Letter: Learn how to protest peacefully x

Iowa 350 invites area residents to a peaceful protest training on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon in rooms A and B at the Cedar Rapids Public Library, 450 5th Ave SE.

Two groups will train attendees: leaders from Indigenous Iowa on the Iowa City campus and leaders from Catholic Workers in Des Moines and Dubuque. Both groups have participated in state, national and international protests. Leaders will share their experiences of organizing successful peaceful demonstrations as well as how to respond peacefully to animosity from counter demonstrations. Although the main focus of 350 is reducing carbon emissions, people who plan to take a stand on other issues are encouraged to attend.

Two other locations and times are Saturday from 4-6 p.m. at the Iowa City Public Library, 123 S. Linn St., and Sunday from 3-5 p.m. at Iowa State Memorial Union, 2229 Lincoln Way, Ames.

I am a member of 350 because protecting our planet is of paramount importance to me. I believe it is critical to take a stand personally, to engage with and stand with others who share my concerns and to pressure government leaders to act to create climate stability. However, there are many issues that also demand a response and action from our leaders. Collective action does have an impact. By joining together, we can make a difference.

Pat Nielsen

Cedar Rapids