FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2024
Media Contact: Melissa Garriga | [email protected]
CODEPINK to Bring Message of Peace and Justice to RNC for the 5th Time in 22 Years
MILWAUKEE – For the fifth time in its 22-year history, CODEPINK will bring its message of peace and justice to the Republican National Convention (RNC). Known for its notorious disruptions, CODEPINK has been a presence at RNC conventions since the organization began in 2003.
CODEPINK has disrupted the business-as-usual proceedings at the RNC, drawing attention to their war agenda. This year's message echoes those of years past: War criminals are not welcome here. Corruption and politicians bought by foreign governments and weapons companies are not welcome here.
“As politicians and those who support them meet at the party conventions, we will be there as we were in the past to raise the message of peace. Truth is always missing at the conventions, so we hope to sprinkle some; like 65% of your tax dollars are spent on war and militarism and not the needs of the people in the US, and your politicians are bought by a foreign government through AIPAC.” explained Jodie Evans who has disrupted many conventions, including in 2016 with a “No Racism, No Hate” sign.
This year's CODEPINK contingent, consisting of peace activists from all over the country, will join The Coalition to March on the Republican National Convention on Monday, July 15th, for a rally and march. During the march, CODEPINK plans to spotlight the RNC's connections to the billionaire class and its influence on U.S. foreign policy. CODEPINK will highlight how the party's insistence on funding the war in Ukraine, the genocide in Gaza, and a potential conflict with China neglects the real threat to Americans - growing income inequality, food insecurity, the housing crisis, and the deadly climate crisis.
“Of the two war parties, Republicans are the worst. They take Biden’s humongous military budget and increase it while merrily defunding essentials like health care, education, and the climate. That’s why we have to be at their convention to say - Defund war, fund our communities,” commented Medea Benjamin, who has been going toe to toe with elected officials every day in Congress since the beginning of the U.S.-supported genocide in Gaza.
Attendees plan to drive home this message with signature theatrics, including signs, props, and "Billionaires Buying America" street theater. The group aims to raise awareness and spark conversation around the impacts of war and corruption on everyday Americans with a variety of spontaneous actions throughout the week.
For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact Melissa at [email protected].
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