Smash Authoritarianism Summer Camp

*We smash authoritarianism through organizing and movement building, we don't condone smashing actual things you don't own. We are committed to strategic non-violence. Also, we just like the word SMASH =)

States at the Core (STAC) is hosting a Smash Authoritarianism Summer Camp! Come join us for a week of training to expand and sharpen your community defense organizing skills.

Over the last year we, collectively, have experienced the power of local community defense in repelling authoritarian incursions. As authoritarian forces test ‘quieter’ tactics and turn their focus to the upcoming elections, we are offering an intensive training week to kick off a summer of strong local organizing. 

STAC’s virtual Smash Summer Camp will kick off Monday, June 8, and run through Friday, June 12, 2026. It will include four days of evening training sessions and culminate with a fun and inspiring Friday (camp songs optional).  The week will include ask-me-anything breakouts with experienced organizers and leaders from across the country.

Mon 6/8: It’s all about Community Defense
Day 1 at camp will cover how to grow and make stronger community defense networks that are ready for what comes next… and next… and next.

Tues 6/9: You’ve got skills
Day 2 is all about those community organizing skills. We will focus on a set of fundamental organizing skills for expanding the capacity of our community defense work.

Wed 6/10: Do I have a story for you
Day 3 we win the popular narrative and smash authoritarianism by melding our organizing with our stories. Learn practical skills for constructing the story, developing spokespersons, and engaging with the media.

Thus 6/11: Choose Your Adventure
Day 4 we start the practical work of planning campaigns, developing strategic analysis, and integrating narrative work into your organizing. 

Fri 6/12: Smashing is fun!
Close out the week with a day of camp fun. We’ll host both a creative action training and a panel of movement leaders and experts on smashing authoritarianism (around the virtual campfire of course)!

We hope you'll join us.

By June 1, we will email you more details and the Zoom login links for each day. The evening sessions will start at 6pm CT / 7pm ET Mon-Th. Friday will have multiple daytime sessions. Please mark your calendars!

Donate any amount to register!

Seriously, any amount that works for you.

If money is a barrier, simply click here and register for free.

We have trained over 40,000 people free of charge! We’re proud to make our training and programming accessible to anyone. That said, this work takes resources and we believe is worth the investment. This is a donate-if-you’re-able Summer Camp. Whether you can give $1 or $100, we would be exceptionally grateful for the support. Even if pocketbooks are tight, we still want you there - your presence is the most important contribution. 

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