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September 21 marks the International Day of Peace, a global call to nurture nonviolence, justice, and mutual understanding. This year’s theme— “Cultivating a Culture of Peace”—invites us to reflect on how we can actively sow peace in our daily lives, our communities, and across the nation.
For over a century, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) have championed these ideals—working to dismantle militarism, advance human rights, and empower women as leaders of peace. Cultivating peace, for us, is more than a vision—it’s a daily commitment to transforming systems of oppression through advocacy, education, and grassroots action.
But in the U.S.—amid our collective efforts to build peace—a jarring development threatens to undercut that vision. On September 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Defense to use “Department of War” as a secondary title, and empowering Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to be referred to as “Secretary of War”. This symbolic renaming aims to reinforce a “warrior ethos” rather than a culture of peace.
Why This Matters—and Why It’s Disappointing
This rebranding move—though not yet legislatively binding—sends a disturbing message. At a time when peace building demands humility, collaboration, and the reimagining of security beyond force, choosing the name “Department of War” signals a return to a posture of aggression and confrontation.
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Symbolism Over Peace: While true peace is cultivated through dialogue, disarmament, and equitable cooperation, this shift places rhetoric of strength above diplomacy and compassion.
- A Step Backward in Culture: Peace cannot flourish where the language of war dominates. Naming matters. The executive order undermines the very ideals WILPF US upholds—of nurturing culture, not conflict.
Yet, we remain undeterred. We see this not only as a setback—but as a call to reaffirm our mission: to cultivate peace, resist militarism, and amplify voices demanding justice and disarmament.
In This Spirit, WILPF US Invites You To:
- Reflect & Educate: Host dialogue circles and workshops exploring how language shapes policy—and how words like “defense” or “war” influence our collective consciousness.
- Advocate for Peaceful Alternatives: Engage your representatives—and speak out publicly—about the importance of diplomacy, conflict resolution, and peace infrastructure over combative posture.
- Amplify a Culture of Peace: Use your platforms to share stories of peacemaking, reconciliation, and nonviolent resistance that stand in stark contrast to the militaristic framing currently advanced.
As we observe this International Day of Peace, let’s hold firm to our conviction: peace is not passive. It is cultivated—through bold advocacy, inclusive dialogue, and unwavering commitment. Together, we will not let militaristic narratives crowd out the promise of peace.
This September 21, stand with WILPF in renewing our pledge to cultivate—not wage—a culture of peace.
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