The Nuclear Threat Reduction Community Delivers

This month, Ploughshares and our partners came together to raise attention to the threat of nuclear weapons on Capitol Hill in a large-scale day of action, unlike any we have ever coordinated in the history of our organization. Alongside nearly 30 partners from more than ten different organizations, we gathered to distribute signed copies of Annie Jacobsen’s recent book Nuclear War: A Scenario to every member of Congress. 

Congressional members now have the imperative to understand in no uncertain terms that the path we are on could destroy civilization as we know it. For far too long nuclear weapons have been seen as an issue of the past. Yet, as we know all too well, these weapons still pose risks. Miscalculations and misunderstandings could have catastrophic consequences in our current geopolitical environment. Our collective message on the Hill was that education is the first step to crisis de-escalation. Offices across the political aisle were eager to receive the educational materials we provided alongside the book, and partners positioned themselves as resources for Hill offices interested in further engaging in discussions on the current status of global nuclear risks. 

Ploughshares President Dr. Emma Belcher and Representative John Garamendi (CA – 8th District) opened our event with remarks to frame the day. Representative Garamendi reminded the community that, “This issue is not in the immediate minds of Americans and around the world.” He called on those in our field to “stay strong, to continue to be an advocate for … awareness that the [nuclear] threat exists.” Adding, “We all have to figure out how to make people aware that this is a reality and nuclear war is an every-day possibility.” 

“People care about the threat of nuclear weapons and collective action can move the needle. However, this day of action was just an initial step. All of us have a role to play to ensure decision makers are clear-eyed about the risks of nuclear war and their ability to do something about it.” ~ Connor Murray (Council for a Livable World)

Progress is only possible together. Everyone has the ability to draw attention to the nuclear threat because, like so much else, it connects to everything and affects everyone. Our climate, our health, and our security are all wrapped up in the policies surrounding nuclear weapons. That’s why, in addition to distributing the books, our partners also took the vital step of encouraging their audiences to contact their representative or senator and not only urge them to read this necessary book, but also take proactive legislative steps to avoid any scenario that could lead to nuclear war. Partner organizations will also build on this momentum and follow up to share opportunities for continued bold action by Members of Congress.

During the Cold War, and the height of the US – Soviet arms race, people and their elected officials came together to demand action to reduce nuclear threats. This collective effort led to the elimination of more than 80% of nuclear weapons globally. Together, people and our governments can successfully finish the job. By urging our representatives to protect us now, we know that every step we all take to reduce these threats will bring us closer to the safe and sustainable future we all deserve. 

“Standing shoulder to shoulder with organizations from across the nuclear policy space on March 11 was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite for a common cause. Delivering Annie Jacobsen’s Nuclear War: A Scenario to every member of Congress was more than a symbolic gesture—it was a call to action. Together, we sent a clear message: the time to confront the existential threat of nuclear weapons is now.” ~ Danny Hall (Back from the Brink) 

Every aspect of this event was designed and coordinated with members of the community from a range of backgrounds, ensuring its success. Bringing our partners together from across the nuclear field to carry out powerful actions is what we are here for. We know what we can accomplish when we work in lockstep, and this is just the beginning. As Jacobsen stated on “X” (formerly Twitter), Ploughshares is “the relentless force committed to eliminating the threat of nuclear weapons.” We will remain relentless in our efforts, and steadfast in our mission, and we are thankful for the dedication all our partners have in a shared vision for a world free of the threat of nuclear weapons.