We won't let the F-35 take off

Vermonters rally against plans to base the F-35 at Burlington International Airport (Thomas Grace)

VERMONT, THAT seemingly progressive New England state, is no exception when it comes to the arrogance and self-serving attitude of the richest and most powerful--nor to the fact that the neoliberal priorities of that 1 Percent inspire people to resist.

The Vermont Air National Guard, the state's Congressional delegation and leading business forces are campaigning to win the basing of Lockheed Martin's new F-35 warplane at Burlington International Airport.

But this has been met with a growing grassroots movement to stop the basing that has gained national attention. The Stop the F-35 Coalition opposing the basing has been gaining ground. Over the past few months, that struggle has broadened to include many more groups and wider demands for social justice, democracy and a change in national budget priorities, away from war spending and toward human rights and needs.

Nearly 300 people, most from neighborhoods near the airport, marched on the offices of Vermont's congressional delegation on July 13. But there were several important events in the week leading up to the march and rally against the F-35.

More at http://socialistworker.org/2013/07/22/dont-let-the-f35s-take-off .