Those Damn Kids
I recently read an old news story about a guy named Ryan Clancy and was darned impressed with a fellow human. It’s not often I am impressed, so this is something. Ryan is a former Peace Corps volunteer, and certified English teacher who currently owns a DJ/Music store in Wisconsin. Before the war in Iraq started, he went to Iraq to protest the war, help form a human shield, and humanize the U.S.’s target. He also wanted to let the civilians there know that it isn’t US against THEM.
The U.S. has had travel sanctions against Iraq since the early 1990’s. Clancy knew this, but after researching the repercussions of travelling to places like Cuba and learning that the average fine is $500, he decided that the opportunity to spend 3 weeks working for and with the children of Baghdad was well worth the price. Little did he know that the Bush administration would decide the price was $10,000 or 12 years in jail.
If you want to read the full story, it can be (sort of ) found here. You can find an interview with him here at Tastes Like Chicken. He has also been a guest on the Daily Show.
I wondered if there was an ending to his story, so I wrote to him. Apparently it is still not over for him. I won’t quote his answers here. I respect the fact that they may not be something he wants made public, but suffice it to say, our government is proceeding. He will be punished for lending aid and comfort to children.
I am not sure if his fine will be lowered, or if it will remain at the ridiculous amount they initially slapped on him, but either way, if you are a DJ or just have a desire or need for such things, why not check out Trounce Records, his store. You KNOW you want to buy something, and I am sure it would help him out.
I can attest to his character. I have seen a photo of him fellating a balloon poodle. This has to count in his favor.