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Canadian Voice of Women for Peace
VOW's June Newsletter
June 2026
Events & Actions

Our June newsletter is being brought to you by our National Coordinator Alley McDonald.

This month we want to highlight Earth's Greatest Enemy Screening; Join 1000+ Women for Peace; Artists Wage Peace Event, and so much more happening this month!

Be sure to scroll all the way down for upcoming events, calls to action, and recommended resources!

VOW's work of peace, anti-war and demilitarization merits your support! Make a donation. Even better, join our growing number of Monthly Peace Partners. Consider $5 or $50 or any amount in between. Become a Peace Partner today!

JOIN/RENEW/DONATE
VOW Updates
Public Film Screening and Discussion "Earth's Greatest Enemy"

Hybrid Event
đź“… Friday, June 5, 2026 

⏰ 6:00pm-9:00pm ET

đź“Ť Arts Lecture Hall, Waterloo, ON

Come to watch the powerful new documentary “Earth’s Greatest Enemy” about the climate and environmental impacts of the U.S. war machine.

We invite you to attend this free public screening of the important new documentary “Earth’s Greatest Enemy” about the climate and environmental impacts of the military to mark World Environment Day in Room 113 of the Arts Lecture Hall at the University of Waterloo.

The film screening will be followed by a moderated discussion with Dr. James Nugent with the School of the Environment, Resources & Sustainability at the University of Waterloo and Dr. Tamara Lorincz of the Balsillie School of International Affairs, Wilfrid Laurier University and a member of the Canadian Voice of Women for Peace (VOW) and the Women's International League for Peace & Freedom (WILPF)-Canada.

All welcome. Free but donations are greatly appreciated. Film is organized by VOW and WILPF-Canada.

The event will take place in Room 113 of the Arts Lecture Hall, which is accessible: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DytJhKsZEMBbzCKF9

The Arts Lecture Hall is located across from the Dana Porter Library on the campus of the University of Waterloo. The location can be reached by public transit by buses on University Avenue and the ION train at stop for the University of Waterloo.

The closest paid parking on campus is Lot H ($4.29/hr + $8.28 after 6pm).

REGISTER HERE
Join 1000 Women+ for Peace
Care not Warfare!

VOW & WILPF-Canada Campaign

Canadian Voice of Women for Peace in partnership with Women's International League for Peace and Freedom are calling out to all Canadian women and gender diverse folks to sign our open letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney and Minister of Women & Gender Equality, Rechie Valdez, to cut military spending and invest in a green, peace care economy. 

#carenotwarfare #1000women #cutmilitaryspending #movethemoney

SIGN THE LETTER HERE
Please donate to VOW’s campaign to Cut Military Spending

The Liberal government has just launched the country's first Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS) that will ramp up military spending, weapons production, and arms exports. Canada is set to increase military spending to $150 billion/year by 2025 to reach the NATO 5% GDP target, but this will lead to greater poverty and climate breakdown. VOW opposes the federal government's plan for a warfare economy; and calls for Canada to have a green, care economy!

Read the new Defence Industrial Strategy: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/reports-publications/industrial-strategy/security-sovereignty-prosperity.html

VOW bought banners: "Cut Military Spending: Let's Fund a Care Economy, Climate Action & Indigenous Reconciliation" and we are building a national campaign to raise awareness about risks of higher military spending and to stop it.

Please contact your Member of Parliament and let them know you oppose the Defence Industrial Strategy and the increase to military spending:

https://www.ourcommons.ca/Members/en  

If you can make a donation towards our campaign to cut military spending, please e-transfer:

accounting@vowpeace.org
June Events 
Women in Black:
Grandmothers Against Genocide

In-Person Events
Women in Black Vigil: Thursday, June 10th from 3:00-4:00 at the corner of Yonge and Bloor.

Wednesdays Wkly 8am: Grandmothers Against Genocide Vigil. Bay/Bloor, Toronto

Thursdays Wkly 8am: Kingston Road Vigil. Kingston Rd./Victoria Park, Toronto

Thursdays Wkly 8am: Grandmothers Against Genocide. Five Points Intersection (Goderich)

Peaceful vigils for Gaza. You don't have to be a grandmother to show your support.
War, Peace, and the Arts
World BEYOND War

Virtual Event
đź“… Dates: Monday, June 1 – Monday, July 13, 2026
đź’» Format: Fully online, with six flexible weekly modules
🌍 Live sessions: June 9, June 23, and July 7
🎓 Certificate: Available for participants who complete the optional weekly assignments
đź’µ Cost: Standard fee $100, with sliding scale places starting at $25

War, Peace, and the Arts explores how writing, poetry, music, sound, visual culture, film, theatre, and performance shape war, peace, and public imagination — and how the arts can be used more intentionally in peace and anti-war work.

Participants will learn with facilitators whose work spans international peace activism, participatory theatre, visual communication, music education, electronic music, community arts, and peacebuilding practice.

Across six flexible weekly modules, participants will explore arts-based examples from different cultural and political contexts, engage in reflective and creative activities, and consider how these ideas can be applied in their own work, communities, campaigns, teaching, organising, or research.

REGISTER HERE
Indigenous Climate Leadership
Action For Our Collective Future
Seniors for Climate Action Now!

Virtual Event
đź“… Monday, June 1, 2026 

⏰ 11:00am-12:30pm ET

đź“Ť Zoom

War, Peace, and the Arts explores how writing, poetry, music, sound, visual culture, film, theatre, and performance shape war, peace, and public imagination — and how the arts can be used more intentionally in peace and anti-war work.

Participants will learn with facilitators whose work spans international peace activism, participatory theatre, visual communication, music education, electronic music, community arts, and peacebuilding practice.

Across six flexible weekly modules, participants will explore arts-based examples from different cultural and political contexts, engage in reflective and creative activities, and consider how these ideas can be applied in their own work, communities, campaigns, teaching, organising, or research.

LEARN MORE & REGISTER HERE
20th Anniversary of Peace Tree Day

In-Person
đź“… Monday, June 1, 2026 

This June 1st marks the 20th Anniversary of Peace Tree Day â€” a global celebration of peace, diversity, creativity, and interaction through the arts, culture, innovation, and fusion for and by children and youth. Peace Tree Day is celebrated in schools, organizations, police services, work places, communities and at home. 

This special milestone is an opportunity to empower children and youth to become social justice leaders for peace and equity by creating innovative ways to spread the message of peace, respect, equity, compassion, kindness and inclusion through a celebration of diversity in order to create a more peaceful world.

Visual arts, language arts, reflection and dialogue, and fundraising for change are some ways your school, family, or organization can get involved. Many of these activities can start on June 1st and carry on throughout the month!

Visit peacetreeinternational.com for more information on ways you can engage!

Share Peace Tree Day Activities: Share your creations and celebrations on social media to inspire children and youth around the world. Tag @PeaceTreeInternational.

Follow Peace Tree International: Check us out on Facebook and Instagram for more ways to celebrate Peace Tree Day 2026, and to view 20 years of global celebrations.

LEARN MORE HERE
World Beyond War Book Club
Virtual June Book Club

đź—“Start: Wednesday, June 3, 2026 

⏰ 9:00 AM EDT

Host Contact Info: david@worldbeyondwar.org

đź“Ť Zoom (details to be shared before the event)

In June 2026, World BEYOND War will be holding a weekly discussion each of the book The True Price of War with author J. M. Badiyani.

When you register for the club, we will mail you a paperback copy of the book or get you a kindle version (your choice).

We'll let you know which parts of the book will be discussed each week along with the Zoom details to access the discussions.

When:

For one hour on Wednesday, June 3, 10, 17, and 24, beginning at UTC 13:00, which is 7 am in Mexico City, 9 am in New York, 2 pm in Yaoundé, 3 pm in Amsterdam, 4:30 pm in Tehran, 9 pm in Manila and Beijing, 10 pm in Tokyo, 11 pm in Sydney.

REGISTER HERE
IPPNWC 2026 AGM & Prescriptions for Health in a Nuclear Age
International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War Canada

Hybrid Event
đź“… Saturday, June 6, 2026 

⏰ 10:00am-12:00pm ET

đź“Ť Room 350 Henry Angus Building, 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z2 & via Zoom
Guest Speakers:
  • Gordon Edwards, PhD, President and co-founder of the Canadian Coalition for Nuclear Responsibility, a retired professor of mathematics and science at Vanier College in Montreal.
  • Ira Helfand, MD, Member of the International Steering Group of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), past president of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW), the founding partner of ICAN, co-founder and past president of Physicians for Social Responsibility, IPPNW’s US affiliate.
  • Cesar Jaramillo, MA, Executive Director of SANE Policy Institute (Security Alternatives for a New Era), Former Executive Director of Project Ploughshares.
  • R.V. Ramana, PhD, Professor and Simons Chair in Disarmament, Global and Human Security at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs (SPPGA), University of British Columbia.
  • Linda Thyer, MD, Family Physician, Doctors for Planetary Health – West Coast. 
REGISTER HERE
Get Inspired by Protests Against Military Bases in Europe and Asia Pacific
Global Women United for Peace Against NATO

Virtual Event
đź“… Saturday, June 6, 2026 

⏰ 16.00 Central European time (CET) -  10.00am New York time - 23.00 Tokyo time - 24.00/midnight Australia time

đź“Ť Zoom
As militarization pushes itself into almost every corner of our lives, as weapons become more powerful, as military bases across the world become nuclear armed, we know this is not about defense. This is about imperialism hand in hand with capitalism. It is about land grabs, resource extraction, pollution and climate change. It is about turning our communities into targets and deforming the future of our children.
Many brave women across the world have stood firm to defy this onslaught of aggression. We bring you the voices of meaningful protest from some of those standing in the front line of defiance.
REGISTER HERE
Small Modular Reactors in Canada
International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War Canada

Virtual Event
đź“… Wednesday, June 10, 2026 

⏰ 8:00pm ET/5:00pm PT

đź“Ť Zoom

Join us for IPPNWC's June Speaker Series! 

We are so pleased to be joined by MV Ramana and Gordon Edwards for our June Speaker Series, where they will present on "Assessing Canada's Investment in Small Modular Nuclear Reactors. This discussion will expand wonderfully on the Dr. Ramana and Edwards' presentations at IPPNWC's prescription for health event the weekend prior, which you can register for here. 
REGISTER HERE
ARTISTS WAGE PEACE

In-Person Event

đź—“ June 12th-13th, 2026

📍Trinity St. Paul’s Centre, 427 Bloor St. West, Toronto, ON

Registration Required

You are warmly invited to this groundbreaking and timely two day event.

ARTISTS WAGE PEACE brings creative souls together to spread love and end conflict. Featuring Jewish and Palestinian artists and peacebuilders.

"We have art so that we shall not die of reality." Friedrich Nietzche

FREE but registration is required. To register, and to see the lineup of extraordinary artists and speakers, go to www.robinpacific.ca/event 

Attend any or all events.

Meals are extra: Reserve by May 31st and prepay for lunch on Friday June 12th and celebratory dinner featuring Palestinian and Israeli chefs on Saturday, June 13th, 2026. 

GET TICKETS HERE
Iran and the Bomb: Crisis, Diplomacy and Possible Solutions
Science for Peace

Hybrid Event

đź—“ Monday, June 15th, 2026

⏰ 5:00pm ET

đź“Ť60 Lowther Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5R 1C7 & Zoom

Cesar Jaramillo is Executive Director at SANE Policy Institute, Chair of the Canadian Pugwash Group. His work focuses on arms control and disarmament, multilateral diplomacy, emerging military technologies, and the protection of civilians in armed conflict. He is former Executive Director of Project Ploughshares and has engaged broadly in UN and treaty-based processes.

If you are unable to make it in person, please register HERE for Zoom.

REGISTER IN-PERSON HERE
Upcoming Events
World Beyond War Book Club
Virtual July Book Club

đź—“Start: Tuesday, July 7, 2026  

⏰ 1:00 PM EDT

Host Contact Info: david@worldbeyondwar.org

đź“Ť Zoom (details to be shared before the event)

In July 2026, World BEYOND War will be holding a weekly discussion each of four weeks of the book Across Mountains, Land and Sea: One Boy's Extraordinary Journey, with the author (and subject of the story) Mir Rahimi.

When you register for the club, we will provide you a free book as PDF, Kindle, or Audiobook (requires Audible membership).

We'll let you know which parts of the book will be discussed each week along with the Zoom details to access the discussions.

When:

For one hour on Tuesday July 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2026, beginning at UTC 17:00, which is Tuesday at 7 am in Honolulu, 10 am in Los Angeles, 11 am in Mexico City, 1 pm in New York, 6 pm in Yaoundé, 7 pm in Amsterdam, and 8:30 pm in Tehran.

REGISTER HERE

Grassy Narrows River Run Rally

In-Person Event

đź—“ Friday, September 23, 2026

đź“Ť Downtown Toronto, exact location TBD

On Wednesday September 23rd, 2026, community members and leaders will travel 1,700km from Grassy Narrows to Toronto to demand that Ontario and Canada:

  1. Compensate everyone in Grassy Narrows fairly for the mercury crisis

  2. End the pollution by stopping the Dryden mill and ending mining and nuclear waste plans that threaten Grassy Narrows

  3. Support Grassy Narrows in restoring their community and way of life from the damage that mercury has done.

Walk with Grassy Narrows youth and community members to show that we are with them on their path to achieve mercury justice and freedom!

This is a family-friendly event. Rain or shine!

Check out FreeGrassy.net for more details as the event approaches.

Grassy Narrows people are powerful leaders in the movement for Indigenous sovereignty and environmental justice. They have shown that together we can fight for justice against all odds and make real gains.

RSVP HERE

Fifth Annual 24-Hour Peace Wave

Virtual Event

The Fifth Annual 24-Hour Peace Wave remains a 24-hour-long Zoom featuring peace actions in the streets and squares of the world, moving around the globe with the sun. But participants will have until November 1, 2026, to submit videos of peace activism, filmed at any time in the first 10 months of 2026.

We will then compile the videos into 24 videos of 40 minutes each. We will then announce the date of a Zoom webinar that will have 40 minutes of video and 20 of introduction and live discussion (including your questions) every hour for 24 hours.

Have you done any pro-peace or antiwar activities already in 2026 that you have good video of? Let us know!

Are you planning any activities between now and October 31 that you can make video of? Let us know!

We're looking for good quality videos of events and activities, ideally in landscape (horizontal) format, and showing any sort of peace activism other than sitting at a desk and talking to a camera (rallies, demonstrations. concerts, banner-drops, mural painting, etc.)

Answer all your questions about the peace wave at 24hourpeacewave.org

LEARN MORE HERE

#NOWAR2026 CONFERENCE: BEYOND BORDERS

A Global Online Conference Unpacking How the War System Drives Displacement & Militarizes Borders


Virtual Event

đź—“ Friday, October 23 - Sunday, October 25, 2026 

đź“Ť Zoom 

Join us on October 23-25 for #NoWar2026: Beyond Borders, World BEYOND War’s annual global conference hosted on Zoom. 

War and militarism drive people from their homes, causing mass displacement. And the very same weapons companies profiting from war and conflict cash in when governments militarize borders and block the movement of people fleeing violence. Throughout three days of panels, workshops, and breakout rooms, the #NoWar2026 Conference will examine the interconnections of the war system, migration, and the border industry, with case studies from around the world.

#NoWar2026 will create a space for global dialogue among activists, organizers, researchers, and educators to share lived experiences, learn from each other, and strategize for a world beyond the violence of both war and borders. 

GET TICKETS HERE
In Solidarity:
Global Conflicts and Peace Advocacy
Tell CPPIB You Refuse to Allow Your Money to Be Invested in Genocide, Apartheid, and War Crimes

Send a Letter

For the seventh consecutive year, we have analyzed Canada Pension Plan Investment Board's (CPPIB) investments. As of 31 March 2026 (fiscal year end 2025/2026), CPPIB had over $54 billion invested in 120 companies complicit in Israel's genocide, war crimes, and apartheid. This represents 6.9% of CPPIB's total holdings in 25/26.

TAKE ACTION HERE
InterPares-War Crimes in Sudan: Canada must act NOW

Send a Letter

Canada must break its silence about the U.A.E.’s support to the RSF militia.

The war in Sudan has shredded the fabric of life for millions of people: displacement, sexual violence, forced starvation, executions, kidnappings and the wholesale devastation of infrastructure.

Canada’s response has been slow and piecemeal—we can and must do more.

Send a letter to Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand now and demand Canada take immediate action in two ways:

  • Canada must prioritize human life in Sudan over the pursuit of blood money in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) and exert pressure on the U.A.E. to stop aiding and abetting war crimes in Sudan.
  • Make Sudan a priority: appoint a Special Envoy to coordinate Canada’s engagement and action in this conflict.

Send your letter now!

SIGN THE LETTER HERE
Divesting from Israeli Occupation, Apartheid, and Genocide

Just Peace Advocates: New Report

We are grateful to be releasing a brand new report analyzing the investments of more than 100 Canadian financial institutions. This analysis reveals over $526 billion USD invested in complicit companies by pensions, banks, insurance companies, and other investment managers. It is clear that the Canadian financial sector and Canadian economy are deeply invested (figuratively and literally) in Israel’s illegal military occupation, apartheid regime, and genocidal settler colonial project. It is (past) time to divest from companies supporting Israel’s crimes.

Learn about your investments, whether personal, through your bank, or pension plan. You can view the PDF version or read a text only version by clicking the button below.

READ THE REPORT HERE

Our recent report, â€śDivesting from Israeli Occupation, Apartheid, and Genocide” provides the analysis of more than 100 Canadian financial institutions. This includes 11 pensions, 8 banks, 7 insurers, and 85 investment managers. Each of these financial actors play a significant role in Canada’s own settler colonial project, as well as the exploitation and colonization of lands and peoples globally. The report revealed over $526 billion USD invested in complicit companies.

To put the report into action, we have developed a resource guide. This document provides letter templates to send to your financial institutions, things to think about when considering alternatives, frequently asked questions, and additional resources. You can check out the PDF or text only version below.

READ THE RESOURCE GUIDE HERE
Withdraw Canadian troops from region assisting US/Israeli aggression on Iran

Send Letter
According to CBC, Canadian soldiers stationed on US bases in West Asia have assisted the US/Israeli war on Iran.
 
Please email defence minister McGuinty and opposition party critics to call for the withdraw of all Canadian soldiers assisting the aggression on Iran.
SEND A LETTER HERE
Walk with Grief: Silent Vigil for Gaza
Waterloo Region Friends of Palestine

In-Person Event
Every Saturday, 11am ET
300 King St E, Kitchener, ON 
Silence is the greatest weapon of destruction, so use your voice, speak out, have conversations and, in your listening you will hear your work to support Palestinian liberation.

See you on Saturday at 11am Kitchener Market!
 
Send directly to these Canadian charities; donations are tax-deductible:
 
UNRWA in Canada  https://donate.unrwa.org/int/en/general
IDRF  https://idrf.ca/appeal/palestine/
Islamic Relief Canada  https://www.islamicreliefcanada.org/emergencies/palestine-appeal

Palestinian Human Rights Issues in Canada

A Legal & Tactical Guide

This guide is meant to provide basic information on legal issues that Palestinian rights activists may face, and tips on how to navigate them. It provides some generally applicable information and some campus-specific information for student activists.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
GAZA SQUARE

In-Person Event
Every Sunday, 11am to 1pm
371 Wallace Ave, Toronto, ON

We'll be at Gaza square once again this Sunday morning with hot chocolate and coffee, buttons and posters, lawn signs and colourful chalk! Come say hi and meet your fellow neighbours/organizers as we make our presence known and continue to build safety in our community!

LEARN MORE HERE
Calls to Action
Petition e-7247

Sign the Petition

Sign the petition to call upon the Government of Canada to issue a directive under Section 19 (1) of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act to order the CNSC to revoke the licensing of the NSDF at Chalk River.

Closed for signature July 8, 2026, at 4:43 p.m. (EDT)
SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Petition e-7407

Sign the Petition

Sign the petition to call upon the Government of Canada to:

1. Include a question on invisible work in the census and account for its economic value in the calculation of GDP;
2. Establish a national leave and benefits program for caregivers and initiate work to enhance pension plans so that individuals performing invisible work are not penalized;
 
3. Guarantee access to universal, affordable and high-quality childcare services adapted to rural and Indigenous realities, while respecting the jurisdictions of federal and provincial governments;
 
4. Ensure that all mandatory federal internships are paid and support school-work-life balance;
 
5. Designate the first Tuesday in April as National Invisible Work Day to raise public awareness and challenge stereotypes.
 
Closed for signature: September 16, 2026, at 11:07 a.m. (EDT)
SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Petition e-7427

Sign the Petition

Sign the petition to call upon the Government of Canada to:

1. Prohibit federal permits, funding, tax incentives, loan guarantees, infrastructure support, or federal land and water access for AI data centres powered primarily by fossil fuels or requiring large-scale freshwater withdrawals;
 
2. Establish binding national environmental protections that permanently prohibit hyperscale AI data centres that would significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions, strain provincial electrical grids, consume unsustainable amounts of freshwater, or negatively impact surrounding communities, farmland, ecosystems, or Indigenous territories; and
 
3. Require mandatory federal environmental assessments, transparent public hearings, and free, prior, and informed consent from affected Indigenous nations and municipalities before any future AI data centre proposal may be considered in Alberta and in Canada.
 
Closed for signature: September 17, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. (EDT)
SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Stop the Global War Bank: Canada must not host or join the DSRB

Send a Letter

Most Canadians have never heard of the new international war bank–the so-called Defence, Security and Resilience Bank (DSRB)--but this institution, dedicated to financing war, has been in the works for years and Canada is set to host the global headquarters.

At a time of a housing crisis, hosting the DSRB headquarters is guaranteed to drive up the cost of living dramatically. We reject Canada’s commitment to profiteering from perpetual war in the guise of economic development. We say NO to the war bank being headquartered in Canada.

The DSRB will funnel public funds directly to arms manufacturers, ensuring massive military build-up for 35 to 40 countries. It will make it easier to bypass regulations and public opposition to Canada’s military support for genocide and repressive regimes.

See linktr.ee/stopthedsrb for additional info and resources, including an organizational sign on letter.

SEND A LETTER HERE
Tell Canada to Defy Trump. Sell oil, food, and medicine to Cuba!

Send a Letter

Canada’s closest ally, the US, is seeking to starve Cuba into submission. Please take a minute to call on the Canadian government to defy this flagrant violation of international law by selling oil, food and medicine to the Caribbean nation. 

SEND A LETTER HERE
Global Appeal to Nine Nuclear Governments

Sign the Petition

This is an appeal from the people of the world to nine nuclear governments to each commit to a nuclear policy of no first strike, not ever, not for any reason; and to sign and ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, and to collectively agree to immediately begin disarming on a schedule to completely eliminate all nuclear weapons from the earth no later than August 6, 2045.

SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Give Peace a Chance:
Ask Canada to support peacebuilding

Send a Letter

In Canadian government policy and practice, the default response to conflict is usually military intervention. However, MCC’s local partners point out that foreign military interventions often exacerbate conflict and division, rather than contribute to long-lasting peace. Even when the military is not involved, peacebuilding is often overlooked as a preventative tool to reduce conditions for violent conflicts.

Based on the work of our partners, MCC believes that non-violent local peacebuilding needs to be a key pillar of Canada’s foreign policy, coming alongside both development and humanitarian actions, and as an alternative to foreign military interventions.

TAKE ACTION: SEND A LETTER HERE
Manifesto: No to Global NATO – Yes to Common Security

Sign Up to Join the Call

NATO is an increasing obstacle to achieving world peace. It is no longer an organization confined to the North Atlantic: it is the world's largest military alliance, with allies and partners in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Since the end of the Cold War, NATO has reinvented itself as a tool for military action, psychological warfare, worldwide military and political interventions, and accessing resources and markets; it often claims to undertake these actions on behalf of the "international community". With its partnerships and joint operations, it is a vehicle for the US strategic goal of global dominance; reinforced by military bases on all continents, it bypasses the United Nations and the system of international law, accelerating militarization, escalating arms expenditures and fueling arms races.

We call on all peoples to join the fight against Global NATO, to build on our vision of peace, and to resist the dangerous militarization of our societies.

No to War – No to NATO network

Translation available to: Dutch, French
SIGN ON HERE
Shut Down the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (CANA)!

Send a Letter

NATO interventions have led to failed states, environmental and climate damage, violence against women, and humanity’s largest refugee crisis. NATO allies have wasted trillions on wars and carbon-intensive weapons, enriching the (mainly US) arms industry while exacerbating conflict around the world. To conduct imperialist wars, occupations, covert and overt military operations and crippling sanctions, NATO is the tool that imperialist countries use to manage their war-mongering division of labour.

Rather than re-forming a new CANA, as required following the recent federal election, the Canada-Wide Peace and Justice Network, calls for shutting down the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association altogether, and for Canada to withdraw from NATO.

TAKE ACTION: SEND A LETTER HERE
Declaration of Peace

Sign the Declaration

World BEYOND War's primary tool for building a broader movement for peace is our Declaration of Peace, and we'd like to invite you to join the many thousands of people and over 900 organizations from 202 countries that have signed it.

SIGN THE DECLARATION HERE
Cancel F35 contract. Canada shouldn’t spend billions on US fighter jets

Petition

Amidst Trump's economic siege and annexationist threats, it is unacceptable Canada is paying a US military giant $19 billion for 88 F-35s. Lockheed Martin’s fighter jet was chosen in part so the Canadian air force can better assist their US counterparts in offensive global operations. The US controls the F-35 source code and upgrades, giving Washington an effective “kill switch” on Canada’s fighter jets. Please take a minute to ask Prime Minister Mark Carney to halt plans to buy F-35s, along with copies to the Opposition leaders.

SIGN THE PETITION HERE
Days of Significance

World Environment Day

June 5th, 2026

The Earth is already speaking to us—through record-breaking temperatures, more intense wildfires, extreme storms and glaciers disappearing before our eyes.

For years, we have said that limiting global warming to 1.5°C is essential to avoiding the worst impacts of climate change. Today, that threshold is dangerously close to being exceeded—and every fraction of a degree matters.

Time is running out, and nature is in emergency mode. To keep global warming below 1.5°C this century, we must halve annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Without action, exposure to air pollution beyond safe guidelines will increase by 50 per cent within the decade and plastic waste flowing into aquatic ecosystems will nearly triple by 2040.

We need urgent action to address these pressing issues.

Join the UN Environment campaign today, the leading United Nations agency behind this international day. Visit their website, get social media materials, promote your event, listen to our music selection, and…join our climate dance challenge!

Official website

LEARN MORE HERE

International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations

June 10th, 2026

As the world grapples with multiple interconnected crises, such as widening gaps in peace, development, trust, and governance—humanity stands at a historic crossroads, facing increasing instability and transformation. The urgent need for solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation has never been more evident. Dialogue among civilizations remains the most effective way to eliminate discrimination and prejudice, foster mutual understanding and trust, strengthen relationships among nations, and reinforce global solidarity.

Dialogue among civilizations not only fosters awareness and appreciation of the universal values shared by humankind but also promotes peaceful coexistence based on mutual respect. It serves as a bridge to find common ground in addressing the pressing challenges of our time, ultimately contributing to world peace, human welfare, development, and progress.

LEARN MORE HERE

International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict

June 19th, 2026

Conflict-related sexual violence is a war crime, a crime against humanity and a constituent act of genocide under international law, posing threats to individual and collective security and hindering lasting peace.

Its impacts are far-reaching, causing physical and psychological trauma, stigma, and poverty that can affect survivors and their families for generations. In some communities, survivors may face ostracization, which limits their access to vital social support and healing resources.

Additionally, the consequences can be magnified if pregnancies result from such violence, potentially leading to further societal rejection of children born in these circumstances. This form of violence is often connected to other wartime atrocities, including the abduction and recruitment of individuals into armed groups.

LEARN MORE HERE

National Indigenous Peoples Day

June 21st, 2026

June 21, 2026 is the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day. It's a time to recognize and celebrate the traditions, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and MĂ©tis.

National Indigenous Peoples Day takes place on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For generations, many First Nations, Inuit and MĂ©tis communities have celebrated their cultures, languages, and traditions at this time of year. The summer solstice holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for many Indigenous Peoples, marking a time of renewal, connection, and celebration.

LEARN MORE HERE

International Day of Women in Diplomacy

June 24th, 2026

Despite global commitments to gender equality, women remain significantly underrepresented in diplomacy and political leadership, with recent trends showing troubling regression. The Human Rights Council and UN Women both highlight systemic barriers which include discrimination, gender stereotypes, and political violence that continue to exclude women from high-level decision-making. Gender norms often confine women to “soft” portfolios, while critical ministries remain male-dominated, and the number of gender-balanced cabinets and equality-focused ministries is shrinking. This marginalization is compounded by increasing violence against women in politics, both online and offline, deterring participation and eroding hard-won progress. In response, bold action is needed - from implementing quotas and leadership appointments to mentorship and anti-harassment measures - to achieve meaningful, equal representation and uphold the promises of the Beijing Platform and Sustainable Development Goals.

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RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
 
A Demand for Ethical Relationship Protocols 

Benetick Kabua Maddison on the Moral Imperative of the NTP Protocols

On May 8th, Benetick Kabua Maddison, Co-Chair of the Nuclear Truth Project (NTP) and Executive Director of the Marshallese Educational Initiative, spoke at the NTP side event at the 11th Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference (NPT RevCon) in New York to address the NTP Protocols for working with members of affected communities.

"Today, I want to speak plainly about something that should be self-evident but is not: the Protocols of the Nuclear Truth Project, and why your active engagement in adapting and adopting them is a fundamental moral obligation. Not a favor. Not a courtesy. An obligation."

READ THE FULL STATEMENT HERE
2026 NPT: Expert Rections

SANE Policy Institute

"The 2026 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) concluded without agreement on a final document, marking the third consecutive Review Conference to fail to reach consensus.

Held against a backdrop of intensifying geopolitical tensions, renewed nuclear competition, accelerating modernization programs, and mounting distrust among major powers, the Conference revealed deep divisions over nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, deterrence, and the future of the NPT regime. Fundamental disagreements permeated discussions across nearly every major agenda item."

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
ADVANCING HUMANITARIAN DISARMAMENT: STRATEGIES FOR CAMPAIGNING IN CHALLENGING TIMES

Harvard Law School

Humanitarian disarmament seeks to reduce armsinflicted human suffering and environmental harm through the establishment and implementation of norms. It is distinguished by its people-centered purpose, collaborative and inclusive process, and preventive and remedial provisions. The movement has produced treaties banning antipersonnel landmines, cluster munitions, and nuclear weapons and regulating the arms trade, and a political declaration on the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. Work continues on implementation, compliance monitoring, and the development of law on other issues, especially autonomous weapons systems.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE
The Dangerous and Corrupt Worlds of Billionaires and Military Millionaires: Part One and Two'

Rabble.com

by Mark Leith April 21, 2026

"Billionaires and military defence contractors and executives have surprisingly many things in common. They are, to the man, all white and all male and have a great deal more money than any of the other citizens on the planet put together many times over. And yet the billionaires, in turn, have even more money than the military defence contractors and executives, who, within themselves, have extraordinary levels of compensation. 

The top billionaires on average net worth are $700 billion dollars, and the top military defence contractors and executives receive compensation packages often exceeding $20 million annually. In contrast, for example, US average salaries reach approximately $72,700 USD, while Canadian average salaries are around CAD $63,530 ($50,348 USD)."

READ THE FULL ESSAY HERE
Peace Magazine: April-June 2026

Project Save the World

Environmental Damage in War (page 22)

The peace ecology approach is a relatively new discipline in peace studies. The ecological perspective on peace refers both to environmental destruction during normal military operations in peacetime and to ecological destruction during wars. Peace ecology addresses peace between people and societies, as well as peace between humans and their ecological context, and in particular the connection between these two perspectives.

READ THE MAGAZINE HERE
Canadian Foreign Policy Hour with Yves Engler

Join author Yves Engler on Mondays for a weekly news roundup and interactive discussion about Canada’s role abroad. This weekly session will delve into the latest developments on subjects ranging from military affairs and Canada’s role in Ukraine to its contribution to Palestinian dispossession and exploitation of African resources. Join Yves for a critical take on Canada’s foreign policy. Questions, comments and criticisms are all welcome.

Mondays 6PM EST

ATTEND HERE
Canadian Peace Museum

The Canadian Peace Museum is dedicated to inspiring a culture of peace, equity, and sustainability. Through art, education, and activism, the museum highlights stories and initiatives that promote environmental stewardship, social justice, and community harmony. By collaborating with organizations and supporting efforts to alleviate poverty, the museum serves as a space for reflection, learning, and action toward a more peaceful and equitable world.

Click below to visit the Canadian Peace Museum's website, and click here to read a recent publication about the museum!

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Peace Quest Weekly Newsletter

More than just a must-read Saturday morning newsletter; it's a catalyst for action. Participate in community discussions and take meaningful steps towards peace. PeaceQuest provides a platform for you to make a difference. Join us!

SUBSCRIBE TO PEACEQUEST HERE
Tributes to Peace Women

Please let us know if you know a VOW member who has passed away, as we wish to recognize their contributions to VOW and to building peace in our world. Please contact us at info@vowpeace.org

Legacy Donations

Your legacy gift helps ensure that VOW’s critical work continues for years to come. Whether it’s advancing our disarmament education program, advocating for peace, or working to end nuclear threats, your gift will directly support the next generation of peacebuilders!

LEARN MORE & PLAN YOUR LEGACY HERE
 Renew your membership and donate to VOW to keep up our good work!
Renew Your Membership & Donate!

Be sure to renew your membership and donate to support our important work building a culture of peace in Canada and so that we can continue to hire youth throughout the year. Make a donation today!
 

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