Provo citizens gathered in front of Sen. Orrin Hatch's office on Friday to call for the end of the war in Iraq as part of the International Day of Peace.

Provo, a city the Bay Area Center for Voting Research called "the most conservative city in the United States," has become a growing center for antiwar activism in Utah County.

"We know that there is a growing progressive movement throughout the nation when even people in Provo are starting to condemn the war," said Ash Bledsoe, member of Mormons for Equality and Social Justice and organizer of the rally.

Bledsoe said the goal of the social justice group is to let people know that it is OK to be Mormon and against the war.

"Faith supports antiwar," she said.

This was the main theme of the rally as more than 50 people met to hear from speakers that included Vietnam veterans.

Bart Tippetts, who served in Vietnam, spoke about his experiences during Vietnam and the comparisons he sees with Iraq. Tippetts, chairmen of the Salt Lake chapter of Mormons for Equality, directed his speech to Mormons.

"Mormon history, literature and theology renounces war," he said. "While it is honorable to serve, it is more honorable to prevent war and proclaim peace."

David Muller, retired from 34 years in the Air Force, spoke about things people can do to help bring the war to an end. People should get media attention and become a thorn in the side of their representatives, he said.

"What would you wish you had done today if tomorrow 500 more soldiers were killed in one action," Muller said. "Will your representative be the last one who supports the occupation of Iraq?"

Pete Ashdown, who plans to run against Hatch again for the Senate seat, was the keynote speaker. America should only fight wars that are just, he said.

"Where is the justice in this war?" Ashdown said. "If our purpose as Americans is to rid the planet of greedy, self-centered, homicidal leaders, we're going to be fighting until the end of time or the end of America, whichever comes first."

None attended to protest the peace rally, though they were not void of criticism as many boos and shouts in favor for the war were heard from people passing by.

Ashdown thanked the crowd for their attendance and support at the rally.

"In a city like this, it takes a lot of courage," he said.



Copyright Brigham Young University 24 Sep 2007