The Whatcom Peace and Justice
Center has representatives come to Mt. Baker High School and stay
during our lunches. I wanted to let you know how much I respect
and appreciate what you all do. You are making a difference in
our school by opening the eyes of many students. Many
people at my school have changed their opinions on war after meeting
you, other students who were thinking about enlisting in the military
have decided otherwise. Thank you for your time you are
truly making a difference!
Student at Mt. Baker High School, Whatcom County
ALTERNATIVES TO MILITARY
SERVICE: Since 2002, Whatcom Peace & Justice Center
has been offering high school youth vital information on the reality
of military promises and war; nonviolent career and educational
alternatives; and becoming a Conscientious Objector. Veterans and
other volunteers table once per quarter in each of Whatcom County’s
high schools.
By offering housing, healthcare, and exorbitant
bonuses, the military may seem like an attractive option. But many
youth feel forced to join because of lack of skills and money for
college. WPJC gives them options.
GI RIGHTS HOTLINE: 1-800-394-9544
A telephone hotline for military personnel wanting information about
military discharges, grievance and complaint procedures, and other
civil rights.
CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTION: WPJC
also offers information and support on Conscientious Objection (CO):
What is CO? How do I claim CO status? How does the draft work? This
is information they will not otherwise receive from their schools.
INFORMATION SHEET: Click here
for an information sheet on the Draft and Conscientious Objection
to war:
MAKING A DIFFERENCE: WPJC worked
with the Bellingham School District to implement an “equal
access” policy for WPJC and the military. Thanks to this partnership,
high school students get exposed to enriching, exciting, and nonviolent
opportunities for their futures.
TO VOLUNTEER: Contact WPJC
at (360) 734-0217 to schedule an orientation.
Responding to World Events: We
host, support, and co-sponsor vigils, marches, and educational events
throughout the year in response to changing world and local events
Listserv: Calendar of events
in the local community, including action alerts & volunteer
opportunities.
Resource Center: Volunteers offer
support and resources to seasoned activists & newcomers. We
offer yard signs, buttons, bumper stickers, & literature. We
affirm an active open door policy.
Trainings: We provide training
on Strategic Nonviolence and Alternatives to Military Service tabling.
Signature Event: We celebrate
International Day of Peace on September 21.
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