Momentum Building for Massive April 29 March for Peace, Justice & Democracy

Like the recent immigrant rights actions across the U.S., a massive turnout is expected for the March for Peace, Justice & Democracy on Saturday, April 29 in New York City. Organizers anticipate an unprecedented crowd, which will gather in the area stretching from 7th Avenue to Park Avenue South and 18th to 22nd Streets. The march will step off at 12 noon, proceeding south on Broadway to Foley Square for the Peace and Justice Grassroots Action Festival.

People from all walks of life, from all parts of the country, will converge in Manhattan to call for an end to the war in Iraq and a new set of priorities here at home. The immigrant rights movement is expected to join with an already impressive alliance of progressive groups, demonstrating a commitment to turning this nation around.

Lead organizers of the march are United for Peace and Justice, RainbowPUSH Coalition, National Organization for Women, Friends of the Earth, U.S. Labor Against the War, Climate Crisis Coalition, Peoples' Hurricane Relief Fund, National Youth and Student Peace Coalition, and Veterans For Peace. The number of endorsements has grown to more than 1,500 strong, and the list of invitees includes every member of Congress and other elected officials.

Representatives from the initiating organizations will appear at friendly events leading up to the march. For example:

• Monday, April 24, Washington, D.C.: Families for Freedom will hold a national mobilization to raise awareness about families affected by deportation. NOW Executive Vice President Olga Vives will speak at the 2:30 pm vigil at the Capitol, addressing immigrant rights issues and encouraging those in attendance to participate in the April 29 March for Peace, Justice & Democracy.
• Monday, April 24, Brooklyn Borough Hall: The NYC Central Labor Council will hold a Solidarity Rally for TWU Local 100 President Roger Toussaint, who is being sent to jail for his role in organizing the 2005 New York City transit strike. Speakers at the rally will encourage attendance at the April 29 march.

Members of the media: Press check-in on April 29 will take place at 17th and Broadway, starting at 10:30am. A press conference will take place between 11 am and 12noon. Please apply for your press credentials in advance. Leaders of the initiating organizations are available now for pre-march interviews.

Members of the media: Questions? Email or call 202-628-8669, ext. 116.