Iraqi Worker Tour Begins Today

Plans are moving forward for US Labor Against the War's (USLAW) "Voices of Iraqi Workers Solidarity Tour" despite Faleh Abood Umara's potential absence, reports Denice Lombard of USLAW. Although Iraqi unionist Abood Umara was not allowed to board his flight to the US Sunday, tour coordinators are hopeful that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, and other Representatives will intervene on his behalf, Meanwhile, "we will carry on the tour as planned," says Lombard. Highlights of the DC tour include today's 5P rally against the proposed Iraqi oil law that calls for privatization of Iraqi oil reserves  and tomorrow's public forum hosted by Metro Council President Joslyn Williams at Busboys and Poets starting at 5:30P. Topics will include the Iraqi oil law and oil privatization, workers' and women's rights, and the role of labor unions in creating a non-sectarian, progressive Iraq in the face of occupation. The DC Labor Chorus will also perform. The Iraqis leave DC Thursday to continue the month long, 12-city speaking tour but will return for a send-off event later this month. To download an event flyer, click here. (r) 2005 Iraqi worker protesting terrorism workers