Longing for Justice
Baghdad, Iraq  2002

      While most of the women and children were very friendly, this woman showed particular disdain for our presence. Who could blame her? We are from the wealthiest nation in the world and the primary nation responsible for continuing the repressive sanctions that have destroyed the economy of her country. However, she made it clear that she didn’t hate us, but our government, which she held responsible for the condition of her emaciated daughter who was suffering from malnutrition. 90% of the people receive food supplements from the government. 60% of the families totally exist on government subsidies, which only can only provide 20 days worth of dry food goods each month. The doctors are frustrated because they will nurse children like this back to health using an I.V., but then the child will likely end up in the same condition when she returns to her village.

CSpaulding
January 2003