November 10, 2003

Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich, a candidate for U.S. president, made a brief campaign stop at SFSU on Monday, urging students to protest the U.S. occupation in Iraq.

"We need to change the priorities of this country," said Kucinich, a Democrat who represents Cleveland, during his 20-minute speech. "We need to wake the town and tell the people what's on the line here -- the future of you, your brothers and sisters, the future of Iraqis and Americans."

He blamed the Bush administration for running a corrupt government that has lied to the public and United Nations about the military threat of Iraq. He said that the best way to help stem a growing anti-American sentiment worldwide and bring stability to Iraq is to end the war now.

"Our presence in Iraq equaled the separation of the United States from the world community," he said. "Now we have to heal that breach."

Kucinich, 57, also criticized the Bush administration for its increased spending on defense, while higher education budgets get smaller.

About 60 people packed a classroom in the HSS building to hear Kucinich speak. His appearance was sponsored by the Sustainable Caravan Solution Tour, a group of holistic healing and environmental studies students who plan to drive to Costa Rica using biodiesel fuel.

"This campus was a catalyst for students to protest the corruption of the government during the Vietnam War," Kucinich said. "This campus played a pivotal role in society to change consciousness. And this campus can do it again."

After the speech, freshman Dylan Martin said he is strongly considering voting for Kucinich.

"I thought his speech was great," said the 18-year-old from Sacramento. "It is so important to look at candidates who offer us alternative views."

After his speech, Kucinich spent several minutes answering questions about his positions on health care, the safety of genetically engineered food, and risks involving computerized voting machines.

-- Matt Itelson

1600 Holloway Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94132    (415) 338-1111
Last modified November 10, 2003, by the Office of Public Affairs