ABSTRACT
In recent years my work has focused on the role of love in ending domination. Contemplating the factors that lead people to struggle for justice and strive to build community has led me to think critically about the place of love. Whether the issue is ending racism, sexism, homophobia, or class elitism, when I interview folks about what leads them to overcome dominator thinking and action they invariably speak about love, about learning acceptance of difference from someone they care about. They talk about being rigorously challenged by the longing to connect and join with someone who is either radically different or holds beliefs and opinions so unlike their own as to be a source of estrangement and conflict, so much so that only sustained, caring, critical vigilance can ensure continued contact. For many of these individuals it is active involvement with movements to end domination that has pushed them in the direction of critical thinking and change.
