White House Peace Vigil, Peace protest site in Lafayette Square, Washington, D.C.
The White House Peace Vigil is a permanent protest on Lafayette Square directly across from the White House, where participants display signs and messages about nuclear disarmament and peace. Volunteers maintain a continuous presence on the site, rotating through shifts to keep the vigil active.
William Thomas established this permanent protest on June 3, 1981, creating what became the longest continuous anti-war demonstration in United States history. Over the decades, it has evolved as activists have worked to maintain it despite changing political circumstances.
The vigil draws activists from different movements who gather here to share their messages about peace and disarmament. It functions as a meeting ground for people who care about these causes and want their voices heard near the seat of power.
The site is accessible around the clock for visitors who can walk past or stop to read the messages and speak with participants. Be aware that the location is exposed to weather and city traffic, so it helps to be flexible when planning your visit.
The site has weathered multiple challenges, including Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and a temporary dismantling in 2013. Yet the vigil has persisted through the dedication of those who continue to return.
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