BY ANGELA LUVERA
SYDNEY — Citing racist attacks on women perpetrated since September 11, feminists have called a rally and march to oppose war and racism on International Women's Day 2002.
"With no real evidence the United States declared many Middle Eastern countries as 'terrorist', enemies of democracy and freedom, and began bombing Afghanistan. This has directly led to Muslim and women of Arabic appearance to be physically and verbally attacked, including here in Sydney", said Kim Bullimore, a member of the newly formed Women Against War and Racism, which is organising the protest.
The new group is the result of a transformation of the International Women's Day collective, which on November 5 to change its name and focus, as it believed the US war on terrorism is the issue most concerning women.
"We are committed to raising the issues that have yet to be heard — how war and racism really affect women", said Bullimore. "Next year's protest will be important for the people of Sydney to clearly express to the Australian government that we oppose their unconditional support that is currently being extended to the US government's war."
Women Against War and Racism also plans to organise actions and forums in various Sydney suburbs before the main protest, which will be held either on or around March 8.
The collective encourages all women opposed to war and racism to get involved. The next meeting will be held at the Ashfield Community Centre on November 26 at 7pm.
From Green Left Weekly, November 21, 2001.
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