Organizing in Increasingly Repressive Environments: Pushing Against Criminalization

With the global rise of authoritarianism, civil society is experiencing an unprecedented crack down around the world. Drawing from the experiences of organizations in Florida, Brazil, and Nicaragua, the conversation explored the challenges and opportunities of organizing in contexts where freedom of expression and assembly are severely restricted. Key questions addressed include: What tactics have proven effective in mobilizing communities under repressive regimes? How can organizers and civil society leaders navigate surveillance and crackdowns while still building momentum for change? How can civil society organizations monitor and be prepared for increasingly repressive attacks? This webinar dove into practical examples of strategies to organize and change in the most challenging environments. Participants gain valuable insights into spotting dangers, sustaining momentum, and building resilience in the face of adversity.

Speakers: 

• Saskia Brechenmacher, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and author of Defending Civic Space in the United States: Lessons Learned Around the World
• Dwight Bullard, Florida Rising
• Julia Mello Neiva, Conectas (Brazil) 
• Felix Maradiaga, Nicaraguan Academic and Political Activist

Commentator/moderator:

• Scot Nakagawa, 22nd Century Initiative
• Maria Stephan, The Horizons Project

Watch Recoring Here