How do we challenge injustice, inequity, war, violence, and untruth - personally and structurally, especially in these divisive times? We wage peace. Embark with us on embark on an exploration and experimentation with nonviolence.
The Engaging Nonviolence Study Program is a fifteen-part study and action program offering participants a wide variety of principles, stories, exercises, and readings for learning, practicing, and experimenting with the power of creative nonviolence for personal and social transformation. You will learn powerful methods for opposing violence and injustice and for building just and peaceful nonviolent alternatives. Engaging Nonviolence is designed to build your capacity to use these methods to address the direct, structural or cultural violence that matters most to you.
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The class itself is FREE.
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The textbook costs $25. Read the book intro and purchase here.
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Classes are held online via Zoom - January 2 through April 24, 2025, Thursdays 5-7pm Pacific
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Additional opportunities for in-person gatherings in South San Jose, CA.
Gandhian Nonviolence Education & General workshops
Online Zoom Events
Post-election 2024 Gandhi Team gatherings:
November 8, 6pm Pacific
December 26, 5pm Pacific
email nonviolence.gandhi@gmail.com for more info
How do we address the socio-political challenges of our times and transform a hurting world? What power do you have to affect that change? Neither passivity nor violence will work. Active nonviolence is the third way; the means of both social and personal transformation. This session explores the success of nonviolent resistance to injustice and oppression and focuses on the nonviolent life through the example of Mahatma Gandhi.
De-Escalation Training
No sessions currently scheduled
Peace Ambassadors help to keep marches and demonstrations peaceful and safe. We're looking for friendly, diplomatic types who can respond calmly in tense situations. This session teaches the CLARA technique for nonviolent engagement, de-escalation skills, and other practical tools, and includes role-play (in live events only). Note that you must be at least 18 years old to serve as a Peace Ambassador. Upon completion, those who wish to serve will be provided further materials, instructions and opportunities to sign-up to serve at various events.
What is the difference between Peace Ambassadors vs. Safety Monitors?
Safety Monitors (SM): will first be assigned to a particular location along the route and remain there until the march passes that location. They will help at VTA crossings, look for road hazards, mobility or first aid issues, help with crowd flow on the turns, etc. After the crowd passes their assigned location, SMs will assume General Safety duties throughout the assembly and continue serving until the end of the event. SMs will wear a yellow vest and be assigned to teams/pods of 4-5 and report to an SM captain, who maintains radio contact with the SM Lead(s), SJPD, and march organizers. SMs should attend training to become familiar with their duties and event logistics.
Peace Ambassadors (PA): will move along with the march (spaced about 1 PA per 200 marchers) in their assigned teams/pods. They focus on conflict de-escalation, potential counter-protesters, and violent agitators. At the march end-point, they will continue serving in this role at the perimeter of the assembly until the end of the event. PAs will wear a yellow vest and be assigned to teams/pods of 4-5 and report to an PA captain, who maintains radio contact with the PA Liaisons, SJPD, and march organizers. PAs should attend training to learn conflict de-escalation skills and become familiar with event logistics.