Through Americans for Informed Democracy "Counterterrorism" initiative, AID aims to support and strengthen existing efforts by families and friends of people directly affected by terrorism; bring together and support the work of families and friends who are trying to counter terrorism through nonviolent global engagement—promoting education, poverty eradication and tolerance internationally—and amplify their voices and the impact of their actions by encouraging others to get involved.
AID not only empowers and supports affected family and friends, but we also find appropriate ways to use their voices, talents and resources to support these and other international development, education, and/or advocacy activities. We tell the stories of the families and friends of those affected directly by terrorism and highlight their work to help realize their loved ones' dreams, cut short by terrorism.
Some creative initiatives include:
-Projects that foster goodwill, tolerance and understanding across cultures.
-Projects that families and friends of those affected directly by terrorism have chosen to support and that help celebrate the lives and spirits of their loved ones in personal and meaningful ways.
-Projects to which AID can add value by amplifying impact and involvement in existing activities.
One such example is with the story of Susan Retik and Patti Quigley, two women who lost their husbands on September 11th and channeled their grief into positive action by empowering widows in Afghanistan. The documentary, Beyond Belief, tells their story and takes a distinctly personal look at a highly-politicized issue and aims to transcend politics by highlighting the common humanity shared by war widows and their children both in the United States and Afghanistan. Americans for Informed Democracy have partnered with Principle Pictures, Inc., to screen this film and host guests such as Susan Retik and representatives from organizations such as Beyond the 11th, CARE, UNIFEM, 1000 Voices Archive, and Peace X Peace.
Upcoming Events:
Beyond Belief Global Citizenry Workshop Tour - February and March 2009
Spring 2009 - Portland, OR, Columbus, OH, and Phoenix, AZ
Past Beyond Belief Leadership Conferences
September 27, 2008 - Atlanta, GA
November 22, 2008 - Los Angeles, CA