Silent vigils vocalize concern for peace

Author: Kacie Sherman

On the green across from downtown Middlebury's Alpine Shop, the Addison Peace Coalition convenes every Saturday morning by the large stone fountain.For thirty minutes each week, the non-exclusive group joins together to silently demonstrate against the war in Iraq.

Every Saturday since the start of the Iraq War, community members have met at the same time and place, to express their disapproval of the United States' military presence in Iraq. Their demonstration style is influenced by Quaker philosophy: the participants silently bear signs with slogans opposing the war, hoping that their silence will promote quiet reflection and conscientiousness amongst those who see them and those who choose to participate.

Winslow Colwell, a Ripton resident, was the organizer of the silent protest. The group's size has ranged from six to thirty people, depending upon changes in the political climate and changes in the war's trajectory. Though the demonstrators do not vocally express their anti-war opinions, their Saturday morning gatherings are filled with opinionated discussions amongst those who attend, sharing news and opinions about the state of Vermont, the United States and the world. As Ann Hoover, a Middlebury resident, describes her fellow Coalition members, "we are people in the community who care about the direction of our country."

Despite their formal name, the Addison Peace Coalition does not have any set bylaws or membership guidelines - much like the Quakers, also known as the Society of Friends. The Coalition is completely non-denominational, non-partisan and welcomes any interested individuals. Though their presence is minimally intrusive, the group does have a permit with the Town of Middlebury that grants them the right to the space they occupy every Saturday, enforcing their right to free speech even through silence. Hoover stresses that all area citizens and students are welcome, that everyone comes together with a sole purpose: "we want peace."

Hoover's participation with antiwar activism is not limited to her Saturday witnessing. In January, 2003, Hoover marched with over 150,000 other anti-Iraq War demonstrators across the Mall in Washington, D.C. The march included speeches from various antiwar icons such as Ron Kovic and Liz McAlister. Hoover notes that, regrettably, little tangible change came from the march, but that it was meant "for oneself, more than persuading others." Hoover unabashedly admits her desires for this month's midterm elections, saying "I hope that Democrats take over everything - it is the only way to get out of the mess that we are in."

The Coalition never actively seeks out recruits or publicity, but their conspicuous location and powerful signs have attracted attention from individuals and media outlets alike. With a style that is as peaceful and nonviolent as the message they wish to send, the Coalition's demonstrators serve as a thought-provoking reminder for reflection, no matter what one's political beliefs. The New York Religious Society of Friends sees meditation as a "means to develop cooperation and community," a means to counteract the effects of the war - and violence of all kinds - that degrades love, destroys lives and "tears the fabric of society."

Whether antiwar or pro-Iraq, a passerby who noticing the silent witnessing on Middlebury's common will feel compelled to spend time in quiet introspection, and for those who share the same viewpoint of the protestors, to express their opinions more vocally or in a different style. The demonstrators' dedicated presence through sleet and snow in the upcoming months will serve as an inspiration to act for what one believes, and to hope that if nothing else, one's small-scale action will inspire the end of another's political inertia.

Other Peace Vigils in the Area:

VERGENNES: Saturdays, 10-11am at the Vergennes City Green
BURLINGTON: Monday-Friday, 5-5:30pm at Unitarian Church (top of Church St)
RUTLAND:Fridays, 12-1 at Main Street Park at corner of Rt. 4 & Rt. 7.