Recently, two ISU student organizations have been publicly demonstrating their strongly held beliefs. Time for Peace has been protesting against the war in Iraq for several months now. Recently, the ISU College Republicans have begun demonstrations designed to show support for the U.S. military and their efforts in “Operation Iraqi Freedom.”

While the two groups disagree on some policy issues, they do not wish to be viewed as antagonistic. That is why they have come together in a desire to express their shared beliefs and values. This is a strong gesture of goodwill and unity during this time of conflict. This statement is made with the full support and approval of the members of Time for Peace and the ISU College Republicans. We also wish to express our appreciation to the ISU Campus Greens and the ISU Democrats for their support of this effort.

First and foremost, we respect and support all who serve in the military. We also respect the human dignity of the Iraqi people. In addition, we respect all who strive to achieve peace through diplomatic measures. We commend the efforts of humanitarian organizations to relieve the suffering of the Iraqi people.

We have the utmost respect for human life everywhere and send our sincerest condolences to the families of Americans and Iraqis who have lost loved ones in this conflict and those who may lose loved ones in the future.

We condemn all governments, including that of Saddam Hussein, which use violence and violate human rights to gain and maintain power.

We pledge to maintain respectful and reasoned dialogue to discuss what we believe, though we may not always agree. We acknowledge our differences, but will strive for constructive debate free of personal attacks or humiliation. We respect each other’s constitutionally protected right to demonstrate our beliefs publicly, and will continue to do so.

In conclusion, we hope that this statement will show that ISU students and organizations who may disagree can openly discuss their beliefs in a respectful manner and find they share certain values. We respect the free speech rights of everyone and pledge to use our rights responsibly and respectfully.

Time for Peace

ISU College Republicans

ISU Democrats

ISU Campus Greens