In 1982 APEC opened an office in Abingdon, VA, considered a central location for the active peace groups in coal field towns such as Big Stone Gap, St. At first concentrating on education around nuclear disarmament, military spending, and cold war politics, the organization went on to oppose U.S. government’s intervention in Central America, and became involved in many other issues, including labo
r rights, conflict resolution, race relations, and U.S.-sponsored wars around the globe. APEC proudly continues its battle for peace and justice today, forging relationships throughout Appalachia and working to ignite change.
