Cultures of Peace

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Violence in our everyday language: Technology

So, over the past few weeks I have been limiting my speech in order to observe unconscious violence in English speech patterns. Here’s one:

When our electronic devices’ batteries reach 0% they turn off. We commonly refer to this as “dead”. For instance, “My phone died.” When in fact what we mean to say is “My phone is without charge.”

See how violent we are? :o)

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Fun with Freire: Preface to Pedagogy of the Oppressed (English edition)

Many phrases are taken directly from the text.

Grounded in concrete situation, Pedagogy of the Oppressed is an essay regarding conscientização.  Conscientização is loosely translated to “consciousness raising” yet is more than this. It is a process of creating empowering freedom and used in this essay as a comparative to the production of oppressive domination.

Freire notes that many humans believe that ignorance of oppression produces a secure, stable society. Through this claim they reveal their unconscious fear of freedom through their perception of the dangers of conscientização, a sensation of total collapse leading to fanaticism. Ultimately this perception is grounded in the maintenance of the status quo. For these humans freedom is the status quo.

But what of those for whom the status quo affords little, if any, semblance of freedom? For those humans conscientização does not lead to perceptions of fear, collapse, or sectarianism. Indeed, it allows these humans to become subjects within the historical process as opposed to the objects of others.

The essay is for radicals, or a humans fostered by a critical spirit committed to the position they choose. For instance, to struggle with the oppressed. This type of sober radicalization empowers humans to create and liberate by transforming reality. It does not lead to immoderate fanaticism, which causes sectarianism that mythicizes and alienates humans in order to produce a false “reality.”

Sectarianism, a consequence of fanaticism, for instance of the Left and Right, is critiqued. The Leftists believes in an inevitable historical process that ends in a preordained future (think proletariat revolution theories of the late 19th century). While the Rightist believes they must domesticate the present by slowing down the historical process (think the “compromise” at the end of the 1381 peasant's revolt in England). Of course, Freire reveals that both of these perceptions exist in circles of conformity which negate the freedom for liberation by not allowing space for different perceptions. 

What is needed is not a reconciliation of these extremes, rather a reconciliation of personhood, or as Freire phrases, humanization. This is a task for radicals whom enter reality more fully through a dialogue with the people and a commitment to fight by their side.

Freire then ends by hoping that humans will critique this essay in order to improve it. Luckily this occurred throughout his life and is reflected upon in his text Pedagogy of Hope.

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Six Steps of Nonviolent Social Change: Kingian Philosophy

1. Information Gathering

2. Education

3. Personal Commitment

4. Discussion/Negotiation

5. Direct Action

6. Reconciliation 

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These are selected excerpts of speeches, film clips, and other media sources that can allow us to remember the King we need to emulate in order to take care of..

DJ Sese mixes MLK speeches. This mix was produced throughout the “Arab Spring” uprising and subsequently released months before the Occupy movement emerged in the Americas and Europe. 

Provides a concise introduction to some of MLK’s most famous speeches and ideas over various hip-hop beats. A gem for hip-hoppas.

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Oh be joyful.

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Some books I’ve been reading over the past few weeks. All are highly recommenced for anyone looking into the philosophies of nonviolence. Peace, Love & Unity :o)

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Five stages of social movements: Gandhian perspective

1. Indifference

2. Ridicule

3. Abuse

4. Repression

5. Respect

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Six Principles of Kingian Nonviolence

Principle 1: Nonviolence is a way for courageous people. It is active.

Principle 2: Nonviolence seeks to win friendship and understanding. The goal the Beloved Community achieved through is redemption and reconciliation.

Principe 3: Nonviolence seeks to defeat injustice not people. It addresses the root.

Principle 4: Nonviolence holds that suffering can educate and transform. Unearned suffering has tremendous educational and transforming power.

Principle 5: Nonviolence chooses to love instead of hate. It resists violence of the spirit as well as the body.

Principle 6: Nonviolence believes that the universe is on the side of justice. Justice will eventually win.

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Hip Hop Declaration Of Peace: Founder Concepts at a Global Cultural Level

The HipHop Declaration of Peace was presented to the United Nations Organization on May 16th 2001. It was signatured by various organizations such as: Temple Of Hip Hop, Ribbons International, UNESCO and also by 300 Hip-Hop activists, pioneers and UN delegates.

In the first place this document recognises Hip-Hop as an international culture of peace and prosperity. It is also a set of principles which advise all Hip-Hoppers on how to sustain the peaceful character of Hip Hop Kulture and to form worldwide peace.

Additionally this declaration is meant to show Hip-Hop as a positive phenomenon which has nothing in common with the negative image of Hip Hop as something that corrupts young people and encourages them to break the law. KRS One, Pop Master Fabel, Afrika Bambaataa, Ralph Mc Daniels and HarryAllen were some of the people who had their share in creating the declaration.

The Hip Hop Declaration Of Peace

This Hiphop Declaration of Peace guides Hiphop Kulture toward freedom from violence, and establishes advice and protection for the existence and development of the international Hiphop community. Through the principles of this Hiphop Declaration of Peace we, Hiphop Kulture, establish a foundation of Health, Love, Awareness, Wealth, peace and prosperity for ourselves, our children and their children’s children, forever.

For the clarification of Hiphop’s meaning and purpose, or when the intention of Hiphop is questioned, or when disputes between parties arise concerning Hiphop; Hiphoppas shall have access to the advice of this document, The Hiphop Declaration of Peace, as guidance, advice and protection.

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First Principle

Hiphop (Hip’Hop) is a term that describes our independent collective consciousness. Ever growing, it is commonly expressed through such elements as Breakin, Emceein, Graffiti Art, Deejayin, Beatboxin, Street Fashion, Street Language, Street Knowledge and Street Entrepreneurialism. Wherever and whenever these and future elements and expressions of Hiphop Kulture manifest; this Hiphop Declaration of Peace shall advise the use and interpretation of such elements, expressions and lifestyle.

Second Principle

Hiphop Kulture respects the dignity and sanctity of life without discrimination or prejudice. Hiphoppas shall thoroughly consider the protection and the development of life, over and before the individual decision to destroy or seek to alter its natural development.

Third Principle

Hiphop Kulture respects the Laws and agreements of its culture, its country, its institutions and whomever it does business with. Hiphop does not irresponsibly break Laws and commitments.

Fourth Principle

Hiphop is a term that describes our independent collective consciousness. As a conscious way of life, we acknowledge our influence on society, especially on children; and we shall forever keep the rights and welfare of both in mind. Hiphop Kulture encourages womanhood, manhood, sisterhood, brotherhood, childhood and family. We are conscious not to bring any intentional disrespect that jeopardizes the dignity and reputation of our children, elders and ancestors.

Fifth Principle

The ability to define, defend and educate ourselves is encouraged, developed, preserved, protected and promoted as a means toward peace and prosperity, and toward the protection and the development of our self-worth. Through knowledge of purpose and the development of our natural and learned skills, Hiphoppas are encouraged to always present their best work and ideas.

Sixth Principle

Hiphop Kulture honors no relationship, person, event, act or otherwise wherein the preservation and further development of Hiphop’s culture, principles and elements are not considered or respected. Hiphop Kulture does not participate in activities that clearly destroy or alter its ability to productively and peacefully exist. Hiphoppas are encouraged to initiate and participate in fair trade and honesty in all negotiations and transactions.

Seventh Principle

The essence of Hiphop is beyond entertainment: The elements of Hiphop Kulture may be traded for money, honor, power, respect, food, shelter, information and other resources; however, Hiphop and its culture cannot be bought, nor is it for sale. It cannot be transferred or exchanged by or to anyone for any compensation at any time or at any place. Hiphop is the priceless principle of our self-empowerment. Hiphop is not a product.

Eighth Principle

Companies, corporations, non and not-for-profit organizations, as well as individuals and groups that are clearly benefiting from the use, interpretation and/or exploitation of the term Hiphop, (i.e. Hip Hop, hip-hop,) and the expressions and terminologies of Hiphop, (i.e. Hip Hop, hip-hop,) are encouraged to commission and/or employ a full-time or part-time certified Hiphop cultural specialist to interpret and answer sensitive cultural questions regarding the principles and proper presentations of Hiphop’s elements and culture; relative to businesses, individuals, organizations, communities, cities, as well as other countries.

Ninth Principle

May 3rd is Rap Music Day. Hiphoppas are encouraged to dedicate their time and talent to self-development and for service to their communities. Every third week in May is Hiphop Appreciation Week. During this time, Hiphoppas are encouraged to honor their ancestors, reflect upon their cultural contributions and appreciate the elements and principles of Hiphop Kulture. November is Hiphop History Month. During this time Hiphoppas are encouraged to participate in the creating, learning and honoring of Hiphop’s history and historical cultural contributors.

Tenth Principle

Hiphoppas are encouraged to build meaningful and lasting relationships that rest upon Love, trust, equality and respect. Hiphoppas are encouraged not to cheat, abuse, or deceive their friends.

Eleventh Principle

The Hiphop community exists as an international culture of consciousness that provides all races, tribes, religions and styles of people a foundation for the communication of their best ideas and works. Hiphop Kulture is united as one multi-skilled, multi-cultural, multi-faith, multi-racial people committed to the establishment and the development of peace.

Twelfth Principle

Hiphop Kulture does not intentionally or voluntarily participate in any form of hate, deceit, prejudice or theft at any time. At no time shall Hiphop Kulture engage in any violent war within itself. Those who intentionally violate the principles of this Declaration of Peace or intentionally reject its advice, forfeit by their own actions the protections set forth herein.

Thirteenth Principle

Hiphop Kulture rejects the immature impulse for unwarranted acts of violence and always seeks diplomatic, non-violent strategies in the settlement of all disputes. Hiphoppas are encouraged to consider forgiveness and understanding before any act of retaliation. War is reserved as a final solution when there is evidence that all other means of diplomatic negotiation have failed repeatedly.

Fourteenth Principle

Hiphoppas are encouraged to eliminate poverty, speak out against injustice and shape a more caring society and a more peaceful world. Hiphop Kulture supports a dialogue and action that heals divisions in society, addresses the legitimate concerns of humankind and advances the cause of peace.

Fifteenth Principle

Hiphoppas respect and learn from the ways of Nature, regardless of where we are on this planet. Hiphop Kulture holds sacred our duty to contribute to our own survival as independent, free-thinking beings in and throughout the Universe. This planet, commonly known as Earth is our nurturing parent and Hiphoppas are encouraged to respect Nature and all creations and inhabitants of Nature.

Sixteenth Principle

Hiphop’s pioneers, legends, teachas, elders, and ancestors shall not be inaccurately quoted, misrepresented, or disrespected at anytime. No one should profess to be a Hiphop pioneer or legend unless they can prove with facts and/or witnesses their credibility and contributions to Hiphop Kulture.

Seventeenth Principle

Hiphoppas are encouraged to share resources. Hiphoppas should give as freely and as often as possible. It is the duty of every Hiphoppa to assist, whenever possible, in the relief of human suffering and in the correction of injustice. Hiphop is shown the highest respect when Hiphoppas respect each other. Hiphop Kulture is preserved, nurtured and developed when Hiphoppas preserve, nurture and develop one another.

Eighteenth Principle

Hiphop Kulture maintains a healthy, caring and wealthy, central Hiphop guild fully aware and invested with the power to promote, teach, interpret, modify and defend the principles of this Hiphop Declaration of Peace.

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Cultures of Peace: Founder Concepts at International Level

UNESCO has been overtly promoting cultures of peace as early as 1995. These are eight concepts - in no particular order - which form the basis of cultures of peace. Utilizing our intelligence and wisdom we can strive to create them.

Peace.

Equality Among Sexes Human Rights Sustainable Development Peace Education Disarmament Tolerance, Solidarity, Understanding Free-flow of Information Democratic Participation