Justice not War

Me at the Greenhouse in Ferndale, MI
(2001/2002)

Since I've been spending lots of time rummaging through old belongings, I've come across some interesting artifacts from my personal life history. I thought these two pictures seemed fitting for today. They are from 2001 - 2002, when I was actively organizing with other folks to advocate for peace after September 11, 2001.

This was back when the Greenhouse--a Green Party headquarters and community cafe--was still alive and well in fashionable Ferndale as a place for political discussion. It is also where I first saw a certain local Detroit artist perform her music and was mesmerized by her stage presence. 

A presence of peacefulness and yearning for justice.

While I deeply appreciate the sacrifice that many soldiers (and their families) have made throughout the history of this nation, it is imperative we build a world beyond war. No one should have to sacrifice their life in such a way. This is why diplomacy exists, to avert such catastrophe.

We need to strengthen diplomacy for the long haul by investing in peace and justice so that there is no need to send soldiers into war. For those who have had to face this fate, let us remember their sacrifice and honor their lives by making a commitment to peacebuilding. A commitment to future generations so that they will not have to face this same fate.

How can we do this? To start, by establishing a United States Department of Peacebuilding (HR 1111) at the Cabinet level and reallocate funding from the war machine to instead actively invest in peace and justice. The good news is, we can start today. 

You can reach out to your elected officials and let them know you support HR 1111 to establish a Department of Peacebuilding. 

In memory of all who have sacrificed their lives in service to their country. 

A flier I picked up somewhere along the way