Teen War Protesters
This may not be the Sixties, but war protests are alive and well! Ashley Casale, 19, of Clinton Corners, N.Y., and Michael Israel, 18, of Jackson, CA are marching across the country to protest the war in Iraq. Newsday reports that the two teens headed for Washington, D.C. from San Francisco on May 21.
Casale planned the “March For Peace” by starting a website and sending flyers to colleges nationwide. She had expected more walkers to join the 3000-mile walk. “Although it’s always nice to have as many people as possible, it’s more about the message and we haven’t been disappointed there aren’t tons of people walking,” Casale said.
The two said that most people have been receptive to them, even if they didn’t agree with them about the war. One World War II veteran met them with a welcome sign and had dinner with them. However, some have greeted them with obscene gestures and yells.
In spite of what they have gone through, Israel said he feels proud of what he and Casale have accomplished. “I hope it inspires people to be more vocal and politically active and become more aware of what’s going on around them,” he said.
I think these two teens can be very proud. They have stood up for what they believe at a time when most teens (and adults) have been staying at home enjoying their vacation time and doing as little as possible. It’s great to hear about teens being interested in politics and current events!
teens, teenagers, parenting teens, parenting teenagers, war protest, politics
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