about the impact of landmines-- indiscriminate weapons that frequently kill and maim innocent civilians, often long after active hostilities have ceased--it is important to move the U.S. toward signing and ratification of the Mine Ban Treaty.

          ACTION NEEDED         

1. If your Senator is not a co-sponsor of the legislation (you can check here), please call and urge him or her to co-sponsor of the Victim-Activated Landmine Abolition Act of 2006 (S. 3768). The Capitol Hill Switchboard number is (202) 224-3121 and will connect you with an operator who can direct your call.

2. If your Senator is a co-sponsor of this important legislation, please thank him or her.

For more information, please visit the USCCB website.