Today, we honor those who have sacrificed everything for our liberty and democracy. Give thanks for the freedom and choices we have, as history drips with the blood of wars launched by monarchs, dictators, imperialists and gangsters. Our beloved compatriots died to keep us from tyranny and oppression. We honor their memories not only by continuing to fight for freedom, justice and equality, but also in finding ways to stop fighting all together.
Accelerating climate change, declining resiliency, our growing interconnections, and our power to destroy human life all make war ever more risky for human civilization and the organisms we share Earth with. To survive, we need to see ourselves as a united humanity sharing our one and only home.
Peace activists have long pointed us to alternative ways of resolving conflict. Given the information flow and social networking capabilities of today, oppressors have shrinking spaces to hide their abuses. Perhaps, enough humans will evolve from feeling the need to fight wars to participating in more socially responsible interactions. Peace activists show us how we can better manage ourselves and resolve conflicts.
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting one such activist, Mark Haim, who has been working for peace for over four decades. Over this time, Mid-Missouri Peace Works has been building up resources and alliances for peace thanks to Mark and countless unnamed volunteers and donors. Together they have been a powerful force for peace, justice and reconciliation for Mid-Missouri and beyond.
Please join us for a review of the history of the Mid-Missouri peace movement, as well as, the many current campaigns under the Peace Works umbrella. Along the way, there are suggestions on building lasting movements with practical impacts on local communities. If you find it worthwhile, you can also connect with Peace Works for united actions and building national movements.
With that, let’s go to the Youtube video of my conversation with Mark Haim of Mid-Missouri Peace Works.
Here are a few links to further connect with Mid-Missouri Peace Works.
Follow on Facebook
Mid MO Peace Works
Missourians for Climate Action
Center for Sustainable Living
Peace Nook retail store
If you feel so inclined, donations are appreciated.
Disclaimer: All views expressed in this diary are those of the author alone. No other individuals or organizations, including the Mid-Missouri Peace Works or any of its members, funded, contributed to or attempted to influence this report.