As today we record as a great success the fact that growing multiculturalism, migration and movement of people with varied and different cultural backgrounds are considered usual and an ever growing phenomenon. A lot has been done in the field until now however, still a lot to do in the field. It is important to notice that there is still great animosity within local communities as well as a lot of prejudices. A lot of issues also arise as people of local communities do not acknowledge the issues at hand which creates more and more divide which is not being addressed. Those stereotypical thoughts are mainly generated as a result of the absence of adequate communication, education and the influence of the society through all types of mediums.
Whithin those toughts and seeing what is happening even amongs my friends, I got an idea to approach cultural identity questions, self and other’s perception through a different lens as well as to raise awareness about cultural integration, positivity and motivation to create positive patterns and a sense of belonging. As the name is suggesting, it’s about speaking and creating save space for that using spoken word poetry, creating space to improvise as well as to bring experience into already existent scene.
Hi @evelina , I remember being briefly in touch when you joined Edgeryders about a year ago, what made you consider posting?
Are you based in Vilnius? Curious how your city, or Lithuania broadly, are dealing with diversity, and whether you look at it as an in-group thing (different groups within the same nation) or an out group. For example where I come from, Romania, the issue of diversity is treated at the politica/ media level as a matter of ethnic groups among the Romanian nationality. It’s less a matter of incoming, new groups - where things look good in the quiet way: since we are not exposed to it so much or exposure brings in clear benefits rather than strains (i.e. tourism).
How come you’re thinking about artistic expression as a solution, do you have experience with that? You probably need to meet others here interested in culture and diversity - Edgeryders has a Culture Squad in the making where we try to set up projects specifically on that, maybe have a look?
Hello @evelina , welcome from me too. Spoken word for cultural integration sounds like a new approach to me, at least in continental Europe. Maybe there is soimething in English-speaking countries, where spoken word as an art form is more widespread.I recall @Alex_Levene is into poetry and spoken word, and so is @Dougald . Maybe they know?
Have you tried it yet? Even on a small scale? If so, how did it go? And: was there a language barrier to negotiate?
Similar to @Alberto, I’m curious your experience with this so far. Spoken-word is a passion for me and I’ve definitely seen the power it has to give an outlet for people’s voices.
I also wonder if you have looked into any other creative mediums for creating common ground? One thing I am looking into in this realm is Theater of The Oppressed. Maybe this upcoming webinar would be of interest to you?
Hello @Rachel . You also mentioned the day bio code of ethics in the Open Insulin group. Can you say more about it? I have never heard about it, and perhaps others are in the same situation.
