Peaceful protests to meet arms bazaar
A couple of years ago, Richard Levis and Carroll Holland, neighbours on adjacent blocks in Champlain Park, created an audio guide to the Canadian War Museum (along with producer Bob Acton). It’s called Thinking About War and Peace.
That’s what both of them are still doing, along with hundreds of other Ottawa residents who are gearing up for peaceful protests on both May 27 and 28 to coincide with the Arms Bazaar planned for Lansdowne Park on those dates. People may also sign an on-line petition.
Once upon a time, Ottawa City councillors voted (almost unanimously) to ban the Arms Trade Bazaar sponsored by the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI). Carroll was among those supporting that historic move 20 years ago.
Earlier this year, after almost three decades of working on peace and social justice issues, she was “stunned” when she learned that the arms show was back in town. In this month’s edition of her neighbourhood newsletter, she invites others to join her in making a presentation to the City’s corporate services and economic development committee. At its June 2 meeting, the committee will hear what citizens have to say about City property being used to host the Arms Bazaar.
To eavesdrop on a conversation between Richard Levis and Carroll Holland about war, peace, and stopping future arms bazaars, check out the video clip (above).
