'Die-In' Marks Two Years Of War In Iraq

This Saturday is the second anniversary of the American-led invasion of Iraq.

As part of an International Day of Action against war, Christchurch's Peace Action Network is gathering to remember the war's victims with a rally and street theatre 'die-in'.

The event will begin in Cathedral Square at 12 noon, before moving to Cashel Mall.

US president George Bush justified the invasion of Iraq with claims that Iraqi president Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction and links to Al Qaeda.

"We now know that these claims were lies," said Peace Action Network spokesperson David Colyer. "This war has always been about oil," he said.

As many as 100,000 Iraqis were killed in the invasion," said Mr Colyer, referring to a study published in the prestigious medical journal Lancet.

"The killing and torture are continuing. This war will not end until the occupation has ended," Mr Colyer said.

Members of Christchurch's Iraqi community will be speaking on Saturday, and again at a Peace Action Network public meeting on 11 April.

A report and photograph of Saturday's protest, and details of Iraqi Voices public meeting will be released to the media following the protest.

Peace Action Network spokesperson:

David Colyer Phone: 3853646 Email: colyer@pl.net

Event details

International day of action 2nd anniversary of the invasion of Iraq

Saturday March 19

Rally and 'die-in' to commemorate the 100,000 Iraqis killed beginning 12 noon Cathedral Square

Peace Action Network

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