The Twenty-O-Three initiative is an idea that was originally proposed
by the Marrickville Peace Group. Its origin comes from the way the
numbers repeat in the date that news of the invasion of Iraq first
reached Australia (20:03:2003). The idea has sparked interest with
various other groups and is gaining momentum.
It is to be hoped that the event that is proposed will become a focus for all the diverse groups and individuals who are dissatisfied with the state of affairs in Iraq. In the main these are those who expressed open opposition to the 2003 invasion of Iraq, but it should include everyone who feels that going to war was a serious error.
It is acknowledged that what is loosely described as the ‘peace movement’ is composed of a range of groups, with differing ideas that have not always been harmonious.
The initiative is proposed as a means for all these groups and all individuals with concern about the Iraq war (or, indeed, warfare in general) to come together and find an avenue through which to express that concern collectively.
Where the word “We” is used, the intention is that it include all who share the feeling that going to war in Iraq was wrong. It most certainly includes those who feel the same about the continuing occupation.