To the editor:

Ray Parker of Overland Park accuses the Lawrence Coalition for Peace and Justice of being “socialist and anti-American.” I can’t figure out what socialism has to do with it, except to reveal Mr. Parker’s general mindset. As for anti-American, aren’t freedom of assembly and freedom of expression (including dissent) central among the things that it means to be American?

The core issue is this: If we go to war against Iraq, tens of thousands of innocent men, women, and children will be killed or maimed and their homes, cities, and means of livelihood will be destroyed. I know, 3,000 innocent people were killed in the despicable attacks of Sept. 11. But to avenge the deaths of innocents by killing more innocents will only perpetuate the cycle of violence. Is it not wiser to work toward the goal of eliminating weapons of mass destruction through diplomacy and inspections? And, I would add, weapons of mass destruction should be eliminated not only from Iraq but from all countries that have them, including the United States.

Allan Hanson,

Lawrence