Does Iraq have weapons of mass destruction? Should the United States go to war in Iraq? What are the implications of such military conflict? These questions and more will be debated on Friday, Jan. 31, as the St. Edward's University Student Government Association (SGA) hosts an open forum to discuss a possible war with Iraq. The event is free and open to the public.

Event speakers include Gary Chapman and Rahul Mahajan:

• Chapman is director of The 21st Century Project at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. The 21st Century Project expands public participation in science and technology policy. A former Green Beret, Chapman is a regular guest columnist for the Austin American-Statesman and is a graduate of Occidental College and Stanford University.
• Mahajan is an anti-war activist and was a Green Party candidate in the Texas governor's race in 2002. A long-time campus and community activist, Mahajan serves on the National Board of Peace Action and is involved in a wide variety of other groups, including the Nowar Collective. He is a frequent contributor to mainstream and alternative press, has authored one book, The New Crusade: America's War on Terrorism, and is currently at work on a follow-up book. He holds a bachelors degree in Mathematics from Caltech and adoctorate in physics from the University of Texas at Austin.

Event Details:

• Who: Gary Chapman, The 21st Century Project, LBJ School of Public Affairs
  Rahul Mahajan, anti-war activist and author
• What: SGA War Discussion Forum
• When: 5-7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 31
• Where: Mabee Ballrooms B & C, Ragsdale Center, St. Edward's University
• Note: Please coordinate all media coverage and campus access through Stephanie Elsea, Communications Director.

Founded by the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1885, St. Edward's University is an independent, Catholic, liberal arts university of more than 4,200 students in Austin, Texas.

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