8 ways to support student protesters: Across the country, thousands of students are demanding their universities divest from companies profiting from Israel’s attacks on Gaza. But instead of respecting students’ right to peacefully assemble, many universities have responded with brutal force and called in police. AFSC joins in solidarity with students and their powerful nonviolent protest. Here are some ways you can show your support.
Tell Congress to abolish the death penalty: Since the start of 2024, executions have been carried out in five states. At least eight more executions are scheduled before the end of this year. The death penalty flies in the face of moral values, common sense, and history. It’s long past time for the federal government and all states to abolish capital punishment once and for all.
Building skills for police alternatives (May 8, 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT): Join us for the final webinar in our “Think Twice” webinar series. You’ll learn concrete skills from activists who are leading transformative work to build community safety beyond policing. If you missed any of our previous webinars, recordings are now available online.
Exposing violence of militarized weapons in California prisons: AFSC has released a new report revealing the widespread use of militarized weapons on people in California prisons and jails. Over three years, state prison staff documented 22,315 uses of force against incarcerated people. That includes rubber bullets, pepper spray, and tear gas. “The massive use of militarized weaponry against people with mental illness, hidden behind prison walls, cries out for attention and action,” says AFSC’s John Lindsay-Poland.
Helping people keep their homes in North Carolina: Last year, over 16,000 people in Guilford County faced eviction. Many of them didn’t know about a legal resource program that could help them stay in their homes. That’s why AFSC North Carolina and volunteers launched the campaign “Keep Gate City Housed.” Our efforts will connect more residents with free legal representation, mediation services, and help with rental assistance applications. (Triad City Beat)
Apartheid-Free webinar: The Palestinian experience in Israel (May 9, 12 noon ET / 9 a.m. PT): This month, we’ll hear from Mohammed Zeidan who will discuss the realities of apartheid in occupied Palestine and the discrimination faced by the Arab minority within Israel. Mohammed is the former director of the Arab Association for Human Rights. Join us to learn more and explore avenues for meaningful solidarity and action.
