(The following article is from the June 16-30, 2008, issue of People's Voice, Canada's leading communist newspaper. Articles can be reprinted free if the source is credited. Subscription rates in Canada: $25/year, or $12 low income rate; for U.S. readers - $25 US per year; other overseas readers - $25 US or $35 CDN per year. Send to: People's Voice, c/o PV Business Manager, 133 Herkimer St., Unit 502, Hamilton, ON, L8P 2H3.)

The following resolution was adopted by delegates at the 25th Canadian Labour Congress Convention, held May 26-30 in Toronto:
 
     The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) will demand of all political parties in our Parliament to take steps immediately to end the military occupation in Afghanistan and to implement the disengagement of Canadian forces and to bring home our Canadian soldiers from the illegal war in Afghanistan.

     The CLC will assist affiliates to educate and mobilize their membership to oppose the Canadian military intervention in Afghanistan.

     The CLC will continue to work with partners in the Canadian Peace Alliance to educate Canadians about the war.

     The CLC will build solidarity with Afghani workers, social justice and women's organizations.

     Because Canadians have a proud history of committing our Armed Forces to the role of peacekeepers dating back to the end of World War 2.

     Because there are no clear objectives, accomplishments or benefits for Canadians in this war in which dozens of young Canadians and hundreds of innocent Afghan citizens are being killed.

     Because our young soldiers are dying in a war in Afghanistan in the role of invading army with no mandate from Canadian citizens.

     Because the Harper government's military intervention in Afghanistan is not contributing to establishing peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan.

     Because the Canadian government's military campaign is based on supporting American political, economic and military interests rather than on contributing to establishing peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan.

     Because the Canadian government's military campaign is based on supporting American political, economic and military interests rather than on contributing to peace in the region.

     Because the actions of the US-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization occupation is increasing the violence in Afghanistan.

     Because the massive amounts of money spent on the military in Afghanistan would best be used for funding health care, education, job creation and social services.

     Because the labour movement has always been at the center of any struggle for peace and justice.