Each month, we share the stories of World BEYOND War volunteers around the world. Want to volunteer with World BEYOND War? Email greta@worldbeyondwar.org.

Location:

Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.

How did you get involved with anti-war activism and World BEYOND War (WBW)?

I became an anti-war activist at a young age, after reading many books about Indigenous peoples across the globe. I was shocked and appalled at the violence inflicted on so many innocent populations in the name of civilization. Once in college, in the late 70’s, I became active on campus, joining and supporting groups that worked for peace and justice. As a Jewish American, I became very active in issues related to Israel/Palestine and went on to found a local organization, Baltimore Jews for Israeli Palestinian Peace. After years and years of working locally on these issues, I decided to start a chapter of World BEYOND War in Baltimore. I was inspired by the Ukrainian conscientious objector, Yurii Sheliazhenko, who is a Board Member of World BEYOND War.

What kinds of WBW activities do you work on?

Our local chapter, since forming a little over a year ago, has worked mainly on issues related to Israel/Palestine, hosting Combatants for Peace, bringing Israeli genocide scholar Omer Bartov to Baltimore, and holding vigils. We also lobby our Congress members to support all anti-war legislation and to take a stand against militarism at all levels. Last summer we co-sponsored the local Hiroshima/Nagasaki Memorial event. In the fall, we will be bringing WBW Co-Founder and Executive Director David Swanson to Baltimore.

What’s your top recommendation for someone who wants to get involved with anti-war activism and WBW?

My top recommendation for someone who wants to get involved is to remember that no act on behalf of peace is too small, that every person counts, that kindness and solidarity at all levels are the keys to moving forward.

What keeps you inspired to advocate for change?

What keeps me inspired is knowing that we are responsible for one another, for the Earth and all its inhabitants, human and non-human. Therefore, the extraordinary violence and cruelty of the U.S. government and its allies can never be ignored.

Posted August 5, 2026.

The post Volunteer Spotlight: Baltimore Chapter Co-Coordinator Ronda Cooperstein appeared first on World BEYOND War.


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