Respect for Democracy

Two weeks ago, in Washington D.C., about 500,000 people marched for peace in support of bringing the troops home from Iraq. The marchers included people from all different ideologies, backgrounds, and organizations. They were there in unity to show Congress and the President that a large group of the American population is against this war. While it may not seem ultimately significant there is worth in us as citizens of this country practicing democracy.

In last week's Letter to the Editor, Mallory Watson stated that the reason we have the right to protest and march in America is because of the soldiers fighting for us. She also suggested that the act of protesting is disrespecting those risking their life as soldiers. Her opinion is valid and this sentiment seems to represent the feelings of many of those who support the war.

The problem with this argument is that it goes against the very core of what our democracy is supposed to be about. If we disagree with the government's actions, we do something about it; we voice our concerns. This may take different forms; a protest is just one way we can show our displeasure with the foreign and domestic policies of the day.

The attitude of the protesters two weeks ago, and in most war protests, was the opposite of disrespect for the soldiers. If the soldiers are fighting to preserve democracy, both worldwide and in the U.S., then involvement in these kinds of actions is showing respect to them.

It also shows respect for a system of government and a country that is still working toward a democratic ideal. Respect for the young men and women who are in Iraq under a Commander-in-Chief who thinks escalation will finally provide an authentic "Mission accomplished." And most importantly, respect for a world where the imperialistic advances of our country are overwhelming.

We must not be afraid to show our displeasure with our government during times of war. We cannot be afraid of being disrespectful when to stay silent undermines our democracy citizen by citizen.

Shalom,

Dan