I support the idea of a Dept of Peace. Wouldn't it be wonderful if a US Dept of Peace became a motivator for other countries to also institute Departments of Peace? At that point, maybe nations will begin to collaborate together to solve probelms, rather than use wars, invasions, bombs and terrorism to solve conflict.
I have often thought that if individuals who were opposed to violent solutions had a way to identify themselves to others throughout the world, then they could form a grass roots network for peace and non-violence - a group of people who refuse to participate in violence as a means of solving problems or gaining wealth. I envision a flag that is a universal symbol for peace and non-violence. (design and distribution remain problematic, but I am open to suggestions). So right now, I am thinking of a virtual flag that is composed of words - which, of course needs to be translated into all the languages of the world.

We share this planet with each other.  None of us own it. Yet, all of us are responsible for its survival. We are all connected by our humanity. I know that every other human being is no less valuable than I. I believe that love can overcome hate, just as light overcomes darkness. I believe in peace. I will work for peace.
When I fly this flag I pledge to: ·         Consider the impact of my actions on my fellow human beings and on the earth. ·         Engage in no activity that deliberately harms another human being ·         Endeavor to learn the impact of my choices on people in             other parts of the world. ·         Seek nonviolent solutions to the problems we face.   If you would like to raise a virtual flag, by signing this,  please contact me at jan.krause@verizon.net My hope is to start a person to person worldwide commitment to peace.  I think the ideas in the pledge could be good starting points for the Department of Peace., although I honestly can not see any government agreeing (at this point and time) to refrain from any activity that deliberately harms another human being.
  - by Mary Jan Greene