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MINDFUL ACTIVISM:
REFLECTING AND (RE)BUILDING

27-29 September 2022

building on the 5 previous workshops, formulate a holistic approach to activism, which simultaneously encompasses both self-transformation and social transformation

Venue

Wongsanit Ashram, Central Thailand

Facilitators

Pracha Hutanuwatr

Sabrina Gyorvary

In a world facing multiple challenges and threats at social, environmental, and spiritual levels, it is more important than ever to act and create change both from within as well as around us. Acknowledging that inner and outer work are connected, this module proposes a holistic approach to activism which simultaneously encompasses both self-transformation and social transformation.


We will understand how to not insulate ourselves from the pain of the world but rather understand and embrace it in order to become the medicine that heals the world, and to help us maintain coherent, healthy and sustainable activist mindsets in line with our vision. At the same time, we will reflect on different case studies and extract some practical tools like planning a campaign, using power mapping, organising non-violent direct action, and making use of social media.

LEARNING GOAL

To strengthen capacity to be inspired and mindful agents of change at local and global levels.

LEARNING THEMES

This workshop will combine 3 main approaches:

1) The heart: Experiencing a holistic and mindful approach of outer and inner change

  • Daily mindfulness practice

  • Sessions around relationships between the inner and outer change

  • Tools and practice around being a happy and long-lasting agent of change

  • Practice of Non-Violent Communication and Action

2) The head: Developing strategic and creative thinking

  • Stakeholder and problem analysis

  • Develop creativity through peer exchange, new tools and brainstorms methods

  • Learning how to build a campaign plan applying strategic thinking

  • Project management basics practice

3) The hand: Get familiar and practice different campaign tactics

  • Lobbying both corporate and Government

  • Media and Social Media

  • Art and Communication

  • Non-Violent Direct Action


The workshop will be based on the participant’s diverse backgrounds, experience and interests as well as on external interventions from experienced activists.

Recommended Reading

  • Satyana Insitute, Principles of Spiritual Activism.

Retrieved From: http://www.satyana.org/principles_new.html

  • Wanis-St. John, A. & Rosen, N. (2017). Negotiating Civil Resistance, Washington, DC: United States Institute of Peace.

  • Chenoweth, E. & Stephan, M. J. (2011). Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Nonviolent Conflict, New York: Columbia University Press.


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