Non-Violence Project - USA

In memory and inspired by artist-extraordinaire John Lennon who lost his life to gun violence on the streets of New York, the Non-Violence Project USA (NVP-USA) applies its symbol, the "knotted gun," to promote the universal alternative to violence: peace.

The symbol is one of the world's most impactful images, its installation in major cities planting the vision for peace to prevail. The original sculpture stands as the monument to non-violence at the entrance to the United Nations.

Each year, over 1.6 million people lose their lives to violence, World Health Organization, World Report on Violence and Health. Gun violence is now the number-one cause of death for children and young adults in the United States.

Every 7 minutes an adolescent is killed by an act of violence. 130 million students between age 13 -15 experience bullying. 30% of American workers claim to suffer from mobbing. 60% of women have been victims of forms of sexual harassment during their working life.

NVP has introduced non-violence principles and practices to over 10 million youth worldwide, and through its Schools for Peace curriculum offers its Why Knot? violence-prevention workshops to school districts and community-based organizations across America. The organization and its studio offer replicas of Artist Ambassador custom-designed sculptures, the proceeds supporting NVP educational programs. Additionally, the Cities for Peace program provides the opportunity for cities across the United States to purchase, install and dedicate a bronze "knotted gun" sculpture as a permanent demonstration of non-violence in their community. Over 30 major cities worldwide have committed to such installations. Why "knot" yours?

The culture-shift strategy requires the activation and influence of Artist Ambassadors across the entertainment, sports and fashion industries. NVP Artist Ambassadors to date include Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Ringo Starr and the late Muhammad Ali. Partners in culture shift include collaboration with Artist for Action (e.g. Billie Eilish, Sheryl Crow), AMER_ICAN and the WNBA.

NVP is partnering with healthcare and public safety professionals in a unified call to inspire, engage and motivate young people to solve conflicts peacefully. Raising awareness of the national 988 Lifeline is central in the campaigns.

HOW to HELP: NVP-USA is an officially sponsored project of Myriad USA. Contributions are fully tax deductible, underwriting educational workshops and creative culture-shift activations across America. Consider sponsoring a workshop, investment in a bronze "knotted gun" non-violence sculpture for your city or hosting your own special event in partnership with our professional team. In-kind support of event space, art materials and media services are requested and welcomed.