Colombian President Alvaro Uribe, a close ally of U.S. imperialism against the surging tide of popular resistance in Latin America, visited Boston Sept. 25 and 26. Uribe has expanded the counterinsurgency war and widespread repression in Colombia throughout his years in office.
On Sept.25, Uribe was invited to speak at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, known for inviting world leaders who perpetrate atrocities against the poor and working people of their countries. On Sept. 26, he spoke at East Boston High School.
Members of the Party for Socialism and Liberation in Boston took part in actions to protest Uribe on both days.
While Uribe prepared to speak to an audience inside the Kennedy School at Harvard, activists rallied outside. The crowd chanted, “U.S.A.! Out of Colombia!,” “No U.S. Military Bases in Colombia,” and “Uribe, Fascista, Gusano Imperialista!” Along with chanting, members of the PSL handed out leaflets to other activists in the crowd and to those walking by, explaining our position on the administration of Uribe and informing people about our upcoming events in Boston.
When Uribe spoke at East Boston High School, activists gathered outside to again call attention to U.S. intervention in Colombia and Uribe’s policies of war and repression. The crowd chanted for hours as Uribe spoke to supporters inside. The protesters outside caused quite a distraction and many drivers who went by honked in support.
Both events drew attention to the situation in Colombia and offered important information about U.S. involvement in the war against the people there. The actions spoke out against the prestigious universities and institutions that honor and glorify leaders who oppress the poor and working people of their countries. We will stand up and fight back!
