IT'S TRUE. MOTHER'S DAY WAS NOT INVENTED BY HALLMARK. OR BY 1-800-FLOWERS, OR EVEN SEE'S CANDIES.

In fact, Julia Ward Howe, credited with initiating Mothers Day in 1870, would have been appalled by its crass commercialism.

Were she alive today, Julia probably would have told her kids to dispense with the roses and chocolates, and instead join her in an anti-war rally. Yes, Julia Ward Howe was a peacenik.

Let's honor of the true meaning of Mothers Day in her memory.

DONATE TO SUPPORT IRAQI REFUGEES:  Give your Mom the Gift of Supporting Iraqi Moms and families

In 2008 we cannot continue to ignore the plight of Iraqi mothers and children as the Iraqi refugee crisis worsens.

Medea Benjamin travelled to the Middle East to meet with refugees and those working to assist them.  Read her trip blogs here. 

You can donate directly here and read more about the grave situation for Iraqi women and children.

IN 2006 CODEPINK called for hundreds of women from around the country to gather in front of the White House for a 24-hour vigil for peace.

IN 2007 we reclaimed Mother's Day with powerful actions in Congress, a Women's Congress at our DC Activist House, a Children's Peace Festival across from the White House in DC and beautiful actions around the country- from coast to coast! See more...

TAKE ACTION ON MOTHER'S DAY!

You can bring the true spirit of Mother's Day to your community by helping us raise funds for international organizations working to alleviate the dire conditions faced by Iraqi refugees.

Plan a CODEPINK community gathering to raise funds: hold a Mother's Day Tea Party, a video viewing party with our CODEPINKMother's Day video, a Bake Sale or check out our Action Ideas page for inspiration! 

As we help the women of Iraq, let's remind Congress that they need to help, as well. They are now being asked to fund another $162 billion for war! Click here to tell your reps that we want our funds to help the refugees, not to continue this disastrous war! Download this sign-up sheet to collect signatures at your events!

GIVE THE GIFT OF PEACE THIS MOTHER'S DAY

Check out our great Mother's Day gift package. Brunches and flowers are nice, but peace is the most powerful and lasting gift of all.

SHOWCASE EVENTS:

Add your Mother's Day photos, stories, and news links to our website after your event!  Click here to upload your photos and media coverage links!   NOTE: This is to REPORT back on events, not to list upcoming events.