Critic of war in Iraq sparks protest at Brunswick Community College

Cindy Sheehan has been an outspoken critic of the war in Iraq. Sheehan’s son, Casey, died in Iraq in 2005. Her speech to a small crowd at Brunswick Community College reflected her aniti-war sentiment.

But outside, a different group gathered. About fifty people carried signs and flags. Their message: support our troops.

“People like Cindy Sheehan are actually helping our loss of will to fight,” said protestor Tom Russell.

Veteran Norman Meares said, “A lot of people showed up here today just for that reason. Is to let the lady inside know that we care. Most of us are veterans, and this is important for us to show our support for our troops.”

North Carolina Peace Action organizer Barbara Stanley noted, “We think we are supporting the troops. We think we are the ones to question whether a war you would send our guys, or girls would be legal, we think that’s our job, especially while our troops are away.”

Sheehan has been touring the state, with stops in Raleigh, Statesville, and Asheville spreading her message. The tour is sponsored by state and local organizations including, North Carolina Peace Action, and Code Pink, a women’s organization for peace.

Sheehan continues her tour of North Carolina with a stop in Raleigh Tuesday.