Two weeks ago we wrote in this space calling for Representative Rick Larsen to support efforts in Congress to end United States complicity in the Saudi-led war in Yemen. We are pleased to report that Representative Larsen did just that, signing on as a cosponsor to House Joint Resolution 87, directing the removal of U.S. armed forces from hostilities in Yemen. We thank Representative Larsen for taking this bold stand to use diplomacy rather than violence to end the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. We also thank our island neighbors for contacting the Congressman’s office and making your voices heard. Representative Larsen’s staff told us that the many phone calls and letters from constituents helped raise awareness in Congress of the urgency of this issue.

We now call upon our Senators, Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray, to take similar action in the Senate. Please help relieve the suffering of innocent civilians and put the U.S. on the side of peace and diplomacy.

The San Juan Islands Advocacy Team

Kathy Cope, Friday Harbor

Linda Ellsworth, Eastsound

Iris Graville, Lopez Island

Jerry Graville, Lopez Island

Charles Janeway, Lopez Island

Darcy Leach, Olga

Necia Quast, Friday Harbor

Tom Rawson, Eastsound

Kim Secunda, Eastsound