UMBC will host an engaging afternoon and evening Symposium focused on the history and ongoing significance of the Catonsville Nine peace action (Fri. May 4th 3pm-10pm, Public Policy Building).
In May 1968, a group of nine Catholic men and women entered Selective Service Local Board #33 in Catonsville, MD. As a protest to the violence and death in Vietnam, they burned almost 400 files in a parking lot. During their Baltimore trial, thousands marched through the city. In the wake of these events, nearly 200 subsequent draft board actions were staged around the nation, effectively ending the draft. “Our goal is to bring people together to better understand the historical and ethical context of the Catonsville Nine events in 1968, as well as their ongoing relevance today for those engaging in citizen-led social justice and nonviolent social change movements,” Joby Taylor, Shriver Center.
Come hear from lifelong activists about their experiences working for peace and justice! Speakers will include Kathy Kelly of Center for Creative Nonviolence, living participants of Catonsville Nine and other historic Actions, as well as breakout sessions on Peace Education, Social Justice strategies, and Spirituality and Activism (and more!)
Don't miss this important event!
Sponsored by UMBC Shriver Center, Dresher Center, American Studies Dept, History Dept, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as Maryland Humanities and other Community Partners.