Proclamation: A Season for Nonviolence in Bismarck, North Dakota
Mayor Seminary of Bismarck, North Dakota issued a declaration naming March 22 through April 4, 2017 as "A Season for Non-Violence". It is to recognize and promote, "acceptance and respect for diversity through educational programs and activities to discourage all forms of discrimination". The declaration also honors people using non-violence to build relationships in their community.
In December, we sent a team of unarmed civilian protectors to Bismarck, North Dakota, approximately 50 miles away from the Oceti Sakowin camp where tribal members and water protectors lived over the last year in an effort to stop the Dakota Access Pipeline. This situation had issues of direct violence similar to the conflicts in Guatemala, Sri Lanka and South Sudan but it was unique because the conflict centered on the protection of natural resources and the marginalization of Native Americans.
Nonviolent Peaceforce’s peacekeeping team in North Dakota focused on building relationships, conducting trainings with local community members interested in being a part of a peaceful resolution to the conflict, and creating space for dialogue and increased understanding.
During early meetings with the Mayor, he was carrying a gun and was antagonistic of the protesters as being paid protesters. Later he “softened,” as he learned more strategies from our team, and was impressed that they had helped others in conflict zones around the globe. In March, he issued a Proclamation, declaring that March 22 – April 4, 2017 is a Season for Nonviolence in the City of Bismarck.
