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Happy holidays friend!

I went to Canada with the assumption that I would be there for the rest of my life, that I would be in exile for the rest of my life, that I would be a criminal, wanted by the FBI for the rest of my life, and that I could never come home again. — Mike Wong, U.S Army Deserter

We have two new episodes that tell the emotional and incredible stories of the men who deserted from the military during the Vietnam War. More than half a million soldiers sought refuge from the unjust war, primarily in Canada and Sweden. In Episode 10: Leaving America Behind, we hear the extraordinary journeys of four men: Gerry Condon, Steve Kinnaman, Michael Sutherland, and Mike Wong.

Also, Historian John Boyko guides us along the “underground railroad” to Canada. And, unofficial historian and conscientious objector Jim Walch tells us about the secret and resilient deserter community in Sweden, where he made his permanent home.

Move over James Bond! In Bonus Episode: The Intrepid Four, a companion to Episode 10 about deserters, we hear about the wild journey of four sailors who deserted from the USS Intrepid during the Vietnam War. 

Their act of conscience began in Japan, then took them to the Soviet Union, and ended with asylum in Sweden. Researcher Rogelio Vargas-Rodriguez introduces us to the role of Beheiren, a Japanese “New Left” group dedicated to ending the Vietnam War, and we learn why their case has become an infamous part of Vietnam War history.

Our deep thanks and gratitude to everyone who donated last week and in the past! It is not too late to give; you have 7 more days to contribute and have your donation be 100% tax deductible for 2025.

We are currently running a matching donation fund drive, where every dollar donated is matched at a 1:1 ratio. So your contribution will double the difference!  

Remember, all your contributions are tax-deductible, through the International Documentary Association, our non-profit fiscal sponsor: Read more here.  

Lastly, from all of us, to all of you: Happy Hannukah 🕎, Merry Christmas🎄, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year 🥂!

Thank you for your support and for being part of this community. We feel lucky to celebrate this season with you.

Warm wishes,

A Matter of Conscience
Willa, Bill, Polina, and Dylan

(FYI: "GI" is slang referring to soldiers as “Government Issued” equipment.)

P.S. Neuroscience has proven that hearing inspiring stories causes your brain to release oxytocin “the empathy hormone,” which powerfully affects our attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. Listening to our podcast will inspire positive change. Please share the link to listen with friends to help make a difference :)