CHICAGO/TORONTO: CPT announces February 1-15, 2003 delegation to Iraq
CPTnet
January 10, 2002
CHICAGO/TORONTO: CPT announces February 1-15, 2003 delegation to Iraq
Christian Peacemaker Teams (CPT) is recruiting peacemakers to travel to
Iraq as the U.S. continues to threaten war with that country. The next
delegation, CPT's fourth since October, is scheduled for February 1-15,
2003. Although there are many uncertainties in the current political
climate that make plans necessarily tentative, it is MANDATORY that
prospective delegates APPLY BY JANUARY 16 to enable enough time for visa
processing. Applicants must have a valid passport that is free from any
indication of travel to Israel.
Delegations will stay in Baghdad or other cities in Iraq. They will visit
facilities such as hospitals, schools and markets, and meet with
representatives of governmental and non-governmental agencies. In case of
U.S. attack, delegates will strive to be present in places that include
people and institutions that support life. An effort will be made to
connect with churches in Iraq.
As in all CPT delegations, participants accept the risks to personal safety
and uncertainties of travel inherent in being present in a conflict zone.
An additional risk for U.S. citizens is that travel to Iraq violates U.S.
federal law. In the event that bombing actually starts, travel in and out
of Iraq could be difficult or delayed. Delegates should be prepared for the
possibility that their term may be extended due to situations beyond the
control of organizers.
Minimum age for participants is 21, no upper age limit.
Cost of the delegation is $2000 US, which includes round-trip airfare to
Amman, Jordan, simple accommodations and food, all on-ground travel, and
other team support.
CPT seeks participants who are interested in human rights work, committed
to nonviolence, and willing to participate in team worship and reflection.
In addition to contacting media and government officials before travel to
Iraq, delegates will be invited to develop plans to share about the trip
upon return to their home communities and congregations.
For more information or to apply, contact CPT at the address below, or see
CPT's website at: http://www.cpt.org. Fax completed applications to
773-277-0291 or e-mail to guest.76645@MennoLink.org.
Christian Peacemaker Teams is supported by the Church of the Brethren,
Quakers, and Mennonites, as well as other Christian bodies. Iraq
delegations are organized in cooperation with Voices in the Wilderness.