A DECLARATION OF PEACE between the people of Ithaca, New York and the people of the Middle East:
We undersigned citizens of Ithaca, New York, United States, declare peace between ourselves and the peoples of the Middle East. We hereby commit ourselves to these acts that promote peace:
We respect the religions and languages of the Middle East.
We welcome visitors here from the Middle East. Ithaca is a refuge for Arabic peoples who feel threatened elsewhere. Racial suspicion by citizens or officials will be challenged.
We seek an end to all foreign military presence in the Middle East.
We will rebuild our city to rely less on imported oil by creating energy-efficient housing, commerce, manufacturing, electrification, transport and food supplies.
We will personally drive cars less and ride bikes and buses more; purchase goods made regionally, recycle more and throw less away; rely on independent non-corporate media; divert investments and tax money to peacemaking; vote for candidates who embrace the above.
We wish you security, prosperity, democracy and peace.
Salaam aleichem,
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Please contact me if you'd like to help gather signatures, to be delivered to relevant embassies, nongovernmental organizations, and the media.
I'll also seek signatures from all candidates in local elections, and bring it before City Council.
The declaration is an example of citizen diplomacy which I believe is not only just, but can enhance the security of Ithacans and stimulate a national movement which can assert demand for a different foreign policy.
-- Paul
Paul Glover, Box 365, Ithaca, NY 14851
(607) 272-4330
