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VVAW, Then and Now
By Al Donohue
[Printer-Friendly Version] On Sunday, November 19, 1967, The New York Times published an advertisement headlined, "Vietnam Veterans Speak Out." It called the war "wrong, unjustifiable and contrary to the principle of self-determination on which this nation was founded." About 64 Vietnam vets' names were included in the ad, which noted that it was only a partial accounting of signatories.
Today, we, as an organization, should add our voice to those calling for a complete review of the policies that equated all struggles for national self-determination with an attack on this country. VVAW should be calling for a nuclear-free zone in SE Asia, the withdrawal of our military from Korea and Okinawa, and for the peaceful discussions and negotiations between the Korean parties that would lead to a meaningful reduction of tension in the area.
Millions protesting the war on the Peoples of Indochina didn't prevent the US from going to war against Iraq, but a deeper look at US foreign policy since 1945 is needed, and at this time in our country's history, that examination might have a positive effect.
Al Donohue is a member of VVAW from 1971 until forever.
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