In the past few days there has been a lot of talk about Kony2012, a movement and campaign by the guys at Invisible Children to stop the ruthless killing, kidnapping, and terror brought about by Joseph Kony.
The new short film documenting the inception, direction, and aim of the campaign has sparked a firestorm of support, conversation, awareness, and concerns about IC's practices.
The two things I have latched onto the most are the movement (wanting to take part and make a difference) and the sudden outcry or "nay-sayers" that caution taking part in such a movement because of the practices of IC (which may be completely justified).
Here is my two cents (for what little it's worth):
I love the motivation behind the idea: give a voice to the children and families suffering from a cruel man's reign by bringing awareness in hopes governments will aid the situation to bring about justice.
I'll all about it.
This organization is not a perfect one though, nor are the people running it. They may spend too much money paying themselves, making new films to raise awareness, and even use strategy that is less than ideal, BUT they are driving a movement that is making a difference. Even if that difference is simply raising awareness among a generation searching be be change in an unjust world, they are making it happen.
I have seen the IC movement inspire more college students to become proactive in trying to make the world better than most organizations I know of. While they are not perfect by any means, they are making things happen.
I do think there should be accountability for organizations that take people's money, but I dare say doing something, even if its not done perfectly, is better than not doing anything.
God demands that we stand up for those that cannot muster a voice for themselves. He doesn't say we'll be great at it all the time, He simply calls us into action the best we can.
He has told you, O man, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:8
-peace
Bang on.
ReplyDeleteIt's a complex issue. A good way to start solving it is to begin talking about it. IC has done more for this issue than any other organization.
There might be some problems with IC (although that Charity Navigator rating isn't really as bad as the cynics are making it out to be), but overall I think a lot of good has been done - and is being done - though them.
Good thoughts Matt.