Kidnapped Canadian speaks out

[Black Dog]

Fadel TorStar OpEd

Iraq is a dangerous place. But it is especially dangerous for children. Most of them do not have safe and healthy places to play. And despite efforts to clean up contaminated areas, children continue to be injured and killed by unexploded ordnance and mines.

So when I had the chance to become involved in an Iraq humanitarian mission where I could actively participate in promoting rights and citizenship, I leaped at it.

...

This was one of the most rewarding experiences I had ever had while doing humanitarian work. The need was dire but we were seeing results firsthand. Twenty schools were rehabilitated. A youth centre was completely renovated and equipped. We began work on a young women's centre. A vaccination campaign was well underway.

I was in my element. I believed I was taking part in building a country and promoting human rights.

Of course some here would probably characterize this as grandstanding (because god knows the personality cult around international humanitarian workers rivals that of a Britney Spears).

Anyway, a fascinating piece detailing the forgotten victims of the war. Funny that we here more of dead American soldiers (especially millionaire football players) tahn we do of the actual people they are obstinately "liberating".