Metta’s Nonviolence Studies Program : Year 2026
Nourish the nonviolent worldview and practice the skills of nonviolence
Our 2026 Nonviolence Studies Program
is a 12-month experiential program designed to help participants deepen their understanding and practice of nonviolence—from the inner life to global systems.
Each month introduces a new theme that builds upon the previous, weaving together philosophy, science, communication skills, and creative action. Participants engage in study, dialogue, reflection, and community-based projects that prepare them to bring nonviolence into every dimension of life.
12 Months of Nonviolence Study and Practice
Two Tracks:
1. Apply for your Certificate in Nonviolence Studies: Available for those who complete all twelve months of study;
OR
2. Non-certificate path: Join for any month-long course throughout the year.
How the Program Works
This program is built around community, reflection, and action.
Each month introduces a central theme, explored through readings, guided journaling, group dialogue, and practical application.
Small Group Learning
Participants meet in small groups each month. These circles provide space for mutual support, deeper exploration, and accountability in practicing nonviolence together.
Weekly Rhythm
Each week, participants receive:
Readings and learning materials related to the week’s focus.
A journaling prompt for personal reflection.
An invitation to a live discussion session (weekly or bi-weekly) to explore insights and challenges together.
This rhythm allows time for steady engagement—learning, reflecting, and applying nonviolence throughout the month.
Practice and Application
Every month, participants are encouraged to bring nonviolence into action, in ways both small and significant. That may mean:
Experimenting with new communication tools,
Using restorative approaches to conflict,
Joining or starting a community initiative, or
Practicing compassion and presence in daily interactions.
By the end of the year, participants will have integrated nonviolence not only as a philosophy, but as a living, evolving practice that shapes both self and society.
2026 Curriculum
January — New Story: Imagining a Culture of Peace
Begin by exploring how the stories we tell about human nature shape our world. Challenge narratives of domination and violence, and imagine new ones based on cooperation, dignity, and mutual care.
Learning Goals:
Understand how dominant cultural narratives influence systems and behavior.
Articulate a new story of human nature rooted in person power and interconnectedness.
February — The Science of Nonviolence: Understanding Human Nature and Change
Discover the research supporting nonviolent principles. Through neuroscience, psychology, and evolutionary studies, explore how empathy and cooperation are biological realities.
Learning Goals:
Examine the scientific evidence for empathy, cooperation, and collective transformation.
Gain confidence in nonviolence as a natural and effective force for change.
March — Inner Work and Person Power: Cultivating Nonviolence Within
True nonviolence begins within. Focus on mindfulness, emotional literacy, and grounded presence under pressure.
Learning Goals:
Cultivate awareness of inner patterns and emotional responses.
Practice transforming fear and anger into clarity, compassion, and courage.
April — Communication Tools for Nonviolent Conflict Resolution
Learn dialogue-based methods that prevent and transform conflict. Practice empathy, listening, and authentic expression.
Learning Goals:
Strengthen skills in active listening and needs-based communication.
Apply communication tools to manage conflict constructively.
May — Restorative Justice Practices: Healing and Accountability
Explore justice as healing rather than punishment. Learn how restorative practices rebuild relationships, repair harm, and foster accountability.
Learning Goals:
Understand principles and processes of restorative justice.
Explore how communities can restore trust and wholeness after harm.
June — Gandhi and the Power of Satyagraha
Study Gandhi’s experiments with truth and nonviolent resistance as a model for personal and social transformation.
Learning Goals:
Immerse ourselves in inspiration from Gandhi.
Understand Gandhi’s philosophy linking inner work and outer action.
Reflect on applying truth, noncooperation, and self-discipline in daily life.
July — Martin Luther King Jr.: Nonviolence and Social Justice
Discover how King and the Civil Rights Movement adapted and deepened Gandhian principles.
Learning Goals:
Immerse ourselves in inspiration from Dr. King.
Analyze the Kingian six principles and steps of nonviolence.
Explore the Beloved Community as a model for social transformation.
August — Unarmed Civilian Protection: Practical Strategies
Learn how nonviolence protects lives in conflict zones today. Study case examples of accompaniment, presence, and proactive peacebuilding.
Learning Goals:
Examine real-world examples of nonviolent protection.
Identify community-based strategies for safety and solidarity.
September — Gandhian Economics: Sustainability and Justice
Reimagine the economy through sufficiency, dignity, and ecological care.
Learning Goals:
Explore economic models rooted in simplicity and fairness.
Understand how nonviolent economics supports human and planetary well-being.
October — Constructive Program: Building Alternatives and Positive Change
Shift from resistance to reconstruction. Design projects that embody nonviolence through creative, practical initiatives.
Learning Goals:
Understand Gandhi’s concept of constructive program.
Begin developing or joining initiatives that model nonviolence in action.
November — Peace Journalism: Reporting for a Culture of Peace
Examine how storytelling shapes public consciousness. Learn principles of peace journalism and explore ways to humanize conflict through narrative.
Learning Goals:
Identify how traditional journalism can perpetuate or prevent violence.
Practice peace-oriented storytelling that uplifts solutions and dignity.
December — Nonviolence in Action: Designing Our Futures
This culminating month welcomes both current participants and new voices into a shared exploration of what a nonviolent future could look like. Together, we study examples of nonviolent change, engage in visioning exercises, and co-create practical ideas for applying these principles in daily life and community action.
Learning Goals:
Envision what a nonviolent society could look like and identify key steps toward it.
Collaborate on creative, practical ways to bring nonviolence into community life.
Integrate personal insights with collective visioning for a hopeful and actionable future.
Ongoing Elements
Monthly study circles and community discussions
Optional readings, journaling prompts, and reflective exercises
Mentorship and peer feedback on projects
Certificate in Nonviolence Studies for participants who engage in all core modules
“I am a humble explorer of the science of nonviolence.”
~Gandhi
