Wake Up Peace! The Second Annual Walk for a New Spring Massachusetts February 16 - March 21, 2003       Information and News      Schedule

An Undeniable Wind of Change From Faith Communities, to city and town governments, from schools to unions, from all corners across ethjnic/racial and income lines, a fresh and undeniable wind is arising from the depths of people's spirits. "No" to the war against Iraq. "No" to racial discrimination and suppression of domestic civil rights, and "Yes" to the awakening of a new vision of peace and justice, of restoration of trust and genuine sharing among preoples and nations. We walk at this time, through the last days of Winter until the first day of Spring as a prayer that the ardent wish for peace embedded in our hearts may arise singly and together in this most crucial time. As the earth and heavens move into Spring, may we open to a rebirth within our hearts of the belief in the sacredness of life and the preciousness and nobility of every human being alive today. "As long as murderous weapons exist, humanity will be oppressed . . . however, to trust, this is a spiritually-based civilization. To trust heaven, to trust earth, to trust God -- these things will not reply, but we trust without doubting. The wayof thinking in which policies depend on physical force . . . have come to a deadlock . . .this is the beginning of change. Not a single penny is needed .. believe in others . . . believe in the world." Most venerable Nichidatsu Fujii, Founder of Nipponzan Myohoji This walk is initiated by Nipponzan Myohoji, as Buddhist religious order, based at the Peace Pagoda in Leverett, MA. Co-sponsoring Communities Agape; American Friends Service Committee; Buddhist Peace Fellowship, Pioneer Valley Chapter; Ipswich House of Peace; Traprock Peace Center; Western Massachusetts Interfaith Coalition for Peace and Justice For More Information Email or Phone American Friends Service Committee: 413-584-8975 Web Sites Western Massachusetts AFSC Trappock Peace Center Other News The Walk to Begin: An announcement from the Western Mass Indy Media Newswire. Walk Arrives in Westfield: Walkers meet with Springfield mayor and find support along the way. Peace walkers sense a change in mood. The walkers bring a message of peace. Religion takes on war. Walkers teach peace to children. The walkers brought a call to peace throughout Massachusetts. Walkers ended their journey in Boston. Walkers called for peace from the steps of Boston's city hall. The walk was part of peace actions that have raised a voice of opposition and hope even as war was being waged.