In this brief workshop, we will explore how to apply our testimony of nonviolence to threats against the meeting or its members and attenders. Drawing on Quaker and nonviolent action roots, we will confront our own fears, and discover effective techniques for de-escalating conflicts and calming tense situations. In our limited time we will focus on empowerment and confidence, and the importance of "team work."

Childcare is available. Please contact adultclasscom@chestnuthillquakers.org by Wednesday March 23 to arrange it.

Presenter Dion Lerman has been leading nonviolence trainings since 1975; he joined the Quakers in 1981. Dion last led this workshop for volunteers at the Catholic Worker Free Clinic in Kensington last year. He has worked with Chel Avery on these issues for several years; in 1992 they co-led a full-day training for Philadelphia Yearly Meeting to try to revive the tradition of the "Friendly Presence": Quaker witness and nonviolent intervention in critical conflicts, such as with MOVE.

Co-presenter Chel Avery worked for Philadelphia Yearly Meeting's Friends Conflict Resolution programs in the role of "conflict response specialist," from 1987 to 1992.