The Ride Till the End Bringing People Together In Lawrence, Rise Up!
I have been proud to host and facilitate the "Ride Till the End" here in Lawrence, KS, in what we hope to be a primary hub of the growing movement for veteran rights and peace activism. This marks the final day of their work here which will end with a final presentation and performance at the Ecumenical Christian Ministry, a hallmark of the University of Kansas providing organizational resources to students. Here we will sing, read poetry, and tell our stories in a dynamic way. We will also encourage the Lawrence community to come together and become a connected unit of positive activism, setting the example for our country to follow.
To list all the things we have done on the ground here and people we have met along the way could take pages upon pages of narrative. The work that they have done to unite resisters is simply unmatched in my humble opinion. The ride consists of Spencer Hindmarsh, Jacob George, and Ramsey Sprague, each providing their own commentary, perspective, abilities, and talents. Together they are a powerhouse for change. It will be sad to see them depart but we have been firmly planted with a rich contingent of our community because of the work they have helped to do. We have attended dinners with our neighbors and others working in a similar capacity like the "Cosmic Beauty School", a cooperative of residents intent on building a center for growth, enrichment, and knowledge for independent living. They are eager to nurture our message at their home and facility. We have reconnected with our University both at Kansas U and Haskell Indian Nations where we have spoken to classes about our experience occupying other nations and how this is a paradigm that we can shift starting at home. We have been active in Lawrence night life, reading subversive poetry at the Jazzhaus and having a Pickin' Party where the audience is excited in joining us in music and discussion at Henry's, a local bar and coffee house.
In all these interactions we have developed and mined allies and resources, re-engaged our membership, and discovered a remnant of veterans who want to contribute to our message. These are exciting times for Kansas and Lawrencians' alike. These are exciting times for veteran community and resistance. Let this work shine across this nation and act as a lightning rod of our strength and power. May it be inspiration for your work. Peace and thanks to those helping to make this alliance a reality.
