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:

Chicago, Illinois, U.S.

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

I distinctly remember learning about war as a young child and feeling abject horror at the concept. This horror has only been furthered as I’ve grown and come to understand the depths of U.S. spending and war profiteering. As I’ve pursued my degree in Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies at DePaul University, I’ve been lucky to have professors that speak frankly and passionately about the injustice of war. I sought out World BEYOND War after having the privilege of listening to Kathy Kelly speak to my class at DePaul University. After hearing of Kathy’s work both individually and with World BEYOND War, I felt a drive to reach out and ask how I could get involved. Talks quickly ensued for me to become an intern at the Illinois chapter of WBW, and I’ve been working with the team since early June of this year.

What kinds of WBW activities do you work on?

I’m currently working on an in-person/zoom event that will take place on October 17th: the “Illinois Young Voters’ Congress: A Forum for Peace and Social Justice” in Chicago. This event is intended to be a safe and empowering space for students and Gen Z folks to come together and connect on what’s important to us as we face down the upcoming elections and our shared future. In the wake of harsh university policies on protest following the 2024 encampments in support of Palestinian liberation, we hope that the space we create on October 17th sows hope and direction. We aim to connect our participants not only with one another, but with local Chicago organizations. We hope that our gathering and declarations will be a powerful message to lawmakers on what the younger generation insists upon from its leaders. Register to join us on October 17.

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

Don’t be intimidated to reach out to your local WBW chapter! We are a friendly and welcoming bunch and would love to have you join us in whatever capacity suits your circumstances. We can’t all do everything, but we can all do something, and that adds up.

What keeps you inspired to advocate for change?

The belief that we are all deserving of a more just, peaceful, and equitable world keeps me advocating for change. I find a lot of hope in my community and the natural world, and want to do whatever I can to better care for this Earth and the people on it.

Posted September 23, 2026.

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