Did you know that every year the nuclear weapons industrial complex gathers near D.C. with industry executives, defense contractors, and global leaders, including congressmen? They meet for an annual event called the “Nuclear Deterrence Summit” to discuss their purpose: making more nuclear weapons. This year, the theme for the summit is “Accelerating the Mission: Delivering Deterrence with Urgency”. It is clear they are calling for an arms race. In 2023, NuclearBan.US’s Vicki Elson attended the summit with a press pass. You can read her account of the events here to get a better picture of what is discussed inside the building. It is shocking to see how starkly people within the industry discuss a lack of regard for safety guardrails, and finances as a motivator.
Every year, in response to the deterrence summit, a gathering of dedicated peace protesters assembles outside of the deterrence summit, held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. They offer a contrast to the discussions happening within the hotel– the protestors support the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons(TPNW), call out deterrence’s false narratives, and reject the exorbitant spending on nuclear weapons. The outcome document from the 3rd Meeting of States Parties to the TPNW firmly rejected deterrence doctrines, which jeopardize the security of all states.
The protest gatherings are led by Anthony Donovan, who has previously attended the conference with a press pass but has been unable to in recent years for being recognized as a voice for peace. This year, the deterrence summit is happening January 26th-28th in Arlington. Anthony will hold his vigil in protest on January 27th, while the conference is running. That same morning, in D.C. another story will be unfolding as the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists announces the 2026 time of the Doomsday Clock, which currently sits at 89 seconds to midnight. While experts agree we are closer to nuclear annihilation than ever before, the industry seems only dedicated to taking us closer to destruction.
To join the protest, bring banners, signs, and warm clothes and gather outside the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia on January 27th. Get in touch with Anthony Donovan, with questions. (If you need, you can reach out to Warheads to Windmills to be put in touch with Anthony.)