Vigils
don’t just do something, stand there!

A vigil is simple to create, simple to carry out, simple for people to grasp and simple for 
people to join. It does require a lot of commitment to keep it going; having a dedicated 
community makes a big difference. 

Goal- Vigils work both instantly and slowly. Some people will express support, even join 
you, the first day. Others may not take a leaflet for months. Seeing the vigil repeatedly 
encourages people, and gives them a sense that peace is an acceptable idea in their 
community. Decide whether you want to just vigil one day or for a long time, and plan 
accordingly. 

Location- Pick a site that gets good traffic, but where you aren’t disturbing traffic 
excessively (police may ask you to move) and where you will feel comfortable. Also think 
about passersby: the faster they’re going, the less they see. Pedestrians and people stopped 
at red lights can take leaflets or stop to discuss the war; people driving at speed can’t see 
small signs.

Signs- “No Iraq War” signs are a fine start. Larger signs are more easily visible for drivers. 
Talk to Mike Caldwell, (206) 283-1091, about signs and portable mini-kiosks. If you plan 
to vigil repeatedly, you may want a large, attractive banner. To determine the right size, 
notice signs that you find easy to read when you’re at the same distance and traveling at 
the same speed as the people you’re making the sign or banner for. That’s how big your 
sign needs to be.

People- You will attract a wide variety of people. Be careful to make it easy for interested 
people to get involved, but also take care not to alienate pro-war folks—don’t let them 
disturb your vigil, but accept their views. As time goes on, they may become disillusioned 
with the war. If they see the peace movement as having been respectful of them, they’ll be 
more likely to join us.

Current ongoing vigils- If there’s already a vigil near you, you may want to join in, and 
ask what you can do to help it grow. Or, you may want to visit to learn from their 
experience.

Produced by Sound Nonviolent Opponents of War (SNOW),
www.snowcoalition.org (206)789-5565.