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April 27, 2007
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Volume 35
Issue 17
 
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Frank discussion about women in war held at New Freeway Hall
Frank discussion about women in war held at New Freeway Hall
by Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid - SGN Staff Writer

If you're ever looking for an evening out that blends good, home cooked food and provocative political discussion, then you ought to join the rest of us who have been gathering at New Freeway Hall (5018 Rainiier Ave., S.) for timely discussion about a variety of political subjects. And last week's (April 19th), panel discussion, featuring two Radical Women (RW) members was no exception.

The presentation, 'Sexual Violence and Military Indoctrination' brought to light a seldom talked about subject, that of women soldiers who have been sexually and verbally harassed either in the field, or as recruits. Presenting staggering figures from the Department of Defense's own database, RW member Meagon told those present of examples from testimony by women soldiers who have returned from Iraq, and of some recruits who have spoken about being sexually harassed or even raped by recruiters before serving in the military.

Discussion followed and several points were brought out, including how the culture of violence of the U.S. military is in part responsible for the escalating violence we have seen in society, including the recent Virginia Tech shootings. And members and non-members suggested a platform of changes that would include more sensitivity training for soldiers, and more of a stepped up effort by groups like RW to change stereotypes put forth by society regarding women in general. The evening ended with everyone being enlightened to more reasons why the war in Iraq is not a good thing, either for the soldiers serving or the Iraqi people.

For more information on future panels and dinners, call 206-722-6057, e-mail Rwseattle@mindspring.com, or visit www.radicalwomen.org.

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