Lecture

Ubuntu and Non Violent Resistance at home and in the community

This presentation explores the use of Nonviolent Resistance (NVR) in families, grounded in the principles of Ubuntu, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Ubuntu, the African philosophy of interconnectedness, emphasizes the idea that individuals thrive through community and mutual care. Applying this concept within family dynamics promotes harmony, respect, and collective well-being. NVR seeks to resolve conflicts without aggression by focusing on de-escalation, building strong support networks, and encouraging open dialogue. Forgiveness and reconciliation are key components in this approach, fostering healing and restoring relationships after conflict. By using NVR, families can shift from cycles of blame or punishment to a process of understanding, accountability, and reparation. This presentation will explore how these principles can be practically applied within families, highlighting how Ubuntu-based leadership encourages unity and shared responsibility, strengthening family bonds through compassionate, courageous actions. In this way, NVR creates a path to resolve even severe family conflicts through nonviolent methods, restoring trust and enhancing relational harmony.

Biography

Reverend Canon Mpho Tutu van Furth is an episcopal priest, an artist, an author, an accomplished public speaker and retreat facilitator. She has had many roles in non-profit leadership. She was the founding executive director of the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation. She continues to work for environmental justice, human rights and equal access to opportunity for all people without regard to race, class or gender. With her wife, Marceline she has established and is Executive Director of the Tutu Teach Foundation to enhance access to opportunity for women and girls. Ms. Tutu van Furth and her wife live in the Netherlands. They have four children and two grandchildren.