Around the world we are seeing a resurgence of authoritarian governments. While our communities face violence, we are also seeing a resurgence of people getting organized, taking action, and building community teams to protect their neighbours. It is a critical time to build our skills so that we can take action together. De-escalation is one skill in our toolbox (of many tools) we need to hone and possess. Having de-escalation skills can help reduce harm and create space to move strategically during a direct action. 

On March 14th, Community Peacemaker Teams will be hosting a 2 hour online De-escalation Training. The focus of this training is not on de-escalating our own communities, but rather a training focused on de-escalating encounters with agitators often in a North American context. Together, we’ll break down what de-escalation actually looks like in real-world situations, not as compliance, but as an intentional tactic. Participants will be guided through an individual assessment of strengths and vulnerabilities, recognizing how our bodies, identities, and experiences shape how we show up under pressure. We’ll share practical tips and community-tested skills.

This training also centers sustainability. We’ll talk about self-care as a political practice: preparing ourselves before actions, regulating stress in the moment, and tending to our bodies and spirits afterward. Movements burn out when people are treated as expendable—this space is about resisting that narrative.

Whether you’re stepping into direct action for the first time or deepening long-held organizing skills, this training offers grounded, people-powered strategies to help us keep each other safe.

This is an interactive training that makes use of break out rooms and expects participation of registrants. If possible, we ask that your camera is on during the training.

The suggested donation is $50. We don’t believe essential skills should have a price tag. Donate what you can. If you can’t pay, drop us an email and come anyway.