This four-hour workshop explores the philosophy, strategy and practical skills of Nonviolent Direct Action, drawing on the long history of NVDA in Australian social and environmental movements.

We’ll look at why nonviolence matters, how power and cooperation work, and what it means to resist injustice without treating people as the enemy.

The workshop will also be practical and participatory, with discussion, exercises and role play exploring:

the principles and history of Nonviolent Direct Action
nonviolence philosophy and strategy
power, cooperation and withdrawal of consent
preparing for direct action
maintaining nonviolent discipline under pressure
de-escalation and responding to confrontation
affinity groups, roles and group agreements
arrestable and non-arrestable participation
supporting one another before, during and after an action

Suitable for people completely new to NVDA, as well as those wanting to revisit the foundations and deepen their practice.

Facilitated by Via Stidwell, Peter Robertson and Julie Marsh, drawing on decades of experience in nonviolent direct action, environmental campaigning and community organising.

Light refreshments and lunch provided.

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