By Stephen Beard
Special for The State News
Parents of an American peace activist killed in the Gaza Strip by an Israeli bulldozer spoke on campus Saturday night, calling for an independent investigation into her death and for support of the Palestinian people.
Washington state resident Rachel Corrie, 23, was killed on March 16 while trying to stop a bulldozer from demolishing a Palestinian home in Rafah.
An Israeli investigation concluded that the driver could not see her, but during the Michigan Peace Team event, the family argued that an independent investigation is necessary.
Fighting back tears, Cindy Corrie said that according to eyewitnesses, her daughter was within viewing distance and wearing orange, florescent clothing.
They are asking for support for the Rachel Corrie Resolution, a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives calling for the United States to independently investigate the incident. So far it has gained the support of 42 representatives - three from Michigan.
Craig Corrie, Rachel Corrie's father and a Vietnam War veteran, said he does not understand why the bill has not gained more support.
"It seems like a very simple act," he said. "It simply calls for an investigation into Rachel's death. This is not an issue that ought to be political."
Saturday's event also helped raise money for the International Solidarity Movement, or ISM, the pro-Palestinian group that Rachel Corrie was a part of.
Adam Shapiro, co-founder of the group, also spoke at the event.
"ISM is a grassroots movement that brings together foreign civilians to join Palestinian civilians in promoting nonviolent, direct-action resistance," Shapiro said.
Craig Corrie said he has deep respect for his daughter and others in ISM for refusing to be drawn into the violence around them.
"It's much easier to be with your buddies and react violently," he said. "They go out there night after night and stay with the Palestinians."
Shapiro also told the story of British ISM volunteer Tom Hurndall, 22, who was shot in April while helping children to safety.
He died Jan. 13 after being in a coma for several months.
The British government has been active in pushing along the investigation into his death and making sure charges are filed, Shapiro said.
Christian Kurpiel, an MSU-DCL College of Law student, attended the rally.
"I thought they spoke with a lot of heart and a lot of clarity," Kurpiel said. "They have a very important message to bring here to East Lansing."
Members of the Michigan Peace Team plan to travel to the Gaza Strip and Palestine in the summer.
