About Us

The James Lawson Institute is fostering research in the area of nonviolent movements’ history and contemporary practices, and collaborates with program initiatives across Vanderbilt University, the community, the state of Tennessee, and the nation to offer opportunities for dialogue, intergenerational forums, and training in nonviolence. To embody this, the Institute’s focus includes the following key visionary measures: research, ambassadorship, fostering dialogue and curriculum. All of these serve as ways to meet and achieve our vision, mission and aims.

Vision

The James Lawson Institute will advance the power of nonviolence to address systemic injustice for sustained social change around the world.

mission

The James Lawson Institute honors the legacy of Rev. James M. Lawson and non-violent movements. We inspire people to engage in preparation, dialogue, and research for social justice.

AIMS

Towards these ends, we offer an array of programming including symposia, community forums, training in the methods of non-violence, research colloquy, as well as credit and non-credit bearing education.