2019 Action Week in Review
Today is the last day of the 2019 Campaign Nonviolence Week of Actions, and we are so impressed by all the dedicated organizers who made over 3300 events happen around the world. Your efforts are worthwhile. Thank you for your hard work. Please be sure to send us your reports and photos from your actions. We will continue to share and post as the reports come in. The work of building a culture of nonviolence takes place year round, not just during action week. You can plan your next steps by checking out our new nonviolence study guide or considering joining us in Albuquerque for the CNV National Conference next year.
Sherwood, OR had over 200 people turn out for a peace pole dedication, peace pole walk, live concert by Jenny Sizzler, dance recital by Sherwood Dance Academy, and International Peace Flag Ceremony.
David O'Brien of Bennington, VT shares: “A small gathering of regulars at the town hall Peace park joined in for songs and readings. The Peace Activist Bare Armed Militia from the Northshire was well represented with our CNV banner. We then gathered at the UU Center for goodies and the Quakers showing of ‘A Bold Peace.’ A powerful film on Costa Rica and the history of abolishing the military.”
Isaac Omondi of Nairobi, Kenya writes of their event for 83 people, “The event involved introduction of and discussions about achieving 17 Global Goals as building blocks for Peace.Participants were given chance to sign a pledge for a culture of Peace created by UNESCO for winners of Nobel Peace Prize. Additionally, participants learned ways of taking action as individuals in order to help achieve these goals.”
Mary Gourdoux of El Paso, TX describes their action that reached 50 people: “Border Peace Presence and Pax Christi El Paso Peace Vigil - Members of the group stood in downtown El Paso (as they do weekly at noon) with peace, pro-migrant, social justice and pro-environment signs. Climate Strike - Organized by the Sunrise Movement in Memorial Park. BPP members Fr. Peter Hinde and Mary Gourdoux were invited to speak on the effect of the military on the environment. The crowd was very receptive to our message.”
Linda O'Hara-Scott of Eureka, CA shares that 150 peope came out for their event: “We had tabling and a saxophonist Marla J.; Linda introduced event; Invocation by Yurok elder; Songs by Arcata Interfaith Gospel Choir; Raging Grannies; Angel Fargas; & Jan Bramlett; Poetry Reading by 7 local poets including; Lori C., Steve C., Galeladi R., Brenda P., Steven B., Diane J., and Jene Mc.; talk on treaties by Sue Hilton; followed by a Candlelight Vigil and group sing.”
Mira Vowles of Beaverton, OR writes of their 75 person action: “We gathered to dedicate the 17th peace pole in Beaverton and celebrated with songs and free cookies! The celebration was scaled back due to showers, but thanks to all who contributed to make dedication a success!”