People Over Profits: A Vision of a Peace Economy

by Elyse Vesser, Communications Coordinator

My vision of a peace economy exists outside the confines of war, capitalism, and patriarchy. Our current economy operates through exploiting the rights of individuals in order to further the monetary gains of corporations. Oppressing marginalized groups of people by enforcing broken laws, systems, and social practices. Sensationalizing and profiting from violence. Glorifying war. Perpetuating the problematic ideals of American exceptionalism.

In a peace economy, people would be put over profits. Both the military industrial complex and the prison industrial complex would be non-existent. Budget priorities would reflect respect for fellow citizens, prioritizing health and education.

We can no longer thrive on the suffering of others.