While political violence is not new in the United States, incidents of violence are on the rise. These events are gaining more attention in public discourse. Maria Stephan, an organizer, author, and expert on non-violent movements joins to discuss the historic success of protest and non-violent civil disobedience in protecting democracy. What makes nonviolence strategic, especially in times of rising authoritarianism? What can we do to make political violence backfire in our communities?

Maria is an award-winning author and organizer whose work in academic, public service, and nonprofit sectors has focused on the role of nonviolent action and peacebuilding in advancing human rights, democracy, and sustainable peace in the US and globally. As Chief Organizer, Maria provides strategic direction and thought leadership within Horizons, brokering key relationships, bridging research and practice, and convening partnerships for collective action.

Since cutting her teeth in social justice work at Dismas House, a transitional home for former prisoners and college students in Rutland, Vermont nearly 25 years ago, Maria has dedicated her life to the proposition that ordinary people, when organized and inspired, can bring about extraordinary change.

Maria Stephan’s Book, Why Civil Resistance Works

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