Published: 11/2/2021 7:00:07 AM
103 years ago, the world celebrated peace as a universal idea. World War I had just ended and nations mourning their dead called for an end to war. Armistice Day was thus created and was designated as “a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated.” However, after the Korean War, the U.S. Congress during the Cold War chose to rename November 11 as Veterans Day. Remembering those who perished in World Wars I and II and Korea, changed into honoring the military and glorifying war.
Armistice Day was altered from a day for peace into a day for flag waving and displays of militarism. Veterans for Peace (VFP) has taken the lead in lifting up the original intention of November 11th as a day for peace. Veterans know that a day that celebrates peace, not war, is the superior way to honor the sacrifices of veterans. We do not want future generations to participate in the destruction that war has caused on other people and upon our planet. VFP is calling on everyone to stand up for peace this Armistice Day. More than ever, the world faces a critical moment from the pandemic, the growing possibility of nuclear war and the effects of global warming. Tensions are heightened around the world. We must pressure our government to end reckless military interventions that endanger the entire world. We must also work to abolish war.
William Thomas
Auburn