Rise Against Among Those Demanding Closing Of Guantanamo

By aaroncynic in News on Oct 22, 2009 6:20PM

A coalition of musicians, including Chicago’s own punk rockers Rise Against, joined the National Campaign To Close Guantanamo in order to pressure officials to come clean about music used as torture. The group, which also includes Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine, Trent Reznor, R.E.M., The Roots, and more are demanding the declassification of government records related to the use of music as torture at the facility. In addition, the coalition of musicians hopes to raise awareness for the NCCG, a campaign lead by retired United States Generals, Veterans and former Congressmen.

Tim McIlrath, lead singer of Rise Against said via press release:

"Guantanamo Bay has been synonymous with torture and inhumanity since its inception. Coupled with its complete ineffectiveness, the shameful legacy it will leave behind in American history is something Americans will have to deal with forever. Let us be the generation that erases this symbol of injustice and fear-mongering from the map so that we can begin to learn from our mistakes."

President Obama had pledged to shut down Guantanamo Bay, and while "logistical snags" have prevented that from happening, steps are slowly being made that intend to lead to its closing.