Image by Jason Leung from Unsplash.

The TOS would like to make its members aware of the work of the organization “Nonviolence Works! https://nonviolence.works. NonviolenceWorks! is a “collective of peace activist from progressive, spiritual, and interfaith communities in the New York City area.”

Started in 2020 by TSA member Deb Lee and Sander Hicks from New York and Priya Kaul from Uttar Pradesh, India, the organization recently had its second international conference on October 2, the official International Day of Nonviolence recognized by the UN. Speakers included activists such as George Lakey, William F. Pepper, Esq., Bill Leicht, and Alexa Aviles. The Theosophy as a way to peace was represented by Juliana Cesano.

In the Chicago area, an organization with the same name lives and thrives in the South Shore community. NonviolenceWorks focuses on “violence prevention in our homes, neighborhoods, and wider community.  NonviolenceWorks offers education and training in character development and nonviolence.  The organization was formed in July 2016 by Phillip Bradley, the principal trainer and violence prevention specialist, Elfriede Wedam, a faculty member at Loyola University Chicago and Larry Campbell, chair of the Parish Pastoral Council of SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

During the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, members pledged to follow the commandments below. Today, members of NonviolenceWorks Chicago are asked to make this pledge as well.

We feel this is a great resource for those who want to bring non-violence into their daily life.

1. Meditate daily on nonviolence and its application to my life today.
2. Remember always that the nonviolent monument sought justice and reconciliation - not victory
3. Walk and talk in the manner of love, for only love can see the solution
4. Give my life in service to truth so that all men might be free
5. Sacrifice personal agendas in order that all men might be free
6. Observe with both friend and foe that ordinary rules of courtesy
7. Seek to perform regular service for others and for the world
8. Refrain from violence of fist, tongue, or heart
9. Strive to be in good spiritual and bodily health
10. Follow the direction of movement and of the captain (principle) during a demonstration

We invite you to visit either site for more information. May peace be with you.