Global Peace Builders The Shift Network

The United States is not unique in its traumas inflicted by racism. Yet, the nation is being uniquely called upon to make racial healing a collective endeavor. The journey begins with bravery and an openness to receiving new information. From the example Starbucks set by announcing to the public that they have much to learn, to Jane Fonda declaring herself a "student" of race — genuine change is afoot. All of us with goodwill in our hearts and a consciousness of "being willing to go there" are invited to join Rev. Aliah MaJon, master diversity trainer and social engineer, and sociology PhD candidate Brandon M. Finlay… and keep showing up for the work.

On a quest to do nothing more than explore racism and gather information for his book, Klan-Destine Relationships, musician and author Daryl Davis eventually became the recipient of numerous robes and hoods given to him by KKK members who rescinded their beliefs after getting to know him. He explains why he proactively seeks out and befriends KKK members as a way of understanding hate. In the process, he helps bridge racial divides and bring about mutual understanding, forming friendships between sworn enemies.

Join William Kellibrew IV, global victim advocate, as he speaks directly to all of us who are traumatized by school shootings and other violence. William shares personal reflections about his journey of healing after witnessing the murder of his mother and brother at the age of 10.
Through his experience, William shares deep insight and empathy about the impact of trauma... including fear, isolation, and the loss of dignity. He speaks passionately about the importance of relationships in healing and how young people have natural instincts to come together to help one another. This episode is authentic, passionate, and inspiring — providing all of us with much needed insights on how to heal so that we're in a better place to seek harmony and unity.

The global situation can seem overwhelming. World-renown peacebuilder James O’Dea offers a new perspective on how each of us are called to step up with practical tools we can all apply today. All those who profess a sincere desire for peace, collaboration and harmony must examine their own lives to make certain they are optimally prepared to serve the cause of peace. This episode offers a map and skills for personal preparedness for these definitively dangerous times.

When we look at the conflicts in the world today, we can often get overwhelmed. In this conversation with Shami Idriss, we learn about some of the positive strides made in peacebuilding. In the last 100 years, wars between nations have dramatically decreased, and military battle deaths are few compared to the past. Yet there's now a dramatic increase in stateless armies — gangs, extremist groups, terrorists, traffickers — and the impact on civilians is much greater. Conflict is inevitable, but violence is not. As CEO at Search for Common Ground, Shamil Idriss speaks to the ways we can prevent violent conflict, and, when we do, everything else improves.

Can America learn from ancient cultures where peace has prevailed? Join Robert Thurman, Jey Tsong Khapa Professor of Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies, to hear his fascinating perspective on this far-reaching topic.