21st August, 2012, by Zarah Patriana
Three states, seven cities, and eight days later the Caravan for Peace continues to make its way across the United States on its month-long journey to urge the U.S. public to rethink the failed strategies of the War on Drugs.
At every stop along the route, the Caravanistas, including more than 40 Mexican victims of the drug war, have been greeted by communities standing in solidarity on issues related to the War on Drugs ranging from challenging lax policies on gun trafficking, promoting immigration policies that respect the dignities of all people, to rethinking drug prohibition, and more.
The Caravan first embarked on its journey in Tijuana, MX and crossed the border into San Diego, CA before making its way to Los Angeles. Watch this ReasonTV video from the day.
After an energizing two days in Los Angeles, where the Caravan was joined by supporters from Hollywood, grassroots organizations, artist activists, members from the Los Angeles community at cultural events, candlelight vigils, actions, and marches, the group continued on to Arizona.
In Arizona, the Caravan made a symbolic visit to the “Tent City” jail to express solidarity with those incarcerated and to condemn the inhumane practices of the infamous Sheriff Joe Arpaio , longtime drug war enforcer also known for being anti-immigrant.
After making its way through Arizona, the next stop on the route was New Mexico, where one of the stops was a gun show. Watch two videos of Javier discussing gun control with a seller at the show. Part one. Part two. You can also watch archived livestream video of events in New Mexico.
Today, the Caravan marches on to Texas at the El Paso-Juarez border. The Caravan will be visiting the Drug Enforcement Administration Office (DEA) at the border down, where Juarez is seen as the epicenter of drug war violence.
If you are in Texas or in any city along the Caravan route, be sure to come to theevents and get involved. Hear the stories of the victims of the drug war and help deliver the clear message to put an end to the war on drugs.
PHOTOS!
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