With any topic it is good to do your own research, no matter how emotional your initial reaction may be. This goes for donating your money to a cause just as much as knowing your information on a topic. Most of us want to help so we throw our money out to anyone claiming to do good. They are not always doing good--but that is a discussion I'll leave for an another article.
I must admit, I did not know about Joseph Kony specifically until recently. Yes, I was very away of the abduction of children in Africa as child soldiers and sex slaves (I think most of us are), but I did not know the name Joseph Kony or who exactly was behind it all. The recent surge of support for Invisible Children over the capture of Joseph Kony I find rather interesting. One, because (as mentioned) most of us do seem to be at least vaguely aware of child soldiers in Africa, so why has one movie prompted us all to act? I'm not sure if it's just because "everyone else is doing it" or because the movie does prompt some inner spark of action and need to help those suffering children in need. Whatever the reason, the word about Kony and what he is doing is certainly getting around. This is a good thing. However, be careful when an organization almost draws more attention to their actual organization than the crime at hand.
After watching the movie, I did feel that call to action spring up inside of me and my initial thoughts were of support for the cause. Almost unquestioningly. Fortunately, I have friends on my Facebook that ask questions (as I too usually do) and the mixed emotions towards "KONY 2012" became notable. A few links later I understood why and that is why I am writing this post, so that you too can form your own opinion, become more educated and then choose whether or not Invisible Children is something you want to support.
First, I do recommend watching the movie because, controversy aside, it does shed light on the issue, exaggerated or not…
Once you've watched that and you feel that urge swelling up inside of you to spring to action. Stop. What do you know about Invisible Children? These next two links will help your understanding over the controversy and why supporting them may not be such a good idea and why I ask you to question it for yourself.
http://www.wrongingrights.com/2009/03/worst-idea-ever.html/
I am also adding this current article that sheds further light not the details of Invisible Children's Campaign, including the voices of actual Ugandans:
http://www.care2.com/causes/is-kony-2012-actually-helping-ugandans.html
Also... Oil in Uganda. A coincidence?
http://www.care2.com/causes/ugandas-oil-extraction-another-human-tragedy.html
I am also adding this current article that sheds further light not the details of Invisible Children's Campaign, including the voices of actual Ugandans:
http://www.care2.com/causes/is-kony-2012-actually-helping-ugandans.html
Also... Oil in Uganda. A coincidence?
http://www.care2.com/causes/ugandas-oil-extraction-another-human-tragedy.html
[founders of Invisible Children with weapons with the Ugandan army... ??]
I'm not pretending to know more than I do about this entire topic--as I said, I only recently am learning about Joseph Kony and the lives affected by the problems he is causing. However, I do believe in thinking for yourself before jumping into helping a cause you know little about, which is the reason I am quick to post this article before I know more--because I know many of you are probably already sending your money to Invisible Children and I want you to consider everything before doing so and to do your own research.
I do believe that raising awareness about who Joseph Kony is a good idea, I just don't think Invisible Children is the way to do it. Capturing one man who enslaves and rapes children by giving money to another group (Ugandan Army) that does the same thing (but in less noticeable numbers) is counter-productive. Uganda is one of the world's most corrupt nations, feeding their army, to me, does not seem like a good idea for the people. I also believe you can't "fight" war. You can stop war with peace, but "fighting" war only continues war.
The mentioned oil in Uganda also waves flags for me. Seems like another excuse for the U.S. to get in there, strengthen ties with Uganda so that they can benefit from the oil. Of course, all at the expense of polluting vital rivers and waterways--again for the Ugandan People. But all we'll hear about it is that it's "good" for them and will give money to an impoverished nation.
Do I want Joseph Kony caught? Absolutely without a doubt! I understand the urge to jump to action, trust me, I almost bought the kit etc., but I do believe there are better ways to do so then what Invisible Children has to offer. Spreading the word about who Joseph Kony is is a step in the right direction--awareness is key. I do hope to see new ways in which people can show their support and take to action without this "KONY 2012" campaign that gives money to Invisible Children organization.
**I'm not saying that Kony doesn't need to be stopped. I'm not even saying that Invisible Children aren't doing any good. They are raising awareness on an important issue and I certainly applaud them for that. I truly believe awareness is the first step (which is why I include the link to the video they made above and recommend that people watch it). However, the links I share regarding the controversy of Invisible Children I believe are important and things that people should know about the organization they may be donating to. I do believe the capture of Kony is necessary and important. That is not the part I am arguing. I'm just encouraging people to think and do their own research before jumping to support a questionable organization. By all means, spread the word about who Joseph Kony is. I do believe through better awareness better solutions will arise.**
Do I want Joseph Kony caught? Absolutely without a doubt! I understand the urge to jump to action, trust me, I almost bought the kit etc., but I do believe there are better ways to do so then what Invisible Children has to offer. Spreading the word about who Joseph Kony is is a step in the right direction--awareness is key. I do hope to see new ways in which people can show their support and take to action without this "KONY 2012" campaign that gives money to Invisible Children organization.
**I'm not saying that Kony doesn't need to be stopped. I'm not even saying that Invisible Children aren't doing any good. They are raising awareness on an important issue and I certainly applaud them for that. I truly believe awareness is the first step (which is why I include the link to the video they made above and recommend that people watch it). However, the links I share regarding the controversy of Invisible Children I believe are important and things that people should know about the organization they may be donating to. I do believe the capture of Kony is necessary and important. That is not the part I am arguing. I'm just encouraging people to think and do their own research before jumping to support a questionable organization. By all means, spread the word about who Joseph Kony is. I do believe through better awareness better solutions will arise.**
What are your thoughts on the topic? Any articles you know of that are worth reading that sheds light on either side of the debate?
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I think what these people are doing is great. They have shed some light on what, as you mentioned in your article, most people vaguely know about the crisis (and human rights violations) of child soldiers in Africa. I do agree that many organizations begin by wanting to do good, then get bogged down in the fund-generating aspect of it. So don't donate it you feel uncomfortable. What you CAN do, is contact your local politicians about this issue. Let them know that as a constituent, this is important to you. Change doesn't only need dollars. It needs caring people who can take a moment to speak to others (friends, family, classes...)and ESPECIALLY those in power who CAN effect major changes. I applaud these people and do support this movement.
ReplyDeleteI believe the issue here is not that Kony is a fictional character drummed up by this organization he is a real living menace that has preyed on innocent children for almost 30yrs with impunity that fact alone is enough to warrant action.
Deleteenough said.
I couldnt be bothered to even read one paragraph of your "blog?" the font is ATROCIOUS!
ReplyDeleteAre you serious, or just that self absorbed?
DeleteHi read what you had to say and agree in principle with you. The reality of the situation is horrifying and as in the past as well as in the future we will have conflicts. What I do agree with is using public opinion not generals to pick the targets of outrage and action. We have all seen the missguided attempts by governments to do what is moral and right, but yes we need clear and straight forward motives not manipulation.
ReplyDeleteok yes the cause is good however do not capture one by helping another that is worst then the one they capture.pls read on the uganda army.it might just change your mind on putting any finances in their hands.one of their favourite war tactic is RAPE
ReplyDeleteYes some organizations ask for money but they are asking for people to inform their leaders all over the world that human rights matter, to the people. If this works, what can the people do together next, peace on earth? love one another or at least take care of our planet. There are so many causes we can care about but this is an experiment, can people, voters, citizens make a difference? There will never be enough money to change the world but can voices?
ReplyDeleteAh yes! I love you Bianca. Finally. There are two sides to every coin. We should all inform ourselves and make our own opinions before we let clever marketing pull at our heart strings. Inform ourselves of everrything!!! I'm glad people care but let's make sure we don't fuel a fire that shouldn't be fueled.
ReplyDeleteThis is another great link I found if anyone is interested. It's well written and clever. http://thedailywh.at/2012/03/07/on-kony-2012-2/
I'm not saying that Kony doesn't need to be stopped. I'm not even saying that Invisible Children aren't doing any good. They are raising awareness on an important issue and I certainly applaud them for that. I truly believe awareness is the first step (which is why I include the link to the video they made and recommend ppl watch it). However, as already stated, I don't believe putting money in their pockets is the right solution as it feeds military funding--particularly concerned about the Ugandan army. Again, you can't end violence with more violence. However, I do believe the capture of Kony is necessary and important. That is not the part I am arguing. I'm just encouraging people to think and do their own research before jumping to support a questionable organization. By all means, spread the word about who Joseph Kony is. I do believe through better awareness better solutions will arise.
ReplyDeletePlease can you tell me the name of YOUR less questionable organization. It seems that you know what they are doing is not the best. So what should we be doing? It frustrates me terribley that when someone has the nerve to try something there always had to be someone who has to be negative. I can agree with you on the idea of think before you blindly act. But if we only donated and supported organizations that were perfect, we would never share a dime.
DeleteIt's not about being negative, it's about properly knowing what you are supporting. There are so many dire issues facing people all over the world and there are good and not-so-good things we can do about it. I choose to live a clean lifestyle, to do what I can, and to donate to a cause if I find they are doing good. I think there are things we can do to change the world that start with ourselves--like choosing to live simpler, not supporting things like factory farms, child labour, etc.
DeleteAnd I do think there are organizations out there that are worth supporting and donating to. For instance, Charity Navigator is a good place to find out more about organizations, where the money goes to and better rate the results their work does for a cause (http://www.charitynavigator.org/)
p.s. lmao @ the person who bothered to comment about the font. Is that really the issue here?? ;p
ReplyDeletemany of us know that women and children suffer most at the hands of war mongerers and that this is done in the name of greed, the profits are reaped by those people in positions of power, governments and bussiness. I am a healer, there are many of us all over the world who live, as much as we can in this present chaos, in peace and pray for, sing for and give out the peace that is needed to heal us all as mother earth is beginning to heal and change, as the universe continues to change, grow, die-this is life look inside yourself, listen to your truth buried in your soul speak out about injustices wherever, live the peace, be the peace, be the answer and pray
ReplyDeleteThe action plan offered has options beyond monetary donations that involve your personal time and effort in communicating your desire to have this stopped via policy makers and culture makers. Are you even willing to do that? Will you actually make a pledge and commit 20 minutes 5 days a week to phone calls and letters? If you don't feel comfortable donating money, don't. There are obviously other positive ways to participate while keeping your own conscience clear. I see no reason to vilify this organization. They have clearly accomplished a great deal towards a noble humanitarian goal. The question is, are you even willing to get involved with the cause at all, or are you just nit picking to make yourself feel better for not participating in some positive way to help liberate these children? Your blog simply sounds like an excuse to me.
ReplyDeleteI know that there are positive ways to participate and I will certainly do so. Personally, my first step was to get educated and make sure others are as well. Obviously you don't me or know what I do on my blog or in my life, but I change the world in any and every way that I can and am constantly thriving to do more. I took the time to write this post so that I Could help! So that people would think about what it is they are supporting.
DeleteAgain, I want Kony caught as much as the next person. I felt the call to action after watching their video (which, again, is why I choose to share the video). I was seconds away from getting their kit, and looking for community events, joining the FB group, etc etc. I saw people talking about it not being so great so I looked into why. And I encourage others to do the same.
To repeat what I said above:
"I'm not saying that Kony doesn't need to be stopped. I'm not even saying that Invisible Children aren't doing any good. They are raising awareness on an important issue and I certainly applaud them for that. I truly believe awareness is the first step (which is why I include the link to the video they made and recommend ppl watch it). However, as already stated, I don't believe putting money in their pockets is the right solution as it feeds military funding--particularly concerned about the Ugandan army. Again, you can't end violence with more violence. However, I do believe the capture of Kony is necessary and important. That is not the part I am arguing. I'm just encouraging people to think and do their own research before jumping to support a questionable organization. By all means, spread the word about who Joseph Kony is. I do believe through better awareness better solutions will arise."
Um yeah, awareness is the first step... except they are way beyond just that one bullet point in their organization. They have already liberated children. They have already set up alert systems to help stave the kidnappings. They have already set up schools. They have already created jobs for survivors. While you are becoming aware of details you don't like before you spend $30 that goes towards all the things mentioned above, they are already doing it all for a promise to those children. You are def doing the right thing by becoming aware. They are just light years ahead of you, and you still sound like you are making excuses.
Deleteagain, clearly you have no idea who I am and what I do, how much time I spend every day to share information about important topics, and doing what I can to change the world.
DeleteI didn't write this post to tell people necessarily NOT to donate. Just to tell people to THINK before jumping to a cause they know little about.
People are quick to stand up for one issue because we want to FEEL important and as if we are doing good in the world. I think lots of the people that quickly donate are just looking for peace within their own minds. To spend a little money and then never have to think about it again. I don't think that way of thinking works and I still don't believe donating money to a cause that supports an army that rapes is a good cause.
Bianca, thank you so much for posting this. I have not done my research on this quite yet but heard some rumors of a massive oil reserve found in uganda and if this is true, i fear there is a major hidden agenda to this campaign.
ReplyDeletethat's interesting, I'd like to look into that as well
DeleteSorry. But I am an American. I feel that my country has more pressing problems that need to be paid attention to now than what is happening in Uganda.
ReplyDeleteI am amazed that the "viral" video went to 50 mil views.
The Americans who I'm sure make up a large part of those viewers need to more closely concern themselves with the pressing issues that America needs to take care of now and are largely being ignored by many politicians here esp. those who are members of the Republican Party.
Issues of unemployment, homelessness, hunger in America, people losing their homes to deceptive practices by banks and mortgage companies. The large cuts in education. Many others.
So I really can't feel anything for what is going on in Uganda.
With Africa, the pattern there has always been if it's not one country suffering some turmoil, then it's another.
And it never ends.
Hey Bianca, its theneedleslave here.. I just wanted to throw in my two cents. I did not misunderstand this article as some have. I see your points and find them valid. I must admit I avoided this video for a bit just because I try to distance myself from things that go viral in this manner. I finally broke down and watched it today, though I was aware of this problem I found the video very moving like the majority of others who watched it. My first thoughts after watching it was, "I wish people got this excited about the pressing matters in our own country." I also felt a little conflicted, because of course I don't want people to suffer from these terrible crimes of war and I want to take action to stop all the bad in the world... But I definitely disagree with the U.S. (or any country) being some sort of world police. That is MY reason I won't support this organization. Though I believe their efforts are very admiral regardless of that. As horrible as I feel saying it, there are other matters closer to home I feel I should be supporting, and putting time and effort into. I am very glad you wrote this article, as I fear many people will be willing to follow blindly. Eye openers like this are very much needed.
ReplyDeleteI agree, the U.S. should stop acting like world police :P Reading more and more about the controversy surrounding Invisible Children it seemed even Ugandans are not liking the video and the approach that IC is taking. (included the link back up in the post, it's an interesting article by Care2).
Delete