As WAND stands with the global community to condemn the September 11th attacks and mourn the lives lost, we also realize this is an unprecedented opportunity for the United States to set a profound and positive example in its response to this unimaginable violence. We can move towards real security by refusing to perpetuate violence upon the innocent and renewing our commitment to meeting human and environmental needs, which are the foundation of true security.

WAND launched Women Take Action for Real Security from the action plan written at the WiLL/WAND National Conference held in Washington, DC in September, 2001. It is based on five principles which we call "The Five Rs": 1) Restraint; 2) Responsibility; 3) Resources for real security; 4) Respect for others; and 5) Reduction of risks.

This dynamic campaign will consist of discussion guides, action ideas, links to resources, information packets, and more. Women Take Action for Real Security is an opporunity for you to join with others across the country to fight for true national and global security in a time when our voices are urgently needed.

The campaign has four action areas:

1. ENGAGE THE MEDIA
   • We will flood newspapers across the country with letters-to-the-editor. WAND's website currently offers model letters for your use and will continue to do so.
   • We will meet with newspaper editorial boards.
   • We will use radio and television to get our message out widely. We will push for more women's voices on radio and television.
   • We will run ads in local newspapers.

2. RAISE OUR VOICES
   • We will hold workshops to help women understand federal budget facts and effectively share this information with their communities.
   • We will develop and deploy a WAND/WiLL/STAND Speakers Bureau, women trained by WAND to speak on federal budget priorities pre-9/11 and post-9/11.
   • We will provide information about and access to national and international experts available to speak in your community.

3. HOLD HIGH LEVEL BRIEFINGS
   • We will brief members of Congress, candidates and elected officials.
   • We will work with women state legislators to examine the real costs of homeland security to both federal and state budgets.

4. PROVIDE EXPERTISE/GUIDANCE
   • We will provide materials (discussion guides, talking points, action guides) for local use for the press, public briefings, "Kitchen Table Talks," WAND Circles, and library groups across the country. These will include regular updates on costs of the war, nuclear concerns, and homeland security.