The United States is a violent society, whether it be its pervasive culture of war and militarism, long term systemic racism or the current rise of political violence. To counter this and build a democratic society that respects human rights, we must educate ourselves about methods of nonviolence and mobilize to put what we learn into action. Clearing the FOG speaks with author and activist Rivera Sun, program coordinator with Campaign Nonviolence. Sun speaks about the upcoming days of nonviolent action from September 21 to October 2, during which thousands of actions ranging from teach-ins to direct actions are planned with the intention of mainstreaming nonviolence. She explains why nonviolence is essential in a democratic society and where people can find resources and training.
Listen here:
Guest:
Rivera Sun is a visionary writer whose work aims to awaken and empower readers of all ages. For nearly a decade, her popular Dandelion Trilogy has sold thousands of copies annually. Her acclaimed Ari Ara Series has been enjoyed by readers of all ages, taught in classrooms, and read by peace groups. Her high-quality literature captures the imagination with a blend of utterly compelling stories and social justice themes.
Rivera is the founding editor of the prize-winning Nonviolence News. Over 5 years, she co-hosted two radio shows broadcasted nationwide on Pacifica Network stations. Rivera is a frequent guest presenter at universities, libraries and schools, and peace and justice organizations. Her syndicated articles have been published in hundreds of journals nationwide. As a trainer and educator, Rivera has facilitated sold-out workshops in writing, peace studies, and nonviolent action. She also hosts popular book discussion groups for readers of all ages and has run successful community publishing campaigns for 8 novels. She regularly posts literary and social justice-themed content to her 5,000 Facebook friends/followers and 24,500 Twitter followers, as well as maintaining a personal newsletter to 1500+ readers and fans.
In 2020, her novel The Lost Heir was nominated for the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, the nation’s most prestigious peace literature prize. In 2015, she conducted a 50-city, grassroots-organized speaking tour for The Dandelion Insurrection. Rivera Sun attended Bennington College on full scholarship, including a major scholarship from the Harcourt Foundation. Rivera Sun currently serves on the Advisory Board of World BEYOND War and the board of Backbone Campaign, and works with Pace e Bene’s Campaign Nonviolence with tens of thousands of people across the country and globe. www.riverasun.com