On March 8, 2004, an event celebrating women peacemakers around the world was held at the IPJ and co-sponsored by Voices of Women. “Peace X Peace, Women on the Frontlines” was screened.

This 90-minute documentary told the stories of international women and their struggles for peace.

Patricia Smith Melton, founder of Peace X Peace, spoke after the film:

She reminded the audience that 70% of the world’s poor are women and expressed her belief that women are the untapped potential for peace in the world. She also said that 80-90% of deaths in wars are women and that 200 million girls worldwide have no access to education. “ People make Democracy. Peace is a Verb.”

Anne Hoiberg, president of the Women’s Equity Council of the UN Association of San Diego, also spoke on her recent visit to Iraq. She said there are 10,000 cases of families in Iraq who are seeking compensation from the US Government. Their claims are being ignored because “we are still at war.”

Others interesting facts from Anne:

• 85% of the children in Iraq are suffering from post-traumatic war syndrome.
• 1 million homeless in Iraq.
• 50-75% unemployed.
• In the past year, 500 women reported rape.
• Iraq has more women PhDs than any country in the West.

Dr. Dee Aker, Deputy Director of the IPJ, also reported on her attendance at the 48th CSW at the UN:

• 30% of the fighting forces in local militias are girls aged from 7-14 years.
• They fight on the front lines with babies on their backs.

We must pressure governments to get them out. It has been shown in studies that girls can “come back to life” after killing. They want education