Left In Lowell

Today is the date on which we mark a fifth year of a war that never should have happened to begin with, that was badly run from its outset, and where we have lost nearly 4,000 troops in an escalation that has done little to fix the political situation there, but only prolongs the inevitable.

At 5pm, you can join Greater Lowell for Peace and Justice at a vigil at the corner of Market and Central streets (sign up and details here) to remember those who have given their lives, and to call for an end to this war.

You can also sign onto a comprehensive foreign policy plan from some impressive Congressional candidates. Says AMERICAblog:

From a policy standpoint, it is clear, comprehensive, and reality-based. Implementing this platform would do a great deal to improve our nation’s security, as well as its military and intelligence structures. It also has plenty of endorsements (and input) from credible military and foreign policy professionals.

The plan, which is impressively detailed, boils down to a handful of major points:

- End US Military Action in Iraq
- Use US diplomatic power
- Address humanitarian concerns
- Restore our Constitution
- Restore our military
- Create a new, US-centered energy policy

These Democratic candidates, including Washington’s Darcy Burner, Donna Edwards of Maryland, and Eric Massa of New York, have taken the time to create a coalition like this while running for Congress. I find that impressive, and potentially highly effective. These candidates represent the future of the Democratic party, and you can read their full plan and sign on to support their plan.