Yellowknife (Mar 19/03) - A Yellowknife march was one of hundreds of organized protests around the world Saturday to oppose the war in Iraq.

Almost 200 people marched through downtown shouting slogans like "Bush and Blair, you bad boys, put away your war toys."

Meanwhile, crowds in cities across Canada and around the world marched for peace.

Organizers said it was a local contribution to an international anti-war movement.

"I think it's important for all people, even Northern people, to come out and demonstrate," said Tasha Stephenson, a co-organizer.

Marchers stopped outside Western Arctic Liberal MP Ethel Blondin-Andrew's office and publicly called for the member of parliament to share her views on the war.

"We have to phone, fax and e-mail our member of parliament to demand that she tells us where she stands on this war," said Joe Daley to the crowd.

Marchers also held a moment of silence for victims of war outside the Canadian Forces office.

A vigil was held Sunday night at Northern United Place. Stephenson said vigils were held in cities around the world at 7 p.m. local time.

Another action is planned for the first Saturday after a military campaign starts.