Syracuse Peace Council

Founded in 1936, the Syracuse Peace Council is the oldest local peace and social justice group in America. The Council has spent its history campaigning for non-violence and egalitarianism across the world, but it has never lost sight of its domestic agenda, including supporting the sovereignty of the Onondaga Nation, cleaning up the pollution in Onondaga Lake, and encouraging a policy of non-cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement by New York State law enforcement agencies.

In light of recent events between Israel and Palestine, the Council organized a protest on Friday, May 21st, to support the rights of Palestinians under Israeli occupation, and has been hosting similar events every Friday to raise awareness about their plight. The Council has also acted to support legislation that would stop the United States from funding Israel’s military presence in the Middle East.

Despite its high aspirations, the Council has always remained true to its original goal of fostering change at the local level, through personal connections and crowdfunding campaigns. The Council’s main source of funding is donations. At present, there are only three paid employees, but the Council is always looking for new members. The first step to volunteering is visiting their website at peacecouncil.net; if you’re feeling adventurous, you can show up at their offices at 2013 East Genesee Street. They only have the second floor, so you might have to climb in through the window.