For those of us who work at AFSC, being here is more than just a job. It’s part of a commitment to create more just and peaceful communities using the skills and talents we have. But that commitment had to come from somewhere—or someone.

To celebrate Women’s History Month, a few AFSC staff members shared their stories about the amazing women who have inspired us to stand up for what we believe in and pass on what we've been taught. Read their recollections below: 

Tomorrow marks the fifth anniversary of the start of the Syrian war. Since March 15, 2011, more than 4 million people have fled Syria to escape war and violence, while millions more have been internally displaced.

Nina is a media research intern at AFSC's central office in Philadelphia.

A few picks from AFSC staff this week:

"Palestine: Hungry for freedom," by Ben White, Newsweek

(Above photo: "Together despite Occupation and borders": This picture reflects how Palestinian youth challenge Occupation by overcoming geographic separation, political, and social fragmentation.)

At an event for a presidential candidate last summer, I had the opportunity to talk with Iowa U.S. Rep. Steve King.

On April 12, 2015, 25-year-old Freddie Carlos Gray was arrested by six officers of the Baltimore Police Department. While in their custody, his back was broken and he sustained a series of other injuries. The bodily harm caused him to fall into a coma, and he died a few days later. The city of Baltimore erupted in protest, and eventually the Baltimore City State’s Attorney charged six police officers in connection with his death. The first officer’s trial ended in a mistrial, delaying the start of the subsequent trials.