In 1807, the settlers of Mungers Mills chose to rename their village, Copenhagen.
This was an act of sympathy with the people of Copenhagen
in Denmark, as well as a harsh comment following a disgraceful
military attack during peacetime.
The Copenhageners had suffered great damage when the British navy and
army bombarded their city with rockets, in what is known as the first
bombardment of a civilian population.
When first hearing the story about the name change in 1807 we thought it was a
powerful way of showing sympathy and compassion with the suppressed fellowman
as well as showing contempt for injustice and brutality.
Today Copenhagen, Denmark is a prosperous and peaceful city, but to use a
town name to set focus on crimes against humanity is sadly as necessary today as
it was 200 years ago.
We, the citizens of Copenhagen, Denmark, now propose that you - the good
citizens of Copenhagen, NY, in the spirit of your forefathers rename your
town, Fallujah.
The Iraqi city recently suffered devastating damage, a massive civilian
death toll and even the use of chemical weapons by the United States.
We very much look forward to receiving your response.
Yours faithfully
Andreas Johansen,
Spokesperson
Citizens of Copenhagen, Denmark
