Monday, June 12, 2006
"People of Conscience and the Morality of War"
forum and discussion
Bloomington Friends Meeting, 'Truth in Recruiting', Bloomington Peace Action Coalition, 'Spirit of Service' (St. Paul Catholic Center), and the I.U. students group 'Against the Occupation of Iraq' present a forum for youth considering conscientious objection on Monday, June 12.
The Forum begins at 7:00 p.m. in the Monroe County Public Library, Room 1-B, with an introduction by Colin Schoder-Ehri, who intends to file status as a conscientious objector if a military draft is instituted.
Following the introduction will be short statements by invited speakers. Rev. Bill Breeden, Brown County author Hank Swain, poet Patricia Coleman and others are giving personal perspectives on the following questions: "Are any wars good?"
"Are you willing to be ordered to kill?"
"What happens when you decide to follow your conscience?"
After these opening statements all participants are invited to share their thoughts and views on these issues, in a discussion moderated by Matt Turrissini.
Young people will have the opportunity to discuss and consider how someone makes the decision to become a conscientious objector and what steps they would need to take to establish their status as a conscientious objector in case of a draft.
There will also be information about how someone who is already serving in the military can obtain conscientious objector status, and either leave the military or serve in non-combat-related functions.
Handouts will be provided about the reality of war, and about educational opportunities, career options, and ways for young people to serve their country outside of the military.
The event is free and open to the public.
For additional information: Colin Schoder-Ehri, Bloomington Friends Meeting
E-mail: colinse@gmail.com Phone: (812) 219-6517
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Monroe County Public Library, Room 1-B
303 E. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington
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