Protests, rallies, festivals, and other community events are powerful ways to lift our voices, assert our values, and work toward the world we deserve. These actions can call out injustice, make demands, build community, and show what liberation and possibility can look like in practice. At their best, demonstrations are part of a time-tested strategy of active nonviolence and community-building that shifts power and helps transform systems of violence and oppression.
But meaningful, effective actions don’t happen on their own—they are supported by trained volunteers who help hold safety, calm, and focus in dynamic situations. Peacekeepers are trained demonstrators who accept responsibility for the flow and tone of an action, helping ensure that everyone can participate safely and purposefully.
In this Peacekeeper Training, participants will learn nonviolent de-escalation techniques for successful demonstrations. We’ll explore principles and guidelines of nonviolence in action, and practice skills for defusing and de-escalating potentially volatile situations. We will also cover how to plan for safety at protests and events, including preparing for the possibility of ICE or police presence, and how PJALS organizes and supports our Peacekeeper team.
This is a hands-on training—participants will not only learn these skills but practice them together in real-time scenarios so they leave with greater confidence and readiness.
After completing the training, participants will be eligible to join the PJALS Peacekeeper Team if they choose. These skills are also valuable beyond protest settings, supporting everyday communication, conflict navigation, and community care.
📆 Saturday, May 9
⏰ 1–5 PM
📍 Location shared after registration
Free to attend. Optional contributions help cover training costs, with remaining funds supporting PJALS and our partners.
🔗 Learn more about Peacekeepers: pjals.org/peacekeepers/