Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
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CHIAPAS, MEXICO - From reflections on two women refusing to comply with an order to kill to looking at different nonviolent movements around the world, the recent Las Abejas/CPT Encuentro in San Cristobal, Chiapas was rich with opportunities to explore nonviolence. The Encuentro (encounter) lasted three days and was part of CPT's ongoing efforts to support the development of local nonviolent movements and organizations. It was intended to allow CPT and Las Abejas to share and learn from one another, and hopefully spark the development of additional joint workshops on nonviolent lifestyles, tactics and strategies.

Eight members of Las Abejas and five CPTers attended the event, held at the Ecumenical Bible School. Kryss Chupp facilitated the meeting, which included:

- charting and drawing the histories of nonviolent actions of Las Abejas and CPT

- role playing and discussing different actions. CPTers role played an action in Hebron to block bulldozers, while Las Abejas depicted the action of the women in X'oyep against the military and the faith-based response of the people in Acteal during the massacre in 1997.

- daily prayer lead by Las Abejas and bible reflections on nonviolence.

- watching and discussing a videos on nonviolent movements around the world.

The present relative calm in Chiapas isn't predicted to last, and some leaders in Chiapas are calling for new efforts to train people in nonviolent direct action so people here will be better prepared to respond to new oppression and to advocate for justice. CPT Mexico is exploring ways to expand the depth and breadth of knowledge and experience with nonviolence. The members of Las Abejas are also interested in learning more and in promoting ongoing learning about nonviolence in their communities.

In communities facing the effects of poverty, globalization, displacement, threats of violence and deep racism, nonviolence is essential to creating new realities. The Encuentro was a first step for both CPT and Las Abejas to expand and deepen commitments to follow nonviolence as the path for justice.