Sydney Goldsborough as OEP's Social Media Organizer. Sydney has recently finished her master's degree in Consumer Behaviour at Goldsmith's, University of London. She reflects on On Earth Peace's impact on her life during her internship.

Why are you drawn/applied to On Earth Peace?

I was drawn to On Earth Peace because I was really interested in understanding the nature of non-profit organizations. The mission of OEP also stood out to me considerably as I was particularly interested in exploring kingian nonviolence practices. Prior to joining, I had a couple friends who were interns for OEP and they spoke so highly of the organization and about how much they’ve grown in their roles, which also encouraged me to apply even more so. 

6/16 Gun Violence Campaign June Meeting

-Melia Klingler, OEP organizing intern 

On June 16, 2023, people from all over the world (from Belgium to Indianapolis to Palestine) logged onto Zoom for the monthly On Earth Peace Gun Violence Campaign Meeting. Though different ages, backgrounds, and locations, all present were looking to build community, capacity, commitment, and courage for the fight against gun violence. 

The meeting began with a time for people to share their experience with Wear Orange. June 2nd was National Gun Violence Awareness Day and Everytown USA led the movement by inviting us gun violence prevention advocates to wear orange as a sign of public support (Read more about the campaign background here).  On Earth Peace joined this national initiative and we were blown away by the different ways “OEP people” took this invitation and adapted it to the needs of their community. Linda Himes from La Verne Church of the Brethren (CA), created a display in the narthex of her church to remember the deaths of those killed by gun violence, encourage people to pray for the families of victims and provide resources to help prevent similar tragedies in the future. Mary Ryan Hotchkiss and Karen Moore from the Spirit of Grace Church in Beaverton, Oregon, held a forum on gun violence and discovered many groups in their community willing and ready to collaborate on gun violence prevention. “Once you start doing things, it multiplies,” they rejoiced. 

Anesu Makufa serves as OEP's Youth & Young Adult Peace Formation Organizer and is a Zimbabwean Spoken Word Poet who seeks peace where he is present with an Ubuntu mindset. After completing his International Baccalaureate studies at the United World College of Southern Africa, he graduated with a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Business Management from Wheaton College, and a master's degree in Education and Human Development from The George Washington University. Currently based in the UK, Anesu is working on attaining a master's degree in Social Work, and Community development. He is a creative soul wandering the earth, experiencing it through poetry, painting, piano, and, most importantly, through people. Additionally, he plays the guitar, harmonica, and is fluent in 3 languages (Shona, English, and Meditation). In another life, he may have been a koala. He reflects on On Earth Peace's impact on his life during his internship.

​​Why are you drawn/applied to On Earth Peace?

I am drawn to OEP by its determination to organize for peace, its active role in seeking justice, and its engagement in constructive conversations on difficult topics. In our world today, Growing up in Zimbabwe, I was raised in a collectivist culture, with the philosophy of Ubuntu as a cornerstone of community. Ubuntu teaches you that "I am, because you are", that we become who we fully are by pouring active love into one another. When I joined OEP, this part of my soul resonated with the organization, its goals, and the people who worked to build community by broadening bridges instead of widening walls. 

Simi Gill serves as OEP's Children's Peace Formation Organizer. Simi has recently finished her master's degree in Applied Theatre at Goldsmiths, University of London. She has an extensive background in child development, drama, and theater. She reflects on On Earth Peace's impact on her life during her internship.​​

Why are you drawn/applied to On Earth Peace?

I applied for OEP because I wanted to develop my skills/knowledge and experience working with young children and people. As well as developing my interests and passions for social justice work.

Mark Rosenbury with his wife Janet.

I was 5 years old when the USA entered the war in Afghanistan. I subsequently learned in school about the military draft that took place in WWII and during the Vietnam War. I was confused and thought that the draft process was still active and I remember rushing home starting to cry because I was afraid my father would be drafted. He explained to me that the draft was no longer in place and that I had nothing to worry about, which was such a relief to me. Ever since that day, I have thought about how horrible it must be to have one of your loved ones in war. After turning eighteen, a few of my friends joined the military. A pit in my stomach formed because I was afraid to lose them. Even though I was not raised in the Church of the Brethren or another peaceful church tradition, I have never supported war.

The author of the article, Maria Garcia.