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Talkback - Civil Disobedience

Four anti-war protestors risked their lives recently, by entering defense land at Shoalwater Bay in Queensland, during live firing and bombing exercises. They were attempting to halt a major military training operation, called Talisman Saber. The peaceful protesters were arrested, and fined for trespass and obstruction.
What's unusual about these protesters is they were all Christians - two women and two men, including Jarrod McKenna - founder of the Peace Tree community in Western Australia. They call themselves the "Bonhoeffer Four".

Let's hear your thoughts on the topic of peaceful protests and civil disobedience.

• Have you ever broken one law, in a stand against another law you thought was unjust?

• Ever joined a peaceful protest or a blockade in the name of social justice?

• Eg protesting war, logging, etc

• How do you feel about the idea of civil disobedience - breaking the law to make a stand for something you believe in?

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Comments (4)

Cara Harris:

I would like to commend you on tackling this controversal issue. The interview has certanly challanged my thinking on how I can play a greater part in tackling social/political/justice issues for the Kingdom.
I was so pleased to hear Jarrod - who may hold different views from the general public or even some christians, but offering thoughtful solutions and real hope!

Shane I think you're right that there were two issues that came into the discussion last Sunday night... Civil disobedience itself, and Australia's military response to terrorism. Thanks so much for your thoughts. Keep listening!

Clare- Open House Producer

Sad to hear on the show on Sunday that only comments were against our rich Christian heritage of civil disobedience.

I think the question of opinion on what Jarrod said should be split into two questions.

1. What are your thoughts on non-violent civil disobedience?

2. What are your thoughts on what Jarrod and crew were protesting against?

I for one look forward to the day our resources can be used to build rather than to tear down, to heal rather than to kill.

I am sure now that a new terror cell has been discovered in Australia, the hawks amongst our community will call for more resources to be squandered on military, but I support Jarrod's call to put these resources into development and working toward a more equitable world where extremists will not find the rich soil of injustice to recruit from.

On the actions at the Talisman Sabre exercises, besides the Bonhoeffer four, at least seven other activists entered the live fire area and were arrested. Two managed to stay for the entire time of the exercises and only gave themselves up on the last day of the exercises.

Paul:

I heard your interview with Jarrod McKenna and want to commend him for his courage in challenging the military approach to terrorism. Politicians like to be seen making progress on the issues of the day in ways that are easily sold to the public. Responding militarily to the terrorist threat is a highly visible response that addresses the public's desire for justice and demands for security. Tragically, it is an approach that causes casualties and destruction, adding to grievances and making martyrs that encourage the terrorist mindset. How can a battle for the hearts and minds be won by the sword? I think we must not forget the wisdom of Jesus when he commanded us to love our enemies, not to repay evil for evil, and warning that those who live by the sword, die by the sword. Sadly, after hearing the talk-back callers following the interview, I thought that if McKenna's approach were given more attention at the expense of military operations, those who are uncompromising in their support of the military approach, seemingly convinced that even ideology can be defeated militarily, would be shouting, "I told you so!" at the next terrorist attack (may God forbid it).

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