Direct Action: Theory & Tactics

Student Taught course taught by Jamie Sayegh

Modality - Remote, Synchronous

A woman spends two years living in a 1,500-year-old Redwood tree to prevent old growth logging. Black youth endure abuse and violence at “whites only” lunch counters to fight segregation. Indigenous water protectors and allies stand in a freezing river amidst pepper spray and water cannons to halt the construction of an oil pipeline. A small team of climbers dangle from a 200 foot high bridge to prevent nuclear warships from entering port.  

When petitions, lawsuits, and voting fail to make substantive and urgent change, less dismissible steps become necessary. Non-violent direct action (NVDA) encompasses a range of tactics that make tangible change in the world. These tactics disrupt the status quo and empower communities by challenging both the immediate grievance and the existing structures of power. From racial justice to workers’ rights to Indigenous sovereignty and the environment, direct actions have sculpted the landscape of social progress even while being covered up by institutions that fear a more informed, better equipped, action-ready public.

This course will be a toolbox for anyone looking to become engaged in activism or to strengthen their prior understanding and skillsets. Whether small and local or massive and global, actions are accomplished by teams with diverse roles that extend far beyond just those who put their bodies on the frontlines. 

We will be covering topics including intersectional approaches to activism, security culture, community organizing, building affinity groups, self-care and community care, and how to plan and execute creative and impactful actions. 

Texts include: Emergent Strategy by Adrienne Maree Brown; Beautiful Trouble by Andrew Boyd; and Organizing for Social Change by Bobo, Kendall and Max.