Home from Iraq: A Ballot Question in Massachusetts

This non-binding referendum on the war will appear on the November ballot in 36 state representative districts across Massachusetts. For the first time, Massachusetts voters will have the opportunity to officially register their position on the war. The ballot initiative reads:

“Shall the State Representative from this district be instructed to vote in favor of a resolution calling upon the President and Congress of the United States to end the war in Iraq immediately and bring all United States military forces home from Iraq? “

How to get involved in the campaign to get a “yes” vote on the “Home from Iraq” ballot question:

•Use our materials: We have signs, campaign brochures and leaflets that we can send you for events, vigils and election day. We also have a listing of the towns and cities where the referendum will be on the ballot.

•Have a reporter for your local paper write an article on the campaign, or write an op ed piece for your local newspaper. We can send you examples of published op ed pieces on this topic.

•Ask your state representative, senator, and mayor to endorse a YES vote. Ask your local unions, churches, and community organization to endorse the referendum.

•Hold an educational forum on the war and the referendum campaign. Speakers are available from Military Families Speak Out.

•Hold a local press conference to announce the referendum.

•Leaflet your community widely to give visibility and generate interest.

To get involved or to request materials, contact Paul Shannon at the American Friends Service Committee: 617/497-5273; pshannon@afsc.org.