In this town, vigils, rallies and marches are a dime a dozen. Just look at the list of vigils in the left-hand sidebar – we have no shortage of compassion or commitment. DC's activism is second to no one's, and it has always been a magnet for creative politicking. Even in the midst of this hyper-activism, one vigil stands out. The anti-nuclear vigil outside the White House has run continuously since 1981."On June 3, 1981, a pilgrim named Thomas sat down on the White House sidewalk with a cardboard sign, 'Wanted, Wisdom and Honesty,' to talk about truth, justice, freedom, peace, and the threat of nuclear war. Concepcion Picciotto also came to Lafayette Park and began working with Thomas in 1981. They are now world famous for their continuous presence, 24 hours a day, despite the whims of police and weather. Regulation writers and hostile police tried to drive Thomas and Concepcion away, and Thomas was sent to prison for three months in 1988. But perseverance, creativity, Thomas's lawsuits against police misconduct, and sympathetic friends have kept the vigilers north of the White House, touching the minds and hearts of many.
"Come to Lafayette (Peace) Park on this special anniversary, and speak ... sing ... chant ... recite ... drum ... dance your heartsong. Share YOUR ideas to help cure the world's ills!"
When: Saturday, June 3, from noon to dark – and beyond
Where: Lafayette Park (16th and Pennsylvania Avenue NW)
More info: 202/682-4282, prop1@prop1.org or www.prop1.org