Minute Concerning Pre-emptive War against Iraq

We, the Madison, Wisconsin, Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends, observe with deep concern the rising tension between the United States of America and Iraq, including our U.S. government’s assertion of the possible need for a ‘pre-emptive’ war.

We wholeheartedly oppose such a war, waged for any reason. We believe the current conflict can be resolved if we join in a spirit of reconciliation and love and build bridges through peaceful, good faith efforts. Therefore, we call upon the leaders and the people of Iraq, the United States, and all nations to begin dialogue now to construct the common ground that can take away the occasion for war and take away war itself.

This minute was approved at the September 5, 2002 Meeting for Business and incorporates the subsequent minor final editing requested of the Peace and Social Concerns committee.