Strategic Principles of Non-Violent Action
Non-violent action (or nonviolent resistance, NVR) relies on achieving campaign objectives and goals through tactics such as symbolic/nonviolent protests, civil disobedience, political and/or economic noncooperation without resorting to violent methods.
Organizations and movements that have been successful in nonviolent actions and strategies have come to the realization that ‘if people do not obey, rulers cannot rule’. Power is a relationship based consent. Simply put, individuals, institutions and systems that yield power over others have no influence if a large amount of people chose to withhold their consent to ruling practices in an organized and strategic manner.
While the pros and cons of using nonviolent actions must be assessed according to the particularities surrounding each action or cause, there are many advantages to conducting nonviolent actions within your campaign. Agreeing upon a nonviolent approach to each campaign actions allows members of the group/organization to listen to differing points of views, be held accountable to each other, know what they are signing up for, and keep your groups united when being swayed into a different approach. This approach may not always be conducive to your campaign and should be reevaluated at all times. For centuries though, it has proven effective time and time again to counter repressive and violent political and social systems with nonviolent actions. While you may chose to resort to nonviolent strategies and actions, state actors (such as police force and armed forces) may not chose to respond likewise. Direct actions do come at personal risk and it is important to stay safe and minimize the consequences as much as possible.
For more information on how to design actions and minimizing risks: Take Risks but Take Care
For tips and examples of effective non-violence actions check out:
Black Queer Activists Engaged in Civil Disobedience at Gay Pride Parade
‘Die-in’ against Homophobia, Hong Kong
Steps in a Nonviolent Direct Action Campaign
The trifecta of civil resistance: unity, planning, discipline
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