Local protesters plead for diplomacy, peace in Syria

About 50 people gathered Monday evening in Esther Short Park to oppose military air strikes on Syria. Similar gatherings occurred in cities around the country on the eve of President Barack Obama’s speech about potential military action.

“Our military tools will not bring protection, justice or reconciliation for the Syrian people,” said the event’s organizer, Mike Ellison. “My heart goes out to the people of Syria.”

He says the U.S. should seek diplomatic alternatives to resolving the growing conflict in the Middle Eastern country that build international cooperation and trust.

Those who attended the event were concerned that military force could intensify unrest in the region and lead to another war. Two large signs that once expressed opposition to war with Iraq were changed to relay the same message for Syria.

“United States should be the first to help, not the first to strike,” he said. “We should be giving them bread, not bullets.”

After the speeches, people took a moment of silence for those killed in Syria and any more deaths that might result from U.S. bombings.

As she carried a flag representing Veterans for Peace, Karen Jones of Vancouver said, “Years ago, I was so proud of my country for being a shining light and we’ve got to get that light back on.”