Macomb, IL – 231 years ago this week, our nation's founding fathers spoke out, declaring their independence from England. Ever since then, "speaking out" has been an American tradition.
In fact, it's included in the First Amendment of the US Constitution: the right to free speech. That right is guaranteed, even when there are strong differences of opinion.
Such differences are in display every Saturday morning at 11:00 at the northwest corner of Chandler Park in Macomb. That's when and where those who oppose the War in Iraq gather to demonstrate for peace.
The protestors include veterans and students, parents and neighbors. Some of the people who drive by them show their support by honking their horns, waving, or flashing a peace sign.
Others who drive by extend just a middle finger, shout insults, or fire off an icy stare. But one of the most talked about insults was made some 10 miles to the west, during the dedication ceremony for a veterans memorial in Colchester.
Retired Marine Lt. Col. Dan Sigwart said "The ACLU won't like it and assorted fruitcakes up in Chandler Park - the peaceniks - aren't going to like it or will their Al Qaeda buddies and their Taliban friends. Nevertheless, God bless America and long live the United States."
However, the demonstrators believe more and more people are showing support for their cause. Organizer Sally Egler says it's important to call the community's attention to the heartbreak of this war.
Egler also says the protests will continue until a new strategy for Iraq takes effect. In that regard, the demonstrators are exercising another of the freedoms guaranteed in America: the right of the people to peaceful assembly.
You can listen to News Director Rich Egger's feature story on this issue by clicking on the audio button.