Cassandra Lawrence

Journalist and conflict analyst Cassandra Lawrence covers religious-spiritual expressions of violence, non-violence, interfaith engagement, and post-conflict development trends and challenges.

Lawrence earned her B.A. in religious studies at the University of British Columbia and her masters in comparative ethnic conflict at Queens University Belfast, Northern Ireland, where she concentrated on Islamic nonviolence in Palestine. Lawrence received mediation training at Mediation Northern Ireland.

Lawrence’s community work includes a year with AmeriCorps NCCC, with time in Louisiana leading volunteers in the recovery effort following hurricanes Katrina and Rita. From 2008 to 2012, she served as program coordinator for a multi-church youth program in Santa Rosa, California, where she mentored, ministered, counseled, and organized service projects in a teen and family ministry.

Now operating in Washington, DC, Lawrence is a freelancer and writes for numerous nonprofit organizations. She sits on the board for the 9/11 Unity Walk and is an organizing member of a DC interfaith network for young professionals. She regularly blogs at Contemplating Space.

Book Reviews by Cassandra Lawrence

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the clear narrative and straightforward explanations make this book a must-read for anyone wanting to understand the interplay of religion and violence.”

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By exploring these myths, Kenan Malik provides an important primer to revaluate the key drivers in current responses to ISIS, Boko Haram, and violent extremists in North A

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“For readers whose only context for life in South L.A.

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“When asked why his story was important, Schaefer said, ‘Even people who are conservative were saying, ‘If he hadn’t done this for his son, I would not only think of him as a bad father, bu

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“The level of violence mixed with personal intrigue strikes a great balance for readers who want a thrilling ride in the world of assassins . . .”

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“By comparing Brazilian engagement with European, North American and North African engagements, Rebel Music exemplifies how the community is as much impacted by religion, music, an

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“Living into the growth of leaders who are allowed and encouraged to share their vulnerabilities, Pastrix mixes the anticipation of a mystery, a comedy, a book of prayer, and a con