A Grassroots Victory: Democrats Shelve Iran Resolution
The American peace community, fired by a strong and substantial grassroots base, effectively managed to pressure Congress into shelving a resolution (H. Con. Res. 362), which would have opened the door for a naval blockade on Iran. This resolution, proposed in May and strongly advocated by the American Israel Political Affairs Committee, would have imposed "stringent inspection requirements" on trade with Iran, making a military blockade and the legal use of force very likely.
However, just as the bill was set to pass through the House, the peace community, comprised of peace groups, religious organizations, Iranian Americans and Jewish Americans, coordinated a counter strategy and flooded the representatives' offices with phone calls, e-mails, and visits to Congressional offices. Their message was clear: though the language of the bill may imply that it simply strengthens sanctions, it actually could only be implemented by military means. Prominent military experts and military personnel agreed with the peace community and joined in opposing the legislation. It was a unique expression of grassroots power and reflected a remarkable convergence of interests between the military and the peace community.
Additional Resources:
“Deploying diplomacy against Iran.” By M.J. Rosenberg. haaretz.com. October 10, 2008.
"In Reversal, Democrats Shelve Iran Resolution." By Maya Schenwar. truthout.org. October 10, 2008.
Brit Tzedek v'Shalom, The Jewish Alliance for Justice and Peace
11 E. Adams Street, Suite 707
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: (312) 341-1205
Fax: (312) 341-1206
info@btvshalom.org
www.btvshalom.org
Monday, October 13, 2008
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