Established in Maine in 1985, Veterans For Peace came to the West when Vietnam veterans in Colville, WA, under the leadership of Sean Daly, converted their PTSD therapy group into the nation’s fourth VFP chapter. In 1988, Daly helped charter Spokane Veterans For Peace #035. In its first 20 years, Spokane VFP occasionally co-sponsored peace rallies, produced anti-war commentary, counseled youth and families considering military enlistment and conscientious objection, and initiated alternative observances of Memorial Day and Armistice Day. About 15 years ago, new members and energy brought reorganization, monthly meetings, publication of two Vet Lit anthologies, and a physical base in the Saranac Building. More ambitious projects and deeper connections with Veterans For Peace culminated in hosting the national convention in 2019, and Chapter of the Year designation in 2021.

With a small but active core, Spokane VFP collaborates with organizations like Washington Against Nuclear Weapons, Inland NW Coalition for the Liberation of Palestine, Peace and Justice Action League of Spokane, Dorothy Day Labor Forum, Greater Spokane Progress, Spokane Coalition Against Racism, and World Beyond War to show the true costs of war and advocate for peace.

Monthly rent is the chapter’s routine expense. Decisions on sponsorships and project expenditures are generally made by members in open session, where there is no shortage of ideas for translating global thinking into local action. Feeling that some of our accomplishments, like the city ordinance limiting nuclear weapons materials in Spokane, have been ignored by local media, we recently decided to raise funds for public outreach. Because members pay annual dues nationally, chapter dues are voluntary.  The bulk of our fiscal support comes from our most generous members and special friends in the community. Our 501(c)3 designation is through national VFP, and we don’t match up well with most charitable foundations.

It is an honor to be considered by the UUCS for a special collection. Thank you.

If you’d like to contribute to this special collection, you may do so when it is announced during services on the third Sunday of the month, by mailing a check to the church (4340 West Whistalks Way, Spokane, WA 99224) or by donating online at the church website. Be sure to note in the memo section that your contribution is for the May special collection.

Take me to the online donation page.

Thanks again for your kindness and generosity!