In response to Kate Ericsson's column about the anti-war movement ("Students have spark anti-war movement needs," Oct. 17), I think it was a pathetic attempt at trying to bend everyone's views at conforming to her "expert" opinion.

Ericsson has a right to an opinion but she does not have a right to force it on others. She repeatedly tries to glorify the anti-war movement by saying it's the correct and patriotic thing to do. Let's all face it; war is one of, if not the, greatest evil of all mankind. However, at times, it is a necessity and this is one of those cases.

The more I have the anti-war movement shoved in my face, the more I believe that the people behind it, indeed, are racist. To say that another society is not deserving or worthy of what we have does not fly in my book.

Even though the left-wing media does not publicize it, most of the citizens of Iraq are glad we are there. We must remember they are human beings as much as we are -- not just numbers. We are no more worthy of freedom than they are, and if any human being is oppressed by a government, it is our duty, as a free society, and as human beings, to look out for them and help them to achieve a good life.