On Sept. 14, the Islamic Center of Cedar Rapids hosted the Linn County Veterans for Peace, as they put on an Afghan dinner for the public. Internationally renowned peace activist Kathy Kelly spoke after the meal. Kelly is a three-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee, who has been to Afghanistan seven times. She also was in Baghdad during the “shock and awe” bombing campaign and in Gaza during Israel’s Operation Cast Lead.

I was at the Islamic Center for that event, but guess who was not — the Cedar Rapids Gazette. Though a timely news release was sent and follow-up call made, The Gazette chose not to cover the story or to interview Kelly.

The United States is entering its 12th year of war in Afghanistan. No doubt, if Rockwell received a new contract as a result, there would be a story. But, a woman risking her own safety for the sake of peace merits no coverage. Big fail, Gazette!

Gail Coleman

Cedar Rapids