The Resource Center for Nonviolence

Description

The Center was born amidst the anti-nuclear movement. Staff conducted trainings for nonviolent direct action by the Abalone Alliance at the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant and the Stop Trident/Convert Lockheed campaigns at nuclear weapons manufacturing facilities in Santa Cruz and Santa Clara Counties. From the beginning, Resource Center staff led interfaith delegations to Israel and Palestine and advocated US foreign policy that substantially supports two sovereign and viable states, and human rights for all in Israel and Palestine. Center staff co-founded Witness for Peace, training North Americans to accompany human rights workers in Nicaragua in the 1980’s. Staff members also co-founded Neighbors of Lower Ocean in Santa Cruz to conduct neighborhood organizing for community safety and responsible landlord practices. The Center supported the founding of La Liga de la Comunidad, providing organized soccer leagues for immigrant youth.

In 2011, RCNV interns founded Project ReGeneration, an art and activism group for youth and young adults. Throughout its history, the Center has sponsored the GI Rights Hotline, trained volunteer counseling service for people experience trouble in the military. Center staff have participated in national and international networks of nonviolent activists, serving on boards and committees of the Fellowship of Reconciliation, War Resisters League, Interfaith Peace Builders, California Peace and Justice Centers network, and more, plus local committees for peace, justice and human rights. RCNV takes seriously the admonition to think globally and act locally. We endeavor to introduce nonviolent methodology into the work of political activists and community organizations