5 Dedicated Groups & Individuals Striving For Peace

Ending violence and conflict is no easy task and it requires conscious steps from people all over the world. Fortunately, there are ways to help spread awareness and advocate for change. In no particular order, we present groups and individuals working toward peace.

First up, at #1, we have Peace Action. Its origins can be traced back to the National Committee for a Sane Nuclear Policy, or SANE, which was launched in 1957 and worked to make Americans more aware of the dangers of nuclear weapons testing .

In 1987, SANE united with the Nuclear Weapons Freeze Campaign, and in 1993, Peace Action was born. As a national, grassroots organization committed to forming a powerful movement, the group works to build a world free of violence and war.

Taking the #2 spot, the National War Tax Resistance Coordinating Committee is a coalition of groups and individuals from across the United States. The organization offers information and support to people involved in, or considering some form of war tax refusal.

Founded in 1982, NWTRCC opposes military spending, and refuses to participate in a tax system that supports oppression and violence. It promotes war tax resistance in the context of a broad range of nonviolent strategies for social change.

Up at #3, Dr. Scilla Elworthy comes from a military family, and is passionate about teaching leaders to make wiser decisions, so that there is less suffering as a result of war. She has written a number of books including The Mighty Heart and The Business Plan for Peace.

Dr. Elworthy founded Peace Direct in 2003, to fund, promote, and learn from local peace-builders in conflict areas. She also co-founded Rising Women Rising World in 2014, a vibrant community of women on all continents who take responsibility for building an environment that works for all.

At #4, we have the Seattle Peace Chorus. Founded in 1983 in response to the Cold War, this organization continues to build bridges, celebrate community, and cultivate peace and justice through songs.

The chorus aims to create and sustain harmonious relationships and cultural connections locally and globally, and communicates the desire for a just and peaceful world by raising awareness and engaging in nonviolent activism.

Finally, at #5, we have Peace Learning Center, which offers evidence-based pre-K to 12 instruction and character-building lessons, adapted to the developmental needs of its students. In addition, the organization teaches mindfulness and meditation, as well as skills in communication and conflict resolution.

Founded in 1997, PLC is focused on building a community where respect is primary and justice is real. It supports each individual through equity, social-emotional learning, and the implementation of innovative practices.