SACRED Work
Creating Change with
Allies and Adversaries
Powerful interests in business, media, and politics reinforce deep divisions in society for their own gain. This paves the way for constant attacks on what we value: human rights, healthcare, education, the environment, and democracy itself. This constant barrage of negative news can feel paralyzing.
But history shows us that change is possible. In the face of overwhelming odds, past generations have won victories in abolishing slavery, ending segregation, protecting workers’ rights, and establishing environmental protections. These changes were not caused by one heroic act, but by the cumulative effect of countless individual actions.
Drawing on the real life experiences of activist Libby Frank, this keynote offers tangible steps for making progress—and explains why we need both allies and adversaries to achieve positive change. Through insightful stories, powerful metaphors, and surprising humor, Heather challenges audiences to rethink accepted narratives.
Find out what happens when a dictator, a cyclone, and an elephant walk into a keynote.
Audience Reactions
Passionate, engaging, unexpected… Heather’s message is powerful and important.
– Jason “JGo” Gordon, Co-founder & CLO at Written Out Loud
“Heather – your talk was incredible! I got chills several times and I am so inspired by your talk.”
– Audience Member
“An unqualified 10. One of our best—and we’ve had about 120 programs. “
– Dick Goldberg, Co-Leader of the Philadelphia Positive Aging Group
“It really touched me emotionally… It’s a really powerful talk. I’m struck by how hopeful she is in that power of dialogue.”
– Tina Shelton, Co-Chair of the Philadelphia Branch, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom
“She gave us hope because it is so easy to feel like no one’s making a difference. But when you look at the long arc of history… things can change.”
– Audience Member
Listen to Heather on the
Chasing Peace and Justice Podcast
This podcast tells the stories of more activists, so that we can continue sharing ideas and finding inspiration to take actions that will make the world better. We’ll also explore staying motivated, finding fulfillment, and celebrating wins.
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What if the only way to make progress is to open our minds to different perspectives? Embracing conflict is how we develop shared solutions. It sounds counterintuitive, but we need allies and adversaries to achieve the change we want to see in the world.
Heather Shafter