[haw-info] Historians and the Elections. TIME SENSITIVE

[Jim O'Brien]

*This is a message from Carolyn "Rusti" Eisenberg, Beth McKillen, and
Margaret Power on behalf of the Steering Committee of Historians Against the
War.
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Although temporarily eclipsed by the economic crisis, the wars in Iraq and
Afghanistan and the possibility of an armed confrontation with Iran will
loom large in the next administration. And while this is barely mentioned,
the $612 billion in defense spending for FY 2009, just authorized by the
House of Representative, could seriously constrain the ability of the US
government to provide urgently needed domestic expenditures.



Across the country, students are paying unprecedented attention to this
presidential election. This is a "teachable moment," when we can provide
vitally needed education on the issues and on the role of office-holders.



*Two suggestions:*



*Many historians and social scientists around the country have scheduled
on-campus forums to engage questions of war and peace. *However, if such
programs have not occurred we encourage historians to take the lead in
creating pre-election educational events*. These can be modest initiatives-
a film showing, a panel discussion that draws on local expertise, a campus
debate. Or you may wish to draw upon our list of outstanding scholars and
peace activists who have agreed to speak on campuses and to waive an
honorarium if the school lacks sufficient funds. (This would be a last
minute invitation, but there are many flexible people on the list...who
might agree to participate even on short notice.) HAW Speakers list:
http://www.historiansagainstwar.org/teachin/speakers.htm



* *While maintaining a non-partisan stance, we can provide information about
the record of Congressional office-holders*. Over the past two years,
Congress has taken numerous votes on the Iraq war and all incumbents have
made a clear record. Yet most constituents have no idea where their elected
officials actually stand. You can obtain Congressional Report Cards for your
district and state from United for Peace and Justice by clicking
here<http://www.unitedforpeace.org/modinput4.php?modin=145>.
Please distribute widely and forward to friends.



And keep us posted on your campus events. power at iit.edu. For additional
information, contact us at:



Carolyn Eisenberg hiscze at aol.com

Beth McKillen  Elizabeth.McKillen at umit.maine.edu

Margaret Power  power at iit.edu
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