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VANDENBERG PROTEST
7th July 2000
By Sheila Baker
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Friday's vigil at Vandenberg was an incredible experience shared by such a
few amount of people that many, including the press, were alarmed. Backcountry
action proved to be exciting with many thinking that the direct actioneers
from Santa Cruz, San Jose, LA and Greenpeace would actually stop the launch.
However, as usual, the Universal Spirit had its way. Both launches from
Kwajalein Islands and Vandenberg were plagued with problems
The few that did attend represented fantastic peace groups. The amazingly
baeautiful Jackie Cabasso of WSLF and Pamela Meidell of Atomic Mirror were
there. Dave Kreiger came to distribute his important pamplet on General
Butler's statement. The American Friends Service Committee were represented
as were the strong Guadalupe Catholic Workers who provided support for the
backcountry folks. Tri Valley CARES showed!!
Greenpeace was so impressive with their blow-up missile, their media center,
their constant presence throughout the whole ordeal and their brave little
ship that made it to the hazard area. Greenpeace also had backcountry actioneers
in the Kwajalein Islands!!
Marie, Kathy and I did our all-nighter in front of the gates, dealing with
five sprinkler drenchings and very nervous base police. I represented our small
WILPF San Luis Obispo, Ca group.
I think, for me, the most exciting presence during the whole ordeal was that
of the California Green Party Senatorial candidate, Medea Benjamin. She came not
to campaign, but to lend support to activists fighting a very serious crises.
Bud Booth and Dottie Booth of Santa Barbara Greens lent their house as base
camp for the direct actioneers, as well as their presence during the launch.
They also helped organize the protest against the nuclear navy ship which
docked only a few days before in the SB harbor. An amazing couple!!
Literally all in our group showed visible signs of distress at the launch.
Medea shared that her knees were knocking and Pamela Meidell exclaimed that
she never wanted to see another launch again (i.e., let's stop the next one!!).
The sight was disturbing to all who realized that we witnessed a test nuclear
missile launch, with dummy warheads (actual nukes not present, but will be
in actual war launch).
If you did not attend either July 1 or the actual launch,
I will guess that we were with you in spirit. Many, many thanks to Cleveland
WILPF for their support demonstration, the increidble Menwith Women of
England, the Colorado Springs action folks and others for their support. We will be
with you on Monday, Colorado, in spirit.
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