I appreciate non-violent direct action which might mean being arrested. I don't, however, consider painting the Toronto sign pink 'non-violent' see video clip on On2Ottawa (https://youtu.be/_nQrorUCZ1I).
This offers a moment to talk about the meaning of both “violent” and “nonviolent”. How would you distinguish this from, for example, blocking a street?
I would distinguish blocking a street as nonviolent when vehicles (trucks, cars, buses) are inconvenienced and as violent when an ambulance or other emergency vehicle would not be allowed through. The question of 'inconvenience' is worsening when there is 'noise' or 'pollution' of standing vehicles still running (as witnessed in Ottawa in the truck convoy). It is a question of the length of time. How long is the 'nonviolent direct action'? Mahatma Gandhi was open to changing his mind about the salt walk. We must stay open to the spirit.
Wonderful stuff. I clocked up 4 or 5 arrests since 2019 - it was the most congruent thing I feel I've done for dear Earth. Good luck with your project!
Thank you! By the way, I am intending to begin a weekly climate prayer vigil starting in Advent. I am inspired by your weekly commitment to such a practice. 🙏🏻
I appreciate non-violent direct action which might mean being arrested. I don't, however, consider painting the Toronto sign pink 'non-violent' see video clip on On2Ottawa (https://youtu.be/_nQrorUCZ1I).
This offers a moment to talk about the meaning of both “violent” and “nonviolent”. How would you distinguish this from, for example, blocking a street?
I would distinguish blocking a street as nonviolent when vehicles (trucks, cars, buses) are inconvenienced and as violent when an ambulance or other emergency vehicle would not be allowed through. The question of 'inconvenience' is worsening when there is 'noise' or 'pollution' of standing vehicles still running (as witnessed in Ottawa in the truck convoy). It is a question of the length of time. How long is the 'nonviolent direct action'? Mahatma Gandhi was open to changing his mind about the salt walk. We must stay open to the spirit.
Wonderful stuff. I clocked up 4 or 5 arrests since 2019 - it was the most congruent thing I feel I've done for dear Earth. Good luck with your project!
Thank you! By the way, I am intending to begin a weekly climate prayer vigil starting in Advent. I am inspired by your weekly commitment to such a practice. 🙏🏻