By James Thompson
HOUSTON-On 9/7/2013 about 50 people gathered near the Galleria shopping center on the corner of Post Oak and Westheimer to express their opposition to the proposed war in Syria. It was a diverse group which was multicultural and multiethnic and included men and women. There were Republicans, Green party members, Marxists, Communists and others present. Chants were loud and vigorous.
Across Westheimer was a smaller group (about 20) expressing their support for an unprovoked military strike against Syria proposed by President Obama.
The demonstrations were loud, but peaceful. Houston police officers were present and were respectful of the exercise of free speech by both demonstrations.
Many of the demonstrators were pleased that both Texas senators, John Cornin and Ted Cruz are opposed to the proposed military strike. They were also happy that many of the members of the US House of Representatives from Texas are also opposed to the proposed military strike.
There were many signs displayed by the demonstrators. Some signs read “US out of the Middle East!” Others read “Don’t Bomb Syria!”
Nationwide polls have shown that the overwhelming majority of the people in the US oppose any military intervention in Syria. Some wonder why the Obama administration is pressing so hard for this war that does not have the support of the people of this country or people around the world. Even the UK Parliament voted against British military support for this foolhardy operation.
Some of the demonstrators noted that the latest proposed military intervention is yet another expression of US Imperialism. Lenin wrote many years ago that Imperialism is the highest stage of capitalism. He pointed out that Imperialism necessitates continual wars. These wars are necessary for Imperialism to function properly since there must be a continual redistribution of land and resources. As the capitalists jockey for land and power, millions of people are slaughtered needlessly as a result of the senseless competition. Lenin’s words were true at the time he wrote them, but history has proven the accuracy of his writings.
More demonstrations are needed and more people of conscience need to contact their legislators to express their opposition to the potential catastrophe that could result from US military intervention in Syria.
Lenin was correct when he said that Imperialism is the highest form of Capitalism and that the capitalists need continual War to divide and redistribute the land.