Thank you, David Hartsough, for co-founding the organization we love!
David Hartsough
While it feels like he is still with us, Nonviolent Peaceforce co-founder David Hartsough officially retired at the end of 2007. His spirit, vision and passion fueled NP during many tough times in our start-up period. While David officially started organizing NP in 1999, his nonviolent lineage can be traced back to his parents, and includes his own actions at lunch counter sit-ins, demonstrations to stop the Viet Nam war, antinuclear work in the U.S. and USSR, peacekeeping in Central America, and training in Kosovo. He has lent his peaceful presence to a variety of jail cells along the way. He remains available to advise and work on special projects for NP.
David at lunch counter sit-in
|
Dear David,
In the early 1990's you had the vision to include Listening Projects in your work in California. I had the honor of making that presentation and meeting you for the first time then. Your gentle humor and self-deprecating manner do nothing to hide your steely conviction to fight for peace with justice. When I learned of the courageous work you had done in your youth and later, I was not at all surprised. It was also unsurprising to find you at the Hague Appeal for Peace, talking about the long-desired 'shanti sena'. The meetings we had there have now led, ten years later, to the continuing development of our -- and I mean by that 'our global humanity's -- Nonviolent Peaceforce. It was your burning vision and Mel Duncan's dogged organizing that pushed 'a good idea' into reality. Gratitude is the heart of my prayer for you and yours and all of us, |
|
David,
In 2002, I heard you speak at Friends General Conference about the creation of Nonviolent Peaceforce. I must have made a donation because for years I received the newsletter. In 2006, I volunteered to be on the NP Advocate Team (now NP Fund Raising Board USA), and within six months I was invited to apply for the short term field unit in Guatemala. You encouraged me to go. Those two events have shaped my life in so many ways. I am grateful for your vision and for your positive influence on my life. I am so happy to be part of this opening for peace in the world. Thanks for all you did - and do - to make that happen. Dr. Ann Frisch |
| Dear David
Truly, you did a great thing....well, many great things! Feel proud. So pleased to have caught up with you again in Geneva in recent times. Colin Archer |
| Dear David,
Praises to you for a lifetime of being in the right place at the right time with the right vision, from lunch counter sit-ins to anti-war protests to the forming of NP. You knew what needed to be done, and you summoned the courage time after time to act on your knowledge. You walked the talk, took the risks, showed up, prodded others, and made change happen. You stood on the side of justice in Central America and Kosovo, and protested nukes, bombs, invasions, oppressions, injustice, and every other indecent and harmful act. Somewhere in there you envisioned and brought NP to fruition, a spectacular achievement that will go a long way to reducing suffering and inspiring a new generation of activists. Kudos. You deserve a rest, but I doubt if you will take one! Warmly, |
| Words sometimes just aren't enough to capture all the feelings and spirit of an appreciation. I feel blessed to have David in my life and in my world. He was my initial connection to the Nonviolent Peaceforce, so I appreciate his part in conceiving the organization that I love and also his part in making my connection with it and with you all who are also part of it. I continue to be blessed by my continued connection both with David and with the Nonviolent Peaceforce, whatever form those connections take as our relationships evolve. Linda Sartor |
|
Thank you, David For being the vehicle That shaped this vessel Able to hold our deepest Desire for peace A humble cup It has drawn us together As this cup is passed Thank you, David |
|
David spoke about nonviolent civilian protection at the 1999 Hague Appeal for Peace. That is where he hooked up with Mel Duncan and thus began the work of Nonviolent Peaceforce. He travelled to conflict areas around the world creating connections for us and opening doors and shaping our mission.
We honor him with our comments below, and express deepest gratitude. Thank you, David! |
|
Dear David, Many thanks for your vision, commitment and relentless persistence, all of which have been so crucial to the creation and sustaining of the Nonviolent Peaceforce. The adventure continues; the New Year brings new light. With great appreciation, |
| Dear David,
Over the years our lives have intersected through Witness for Peace and Nonviolent Peaceforce and on both occasions I've been very grateful for your creative presence. As they say, we all stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before. Your broad shoulders have lifted up so many of us who have tried to contribute to a more peaceful world, and you continue to do so. Thank you for your vision in opening the way for NP to be born and thank you especially for your support and caring for the NP team in Guatemala. Blessings to you in this new phase of your life. Betsy Crites |
| Dear David, Thank you for all your great work to bring PEACE THROUGH NONVIOLENCE. Your sincere contribution towards NP’s vision is beyond words. You are simply wonderful! Love |
|
Dear David,
It's been an honor and a pleasure to work alongside you since we first met, I believe in Pasadena over twenty years ago. You are an inspiration, a good critic, and most important of all, a friend. Here's to many more years of collaboration, and even -- why not? -- a glimpse of the other side of the mountain before we go. Warmly as ever, Michael Nagler |
Read more tributes to David Hartsough.
Share your thoughts, wishes and reflections with David.
Send your message for David Hartsough to Tribute at Nonviolent Peaceforce.org.