In this episode, we examine the growing threat of online hate speech in Ethiopia. From how it spreads to the real-world harm it causes, we explore strategies to counter it effectively and build a safer, more respectful digital space.

Originally aired on Fana FM Shashemene 103.4, this episode is now available online for wider access and continued learning.

Key Topics:
• How hate speech spreads online
• The real-life impact on communities
• What you can do to stop it

This initiative is funded by the European Union, implemented by r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformation, and carried out in partnership with Positive Peace Ethiopia.

⚠️ Jechoonni humna qaba. ogummaadhaan itti fayyadamaa!
Kutaan kun akkaataa haasaan jibbiinsaa itti babal’atu, bu’aa badaa inni qabuu fi karaalee itti ofirraa ittisan irratti mari’ata.

Sanbata Guddaa kana sa’aatii 11:30 irratti Faanaa FM Shashemene 103.4 irratti dhaggeeffadhaa.

Pirojektiin kun maallaqa Gamtaa Awurooppaatiin kan Deeggaramu yoo ta’u, Dhaabbata r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformationiin, Positive Peace Ethiopia waliin ta’uun kan raawwatamudha.

This episode explores the harmful impact of gender-based disinformation—from misleading narratives to digital harassment—and how these tactics silence and endanger women and marginalized communities online. We highlight strategies to counter these challenges and promote safer digital spaces for all.

🎧 Originally aired on Fana FM Shashemene 103.4

What You’ll Learn:
• How women are targeted through online disinformation
• The connection between digital harm and offline violence
• Solutions to combat tech-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV)

This initiative is funded by the European Union, implemented by r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformation, and proudly carried out in partnership with Positive Peace Ethiopia.

🚺 Odeeffannoon dogoggoraa akkamiin dubartoota miidha?
sagantaan kun odeeffannoo sobaa saalaa fi akkaataa itti ittisu irratti xiyyeeffata.

Sanbata Guddaa kana sa’aatii 11:30 irratti Faanaa FM Shashemene 103.4 irratti dhaggeeffadhaa.

Pirojektiin kun maallaqa Gamtaa Awurooppaatiin kan Deeggaramu yoo ta’u, Dhaabbata r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformationiin, Positive Peace Ethiopia waliin ta’uun kan raawwatamudha.

In this episode, we explore how media users can develop strong critical thinking skills to better understand and respond to media content. Learn how to analyze media messages, detect bias, and challenge false claims.

🎙️ This episode is led by our host Jemal Kediro, an experienced Radio Show Producer and Africa Fact-Checking Fellowship Alumnus. Jemal shares practical tools and insights on navigating today’s media landscape with a critical eye.

📻 Broadcast every Sunday at 5:30 PM on Fana FM Shashemene 103.4 This initiative is funded by the European Union, implemented by r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformation, and proudly carried out in partnership with Positive Peace Ethiopia.

🔗 Subscribe to catch new episodes weekly.

The #defyhatenow_Ethiopia Initiative is implemented by r0g_agency in partnership with Positive Peace Ethiopia (PPE) and funded by the European Union is launching a crucial media partnership to air a specific radio program called “Itiyoophiyaa Jibbarra Bilisa” with Fana Media Corporation’s Shashemene Branch to empower communities in the Oromia region. The collaboration will focus on equipping citizens with the fact-checking knowledge and media literacy skills needed to combat the rising tide of misinformation and hate speech.

At the heart of this initiative is a dynamic weekly 30-minute radio program, produced by graduates of the Africa Fact-Checking Fellowship – Ethiopia (AFF-ETH) Cohort 1. Our fellows, Jemal and Negawo will leverage their expertise to educate the public, share essential fact-checking techniques, and foster critical thinking through engaging content in Afaan Oromo. We are targeting young people aged 16-35, a demographic often vulnerable to the influence of misinformation. Listeners can expect expert interviews, in-depth discussions on current events, and easily digestible educational segments that break down fact-checking principles and media literacy concepts.

This partnership with Fana Radio allows #defyhatenow_Ethiopia to amplify the importance of media literacy and fact-checking, reaching a wide audience with vital information.

This campaign recognizes that trust and influence are key to changing online behavior. By partnering with respected voices and leveraging the reach of community radio, #HateFreeEthiopia aims to empower Ethiopians to become responsible consumers and creators of online content.

Giving individuals the ability to think critically and resist division is ultimately what this is all about. Small actions, such as questioning a suspicious post or sharing verified facts—can make a real difference, whether through radio, social media, or casual chats because peace is possible when communities unite to oppose hate and false information.

Here you can listen to the recent episodes from soundcloud;

We are excited to invite you to apply for the second cohort of the Africa Fact-Checking Fellowship – Ethiopia (AFF-ETH), an initiative under #defyhatenow Ethiopia, funded by the European Union. This groundbreaking Fellowship aims to empower individuals to effectively counter online hate speech, incitement to violence, and the spread of disinformation/misinformation.

This program is designed to deliver three distinct fellowships across different regions of Ethiopia. The first fellowship was successfully completed in Oromia, featuring a blend of online and in-person training sessions. This second three-month cohort will focus specifically on participants residing in the Tigray region.

This second three-month cohort specifically focuses on participants residing in the Tigray region.

Eligibility Criteria

• Digital Literacy: Basic computer skills and regular internet access via smartphone, personal computer, or both.
• Social Media Presence: Active on at least two social media platforms.
• Language Proficiency: Fluent in English and Tigrinya.
• Residency: Must be currently based in Tigray Region.
• Experience: Demonstrated experience and expertise in at least one of the following areas: media, peacebuilding, civic engagement, or conflict resolution.

Kindly complete this form to apply for this valuable opportunity.

#defyhatenow Ethiopia aims to foster civic engagement and digital initiatives as proactive measures to address the pervasive issues of hate speech and the incitement of violence online in Ethiopia.

We’re currently looking to fill the role of Community Outreach Coordinator for the #defyhatenow Ethiopia Project funded by the Delegation of the European Union to Ethiopia. The project works to mobilise civic and digital action to counter social media hate speech and online incitement to violence in Ethiopia with a focus on grassroots communities. 

The candidate we are looking for should have worked in community mobilisation, peacebuilding, and humanitarian and development-related work. They must be committed to social justice and human rights.  

Requisite skills 

• A bachelor’s degree in social work, peace and security, communications, international development, or a related field.
• Fluency in English as a working language and a local language is preferred. Fluency in Tigrinya is a plus.
• At least 2 years of experience working with civil society organisations (CSOs) with a strong understanding of the Ethiopian civil society landscape and ACSO regulations. 
• Excellent interpersonal skills to facilitate and maintain relationships with community leaders, community members, and diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in planning and implementing participatory learning and community action approaches in Ethiopia.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Have excellent time management and communication skills, as you’ll collaborate with grassroots organisations and the internal teams to deliver results as planned. 

As the Community Outreach Coordinator, you will work closely with our #defyatenow team in Ethiopia, existing stakeholders, and our remote team to prepare comprehensive action plans on the implementation of the project. You will perform various coordinating tasks and administrative duties.

Your main tasks will include:

• Conducting thorough assessments to identify key stakeholders, community dynamics, and information needs related to hate speech and disinformation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, youth groups, women’s organisations, and other key stakeholders, including media outlets (e.g., Fana FM, Tigray Media Houses) and universities (e.g., Addis Ababa University, Bahir Dar University, Hawassa University).
• Support the implementation of community-based initiatives such as micro-grant programs, media partnerships, and community-led awareness campaigns as outlined in the project plan.
• Facilitating the dissemination and utilisation of the developed field guides (Identity and Context, Media and Information Disorder, Art for Peacebuilding) among target audiences (journalists, activists, artists, etc.).
• Facilitate training workshops on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, media literacy, critical thinking, and digital citizenship, including the use of field guides and training materials developed by the project.
• Support the development and implementation of community-led peacebuilding initiatives, leveraging the skills and knowledge gained through project training and workshops.
• Track and document all outreach activities, including participation, key findings, challenges, and successes for project reporting and documentation. 

This is a time-limited, task-oriented engagement, starting February 2024 lasting 12 months. If you are the person we are looking for, please send us your Curriculum Vitae/Resume, Cover Letter to ethiopia@defyhatenow.org by Jan 19, 2025. Women and marginalised groups of people are highly encouraged to apply.  

Building Bridges: From reflection town hall meetings to footballing for peace 

The journey began with a Diaspora Town Hall Meeting in Berlin, held at Makenene Restaurant, where the initiative was introduced to the local Cameroonian community. The event aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Cameroon and brainstorm potential roles for the diaspora in contributing to peacebuilding efforts. Participants from various backgrounds and perspectives exchanged their thoughts on advocacy, peace, and possible collaborations. The discussion provided valuable insights into how the diaspora could use its influence to help mitigate the crisis.

  ‘On est fou de foot’ is a popular Cameroonian statement meaning ‘ we are crazy about football. In 2023, the focus shifted to sports as a unifying platform. The Cameroon Diaspora Football Calendar was created with the goal of  documenting football teams in Berlin. This project helped us engage with the diaspora in a cultural dynamic understanding underlying pinings and dynamics of running football associations as migrant groups in Berlin. Our final output was not just the calendar but the year-long engagement process in this football subject engaged the football community in meaningful discussions about the conflict and the role sports can play in peacebuilding. By bringing together athletes and fans, the calendar became a symbol of unity while sparking conversations about the conflict in Cameroon. The project was a successful example of using a shared passion for football to fuel dialogue and action.

Panel Discussions and Moderated Events: Amplifying Voices

In 2024, the initiative expanded its reach with online panel discussions that included a wide range of voices from the diaspora. These virtual events featured Cameroonians of various ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds, ensuring diverse representation and perspectives. The panels discussed not only the political and social dimensions of the conflict but also the role of the diaspora in contributing to peace efforts. These discussions became a platform for diaspora members worldwide to exchange ideas and reflect on how they could engage in peacebuilding back home. Featuring in these prominently were the subject of online hatespeech and prospective roles the diaspora can play in mitigating misinformation and disinformation. 

In addition to online engagements, the r0g office in Berlin hosted two moderated events titled “Navigating Bamenda”. These events featured special guests from Bamenda, Cameroon, who shared firsthand experiences of living and working in the heart of the conflict. Nduku, a community mobilizer and activist, shared a hopeful and resilient message about the spirit of the people living in Bamenda. Stella Mbuh, a journalist, spoke about the challenges of reporting from within the conflict zone, shedding light on the role of media in peacebuilding. These events provided invaluable perspectives and sparked important conversations on how the diaspora can support the people on the ground.

Expanding Outreach and collaboration : The Osnabrück Town Hall

In November 2024, the initiative took another step forward by organizing a physical town hall event in Osnabrück, Germany. Together with local partner organisation: Bridge builders e.V, the one day event was yet another moment of encountering Cameroonians of all works of life along other Africans living within the Osnabrück area. This event focused on engaging Cameroonians in the city of Osnabrück in dialogue about the conflict in Cameroon. It provided a platform for attendees to share their perspectives on the crisis and explore potential solutions as a community. The event fostered an environment of open discussion and unity, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing Cameroon.

A Continued Commitment to Peacebuilding

While the journey has been full of challenges, including the diverse views within the diaspora logistical hurdles,and a scorching difficulty in mobilisation,  the Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues initiative has made great strides in fostering unity, collaboration, and awareness. By engaging the diaspora through various activities, from town halls to football initiatives and panel discussions, the project has created opportunities for diaspora members to contribute meaningfully to conflict transformation in Cameroon.

The initiative has also provided invaluable opportunities for diaspora members to engage with one another, learn from the experiences of those living in Cameroon, and collaborate on potential solutions for the crisis. The Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues is not just about raising awareness, but also about creating pathways for actionable change. It is about amplifying the voices of those living abroad and ensuring that the diaspora plays an active role in shaping the future of Cameroon. By using online platforms, live streaming and digital tools, we strive to encounter or reach out to Cameroonians living abroad irrespective of geographical location.

Challenges 

In the Defyhatenow Cameroon Diaspora Dialogue Initiative, everything has not been a bed of roses. One of the main challenges we face so far has been mobilizing participants. Many Cameroonians abroad are already juggling numerous responsibilities, from paying bills to sending remittances home, making political engagement a lower priority. On top of this, we face financial constraints. Without a dedicated funding allocation for the diaspora initiative, we had to make the most of a limited budget, which certainly made things more creative than we would have liked. It’s easy to imagine the potential if there were a clear and sustainable fund for this cause.

Cultural differences also presented some challenges, particularly when it came to timekeeping. “Cameroonian time” is a very real phenomenon, and punctuality at events often became a bit… flexible. Collaborating across different time norms required extra patience and understanding. Additionally, the fear of expressing opinions on sensitive political topics remains prevalent, even among those living abroad. Many participants tended to be cautious, and it’s understandable given the delicate nature of these discussions.

With a little more support from Cameroonian embassies abroad, we believe we could overcome some of these challenges and foster a more open and engaging dialogue.

Looking Forward

As the Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues initiative moves forward, there is a continued commitment to fostering unity and collective action within the diaspora. With a focus on expanding outreach, strengthening partnerships, and creating more opportunities for meaningful engagement, the initiative aims to build on the successes of the past two years and continue advocating for peace and stability in Cameroon.

The journey is far from over, and the potential for positive change is immense. Through collaboration, solidarity, and dialogue, the Cameroonian diaspora can make a powerful contribution to the ongoing peacebuilding efforts in their home country. Together, the Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues will continue to pave the way for encounter,dialogue ,exchange and calling to action in view of a long lasting solution to the conflict in Cameroon. 

More information can be found on our website: https://defyhatenow.org/cameroon/diaspora-dialogues/

This year’s conference, co-organised by Build Up and Climate Conflict Action, is taking place in Manila, Philippines from November 14-16, 2024 under the theme “Pushing Frontiers, From the Ground Up“, 

The main objective of Build Peace 2024 is to spark new thinking and collaborations in the field of peacebuilding. By pushing the frontiers and exploring new approaches, this conference aims to inspire participants to think outside the box and challenge traditional methods of conflict resolution. Through interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from each other and gain new insights into how to build peace from the ground up. The conference will also focus on the role of innovation in peacebuilding. With the rapid advancements in technology, there is a growing need to explore how these innovations can be used for peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Attendees will have the chance to learn about cutting-edge technologies and their potential applications in peacebuilding efforts. 

In addition to addressing these crucial topics, Build Peace 2024 will also showcase transformative practices that have been successful in promoting peace and reducing conflict. By highlighting these practices, the conference hopes to inspire attendees to implement similar initiatives in their own communities and contribute to building sustainable peace.

Prior to our presentation at Build peace, we had some working sessions at the MOLD space to make sure that the BrailleRAP was good to present, especially adding the PH version to the project.   

Three days of interactive workshops

The most public aspect of Build Peace is a conference event; it is an interdisciplinary space that runs for three full days, gathering around 300 people annually. Participants come from more than 60 different countries, working in national and international NGOs, the UN system, academic institutions, civil society organisations, grassroots organizing and the private sector. This year, attendees will learn and be skilled on a variety of topics on technology facilitated responses to technology facilitated violence, discovering the intersectionality of conflict and climate, creating mediation spaces to discuss peace building and security, connecting displaced, migrant and conflict survivors to the Internet to learn using the power of self-organization.

r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformation in conjunction with the #defyhatenow team from Cameroon and local Manila ‘makers’ are leading the workshop: “BrailleRap: Creating Community Technologies for Inclusive Peacebuilding” on November 15, 2024. They will focus on presenting a BrailleRAP and leveraging the power of open source hardware for more effective peacebuilding! BrailleRAP is a community accessible Braille embosser (printer) – a digitally controlled machine helping to lower the barrier for visually impaired peacebuilders. Stephen Kovats of r0g_agency, joined by Cameroonian #defyhatenow activists Angaama Joy Amba and Ndum Vianney Forewah, along with Singapore based open cultures entrepreneur and critical maker Saad Chinoy, will demonstrate and show how to build and maintain a BrailleRAP device. Saad, who mentored a group of Manila-based open hardware makers from the MOLD Makerspace, in building a BrailleRap device in the run-up to the conference, will join the team in showcasing the crucial need for inclusion of disabled persons in conflict mitigation, providing an opportunity to strengthen a growing network of inclusive peacebuilding makers. Good news! You can find the BrailleRap device described in full, with links to the open source files and means to build your own device at https://www.braillerap.org/ For the version being developed for #defyhatenow, and the initial prototype built in Manila, you can access the interface to type Brallie now live on the defyhatenow.org server through a click here: https://braillerap.defyhatenow.org/ 

Learn more on the different presentations to be done at the conference here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Kc498qEDHsC76Y7lVwqgtnZykfC3xw9CiBXA1tqPOn8/edit?tab=t.0 

About Us and the Co-organisers  of Build Peace

r0g_agency for Open Culture and Critical Transformation gGmbH

r0g_agency works with grassroots, governmental, and international organizations often to bridge gaps between policy and tangible action on the ground. r0g_agency collaborates with communities in the equatorial regions of Africa and Southeast Asia. Currently most of r0g_agency’s activities are in collaboration with communities and organizations in the Republic of South Sudan, Uganda, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, and The Gambia. https://openculture.agency/ 

#defyhatenow Cameroon

In collaboration with the Association Civic Watch, #defyhatenow works on providing community-based and data-driven solutions to the problem of hate speech, disinformation and misinformation. Our work focuses on creating a framework for increasing trust between stakeholders through mobilizing civic action against all forms of hate speech and incitement to violence. This initiative seeks to support the voices and actions of citizens working against online induced conflict within and outside affected regions by bringing youth, community leaders, grassroots organizations and further civil society stakeholders into a peace-oriented media and information literacy framework. Bridging gaps of knowledge and awareness of social media mechanisms between those with access to technology and those without, #defyhatenow is a growing network of online and offline peacebuilders. https://defyhatenow.org/about/ 

Build Up

It is an organisation that transforms conflict in the digital age. At the intersection of peacebuilding and technology, Build Up uses new tools for old problems, and old tools for new problems. They implement programs, conduct research, and develop technical solutions to engage with conflict and build societies in which everyone can thrive. They work on emergent challenges to peace in the digital age and emergent opportunities to transform conflict with digital technologies. They equally hold spaces within the peacebuilding community for conversations and contributions to collectively learn how to build peace in the digital age through action, reflection and iteration and they conduct research and provide policy recommendations on using technology to build peace and how to address emergent challenges to peace in the digital age.

Follow us on our social media platforms for updates on the developments of the three days workshop. To follow them and remain updated on the next sessions or other related opportunities visit them here: https://howtobuildpeace.org/about-build-peace/ 

Climate Conflict Action (CCAA)

The Climate Conflict Action is an independent non-governmental organization that gathers and analyses climate and conflict data to collaborate with communities towards actions that lead to sustainable peace. Providing climate and conflict data through their  interoperable tools that create robust and insightful reports on communities affected by climate and conflict risks. They collaborate with local communities to monitor, analyze, and understand conflict, peace, and development dynamics in the Philippines to inspire actions and solutions that promote peace and security. To know more and access comprehensive data on conflict monitoring, not just climate induced conflict but also civil conflict and how it has affected the country since 2011 to 2020 read more here: https://conflictalert.info/. You can also know learn about their EWER systems and mapping here: https://conflictalert.info/data-and-mapping/cems

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Sincere appreciation to the support from Build Up and the Build Peace 2024 conference, and to our partners in Manila – MOLD Makerspace, EJ Angeles, Jay Fajardo, and colleagues Saad Chinoy, Vianney Forewah, Angaama Joy Amba along with the r0g_agency, #defyhatenow and BrailleRap teams for making this possible!

Hashtags

#Tech4Peace #PeaceBuilding  #BuildPeace2024  #defyhatenow #BrailleRAP #ASKotec

In a world where divisive narratives and misinformation can quickly escalate tensions, initiatives like #defyhatenow play a crucial role in fostering peace, understanding, and resilience. The #defyhatenow creed serves as a guiding principle for individuals and communities working towards these goals. Let’s explore the essence of this creed and how it can help us build bridges in an increasingly polarized world.

The Essence of the Creed

At the heart of #defyhatenow is a commitment to positive change. The creed encapsulates values and actions essential for peacebuilding:

Promote Empathy and Understanding: One of the core tenets of the #defyhatenow creed is empathy. Understanding diverse perspectives and recognizing the humanity in others is fundamental to addressing conflicts and preventing hate speech. By fostering empathy, we can create a culture of respect and inclusivity.

Encourage Critical Thinking: The ability to critically evaluate information is vital in the digital age. The #defyhatenow creed emphasizes the importance of media and information literacy. By teaching individuals to question sources, verify facts, and recognize biases, we empower them to make informed decisions and resist the spread of false information.

Advocate for Open Dialogue: Open and honest communication is key to resolving conflicts and building trust. The creed encourages dialogues that embrace differences and seek common ground. By providing platforms for discussion, #defyhatenow creates opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding.

Stand Against Hate Speech: Hate speech can fuel violence and division. The #defyhatenow creed calls on us to actively stand against hate in all forms. This means not only refraining from using harmful language but also challenging and reporting hate speech when we encounter it.

Foster Community Engagement: Community is at the heart of peacebuilding. By engaging local communities and leveraging their unique strengths and perspectives, #defyhatenow ensures that peace initiatives are sustainable and culturally relevant. The creed reminds us that everyone has a role to play in the journey toward peace.

Support Resilience and Healing: Conflict can leave deep scars. The #defyhatenow creed recognizes the need for support systems that promote healing and resilience. By providing resources and creating safe spaces, we can help individuals and communities recover and thrive.

How can you live the #defyhatenow Creed in action ?

Living the #defyhatenow creed does not require grand gestures; it starts with small, consistent actions:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about media literacy, and share your knowledge with friends and family.
• Engage Respectfully: Participate in conversations with an open mind, and listen to understand, not just to respond.
• Report and Challenge Hate Speech: Be vigilant and proactive in addressing harmful language online and offline.
• Support Local Peace Initiatives: Get involved in community programs that promote peace and understanding.

The #defyhatenow creed is more than just a set of principles; it’s a call to action. It was crafted with pupils and students as the first target, but realising that we all have a role to play in our contribution to community peace building, we believe that everyone everywhere can use it. By embracing empathy, critical thinking, open dialogue, and community engagement, we can create a world where peace and understanding triumph over hate and division. Let’s commit to living these values every day, and together, we can #defyhatenow

Dans un monde où les récits qui sèment la discorde et la désinformation peuvent rapidement faire monter les tensions, des initiatives comme #defyhatenow jouent un rôle crucial en favorisant la paix, la compréhension et la résilience. Le credo #defyhatenow sert de principe directeur aux individus et aux communautés qui travaillent à la réalisation de ces objectifs. Explorons l’essence de ce credo et la manière dont il peut nous aider à construire des ponts dans un monde de plus en plus polarisé.

L’essence du credo

Au cœur de #defyhatenow se trouve un engagement en faveur d’un changement positif. Le credo résume les valeurs et les actions essentielles à la construction de la paix :

Promouvoir l’empathie et la compréhension : L’un des principes fondamentaux du credo #defyhatenow est l’empathie. Comprendre les différentes perspectives et reconnaître l’humanité des autres est fondamental pour aborder les conflits et prévenir les discours de haine. En encourageant l’empathie, nous pouvons créer une culture du respect et de l’inclusion.

Encourager l’esprit critique : La capacité à évaluer l’information de manière critique est vitale à l’ère numérique. Le credo #defyhatenow souligne l’importance de l’éducation aux médias et à l’information. En apprenant aux individus à questionner les sources, à vérifier les faits et à reconnaître les préjugés, nous leur donnons les moyens de prendre des décisions éclairées et de résister à la diffusion de fausses informations.

Plaider en faveur d’un dialogue ouvert : Une communication ouverte et honnête est essentielle pour résoudre les conflits et instaurer la confiance. Le credo encourage les dialogues qui embrassent les différences et cherchent un terrain d’entente. En offrant des plateformes de discussion, #defyhatenow crée des opportunités de collaboration et de compréhension mutuelle.

S’opposer au discours de haine : Les discours de haine peuvent alimenter la violence et la division. Le credo #defyhatenow nous invite à nous opposer activement à la haine sous toutes ses formes. Cela signifie non seulement s’abstenir d’utiliser un langage préjudiciable, mais aussi contester et dénoncer les discours haineux lorsque nous les rencontrons.

Favoriser l’engagement communautaire : La communauté est au cœur de la construction de la paix. En engageant les communautés locales et en tirant parti de leurs forces et perspectives uniques, #defyhatenow garantit que les initiatives de paix sont durables et culturellement pertinentes. Le credo nous rappelle que chacun a un rôle à jouer dans le voyage vers la paix.

Soutenir la résilience et la guérison : Les conflits peuvent laisser de profondes cicatrices. Le credo #defyhatenow reconnaît la nécessité de systèmes de soutien qui favorisent la guérison et la résilience. En fournissant des ressources et en créant des espaces sûrs, nous pouvons aider les individus et les communautés à se rétablir et à prospérer.

Comment pouvez-vous vivre le credo #defyhatenow en action ? 

Vivre le credo #defyhatenow ne nécessite pas de grands gestes ; cela commence par de petites actions cohérentes :

• Éduquez-vous et éduquez les autres : Restez informés sur l’éducation aux médias et partagez vos connaissances avec vos amis et votre famille.
• Engagez-vous avec respect : Participez aux conversations avec un esprit ouvert et écoutez pour comprendre, pas seulement pour répondre.
• Signalez et contestez les discours haineux : Soyez vigilants et proactifs en vous attaquant aux propos préjudiciables en ligne et hors ligne.
• Soutenir les initiatives locales en faveur de la paix : Participez à des programmes communautaires qui promeuvent la paix et la compréhension.

Le credo #defyhatenow est plus qu’un simple ensemble de principes, c’est un appel à l’action. Il a été conçu avec les élèves et les étudiants comme première cible, mais en réalisant que nous avons tous un rôle à jouer dans notre contribution à la construction de la paix dans la communauté, nous pensons que tout le monde, partout, peut l’utiliser. En adoptant l’empathie, la pensée critique, le dialogue ouvert et l’engagement communautaire, nous pouvons créer un monde où la paix et la compréhension triomphent de la haine et de la division. Engageons-nous à vivre ces valeurs au quotidien et, ensemble, nous pourrons #defyhatenow