"March to Protest Terrorism, Call for Unity"

WHAT: Fourth Annual Peace March and victory celebration

WHEN: Saturday Oct. 27, 2001

DETAILS: We will assemble at 11:00 a.m. in the parking lot of Bank of America on Washington Street in Gainesville, Georgia. At 12:00 noon we will begin Marching along Washington Street toward the downtown Gainesville Square. We will circle the Square and then take Spring Street to The Arts Council Depot, where the march will culminate in celebration, entertainment, music, and lots of fun. Everyone is invited to bring a picnic basket and blanket, to relax on the lawn in front of the stage while enjoying the celebration of music, singing, inspirational speakers and folk dancing. Please Note: Absolutely no alcohol will be permitted.

On Tuesday, September 11, 2001, life as we know it in the United States changed completely and forever. The world was shocked and outraged to learn that terrorists had hijacked two commercial jet airplanes and crashed them into the World Trade Center, causing the twin towers to collapse and thereby taking countless lives. At the same time, another hijacked jet airplane crashed into the Pentagon building, also taking untold numbers of lives.

Members of the planning committee for the fourth annual Peace March called a meeting that evening, to discuss the day's events. Participants at that meeting agreed as to the urgent need for a strong voice of protest, in opposition to terrorism and the recent attacks on American soil.

"Many of us are saddened and scared with last week's events," said Olga Chavez, a member of the Planning Committee. "We have to come together, in a positive, constructive way. We have to support our country. That's why the Peace March is going to be so timely this year, to important. We are going to mourn for the thousands who have died, while rallying loud and strong for peace, harmony and justice -- not just locally but also internationally. Hopefully the peace march will to bring people together in unity and harmony."

The march will begin with an hour-long ecumenical prayer vigil led by more than twelve different faith leaders. Eventually, The march will culminate at the lawn of the Arts Council Depot, where event organizers have planned an extensive, bilingual program (English-Spanish) complete with gospel singing, inspirational speakers and interpretive dancers. The color guard of North Georgia College and State University has been invited to be a part of the flag, leading the procession with the United States Flag. Also, the drum corps and marching band of Gainesville High School will lead in the playing of the National Anthem.

Individuals, groups, faith-based organizations and companies are invited to accept this "Call to Action" and support the event. For more information on how to help, please contact Greg Bautista (event organizer) at (770) 297-7755 or you may also visit the web site at:

https://peacemarch2000.tripod.com/

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