Salaam, Friends — I would like to introduce a new series of interviews I am doing with each of the Afghan Peace Volunteers, by sharing an article just published by Dr. Hakim, their founder and adviser. I believe the article, and the interview he includes, shows the substantial impact the US presence has had on the lives of families here. Despite the US investment of more than $100 Billion dollars in non-military aide since 2001, the corruption is so rampant that the ordinary citizens live in virtual poverty.  I seek your replies to the compelling message that guides me from the Nuremberg Principles that if I see an atrocity and do nothing, I am complicit.  I invite all of us to question what we can do together to reverse this situation…..

In solidarity,
Sherri Maurin
Veteran For Peace member, Kabul, Afghanistan, Peace Journey, Tuesday, August 12 2014

We’re human fodder caught in the crossfire of armed groups and armed governments
“No to wars!” By Dr Hakim August 12, 2014

“Her father was killed in Helmand amidst fighting between the Taliban and theAfghan/US-NATO forces,” said a relative about Gul Jumma, who looked down, shy and full of angst, sensing a future that’s not promising. Gul Jumma, together with the Afghan Peace Volunteers, expressed their opposition to wars in this video. Gul Jumma holds up the sign for ‘Ukraine’, indicating ‘No to wars in Ukraine’. She understands what it is like to be caught in the crossfire, as happened to her father when he was killed in battle.Continue reading →