The Future of Nonviolence

Six perspectives on activism in the 21st century

There is plenty to say — and a great deal has been said already — about the Civil Rights Movement’s legacy of nonviolence. But how is that legacy being interpreted and implemented today, and to what ends?

The following series of essays offers six perspectives on peaceful activism in the 21st century: Sen. Nan Orrock, D-Atlanta, writes on the important role of women in the peacemaking process; Shabnam Bashiri details Occupy Our Homes Atlanta’s efforts; undocumented student Rolando Zenteno reflects on the Dream Act; Georgians for Gun Safety Executive Director Alice Johnson covers gun control; Rev. Dr. William J. Barber, II addresses morality and politics; and “Democracy Now!’s” Amy Goodman and Denis Moynihan contemplate the media and protest in light of the NSA’s recently revealed surveillance tactics.

The future of nonviolence will be determined by those willing to take action. Here are some of their voices.