We wish we didn’t need a Quaker Conference on Torture in 2010. But we do. And we hope you, or someone from your meeting community, will join us there.
It’s still hard for many to admit, but the United states government built an extensive “Torture Industrial Complex” as part of the “War On Terror.”
Torture is illegal, a crime under existing U.S. And international laws. There was hope it would end when a new administration came into office in early 2009.
Unfortunately, the actual progress has been very limited: Guantanamo remains open. Secret prisons are still operating in Afghanistan and, likely, elsewhere. The official ban on torture techniques is limited in its applicability.
And perhaps worst of all, none of those who designed or carried out the U.S. torture program has been held accountable. Nor have any of the thousands of victims later released as innocent received compensation, or even an apology.
We think accountability today is the best way to prevent torture in the future. Other countries, including Canada and England, have begun accountability investigations. But the U.S. government is still refusing to follow suit.
It will take persistent and determined effort to root out the “Torture Industrial Complex.” The 2010 Quaker Conference on Torture is one more step toward the goal.
Won’t you take the step, and join us?
Peace,
John Calvi, Convener
QUIT: The Quaker Initiative to End Torture
Quaker Conference on Torture & Accountability
September 24-26, 2010 - Quaker Center-California
Register online NOW at: www.quit-torture-now.org
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