As violent protests continue across Libya, activists in Washington took a stand against the country's leader, Moammar Gadhafi.
Libyan anti-government activists, including many women, chanted Friday for a free Libya as they raised the country's flag of independence at the residence of the Libyan ambassador to the U.S., who has resigned.
The red, black and green flag with a crescent moon and star, a sign of Islam, was displayed by activists in place of the green flag that has marked the four-decade long rule of Gadhafi.
Related report by VOA's Carolyn Presutti
Ali Aujali, who resigned as Gadhafi's ambassador to the U.S. earlier this week, made a brief appearance in front of his home to pledge his support for a liberated Libya.
"Our goal is freedom. Our goal is democracy. Our goal is dignity," he said.
The ambassador also warned against believing in Libya's state media.
"Don't listen to the propaganda of the official media. Don't believe everything. Libya is not a fanatic Muslim country. There is no presence from al-Qaida in Libya."
Gadhafi blamed elements of al-Qaida for being behind the political unrest sweeping the country.
Libyan-American Samar Omeish moved to the United States as a child, but still feels deeply connected to her home country.
"Libya is very dear to me, and I have a lot of family that lives there. My parents are there right now, and we are just praying for their safety and wishing for the best and hoping that no more lives are taken," she said.
She said her parents have locked themselves in their homes in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, fearing Gadhafi's security forces.
Protesters vowed to continue their own protest in the United States until Gadhafi leaves power.
View the timeline of U.S.-Libya relations
