Canada out of Afghanistan

Canada used to be a country that stood for human rights, peace and fairness. We have strayed so far from the Canada we once were. Now we are at war in Afghanistan, a poor, unsophisticated country whose people have never threatened or attacked us. If we want Afghanistan to embrace democracy, there are better ways of doing this than invading their country and alienating their population by slaughtering their men, women and children as collateral damage. There is example, education, diplomacy and humanitarian aid.





There is also the pursuit of multilateral, international and non-violent courses of action to help prosecute and prevent terrorism. Canada has long supported the International Criminal Court, nuclear arms treaties, and humanitarian efforts which could become effective tools in helping to punish and prevent war and terrorism. We encourage the Canadian government to support the "war on terror" by pursuing these and other peaceful means. We also encourage the Canadian government to investigate and possibly spearhead new international initiatives with the goal of helping stop terrorism by addressing its root causes, such as economic inequality.





We believe that at this moment in history, Canada has the opportunity and the responsibility to speak out for peace in a time of war. Only by reconsidering our support of the American war effort can we salvage our reputation as a peaceful and internationally minded country, and begin to truly address the causes of terrorism, thus guarding ourselves and the world against it. It is our sincere wish that the Canadian government will continue to represent the principles of peace and tolerance that remain some of the best qualities of our country, and thereby, continue to represent Canadians. War is not the answer.





I want to be proud of my country for its stance on human rights, peace-keeping, diplomacy and fairness. Canada must resume its role as a representative of these ideals and disentangle itself from the lies, aggression and the war machine that the present American government represents. This same government is now laying the groundwork for a war with Iran. We have been silent long enough. Canada needs to take the higher ground and must stop being a puppet of American war-mongering policies. I want my Canada back. I want our troops out of Afghanistan.