About PAPN

The PAPN, formed in 1983, without political or religious affiliation, with members from the Peoria area and elsewhere, to work for and support others working for a community, nation and world free of violence and exploitation.

The abuse of technology and the misuse of power have led to ideological and martial arrogance in political and economic structures and in methods of war, both between nations and between citizens.  Yet now more than ever the world needs peace.

This is our first basic task: To understand and to make clear the connections between a growing impoverishment of the many and systems of exploitation and oppression that now have domination over much of the world, and to expose deceptions and secrecies that harm the practice of democracy and disrupt programs and policies meant to serve the true needs of people.

Nations and people depend upon the right of self-determination in order to develop governments that will serve their needs.  We believe that citizens of all nations have the right to honest and honorable government.

In every part of the world, the struggle for a decent life goes on.  The Peoria Area Peace Network, PAPN,  joins in solidarity with all who work for justice and the realization of peace.

PAPN calls for an end to the manufacture and use, as well as the threat to use nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons.  We call for an end to the sale and trade in all weapons.  We deplore the increasing militarization of our society and culture.  We reject war as a solution to conflict.

We are citizens of the most powerful political and military system...Members of the most influential culture...Servants of a technology that dominates the earth.  Our task is to critically evaluate these forces as they perform in the world.

PAPN is a voice in the community and a force for positive change.  Our newsletter, peoria peace press, is sent to members and others who share our goals, and those who influence economic and political decisions made in our name (e.g. Rep. LaHood).

PAPN believes it is necessary to make public officials aware of our views.  Our representatives in the Congress have received letters, calls, visits  -more than they care to -- from us.  They will continue to hear from us.

Over the years, we've often rallied at the Federal Building to protest our government's military appetite, its policy of low-intensity conflict in Central America, the war on Panama, and both Gulf Wars.

PAPN also brings speakers who have knowledge and speakers who have knowledge and experience in their field.  We try to learn, along with others in the community, about the complex and profound issues that face us, and to develop strategies that, with strength and energy will contribute to the common good.

Are you interested in the great international questions of our time -- or in problems of specific societies?  Why not join us?

Are you concerned and upset about militarism...about the environment..about nuclear and toxic waste?  Why not join us?

Are you moved by the struggles that face the people and nations of the world, that face the Palestinian and the Israeli, that face every woman and every child...why not join us?

Of course we are just learning to be helpful and human.  That's the trick we find so hard to do well.  Maybe you can help us.

No Network member receives any wages for the work she or he performs for us.  Many volunteer much time and effort to the cause.  Others offer us material assistance.  And we rely upon donations from individuals, many of whom are active in other fields of struggle.  For the help you give, we are sincerely grateful.