The Journey

In March 2003 a public forum was held in Lafayette, California to debate whether the United States should invade Iraq. The invasion began two days prior to the debate. The forum was reminiscent of the Berkeley campus 30 years ago, when heated discussions evolved into "antiwar" rallies. Then the war was in Viet Nam, the National Guard stood by with fixed bayonets, the aroma of tear gas permeated the air, and demonstrators clad in beads and Birkenstocks urged participants to "shut it down." The debate had already become and remains, "What should we do now?"

Trust in Education was founded in direct response to the "What now?" question. A small group of friends wanted to "make a difference." We decided to direct our efforts to Afghanistan for the reasons described on this website in "Afghanistan, Why Should Anyone Care". We also recognized that given other commitments, including the war in Iraq, Afghanistan's needs would receive less and less attention. It was important then and is imperative now that "we the people" become engaged. The war on poverty and the wars being waged for the most fundamental of freedoms will not be won by informed observers sitting in the bleachers. "Come on down." It's infinitely more rewarding to be on the field.

Budd E. MacKenzie
Founder

Trust In Education is the creation of neighbors who banded together and resolved to "make a difference". At first there were five. Now the project moves forward with the support of hundreds, too numerous to list.