10,000 march on Wall Street

Led by long-time civil rights activist Rev. James Lawson, as well as veterans, military family members, and peace activists, more than 10,000 marched on Wall Street Saturday, April 4, to demand an end to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and an economic stimulus plan directed at people in need. The march and peace fair that followed were organized by United for Peace with Justice and its coalition groups.

Lawson spoke on behalf of the 90 million Americans living in poverty, toward whom economic policies must be directed if this country intends a real recovery. He emphasized the connection between peace abroad and justice here; "I say if we want peace to blossom, we must eradicate poverty, racism, sexism, violence, and greed in the U.S. Peace cannot come by crying peace. Peace can only begin to emerge when justice does.'

The marchers passed the Federal Reserve building, surrounded the New York Stock Exchange, and ended in Battery Park for a Peace and Justice Fair. Photos by UFPJ Steering Committee member, Mike Hearington are here.

You can donate to United for Peace here. They have several actions planned; you can read more on their website.