Protests spread throughout Japan

Mathematicians

On October 13, about 40 mathematicians marched in demonstration in
Tokyo's Shibuya Ward against the U.S.-led war of retaliation against
terrorism.

Distributing flyers, they demanded an end to the retaliatory war against
Afghanistan, saying military strikes will not help eradicate terrorism.

Hironaka Yumiko, professor at Waseda University, who called the day's
action said, "Mathematics is a basic study which can only be developed in
times of peace. Remember, the 'zero' was discovered in India. This means
mathematics can develop in active international exchanges."

Nagaoka Kazuaki, professor at Tsuda College in Tokyo, said, "I cannot
accept the way the U.S. is carrying out airstrikes. Such military strikes
are not necessary, much less the ending of the Self-Defense Forces abroad."

Imagine

About 17,000 young people together sang, "Imagine all the people living
life in peace ..." at a "super-live" to celebrate the 61st birthday of John
Lennon on October 9 in Saitama City.

In a message sent live from New York via satellite, Ono Yoko, John
Lennon's widow said, "I will keep on sending messages of love and peace to
the world. Let us have hope, no matter how small it may be, so we can change
the world."

Near U.S. Yokota Air Base

About 100 people from trade unions and peace organizations in western
Tokyo held a rally and demonstration in Tachikawa City against the on-going
U.S.-led retaliatory war.

The day's action was organized by the Joint Action Center against the
U.S. Yokota Air Base together with the district Trade Union Council and
other organizations.

Sugaya Masami, the District Trade Union Council chair, said, "In areas
near the Yokota base, citizens are kept under the surveillance of U.S.
soldiers. (end)