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Iraq veteran heroes write to Obama: release all torture photos, hold accountable, stop war crimes
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Veterans call to break silence and end torture
On June 29, 2009, Iraq Veterans Against War (IVAW) members called for a release of detainee abuse photos and are petitioning to end torture.
Below is the letter to President Obama from Veterans For Peace, Veterans For Common Sense, and IVAW:
It is imperative that the people of our nation look squarely into the heart of darkness to know what was done in our name under orders from the prior administration.
It is impossible to be the country we claim to be if we do not face this controversy head on and reveal our mistakes.
The release of all the photos and documents are essential to this process of learning the facts and healing a deeply troubled nation.
All relevant information should also be given immediately to a special prosecutor to investigate and hold accountable those who would order torture, abuse, and rendition – all of which are very serious war crimes.
IVAW members and other Veterans can add their name to the list of American heroes against using torture.
Active duty, national guard and reserve service called to action by IVAW: Add your name to the letter after soul searching
IVAW impart the following message to active duty, national guard and reserve service-members:
While we believe that strong injustice requires strong words and statements, we recognize that the military does not always recognize the voices of democracy it claims to protect.
Your voice is important, whether publicly available or within your unit. We encourage you to consider your individual command situation and their likelihood to retaliate before signing publicly onto this important letter.
IVAW gives voice to service people under pressure to remain silent
Iraq war veterans founded IVAW in July 2004 at the annual convention of Veterans for Peace (VFP) in Boston. They wanted to give voice to the large number of both active duty service people and veterans against this war, but under various pressures to remain silent.
From its inception, IVAW has called for:
* Immediate withdrawal of all occupying forces in Iraq;
* Reparations for human and structural damages Iraq suffered, and stopping the corporate pillaging of Iraq so people can control their own lives and future; and
* Full benefits, adequate healthcare (including mental health), and other supports for returning servicemen and women.
IVAW membership includes recent veterans and active duty servicemen and women from all military service branches, National Guard, and reservists who have served since September 11, 2001.
IVAW’s strategy is to mobilize the military community to withdraw its support for the war and occupation in Iraq and it is leading the movement of veterans and GIs working to bring troops home now
IVAW members are in 48 states, Washington, D.C., Canada, plus on numerous bases overseas, including in Iraq.
War veterans take war realities to schools
With chapters in the U.S. and Canada, IVAW members educate the public about realities of the Iraq war by speaking in communities and to the media about their experiences.
Members dialogue with youth in classrooms about military service realities and they support war resisters, including Conscientious Objectors and others, who face military prosecution for courage to resist.
IVAW advocates for full funding for Veterans Administration, and full quality health treatment (including mental health) and benefits for veterans when they return.
Learn More, Take Action, Ask "Why?" and "Why Not?" To learn more about why IVAW says to bring troops home now, see their experience-based list of reasons. Read and sign the IVAW Against Torture Petition. Email Los Angeles Chapter 6 for more information. See what’s really happening in the Middle East by watching Winter Soldier the testimonies.
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