Anti-war chants rang through the campus Wednesday while students, staff members and faculty joined together to protest the possible war against Iraq.

“Not for war — money for schools,” approximately 250 protesters shouted.

The protesters included organizations such as ASI, the Muslim Student Association, Students for Justice in Palestine, Campus Peace Action, Afrika-Student Association and members of the Green Party.

Students congregated in the Library Quad at noon and marched across campus with banners and posters protesting the war. Colleges across the country also participated in the demonstration.

“With the possibility of the war around the corner, we did expect a good turnout for this anti-war movement,” said Nina Shoman, senior and president of Students for Justice in Palestine. “We are here to protest, and to promote an alternative form of education regarding Palestinians; and to promote justice and equality amongst the Palestinian people,” said Shoman.

The protest organized by Campus Peace Action had been planned for two weeks. Some faculty members passed out fliers and announced the rally in their classes.

“I feel that peace is patriotic,” said photography major Leisa Barnes. “A lot of people don’t think of it that way. I have five sons, and I don’t think that any mother should lose a son. War surrenders humanity — vote for peace,” Barnes said.

Some students contributing did not belong to any student organizations; they were there to support anti-war demonstration.

“I am here because I feel with all the resources we have, there is definitely another solution,” said junior Jon Broc.

Many staff members also attended and encouraged students to express what they believe in.

“It’s Women’s Herstory Month,” said Jessica Higgins. “It’s important for institutions of higher education to speak out. It’s also important for us to support students and to express our beliefs,” said Higgins.

Some even strummed guitars, bringing back an anti-Vietnam feeling.

“We are really happy to see all of the support,” said graduate student and Campus Peace Action member Xochitl Lopez. “It’s wonderful to see such a turnout, especially because a lot of students didn’t know about the protest until today.”

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