Building Peace in Asia

Goal: To raise $2000 to pay for air fare and other travel expenses to attend a conference in Japan. The event is organized by the Inter-Religious Conference on Preservation of Article Nine. In the past I have worked with other participants to improve understanding and cooperation among East Asian nations and to engage in effective advocacy and information-sharing in the U.S. My participation in this year's gathering will involve facilitating discussions among participants and co-authoring two documents: an action plan for participants, their parent organizations and other interested parties; and a statement of principles and recommendations for all people.

Background: Since 2007, I have participated in the Inter-Religious Conference on Article Nine, a multi-national group of faith-based peace activists from around the Pacific Rim whose primary goal is to prevent the re-militarization of Japan. Every two years, the group gathers for a 3-4 day conference to share information, strengthen relationships and cooperation and involve new organizations and individuals in our work. In between gatherings, we work on awareness and advocacy in our own countries. For example, in 2013, I was able to organize a vigil outside the White House during Japanese Prime Minister Abe's first meeting with President Obama, and to engage influential religious organizations in advocacy around issues like the U.S. bases in Asia and U.S. support for the expansion of Japan's military role. In past years, Pax Christi USA has financially supported my participation but this year is not able to pay for my travel (the only expense involved). This year, I have asked my local Peace and Justice Center, the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center, to accept donations to support my travel to Japan by way of this crowd-sourcing campaign. Any money I raise over my actual expenses will revert to the Whatcom Peace and Justice Center to support its programs and staff.