Thousands Expected in Washington to Protest War in Iraq

Thousands of protesters are gathering on the National Mall in Washington to urge the withdrawal of U.S. forces in Iraq.

Event organizers say Saturday's rally could draw hundreds of thousands of people. Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson and Hollywood actors Jane Fonda and Susan Sarandon are among those expected to address the crowd.

The protest has been organized by the group United for Peace and Justice. A spokesman, National Coordinator Leslie Cagan, said the demonstrators represent a majority of the American people. She said the November U.S. congressional elections left no room for doubt - the people of the United States voted against the war.

The protest is part of a three-day series of events. On Monday, hundreds are expected to visit members of the U.S. Congress to lobby lawmakers to end American participation in the war.

Officials say at least one group is planning a counter-protest in support of the war in Iraq. - VOA News