Democracy 101: "Opposing Tyranny with Nonviolent Civil Resistence"

A deep dive on Nonviolent Civil Resistance: what it is, studies by multiple scholars, and examples of different types of Protest, Noncooperation, and Intervention. Blending some lessons from Timothy Synder, “On Tyranny,” and some concrete things people can do to learn more and get started.

Mary Idema Pew Library Multipurpose Room

February 25, 2026

6-8 p.m.

Elect Her

Running Start, the non-profit organization that runs the Elect Her program, brings campaign training and real-world experiences from currently-elected officials to college campuses across the U.S. The participants are led through several modules to enhance their understanding of the importance of women in office.Running Start, the non-profit organization that runs the Elect Her program, brings campaign training and real-world experiences from currently-elected officials to college campuses across the U.S. The participants are led through several modules to enhance their understanding of the importance of women in office.

Mary Idema Pew Library Multipurpose Room

March 19, 2026

2-5 p.m.

Democracy 101: "Strongmen and How to Get Rid of Them"

A broad, quick survey of various “strongmen” that came to power more-or-less democratically throughout the past century, then subverted democracy and became autocrats. There will be discussion on 5-6 cases in which they were eventually voted out of office, and another 5-6 cases in which they were ousted by (mostly) peaceful popular protest movements. Then, what “lessons” we can learn from the examples.

Kirkhof Center Room 2215/2216

March 30, 2026

6-8 p.m.