Alerts Sign-up
The United States Institute of Peace (USIP), established by Congress in 1984, is facing significant leadership changes, as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has taken over the organization. This transition included the dismissal of most board members and staff, the appointment of a new president, and the transfer of USIP's building ownership to the federal government. Concerns have been raised within the United Church of Christ (UCC), which played a role in USIP's creation, leading to the UCC Office of Public Policy and Advocacy launching an action alert supporting humanitarian aid and peacebuilding.
An excerpt from the Bible, Luke 19:41-42, was cited: “Coming within sight of Jerusalem, Jesus wept over it and said, ‘If only you had known the path to peace today! But now it has been hidden from your eyes.’”
Rev. Susan Hayward, minister of justice and formation at Creekside UCC in Minneapolis and former USIP staffer, reflected on the recent changes. Hayward stated, “As a just peace denomination involved in the United States Institute of Peace’s creation, it’s time for those of us in the UCC to raise hell.”
Recalling her introduction to USIP after the 9/11 attacks, Hayward remembered attending events at USIP addressing social and political realities in Iraq, highlighting how USIP approached religion with nuance under the leadership of UCC Rev. Dr. David Smock. She noted the institute's work encompassing various traditions and focusing on protecting communities and pursuing reconciliation.
Hayward worked at USIP from 2007 to 2021, supporting interfaith efforts and policy reforms in conflict areas. She expressed concerns about the termination of the USIP religion program and other resources due to DOGE's takeover, describing it as a violation of USIP’s independence and an attack on peacebuilding efforts.
“Congress created USIP in 1984 as the result of a long campaign to create a national peace academy,” explained Hayward, emphasizing its mission in promoting peace through education and engagement in conflict regions and informing U.S. foreign policy.
The Trump Administration replaced USIP’s board and acting president, Ambassador George Moose, against procedures outlined by Congress. DOGE's subsequent actions, including fire and transfers of USIP's building, have been met with lawsuits; however, Hayward stressed the need for further defense of peace values.
Reflecting on her ordination and commitment to peacebuilding, Hayward called for continued effort, “Our faith ancestors were involved in creating USIP, along with Congress, and it’s now up to us and Congress to step up in defense of what USIP represents.”
