From the tumultuous regions of Israel and Palestine to the terrains of Rwanda and Nepal, women are driving the fight for peace using innovative tactics. As we grapple with a violent world, how do we tap into our collective humanity? To gain some insight, we turn to those who have been tireless - and successful - in their fight for justice.

Leymah Gbowee shares how her upbringing, where she was taught the significance of education and standing up for her beliefs, paved the way for her to become a beacon of hope and change. From her youth as a spirited high school senator to a globally recognized peace activist and 2011 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, she demonstrates the formidable power of the human spirit and the immense potential of women in championing human rights and equity. Together we journey through the cataclysmic impacts of war, with unique emphasis on the pivotal role of women in bidding peace. We discuss the Second Liberian Civil War, the displacement it wrought, and the residual trauma that survivors grapple with. Despite these daunting realities, the spotlight remains on the unyielding courage of Leymah and the women who stood by her, protesting against the war - a testament to the potency of active nonviolence in instigating meaningful change.

A full video of Leymah's talk can be found here.

Support the show

How can activism play out on the page, as well as on the ground? Can poetry give us a deeper understanding of the horrors of war and genocide? These thought-provoking questions rest at the core of our conversation with Choman Hardi, a respected educator, poet, and scholar hailing from the Kurdistan region of Iraq. We journey through Choman's experiences of displacement and discuss the vital role of poetry in humanizing tragic stories that are often silenced or overlooked. We also explore the struggles, triumphs, and remarkable resilience of Kurdish women navigating through a society marked by patriarchal norms. Choman's writing brings into focus the dynamic women's rights activists in the field and the ongoing legal reforms that are gradually empowering Iraqi women. We revel in the stories of these courageous women, showing us that change, though slow, is indeed possible.

You can find the full, live event with Choman here.

Support the Show.

Join us in a captivating discussion with Venezuelan activist and political scientist Isabella Picón, as we delve into her journey – from learning to read newspapers with her grandmother to standing up against dictatorship. Have you ever wondered what it takes to foster resilience in the face of autocratic rule? Isa shares her experiences with civil resistance campaigns, the foundations of Labo Ciudadano, and her evolving understanding of how traditional politics have limitations in the rebuilding of a country wrecked by decades of oppressive rule.

Our conversation takes enlightening turns as we dissect the group’s evolution from a tactical group focused on protests to a civil society-oriented organization. Ever thought about the significance of 'embodiment' in activism? We talk about it, and how something as simple as yoga can bolster discipline and body consciousness in nonviolent protests. Furthermore, we touch upon the evolution of Labo's focus towards human rights and environmental issues, and the increasing acceptance of queer rights and feminism within the movement. We also highlight the importance of traditional songs in protests, the ongoing threats that loom over Venezuelans, and the complex endeavor of creating a democratic community in an authoritarian landscape.

Support the show

Prepare for a powerful journey as we sit down with Carolina Barrero, the courageous Cuban human rights and democracy activist. Carolina takes us on an emotionally charged journey through the Cuban protest movement of 2021, revealing the role of art and storytelling in challenging the oppressive regime. As we unravel her gripping personal story of house arrest and defiance, you'll gain an exclusive look into the bravery of artists who dared to expose the corruption and decay of the Cuban government.

Carolina opens up about her experiences as an exile and the profound impact it has had on her understanding of global activism. She brings to light the importance of alliance and art in dismantling autocratic regimes and their attempts to divide movements for change. Her insights on global solidarity and its role in sparking protests are truly inspiring. Join us in this exciting episode as we explore the power of shared activism, art, and the collective fight for a free world.

You can find the full, live event with Carolina here.

Support the Show.

Our special guest today is Danielle Assis, a profound journalist and campaigner hailing from Brazil - a woman whose heart beats for climate justice, women's leadership, and of course, the impactful Amazonia de Pei project. She navigates us through the tumultuous political landscape of her homeland, where the recent elections saw President Bolsonaro locking horns with former President Lula.

A pertinent theme that emerges in our conversation is the intertwining of religion and politics in Brazil, drawing chilling parallels with the rising right-wing extremism in the U.S and Brazil under President Bolsonaro. Danielle doesn't shy away from sharing her fears or hopes, shedding light on how progressive activists are countering these looming threats. Our focus then shifts to the Amazonian de Pei project, aimed at creating a safe haven for the Amazon rainforest by dedicating over 50 million hectares of public forest to indigenous folks, quilombolas, and conservation units.From discussing the complexities of Brazilian activism to its potential for ushering change, the episode is a rollercoaster ride through Danielle's activist journey. Brace yourself for an enlightening dialogue that not only offers a unique perspective into the world of Brazilian activism but also serves as a powerful testament to activism's transformative potential.

Support the show

Have you ever imagined the power of art and love in creating a haven for those who feel marginalized? Join us as we take a deep dive into a compelling conversation with Simón Castaño and Yanith Cristancho Segura, the founders of Pósa suto. This extraordinary duo has cultivated a unique space for black, trans, queer, and gender-expansive people in Cali, Colombia, using art as an expression of beauty amidst rampant violence.

Expressing love freely and openly can be a daunting task, but imagine navigating the even more complex waters of polyamory. Simón and Yanith share their journey of love, from understanding their feelings to revolutionizing the dynamics of their relationships. Learn how polyamory, for them, isn't just about maintaining multiple relationships, but about challenging traditional power dynamics and embracing the freedom to love in a liberating way. The power of understanding, recognizing oneself in others, and the transformative nature of living fully are key themes of this episode. Tune in and be inspired by a conversation that transcends the ordinary and delves into the extraordinary.

Support the Show.

Meet the woman who's standing up to corruption in Madagascar. Join us for a candid conversation with Dr. Ketakandriana Rafitoson, a fierce human rights defender and activist, known to many as Ke. In this riveting episode, Ke walks us through her groundbreaking work, from blowing the whistle on a potential case of corruption and money laundering involving Madagascar's lychee trade with the European Union, to her poignant resignation from the administrative jurisdiction following a heartrending case. Ke's story is a testament to the power of individual action in standing up against corruption – and it promises to leave you inspired.

Support the show

Meet democracy and human rights activist Farida Nabourema from Togo, a woman who has been fighting for civil liberties and a democratic government in her homeland since her early teens. Her journey is a testament to resilience and courage, and Farida shares the realities of activism in a patriarchal society heavily influenced by the colonial era, where women's rights are frequently suppressed. Farida gives a first-hand account of the different ways she has rebelled against this oppressive system, including a 'Digital Democracy Program', a creative initiative to utilize technology in the fight for freedom. Listen as Farida explains how this platform, along with others like Bitcoin and Pegases, has helped citizens to raise funds securely.

Support the show