Ground Zero Center for Nonviolent Action annual Peace Fleet event to Meet the U.S. Navy fleet at Seafair.

Peace boats in Elliott Bay by noon, ground contingent 1 pm at Pier 66, downtown Seattle.

This year, activists are also encouraged to meet on land on the Seattle waterfront at the same time for a nonviolent demonstration against weapons of war. Meet on the waterfront by 1 pm to see vessels in Elliott Bay. We are inviting all with the spirit of nonviolence, a sign, and a boat to join us. Peace Boats in the past have displayed earth and peace flags, and signs stating No More War, Impeach Bush, and USN=WMD, and a banner stating "Danger! Navy has weapons of mass destruction."

All boats should expect to be boarded by the Coast Guard. Boats must have approved audible sound devices, registration, life jackets, etc. Skippers should carry identification. All boats are required to stay 500 yards away from Navy warships. It is highly advisable to obey all Coast Guard orders. One Peace Fleet skipper is still contesting a $10,000 civil penalty for allegedly being too close to U.S. Navy vessels in August 2004.

We demonstrate for peace at a Seattle maritime festival because the celebration of warships in our harbor help bring about the normalcy of modern war. The fleet arrival at Seafair is a public relations and recruiting event for the U.S. Navy. Previous years have brought Trident nuclear submarines and Navy warships used to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles in the first and second Wars on Iraq and the War on Afghanistan.

The fleet is displayed for four days in downtown Seattle at tremendous cost to taxpayers while crucial social services in education, health care, and transportation are being cut for lack of funds.

For more information contact Mary Gleysteen (360-297-3894), Glen Milner (206-365-7865), or info@gzcenter.org.