In celebration of and with a firm belief that peace starts when we meet our community’s needs, the Greater Tacoma Peace Prize is proud to announce Diane Powers as the 2024 Laureate. Throughout her lengthy career, Diane Powers remained dedicated to recognizing, supporting, and advocating for the needs of our houseless neighbors, vulnerable youth, and communities of color. From her role as a United Nations World Conference Delegate Against Racism, her work at Pierce County connections and the Tacoma Office of Equity and Human Rights, to her post-retirement role as the Board President of Associated Ministries, Diane remains steadfast in her commitment to fostering peace in our community.

The Greater Tacoma Peace Prize Board recognizes the demand for work that addresses the ongoing housing crisis in our own backyard. Diane’s work addressing the needs of one of the most vulnerable houseless populations — our youth — is a testament to her unyielding commitment to Tacoma and its future. Her ongoing work and engagement at the international, county, and city levels have impressed the board and the community.

Lucas Smiraldo, who nominated Diane Powers for the Greater Tacoma Peace Prize, said:

“Diane Powers is a force for peace and racial justice in Tacoma government [and] spiritual communities, with her concern for vulnerable youth continuing to drive her advocacy.”

As we face the ongoing ramifications of a global pandemic, the ever-increasing cost of living, and systemic barriers to meeting basic needs, Diane Powers’ commitment to vulnerable youth and racial equity reminds us that individuals can and do cause change.