Peace is one of the most important issues we face today. We cannot advance to a mature society at the same time we are making war with each other. Nor can we continue to solve our differences with weapons and warfare. Diplomacy is the only way forward. And even though diplomacy doesn’t offer perfect solutions, it is still the best tool we have for creating a peaceful world. We must use our energy and resources previously spent on war toward solving more important problems: climate change, environmental pollution, and poverty.

After nearly two years of hard work, diplomacy has created a peaceful agreement with Iran. It may not be perfect, but it is an important step toward the future we want to see and an even more important step away from another disastrous war that costs thousands to millions of lives, trillions of dollars, untold suffering, and creates more rogue groups like ISIS. The future of humanity simply cannot afford another war in the Middle East, or anywhere else for that matter.

Our representatives in Congress will be voting on the Iran deal in September. Several senators, even Democratic ones, are on the fence.  You can call them or write them, and let them know how you feel.

Here is a link from a Huffington Pose article that tells you who is likely to vote yes, who is wobbling, and who is against the agreement.

This time, there is something you can do about it. You can call the Capitol Switchboard by dialing 855-686-6927 and asking to be connected to your Senator’s office.

1. It only takes a couple of minutes and it can be as simple as: My name is _______________ and I’m a constituent from (city), (state). Please support the nuclear deal with Iran. 

If you want more to say, here are some suggestions from the Friends Committee on national Legislation: http://fcnl.org (this site also explains more about the deal).

2. The agreement sets up the most extensive inspections plan in history, and it gives inspectors the access they need to make sure Iran doesn’t cheat. Without the deal, all the new inspections and restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program go away. 

Or simply: 3. The deal is better than any other options, and it’s the best way to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.

And then ask your Facebook friends to do the same. We can use what democracy we have to work for the peace that we want to see in the world. Participate. Care. Take action.

Thank you,
Anodea Judith