[a:31bee9ab1a32f8c3646393e20387faa1:[imgur:buttoncpi.jpg:]]In 1959, a group of activists led by Quaker Larry Scott began a vigil at Fort Detrick in Maryland to protest the development and testing of biological and chemical weapons there. In 1961 the group moved into D.C. with a mission to expand their work, to include peace education through film showings, discussions and the publication of a local newspaper. With the acquisition of office space at the Friends Meeting of Washington, in 1963 the group formally organized as the nonprofit Washington Peace Center.
Despite its small size and budget, the Washington Peace Center has played a significant role in the development of peace and justice initiatives in the D.C. metropolitan area.
works to dismantle the structures and beliefs that perpetuate racism and all other types of oppression;
creates and fosters an awareness of and interest in the challenges of building a just and peaceful world;
produces educational materials and programs that help individuals develop the leadership skills needed to work for peace and social justice;
provides leadership, information and assistance, for organizing and executing public demonstrations, mobilizations and direct actions which challenge oppressive structures and promote positive change; and
encourages and supports diverse groups working to empower oppressed individuals and communities