War protest in Minneapolis draws thousands

The demonstration was part of a nationwide series of protests to mark the fourth anniversary of the start of the war.

Nancy Emery, whose brother-in-law served in Iraq, represents the organization Military Families Speak Out.

"We are here to say bring the troops home. Take care of them when they get here. Make sure the VA medical centers are doing what they need to be doing to take care of our injured soldiers," she said.

Retired Bloomington teacher Sue Tjaden said she felt compelled to come to the rally in Loring Park

"I am so adamantly opposed to this administrations adventure in Iraq that I cannot be anywhere else today," she said. "It breaks my heart to see what is happening so the only thing most of us can do is to come out and stand up and say this is wrong."

Fifth District DFL Rep. Keith Ellison told the crowd the U.S. needs for more diplomacy, not more troops.

"We believe that we need diplomatic solutions in Iraq, and that escalation of the war is not what the American people want," he said. "And on this anniversary of the start of this military conflict in Iraq we have to reflect upon the losses we have paid for this policy."

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