Street actions involve complex dynamic situations at the best of times. A lot can be going on at once. We need to continuously recreate the type of action space where all protesters work together flexibly to achieve the objectives of the action in a manner safe for all players.
This training will prepare people to work together to ‘hold space’ and be mindful of and responsive to the kind of interpersonal dynamics that risk the integrity of the action - that is its non-violent intention. With a good mind- and skill set we can be confident ‘buddies’ to those around us as we regulate our own behaviour towards harm avoidance. We can work together to calm an upset person, emotionally contain an overzealous cop, and prevent dis-regulated behaviour by other protesters.
In the workshop we will use role-plays based on examples taken from non-violent direct actions. They will be followed by in-depth debriefs by participants to facilitate shared learning.
The role plays will enable you to experience yourself in the kind of conflicts you may encounter in a non-violent direct action. They provide you with an opportunity to learn about yourself. Emotional truths you were previously unaware of as possible triggers can stir unpleasant feelings. This experiential workshop encourages you to process your feelings in an environment in which you are safe and supported, so in an actual action you are better positioned to adapt flexibly and respond thoughtfully to people that might disturb our plans.
The workshop is designed for people new to non-violent direct action and for more seasoned protesters from Melbourne and beyond. There is something to learn & share regardless of your experience level. Also, the workshops share the date and venue with NVDA workshops*. It would be of great value to you to attend both.
The workshop is also a great opportunity to meet other rebels, hear their XR stories and learn to work together to build trust and community.
You will need to prepare by familiarising yourself with Extinctions Rebellion's demands and principles, which you can find here: What is XR - Extinction Rebellion Australia (ausrebellion.earth)
PLEASE NOTE: If you are new, we strongly recommend that you attend one of our regular introductory sessions - Heading for Extinction and What To Do About It - and our Nonviolent Direct Action Training* before coming to De-escalation training. These can be found under Events at https://ausrebellion.earth/ . You can also watch a "Heading for Extinction . . ." video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVjjRHarTM8
*Why not also come along to our introductory Nonviolent Direct Action training workshop on the same day in the morning from 10am - 1pm? It's the same venue. Numbers are limited so you will need to register here: https://actionnetwork.org/events/nonviolent-direct-action-training-21?source=direct_link&
Accessibility info: "The Hive", 61 Church St Abbotsford, is an old factory building in an industrial area, 4 minutes walk from a tram. There are single shallow steps between some rooms. There are no accessible toilets. Parking nearby is limited. There are no shops nearby so please come prepared with some food and water.
With love and rage,
XR Vic Talks and Trainings Team
