On April 17, 2020, the Program on Extremism at The George Washington University hosted a critical panel discussion on extremism prevention, featuring frontline practitioners with direct experience in radicalization, de-radicalization, and intervention efforts. The event highlighted the realities of radicalization, the challenges of prevention, and the ways families and communities can intervene before violence occurs—a mission that Parents for Peace has championed for years.
A Unique Perspective: Former Extremists Turned Interventionists
The panel featured four experts, three of whom were formerly radicalized individuals who have since dedicated their lives to helping others exit extremist movements:
- Myrieme Churchill – Executive Director, Parents for Peace, who oversees the organization’s confidential helpline for families seeking to prevent radicalization.
- Arno Michaelis – Former white power musician, now a tolerance educator and author of The Gift of Our Wounds.
- Mubin Shaikh – Former Taliban and Al-Qaeda supporter, now a de-radicalization expert and author of Undercover Jihadi.
- Chris Buckley – Former Ku Klux Klan member, U.S. veteran, and now a dedicated interventionist working with Parents for Peace to help others leave hate groups.
The panelists shared their personal journeys into and out of extremism, providing valuable insights into the psychology of radicalization and the strategies that work in intervention efforts.
The Role of Prevention: Learning from Experience
Each speaker reinforced the importance of early intervention, particularly before law enforcement becomes involved. As Churchill emphasized, Parents for Peace operates a first-of-its-kind helpline that provides families with non-punitive, public health-driven solutions to extremism.
The discussion touched on several key themes:
- Radicalization is often fueled by personal pain, isolation, and identity crises – not just ideology.
- Hate is addictive, functioning like a drug that provides a false sense of belonging and purpose.
- Former extremists play a vital role in interventions, as their lived experiences allow them to connect with individuals still trapped in hate movements.
- Families and communities are the first line of defense, but they need tools and guidance to respond effectively.
Extremism in the Age of COVID-19
The panelists also addressed how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated vulnerabilities to radicalization. With increased isolation, online extremism surged, and many people fell deeper into hate-driven ideologies. During this time, Parents for Peace saw a massive spike in helpline calls, underscoring the urgent need for prevention efforts.
A Call to Action
The panel reinforced an urgent reality: Extremism is preventable, but only if we intervene early. Parents for Peace remains dedicated to providing families, communities, and educators with the resources they need to recognize and disrupt radicalization before it escalates.
📞 If you or someone you know needs support, call the Parents for Peace Helpline: 1-844-49-PEACE
