Peace Action West

Moving our Agenda

Our campaigns are designed to have a lasting impact on U.S. foreign policy. From passing the treaty that ended atmospheric nuclear testing, to helping fund programs that rein in the illicit arms trade that fuels regional conflicts around the world, to blocking funding for Bush's new nukes, our work has helped to shape policies that impact the lives of millions of people. Our coordinated campaigns blend targeted lobbying, local grassroots activism, coalition building, advertising, and media campaigns. We strive to ensure that when the campaign is done we're all living in a safer, more just world.

We also serve as a legislative watchdog by tallying the votes. Every year, we grade the voting record of our members of Congress based on key votes related to nuclear weapons, arms sales, and international cooperation.

Engaging the Public

Every year we make personal contact with hundreds of thousands of people. Whether it's activating our membership base via email, phone, or knocking on their front door, or meeting with community based organizations, Peace Action West organizers engage the public in foreign policy issues like no other organization.

Framing the Debate

The stories and analysis that regularly make it into the press in large part shape public discourse on foreign policy. We make sure that coverage of our issues measures American foreign policy against the best American values of fairness and human rights, and places the national security debate within the context of our interconnected world. We pen op-eds, hold press conferences, visit editorial boards, and go straight to the public with paid advertising campaigns.

Changing the Playing Field

If we want a foreign policy based on human rights and international cooperation, we need elected officials who will be our champions. At election time we hit the streets and the airways to inform voters of the candidates' foreign policy positions, and in key races we back the pro-peace candidate with funds, paid media and grassroots action. After the votes have been tallied, our work continues as we ensure pro-peace candidates become truly pro-peace policymakers.

Where we get our strength: You!

Peace Action West is 98 percent funded by individual donors--people just like you. Our work can't happen without the leadership, grassroots activity and funding provided by our members and supporters. With a loud and united voice, we can create a safer, more peaceful, more just world for everyone. We would also like to thank the Ploughshares Fund for their years of support.