Peace rally draws many

By Maryann Dakkak

Santa Clara joined more than 200 schools across the world Wednesday for the National Student Day of Action to protest the war in Iraq.

"I think it's important for students to have an active voice today because we are in a place in our lives where we have the resources, the time and the hope that we can make a change," said freshman Jenn BeVard. "With our privilege comes an inherent responsibility."

Many joined the rally to share in the community of students across the globe promoting the peace movement.

"It is important for socially conscious students to show solidarity with almost 200 other schools in promoting peaceful solutions to conflict," said freshman Jasper Seldon.

The Peace Action Committee, which sponsored the event, has organized other student protests across the Bay Area.

"I hope that this rally allows people who did not previously feel comfortable expressing anti-war sentiment, to have a time and a place where that is encouraged," BeVard said. "I hope that the rally allows people to learn from one another, to have fun and to spread a vision of peace as members of a larger, incredibly powerful movement. People forget that peace is not passive, it's powerful. I hope that was conveyed today."

The rally hosted three sudent performances: Backporch Majority's Dave Cordua, Lazy Jane and Monkey Rides Dog. Along with these musical performances, both students and faculty gave presentations and informative talks.

"The rally is about expressing and voicing out opposition to war in Iraq through songs, poetry and speeches," Seldon said. "It was organized by the Peace Action Committee with the hope of educating as well as entertaining those who attend. It is also meant to show solidarity with other socially conscious schools, both Jesuit and otherwise, that have significant portions of the student body against war."

Seldon gave a talk on the just war theory and a more philosophical view of the impending war.

"This rally will encourage people to develop educated and informed opinions on the Iraq conflict," Seldon said. "We are trying to voice one of the many opinions out there so people that normally wouldn't be exposed to an anti-war school of thought have a chance to see what its all about."

Some students feel that having the voice of the university population is imperative in preventing a war in Iraq.

"Students are essential in the anti-war movement," junior Blair Thedinger said. "Students have the energy and resources to enliven the movement and advance its cause. We are showing our objection to the slaughter of civilians in Iraq. We are asking that our friends and family not be sent to fight a war that we don't need to fight and put their lives at risk."