"Counter Inauguration: A Peoples' Speak Out" On Monument Circle (IND)

[IndianaGreen]

I posted this info in the Indiana forum. I am posting this here for those that don't go to the DU basement:

Please join in solidarity with nationwide protests at the "Indiana Counter Inauguration 2005: A People's Platform & Speak-Out to End the War in Iraq," scheduled rain or shine on Monument Circle (Meridian & Market Streets, Indianapolis) from 11:30 a.m. -- 1:30 p.m. Speakers are asked to register at the literature table upon arrival.

Represented at the Counter Inauguration & Speak-Out will be a diverse assortment of Central Indiana residents: antiwar activists, US military veterans, civil libertarians, peace and justice workers, high school and college students, teachers from all levels, women's rights activists, labor organizers and union members, and a wide array of ministers and religious organizations, including members of the peace churches and peace colleges in the Hoosier state.

Some will speak against the war in Iraq, some will talk about the attack on civil liberties and human rights by the Bush administration, others will speak about ongoing violence in Israel/Palestine, and many will pay witness to how social services and federally funded programs are facing dire cuts that further an unjust and unconscionable war.

Starting at 11:30 there will be an "Open Mike" for all those who want to let their voices be heard both against the war in Iraq and on other issues related directly to President George Bush and the policies of his administration during the past four years. Please sign up to speak at the literature table.

The keynote speaker for the event, Marine Corporal Andrew VanDenBergh, is scheduled to address the crowde at noon. VanDenBergh, an Indiana combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and a member of Iraq Veterans Against The War, will speak about his six-month tour of duty in Iraq.

Following VanDenBergh's address, the "Open Mike" will resume. Speakers will be interspersed with musicians, singers, dancers, poets -- and perhaps a bit of street theater.

Participating organizations include The Indianapolis Peace & Justice Center, Indiana Peace & Justice Network, (A)rt is a Hammer, Indiana Iraq Pledge of Resistance, Democratic Socialists of America, Students for Peace in Iraq (IUPUI), National Organization for Women, Common Bonds, and many other Indiana groups.