The National Network Opposing the Militarization of Youth (NNOMY)

A Personal Reflection | español

2/17/2025 / NNOMY - In a world where conflicts often seem inevitable and the call to arms echoes throughout history, I find myself standing at a crossroads, choosing a path less trodden. The idea of war, with its inherent violence and suffering, clashes profoundly with my core beliefs and values. I have come to realize that participation in such conflicts is not a matter of bravery or cowardice but a profound reflection of one's principles and conscience.

From a young age, I was taught the importance of empathy, compassion, and the sanctity of life. These values have shaped my worldview, leading me to question the justifications for war and the price humanity pays in its wake. The stories of those who have suffered—the innocent lives lost, families torn apart, and communities devastated—resonate deeply within me. It is these very stories that fuel my conviction to take a stand against participating in or supporting wars.

Refusing to engage in war is not an act of indifference or apathy. On the contrary, it is a conscious choice rooted in the belief that there are alternative paths to resolving conflicts—paths that prioritize dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation over destruction and animosity. It is a belief in the power of humanity to rise above its baser instincts and seek solutions that uplift rather than degrade.

The decision to be "Not Available for Your War" is also a testament to the strength of one's moral compass. It is a declaration that my allegiance lies not with the machinery of war, but with the principles of peace and justice. It is an acknowledgment that while the pressures to conform and the fear of judgment may be overwhelming, staying true to one's convictions is paramount.

In this personal journey, I have drawn inspiration from historical figures and contemporary voices who have championed the cause of peace. From Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence to Malala Yousafzai's advocacy for education and equality, these individuals have shown that the fight for a better world does not require weapons but unwavering resolve and a commitment to positive change.

Ultimately, my stance is a call to introspection for all who find themselves grappling with the question of war. It is an invitation to explore the deeper values that define us as individuals and to consider the long-term impact of our choices on the world. By choosing to be "Not Available for Your War," I am choosing to be an advocate for peace, a voice for those who suffer in silence, and a beacon of hope for a future where conflicts are resolved through compassion and understanding.

December 11, 2024 / Congresswoman Sarah Jacobs / Media CenterPress Releases - Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) released the following statement after voting against the FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which included a gender-affirming care ban for dependents. If passed into law, this would mark the first time that Congress put anti-LGBTQ+ provisions into statute since Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the Defense of Marriage Act in the 1990s. This year’s NDAA also failed to include Rep. Jacobs’ bipartisan and bicameral provision to expand TRICARE coverage of IVF and other assisted reproductive technology to service members and their spouses.