This holiday weekend is more than just the unofficial start of the summer season, with beaches opening up, at least here in the NYC area. It’s Memorial Day, a day that is supposed to be about remembering those who have fought for the United States. Now, it shouldn’t be a surprise that I am against U.S. military actions , especially as they have been played out in Latin America and other third world countries, like Iraq. I am also against how the U.S. Military purposely goes after young people, especially poor and young people of color, to join their ranks. For example, the 74th Street and Roosevelt Avenue subway station here in NYC has become a de facto recruitment center. That said, I also have to respect the Latinos who have chosen the military as a path in their lives, whatever the reason. My own great-uncle, served and was injured in the Korean War. I have a cousin who served in Iraq via the U.S. Air Force.

So yes, I respect all those today who have served the United States military and I think it’s sad, that a Memorial Day parade I happened upon yesterday, had more people marching than watching. Death brought upon by war is always a sad, tragic thing. But I also respect those who have been impacted on the other side of the gun. Memorials should go both ways.