Students, administrators express anti-war sentiments

From folding paper cranes to waving signs in cross-campus marches, Tufts students showed their displeasure at the war in Iraq yesterday despite the fact that their statements were made five days after the war's start.

Making it clear that the anti-war movement continues, protestors made the effort to both engage in intellectual discussions and loudly demonstrate their opinions. Serious panels and open mic opportunities showed the wide range of views held by members of the anti-war movement -- and an overwhelming desire for the war to end.

The "day after" moratorium planned by the Tufts Coalition Opposing War in Iraq (TCOWI) did not follow the original plans made over a month ago. Aside from not taking place the day after military action began in Iraq, the primary focus of the moratorium seemed to shift from simply skipping classes to creating a forum for discussion and education. However, the events followed the goals of the organizers -- to show that there is dissent against the Bush administration's policies and to educate the campus on their views.

"I don't think protests are going to stop the war or change the policy. Obligation to ourselves at this point is to spread the message that this is unjust," said TCOWI member Phil Martin. "The only way we're going to do that is to educate. Spread the message and let people know what's going on. There's a reason why 99.9 percent of the world is against what we're doing now," he said, pointing out that this was one of the main focuses of yesterday's events.

"It's about dissenting and acting out our constitutional rights," said TCOWI member Ariana Flores in a heartfelt speech. "We are not the ones with bombs coming down on us."

The opening speech, at the morning open mic at Hillel, focused on acceptance of views and urged participants to "keep the tone of this event peaceful." Throughout the day this appeal seems to have been followed as students, professors, and local activists shared their views.

"We must continue to fight for peace," was a constant phrase, as speakers urged their audience to persist in their actions. "Now we have to continue the struggle, oppose the ongoing attack," said a written statement by History professor Gary Leupp, which was read at a rally outside of the campus center.

Participation fluctuated throughout the day. Although it was sparse at times, organizers claim that roughly 100 people attended an early afternoon panel.

Many of the people attending emphasized the importance of exercising their right to protest, and ensuring that the administration and the rest of the world be aware that the war is not universally supported. "When you draw attention to [the matter] it makes them question," student Lu Xia said. "Our government is not representing the people."

Although many questioned whether the moratorium should be held -- given the fact that it was meant to take place the day after hostilities started -- participants said that it was important to continue with the plans. "You have to go on with the moratorium because it's a big issue," Xia said. "You can't cancel just because of timing."

Organizer Gary Goldstein, a Physics professor, concurred. "Even if we missed the day after protest, we can't let [the situation] go unacknowledged," he said.

History professor Steven Marrone viewed the day as time to "appeal to my students." He attended both of his scheduled courses today, but offered his students the option of discussing whatever they wished. Both classes elected to discuss the war.

"People are worried, confused, feel they don't have enough information," Marrone said.