Join the Georgetown University Center for Faith and Justice for a practical, action-oriented workshop on Friday, March 21, from 4:00–5:30 p.m. ET, as part of the Friday Fast for Justice series. Led by Dr. Maria J. Stephan of the Horizons Project and Matt Guynn of On Earth Peace, this session will examine the role of nonviolent action in defending rights, freedoms, and community safety in the face of rising authoritarian challenges. Historically, faith communities have played a crucial role in movements for justice and democracy. From Poland, to the Philippines, to South Africa to the US Civil Rights movement, faith communities have used creative forms of nonviolence and nonviolent resistance to turn the tide of authoritarian rule. Today, with the ongoing efforts to weaponize government to punish perceived opponents, harm vulnerable communities, and normalize political violence, we need urgent action inspired by our faith. 

This workshop will equip participants with nonviolent strategies and tools to build community solidarity and advance democratic freedoms. Faith leaders will be invited to consider how their own traditions can play a role in resisting democratic backsliding, identifying next steps in their own spheres of influence. This event is part of the “Friday Fast for Justice” series hosted by Georgetown University’s Center for Faith and Justice.

Dr. Maria J. Stephan is the co-lead and chief organizer at the Horizons Project, which focuses on building a broad front to challenge authoritarianism and build a vibrant multi-racial democracy in the US. Stephan has authored and edited five books, including the award-winning Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Nonviolent Conflict; she formerly directed the Program on Nonviolent Action at the US Institute of Peace, and served in the US State Department. 

Matt Guynn is co-executive director and director of organizing for church and community groups with On Earth Peace, a Christian peacebuilding organization. Matt works with groups around the U.S. and internationally to build capacity for nonviolence and develop projects to challenge violence and build justice. 

To RSVP: https://events.zoom.us/ev/AqPjNIc9gGgpAO8HQzPFu09KN_uXm28lxkwTqMwv5vtEw5OPrN1M~AjRnbw0iAW_WekSYsG3eAT6ixoedLKg1s-FuLiCFBMxv9tbFf_5aj6iOcw

 For registration information, email [email protected] or visit https://faithandjustice.georgetown.edu/upcoming-events/