Pacific Lutheran students meet with Congressman Norm Hicks about supporting a U.S. Department of Peace

Every day we see countless reminders of our cultures’ violent nature.  From the radio, to the television, to the newspaper we see and hear reports of mass violence.  This is especially pertinent for the youth who make up a large part of the casualties from violence.  Gang violence and school violence take a heavy toll on the student population and at times it is the students who perpetuate such violence.  It is therefore important to mobilize students to change this ingrained culture of violence and spread the message that there is another way.  Student Peace Alliance members are empowered to work in their communities on such issues of youth violence as well as other violence issues that permeate those communities. Together we can make a difference!

Specific issues of youth violence are not the only forms of violence that affect the lives of students.  All violence issues affect youth and must be addressed by those youth before progress can be made.  Therefore the Student Peace Alliance works to create a culture of peace on the individual and local level.  Students are encouraged to work in their local communities on issues of violence as well as educate their campus about a culture of peace.  A Department of Peace will be our future so we must begin building the culture that will support it today.

The continued support and advocacy of students across the country are bringing  a Department of Peace closer to reality with each day that passes. Help us continue this positive trend!

National Director Aaron Voldman speaks at The Peace Alliance National Conference in February

A U.S. Cabinet level Department of Peace will be created with the enactment of legislation currently before Congress (HR 808).  A Department of Peace will provide effective policy on both domestic and international conflict.  Within our government there is currently a scattershot approach to conflict resolution, an approach that often results in high costs of life and national finances within our country.  The strategy of prevention and education that a U.S. Department of Peace will provide will not only improve the quality of life in our country but the relationship between the United States and the rest of the world, as well.  It is only by creating a cabinet-level position that we can give institutional heft to the burgeoning and successful science of peacebuilding.

Steven Tyler and National Operations Director Julia Simon-Mishel