Peacemaker of the Year Award to Atlanta WAND
March 2006

This year the Presbyterians of Greater Atlanta annual Peacemaker of the Year Award was presented to the Atlanta Chapter of WAND.

Although WAND is not a religious organization, many of its local members and leaders find that being a part of WAND provides an effective way of living out their Christian convictions in following the Prince of Peace. Atlanta WAND is the largest chapter of the national organization, which celebrates its 25th year in 2006.

Under the leadership of the Executive Director, Bobbie Paul, a Presbyterian laywoman who is a member of Central Presbyterian Church, Atlanta WAND has worked in partnership with many organizations who are working for peace and justice in the metropolitan area and across the state. Among these partnerships are the Georgia Peace and Justice Coalition, Physicians for Social Responsibility, United Nations Association, Concerned Black Clergy, American Friends Service Committee, SCLC W.O.M.E.N. and the Women’s Studies programs at area colleges (Agnes Scott, Spelman, Emory and Georgia State).

A major partnership effort has involved getting people registered to vote and taking them to the polls, principally from the poorer sections of the city. Another partnership effort has been a public witness for peace. This witness against the war on Iraq continues in its fourth year at the corner of 14th and Peachtree on Fridays from noon until one. It began in August of 2002, before the preemptive strike on Iraq, with strong support from members of North Decatur Presbyterian Church, Central Presbyterian Church and others. Other activities include a speakers bureau, work with young women high and college students, and a legislative action network at the national level.

Presbyterians of Greater Atlanta believe that every Christian is called to make his or her witness in the public arena. They commend the efforts of Atlanta WAND as it seeks "to empower women to act politically to reduce violence and militarism and to redirect excessive resources toward unmet human and environmental needs."