HWPL’s IWPG and NOW Held Women’s Peace Conference in DC

Washington, D.C. -- In 2014, Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), hosted the first HWPL World Peace Summit in Seoul. This event brought together global leaders to discuss conflict resolution, promote peacebuilding, and sign landmark agreements for future peace initiatives. Since that first event in 2014, every year HWPL holds commemorative events in locations around the world to continue the work of this first HWPL World Peace Summit.

This year, the commemorative event that was held in DC was led by HWPL’s International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG) and The National Organization for Women (NOW). This partnership added a distinct, women-focused perspective to HWPL’s global efforts, emphasizing the essential role women play in creating and sustaining peace.

Bringing together leaders from government, civil society, and philanthropic organizations to mobilize for a shared cause, this event highlighted how female leaders can make a difference on the issues of peace and security in D.C., where socioeconomic disparities, racial justice, and access to opportunities continue to challenge harmony.

Panelist Zainab Al-Suwaij, Founder & CEO of the American Islamic Congress shared her thoughts on the work of peace in DC, saying: “One thing we have to remember is that we’re all human. That will never change. I think as long as we come from that lens, then we can find a way to break all barriers that seem to crop up and that seems to make more things worse than they really need to be. And then we can find better solutions for peace.”

By uniting women’s voices and initiatives, IWPG, HWPL, and NOW addressed these pressing issues and moved forward in creating tangible solutions that promote peace, equity, and cultural inclusion at the local level. Through their leadership in the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area, women are acting as not only peacemakers, but also as bridge-builders, fostering understanding across our city’s multicultural communities.

Moderator Daliana Gandarillas described the importance of these kinds of peacemaking events, saying:
“All of the women present here today exemplify our collective commitment to building a future rooted in peace, equity, and mutual respect. We are truly grateful for the heart and effort of those working to make our community a shining example of peace for future generations”