Carol Gilbert's Release Statement  May 23, 2005

Delivered at St. Peter Claver Church

     A little over 2 ½ years ago Jackie, Ardeth and I attempted to inspect, expose and symbolically disarm a WMD. Even though I've spent the last 2 ½ years in prison and Ardeth has 7 more months and we all face three years of supervised release we know we acted legally, morally and with great love for all peoples and species on Planet Earth and beyond in the early morning hours of October 6, 2002 .

     This past month I've pondered what profound gifts I could offer you tonight.

     You don't need me to give the uncomfortable truths because you know them better than I and in empire facts don't matter.

     You don't need me to tell you we all feel anger but must not let the rage rule us.

     What you need me to tell you is that we are all in this together. Our lives will continue to be interrupted and we will not give up the struggle for justice, peace and non-violence.

     You have all been part of our holy quest to disarm all WMD and war forever. I am filled with more gratitude for each of you than my words can express. Ardeth and Jackie stand with me tonight. I just read Ardeth's letter and she wanted to be remembered to each of you.

     Thank you, bless you and may our newest prophet Elmer shine upon us. Amen.