The students of the University of Kansas should strongly oppose war against Iraq. As educated citizens and students we should not endorse the violence and racism inherent in the proposed armed aggression. While sustained engagement against global terrorism is important, confronting Iraq in war has broad implications and ramifications beyond opposing terrorism that are unacceptable.

The war on Iraq and the sanctions against the people of Iraq are motivated by profit and self-interested politics. The Bush administration justifies its position against Iraq under the guise of supporting democracy, freedom, and security around the world. The reality is that the war expands the empire of the United States: an empire that seeks to control money, resources, and people for corporate greed. And, because there are a lot of big companies invested and involved in the business of war and war-time products, war is profitable.

This "war on terrorism" has killed tens of thousands. The "war" at home has led to policies of discrimination and injustice under the auspices of a homeland security initiative. Racial profiling and unjustified detainment of persons of color by the United States Government are unacceptable by-products of opposing terrorism. The nation becomes what it condemns if it imprisons, unjustly detains or harasses citizens of the US or other nations. Consequently, the "war on terrorism" began as a fight against individuals and armed militias. Yet, as 9/11, 2002, comes and goes, the dialog has shifted dramatically. The Bush administration is now actively campaigning to dominate and control the entire nation of Iraq using armed conflict.

Additionally, post 9/11 we have already experienced opposing limits on personal freedom or intellectual freedom to speak in the United States. We criticize Ashcroft's creation of a climate of fear, in order to silence dissent against his policies, such as indefinite and unconstitutional detainment of individuals, who may or may not be involved in terrorist planning. Acts of free speech, public discourse, and intellectual freedom must not be controlled and limited under the guise of preserving American security.

I oppose war used primarily to secure financial benefit. I also oppose war because I believe open dialogue and diplomatic relations must instead be explored thoroughly rather than engaging in military conduct in Iraq. I believe other solutions have not been thoroughly used to alleviate this problem.

Knowledge and reason is only as good as the people that act on them. I urge you all to act on your convictions by speaking up against this war.