The North America Project (NAP) of Peace Brigades International (PBI) works, upon request, in conflicts involving Indigenous communities in North America. We are committed to nonviolence and non-partisanship, engaging in dialogue and listening to all parties to a conflict. We do not take sides in a conflict or propose solutions. We recognise that for just resolution, the parties involved must determine the solution.

When invited into a community, international teams of trained NAP volunteers work to establish relationships of respect and trust with all parties, to develop an understanding of the conflict, and to determine if there is an appropriate role for NAP in reducing the potential for violence. Our work includes observation, conducting interviews, documentation and reporting, peace and nonviolence education. NAP volunteers share the tools of nonviolent conflict resolution where appropriate, encourage dialogue and understanding. In cases of urgency, we can activate PBI's international emergency response network of people who will respond with letters, faxes or phone calls to appropriate authorities.

The North America Project is concerned about and committed to working against racism and structural violence. We recognise that the problems faced by many Indigenous communities are outcomes of structures that do not represent their culture or tradition, and whose imposition is experienced as violence an ongoing experience of conquest. In all phases of our work, we seek to educate ourselves and our communities on Indigenous perspectives, culture and ways of life. We encourage understanding and trust, so that the rift between native and non-native communities may begin to heal for the benefit of all.

North America Project Committee, Toronto, Canada
January 31, 1998

NAP was a project of Peace Brigades International, an international nongovernmental organisation working for human rights and nonviolent conflict resolution since 1982. PBI works with groups that are committed to nonviolence, and in 1998 had projects in Guatemala, Colombia, Haiti, and Sri Lanka. We also participate in joint projects with other organisations in Chiapas (Mexico), and the Balkans.