'No war on Iraq' calls resound throughout Japan
Various grassroots actions were held throughout Japan on February 15 in protest against a possible U.S. attack on Iraq.
In Tokyo's Shibuya, about 5,000 people participated in the "2/15 Peace Action in Tokyo in Solidarity with World People to Stop Attack on Iraq" held in solidarity with London's "Stop the War Coalition." Protesters' shouts of "No more wars" resounded throughout the shopping district.
Displaying candles, placards, and banners, and playing music, demonstrators shouted "Let's walk together for peace", and many passers-by joined them in response to the call.
In Tokyo's Ginza district, more than 30 people, including journalists, students, Hibakusha (A-bomb survivors), poets, and a former U.S. military officer made anti-war speeches in an event organized to "Stop the war," and "Prevent a nuclear war" by the Japan Council against A & H Bombs (Japan Gensuikyo) and some other organizations.
Members of peace, religious, and citizens' organizations as well as trade unions marched to the U.S. embassy in Tokyo to convey their opposition to a possible war on Iraq. About 350 people together shouted, "Don't attack Iraq!" and handed a letter of protest to the embassy.
Similar protest demonstrations were also held in Osaka and Kyoto. (end)
