What YOU can do:
Those keeping a close eye on the news know that the situation in Ukraine continues to escalate and become more dire. It's so easy for us to feel helpless and hopeless, but that could immobilize us.
Here's what you CAN do:
Work to understand the full breadth of the conflict from those directly involved: It is at the heart of not only prevention, but cease-fire and negotiations. You may want to start with Ukrainian Pacifist in Kyiv: All Sides Have Fueled the War. Only Comprehensive Peace Talks Can End It.
Be judicious about where you get your information, and whether its accurate before you pass it on. Consider the points made on Win Without War
Access the resource list, Resistance to War in Ukraine, compiled by our Peace Partner, the Metta Center for Nonviolence. It is kept regularly updated.
Support recognized NGOs that are currently offering direct services to Ukrainians. National Public Radio offers this vetted list: Want to support the people in Ukraine? Here's how you can help
Consider sending a message of support to the antiwar activists in Russia.
Germany has offered to help Poland with Ukrainian refugees. Watch for ways to support these efforts, including calling on our own government to do so.
Looking to act from a more spiritual foundation? See Pax Christi USA's page, The Ukraine Crisis. PCUSA is a Peace Partner of MPT.
Follow the work of Amnesty International in Ukraine, which works to free unlawfully held political prisoners.
Do something tangible - right now - whenever and wherever you can. There is a ripple effect to empathy, compassion, random acts of kindness, and nonviolence.
Read "Ukraine: Nonviolent Resistance is a Brave and Often Effective Response to Aggression"
Keep updated on the work of Operazione Columba (in English, "Operation Dove") on Facebook. They are currently the only known UCP (Unarmed Civilian Protection) Team able to work within Ukraine.
Become better prepared. Take our upcoming (virtual) Violence De-escalation Training
Comments