Minnesota Peace Team (MnPT)

The Minnesota Peace Team (MnPT) is a group of people trained in nonviolent techniques who serve to protect life and human rights in potentially violent situations. We do this by reducing fear, bringing an attitude of openness and respect for all, increasing trust through relationships, and at times by being a presence or barrier in a physical conflict.

The Minnesota Peace Team is nonpartisan, we protect people on all sides of a dispute from physical violence. We do not interfere with civil rights, do not protect property, and do not enforce laws.

The Minnesota Peace Team affirms human dignity by training Minnesotans in nonviolent techniques and responding to community requests to be present in potentially volatile situations.

Can I be a Peace Team member?
You must attend training to be a member of the Minnesota Peace Team. Training consists of a 2 hour evening orientation and an 8 hour interactive workshop. To be a peace team member you must believe in non-violence, and be able to stay non-partisan – working to protect individuals from any side of a conflict.

What is covered in the training?
− Role and Definition of a Peace Team
− Third Party Nonviolent Intervention techniques, including communication skill and intervention skills.
− Skills for practicing good self care in a stressful situation
− How affinity teams work before, during and after an event.
− How to be part of the Minnesota Peace Team activity during the RNC, and ongoing.

If I attend the Minnesota Peace Team training am I obligated to serve on the Peace Team?
No, attending the training can help you discern if you would like to be on the Peace Team. We want lots of people to have skills at deescalating violence, and would love to have anyone participate.

When and how often do people serve on a Peace Team?
We plan on having the Peace Team active during the Republican National Convention (RNC) and surrounding events from August 31 to September 5. Team members can serve one day or all days. On an ongoing basis the Peace Team will serve intermittently as called upon by the community. Individuals can serve as fits their schedule and interests.

Training Session Location and Costs
Attend Evening Orientation – 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and one Full Day Workshop – 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

August 8-10
Walker Community United Methodist Church
3104 16th Avenue South
Minneapolis 55407 August 15-17
Friends for a Nonviolent World
1050 Selby Avenue, Saint Paul, MN

August 22-24
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist
511 Groveland Avenue
Minneapolis, MN August 29-30
(9 start time Sat/Sun)
Macalester-Plymouth United Church
1658 Lincoln Ave
St Paul, MN 55105

$35, sliding scale/scholarships available. Suggested student or fixed income $25
Lunch and a manual are included.

Contact Minnesota Peace Team at minnesotapeaceteam@gmail.com or 612-483-6041 to register.
Minnesota Peace Team (MnPT)
August 2008 Training
For service during the Republican National Convention (RNC)