Non-violent protests/civil disobedience actions have long been and continue to be the visual image most people have of social change. The great movements of the 20th century, such as the Civil Rights and the Women's Movements, gained powerful momentum as the result of the many protests, rallies and actions that were held. The following links provide various examples of how to develop effective protests and demonstrations as well as other types of direct action.

University of Kansas' Community Toolbox
This online resource was created to promote community health and development by connecting people, ideas and resources.
- Ch 33: Conducting a Direct Action Campaign

Vancouver Community Network (VCN) Citizen's Handbook
This is a comprehensive grassroots organizing guide.
- Books on Action Organizing
- Try the "Large Scale Action" section for information on and examples of actions and demonstrations.

University of Wisconsin's Comm-Org
Comm-Org offers extensive information with well-annotated links in sections such as the Training Programs, On-Line Manuals, and Technical Assistance page.

The Ruckus Society
Ruckus provides training in the skills of non-violent civil disobedience to help environmental and social justice organizers achieve their goals.

The Midwest Academy
The Midwest Academy is one of the nation's oldest and best known schools for community organizations, citizen organizations and individuals committed to progressive social change.
- Introduction to Direct Action Organizing

Center for Community Change (CCC)
The CCC aims to help low-income people build powerful, effective organizations through which they can change their communities and public policies for the better.

Center for Third World Organizing (CTWO)
CTWO is a racial-justice organization, as well as a training and resource center that promotes and sustains direct-action organizing in communities of color in the United States.

National Organizer's Alliance (NOA)
NOA aims to aid the nation's organizers through the fostering of contacts and sharing of experiences.

Protest.Net
This site works to help progressive activists organize by providing a central place where the times and locations of protests and meetings can be posted.
- The Activist's Handbook

Amnesty International
This organization of international human rights defenders, with local chapter offices, also engages in issues relating to the environment and environmental activists.

Human Rights Campaign
This organization works for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights. The HRC Action Center and Your Community pages provide multiple avenues for involvement.