The U.S. Green Party condemns  the recent House passage of legislation to automatically register all males ages 18-26 for potential military conscription through the Selective Service System.

The Democratic Amendment to H.R. 8070, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 531. Selective Service System:  Automatic Registration.  SEC. 3. (a)(1)  states, “Except as otherwise provided in this title, every male citizen of the United States, and every other male person residing in the United States, between the ages of eighteen and twenty-six, shall be automatically registered under this Act by the Director of the Selective Service System.”

“The U.S. has been in a continuous 'State of Emergency' since the passage of the Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) in 2001, which provides a president with over 100 powers he would not ordinarily have,” said Margaret Elisabeth, member of the Green Party of Washington State, a Co-chair of the Green Party of the U.S., and a veteran of the U.S. military.  “ In passing the AUMF, Congress abdicated its exclusive authority under the Constitution to declare war, and betrayed its responsibility to the American people by delegating to the president – one person – virtually dictatorial power to commit acts of war whenever he or she chooses. Greens demand repeal  of the AUMF and oppose any other measure purporting to 'authorize' preemptive or illegal military action.”

“Our platform alternatively calls for new opportunities for citizens to serve their communities through non-military community service” siad Craig Cayetano, member of the Green Party of New Jersey, and a Co-chair of the Green party of the U.S. “Alternative community service to the military should be encouraged.”

The Green Party calls on the U.S. Senate to reject this unconscionable draft registration scheme. Peaceful conflict resolution through diplomacy and adherence to human rights must be our nation's security priorities.

Green Party Platform: Alternative Community Service
Green Party Platform: Repeal Authorization for Use of Military Force

Green Party of the United States
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