Barbara Lee: “It is really hard to believe that you all want to eliminate funding for the Institute of Peace, P-E-A-C- E. The…”

“It is really hard to believe that you all want to eliminate funding for the Institute of Peace, P-E-A-C- E. The Institute of Peace is one of the best tools the United States has to bring people together to prevent wars--government officials, civil society practitioners, and defense experts--to really to creatively solve our world's thorniest issues. Congress created the United States Institute of Peace for this purpose in 1984. USIP applies practical solutions in conflict zones, and provides analysis, education, and resources to those working for peace. Peace is patriotic, my Republican friends. USIP has specialized teams of mediators, trainers, and others in some of the world's most dangerous places and works to equip communities with the skills necessary to prevent or resolve their own violent conflicts before they threaten the United States. Mr. Chair, I hope they understand that peace is the only option that we have to war. USIP works on the ground with local partners on the root causes of conflict that all too frequently result in America's military gains or diplomatic and development investments going to waste. In a world that becomes more dangerous and complex every day, we need the services and the creative thinking of the United States Institute of Peace. It is hard to believe the Republicans oppose peace. I guess that says that war is the option for settling conflicts, and I think the American people are war weary and support our efforts for peace.…”