Many activists from outside the U.S. contact me for advice or public expressions of solidarity regarding their struggles. I am unable to respond to each of these notes individually, although I read every correspondence personally. To those who contact me, I would like to convey the following:

Following the examples of my mentors, it is my current practice not to offer advice or guidance to people involved in ongoing conflicts outside of my own country – particularly countries in which I have no background or expertise. Despite the many historical examples of civil resistance we can look to around the world, outsiders are typically not in the best position to offer guidance. If I did offer any direct advice or assistance, your governments would likely use this against your movements as evidence of foreign meddling. Because I do not have to bear any of the costs and risks associated with your movement’s choices, it would be unethical (and maybe counterproductive) for me to advise you.

However, I write this open letter in my personal capacity as a citizen of the world who is committed to peace, justice, and dignity for all people. If you are dealing with a seemingly impossible situation, the fact that you have responded to these conditions with predominantly nonviolent methods is remarkable. I cannot imagine the courage this takes. If you are facing the current crisis by using peaceful methods to struggle for rights, security, and access, know that your bravery and persistence inspire me and the countless others who are watching.

Indeed, if you are struggling nonviolently for a solution to intolerable injustice, you are not alone. There are millions of people around the world who are with you in solidarity, struggling alongside you where they live. Although their situations vary, they are working toward the same goals of justice, accountability, freedom, peace, and dignity. Many of them see victories – some small and some large – in their struggles. Although there are no guarantees, their use of nonviolent methods means they are waging struggle with a technique that has succeeded far more often than violence during the past century.

There are many resources for people wishing to connect with other activists from many different contexts. They may be able to share their own experiences with you – a stock of resources much greater than anything I could offer. 

In the meantime, I will continue my work where I live, with an aim of promoting nonviolent alternatives in my own country – including within U.S. foreign policy. Please accept this humble expression of goodwill, solidarity, and gratitude for your powerful demonstration of nonviolent action in the face of adversity.

Your friend in peace and humanity,

Erica Chenoweth