There is a stunning “peace deficit” in the 2011 federal budget just unveiled by the White House.
It proposes $708.2 billion in spending for the Department of Defense — the highest military budget in the history of our country. Of that money, $159.3 billion will go for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Administration is also asking for a $33 billion Supplemental to pay for the troop increase in 2010, on top of the $138 billion already allocated.
Though President Obama’s rhetorical commitment to nuclear disarmament has received worldwide praise, his administration’s 2011 budget request increases direct spending on nuclear weapons by 10% over 2010, to $7 billion. Over the next 5 years, the Administration intends to boost nuclear weapons spending by more than $5 billion!
Federal dollars are being poured into weapons and warfare, while our states, cities, communities and families are suffering from a lack of funds for urgent human needs: for new jobs, health care, housing, repair of infrastructure, social services. The Obama budget includes expenditures for many worthy domestic purposes. But the size of these programs is far too small and they are already under attack because of the deficit.
It is vitally important that we link issues and publicize this point: we cannot solve our domestic problems so long as our tax dollars are being squandered on unnecessary, destructive and foolhardy military projects.
TAKE ACTION!
Call your member of Congress and let them know you are outraged by the upside-down priorities in the proposed 2011 federal budget. Tell them its time to end the wars in Afghanistan and to use our tax dollars to solve economic problems here at home. Congressional Switchboard: 202-224-3121
Join this month’s brown bag lunch vigils on Wed. Feb. 17th outside Congressional offices, sponsored by UFPJ member group, Progressive Democrats of America. Check here to see if one is planned in your district or for tips on organizing one.
Join the growing international campaign to demand the elimination of nuclear weapons. Find out how: Disarm Now! For Peace and Human Needs.
United for Peace and Justice will continue to function as a national network committed to both peace and justice. Please make a generous donation so that we can continue our vital work.
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UNITED FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE
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