Naval Bombing and Public Health Delegation Information

Sponsored by:
Caribbean Project for Justice and Peace
Fellowship of Reconciliation
American Friends Service Committee


This delegation will focus on the health crisis in Vieques, Puerto Rico, where the U.S. Navy has used much of the island as a bombing range for more than 60 years. Many island residents have been contaminated with heavy metals, and the island has a rate of cancer 27% higher than the rest of Puerto Rico. High infant morality, respiratory ailments and other health issues also plague the approximately 10,000 residents. The only source for heavy metals, including uranium, in the air, water and soil is the Navy bombing range.

Delegates will meet in San Juan for an orientation together. Travelling to Vieques, the itinerary will include meeting with activists in the Vieques movement, cancer survivors, health professionals, and government officials. We seek participants who have experience (in public health, environmental justice, Vieques support, etc.) that will contribute to the delegation¹s focus on health in Vieques.

The Caribbean Project for Justice and Peace and Fellowship of Reconciliation have organized four previous international delegations to Vieques and the big island of Puerto Rico. The American Friends Service Committee has worked for U.S. demilitarization in Puerto Rico since the 1960s.

Cost: $700, plus airfare to San Juan.

For an application, contact: Fellowship of Reconciliation, 2017 Mission St. #305, San Francisco, CA 94110. Tel: 415-495-6334. E-mail: forlatam@igc.org Delegates need to apply by December 24.