Dear Editor:

I beg to differ with Armand Mathew, but in his recent editorial he is seriously mistaken. I find many reasons to oppose Rep. Kucinich's proposal for a U.S. Department of Peace.

Kucinich's plan demonstrates a lack of understanding of a bewildering range of issues. It is a vague outline that seeks to consolidate an array of special interests. It would take tired leftist oversimplifications and apply them to more policy areas than ever before.

A close reading of the legislation shows a strange definition of peace. It seeks to address violence against animals but not unborn children. It prioritizes protection of homosexuals but ignores violence against Christians.

The bill would duplicate efforts of the Department of State and academia--and not necessarily the successful efforts, either. Built on faulty priniciples and an anti-military agenda, it would erode the safety of Americans at home and abroad.

Why does this proposed legislation consolidate chunks of five different federal departments and agencies? Why does it combine the issues of gang violence, nuclear proliferation and animal rights? Because it operates from the misconception that a single human concept can solve all of these problems.

In his bill Kucinich expresses the false belief that humanity can find within itself the key to universal harmony. For this dream he wants more than $3 billion a year.

Without striving for all human rights, including justice and freedom, peace is a useless concept. Otherwise, one could beat a society into submission and produce something "peaceful."

Why are gun-carrying police officers called "peace officers"? It takes force to preserve peace, because some people and countries will behave unjustly. Kucinich's bill and his record both show an animosity towards this principle.

Kucinich's legislation makes passing references to "spiritual" values, but the hollow nature of his proposal is confirmed by his voting record. In 1999 he voted against allowing the public display of the Ten Commandments. When it comes to action, Kucinich has demonstrated that he has no idea where true peace comes from.

(printed in The Brownsville Herald 12 October 2001)

© 2001, 2003 by Wm. Robert Johnston.
Last modified 8 March 2003.
Return to Home. Return to IMHO.