Students protest former SOA

By Kelli Mutchler
Reporter

Six Salvadoran Jesuits were killed in 1989 by several graduates of the School of the Americas.

Near the anniversary of their deaths, 59 Creighton students, staff and family members will travel to Georgia for the annual protest. They will protest on Nov. 18-22 at the center, now called the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation.

Up to 15,000 people are expected to stand outside of the fences surrounding Fort Benning protesting with prayers and speech.

The center’s purpose is to train and educate civilians, police and military in democratic principles, said Lee Rials, the center’s Public Affairs officer. The protest is in keeping with Congress’ intent to promote democratic values, respect for human rights and knowledge and understanding of U.S. customs and traditions. Rials said the institute does not comment on the protest because it is a constitutionally protected right.

“ We do make a point to any international students and guest instructors here at the time that this is an example of our democracy, that people have the right to express themselves peacefully, without fear, even when their message is contrary to the government’s policies,” Rials said.

Becky Chabot, Arts & Sciences senior and trip coordinator, said that the policies of the school are not bringing freedom and democracy but benefiting the elite.
The poor are oppressed, Chabot said. “The graduates of this school are part of the machinery that beats them down and kills them. I want my government to know that they won’t be doing it in my name.”

Because crossing the property line of the compound is grounds for arrest, Creighton students sign a code of conduct that states they will not cross the fence and get arrested. Creighton protestors are also prohibited from screaming, using profanity or violent language and performing aggressive behavior such as running.
“ Part of what attracts me to the protest is its nonviolent history. It has gone on for 15 years… people on both sides of the fence know what to expect,” said Mo Simpson, Nursing junior.

Simspon, a protest veteran, is one of three Creighton students who will return for the third year in a row. Chabot has also attended the event three times.
For me, the protest is such a small part of the weekend. Being at the teach-in and hearing from people about different social issues, getting the chance to celebrate Eucharist with a huge community and the ability to witness for those who can’t for themselves is very much a part of my faith and my vocation,” Chabot said.
For Daniel Ramirez, Arts & Sciences freshman, the weekend is not only a group action but an act of individuality.

“ I’m going for others but I’m also doing it for myself. I think it is important for all students, no matter their profession or future goals, to experience a protest that opens an individual’s mind, not just to a nonviolent agenda but to a variety of socially beneficial ideas and practices our nation should incorporate in our rights as American and world citizens,” Ramirez said.

Ramirez said the effects of the protest may not always be as visible as the crosses and other memorabilia left behind.

“ For some people it’s a faith thing, for some people it’s part of a pro-life stance and for others it’s just something they felt they were called to do and not sure why,” Chabot said. “As a group, our goal is to educate ourselves and to form a supportive community.”