Women in Black Vigil for Peach celebrates 20 years

AIKEN, S.C. (WFXG) - Members of the city's "Women in Black Vigil for Peach" organization held a demonstration in protest of war and gun violence, all while celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Beginning in 2004, after the start of the Iraq War, Aiken’s Women in Black Vigil for Peace says it's been a consistent public witness for peace for over twenty years now. 

Originally meeting in front of the Aiken County Courthouse in downtown Aiken where anti-war demonstrations were held before the invasion of Iraq, the vigil soon moved its current location to Whiskey Road on first and third Mondays.

The group stood along Whiskey Road holding signs all conveying the same message, peace, anti-war, and nonviolence.

"Wherever you're at you can think globally and act locally," David Matos, President of Carolina Peace Resource Center said. 

Matos told FOX54 that it is important to reach the community, in any aspect.

"Being willing to carry a sign that advocates for peace, encouraging people to do the same." Matos states

Lynn Pownall with Moms Demand Action expressed the need for stricter gun laws and change within the community.

"Making peace is just as difficult as making war. For every act of violence, there's usually another act of violence..." Pownall expressed.

After, holding signs alongside the road, the group met at another location to fellowship with each other and talk about the history of the organization.

If you are interested in supporting the cause, the organization meets every first and third Monday of the month.