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WRITERS AS CATALYST FOR SOCIAL CHANGE: BEYOND THE PEN

February 24, 2025 No Comments

— by nishadarryllartey Growing up, the phrase “The pen is mightier than the sword” was a mind-boggling concept. I struggled to comprehend how a pen could be compared to a sword. Wisdom comes with age, as the saying goes. Over time, I learned that this was not just a cliché; it was first coined by Edward Bulwer-Lytton, an English playwright, poet, and novelist, in his 1839 play. The phrase emphasizes the power of writing, communication, and intellectual pursuits over violence and aggression. Writers have long been regarded as powerful agents of social change. Their words inspire, educate, and mobilize people to take action. From the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement, writers have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing social justice. Some great writers whose works have been instrumental in calling for action include: In the wake of a Saturday dawn, Amina rose early as usual to start her morning chores. As she swept the compound, a chill swept over her, sending goosebumps across her skin. Her thoughts turned to her friend, Sewabatu—a 10-year-old girl forced into the “cutting ceremony” (Female Genital Mutilation). Sewabatu had confided in Amina about her mother’s plans to initiate her, recalling the scars that served as painful reminders of her mother and grandmother’s experiences. On that fateful day, Amina witnessed Sewabatu with swollen, teary eyes, being dragged by her grandmother and mother as if she were a sheep to the slaughter. Despite the sadness etched on their faces, they were determined to proceed with the ceremony. They arrived at a small hut where “the cutter,” a stern-faced woman, was waiting with a sharp blade. Sewabatu, weary and frightened, felt “the cutter” grasp her clitoris and slice it like meat. The pain was excruciating, leaving her screaming and sobbing. She bled profusely and eventually passed out. When she regained consciousness, she realized something precious had been taken from her. Though she physically recovered, the internal scars remained—a constant reminder of her violated human rights. Waris Dirie’s memoir Desert Flower (1998) recounts her own journey from being an FGM victim to becoming a model and activist. By sharing her story, she aimed to raise awareness and encourage young girls who have suffered similar fates to fight for a better future. Writers bring attention to social issues, shedding light on injustices and sparking conversations that might otherwise remain dormant. They illustrate the outcomes of harmful practices and their health implications. Through storytelling, writers foster empathy and understanding, painting vivid mental pictures of the brutality faced by victims like Sewabatu. This narrative serves as a wake-up call, arousing emotions and detailing the negative impacts of such practices. Writers aim to present evidence and challenge negative social norms. In Sewabatu’s case, her family believed the tradition would ensure her purity and marriageability, unaware that they were jeopardizing her life. Writers can dissuade such primitive ideas and conventions, encouraging readers to question their assumptions. They present data, statistics, and expert opinions, making their arguments credible. Over 230 million girls and women have undergone FGM in 30 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, with ages ranging from infancy to 15 (WHO). Amina wished she could do something to help her friend. If she became a writer, she could help others like Sewabatu. Writers create platforms for marginalized voices, providing a space for their stories and experiences to inspire change. Due to stigmatization, ethnicity, and religious factors, many victims cannot share their experiences. Writers amplify these voices, motivating those who have been victimized to become better versions of themselves. Writers also provide policy recommendations, calling for laws to prohibit FGM and hold perpetrators accountable. A comprehensive national plan is necessary to prevent FGM, support survivors, and promote community engagement. Ignorance plays a significant role in perpetuating this practice; therefore, education and community involvement are essential. All of this is possible if writers lift their pens. In summary, writers have long been powerful catalysts for social change, using their words to inspire, educate, and mobilize action. By leveraging their platforms, collaborating with activists, and raising awareness, writers can play a vital role in shaping a more just and equitable society. They make reading accessible and engaging, using techniques, clear language, and organizational tools to help readers assess credibility. Thanks to writers, societal reforms have become possible and expedited, with social media further amplifying their efforts.

Rewriting the Narrative: Emerging Voices in Gender and Literature

February 17, 2025 No Comments

— by Anna Hall In the ever-evolving landscape of literature, a chorus of new voices is rising, shattering the long-held narratives that have confined and constrained our understanding of gender. These are the trailblazers, the visionaries who wield the power of the written word to redefine the boundaries of identity and expression. “Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it. It enriches the necessary competencies that daily life requires and provides; and in this respect, it irrigates the deserts that our lives have already become.” – C.S. Lewis As society evolves so does literature and, as literature evolves, so does society. The two walk hand-in-hand into a future influenced by the realities and the imaginations of the people who constitute their existence. Within literature, gender remains an ever-evolving subject. The transition from stringent stereotypes that have maintained a strict gender binary—with women as caretakers, damsels in distress, or measured by higher moral standards and men as strong, heroic, and stoic—has given way to more fluid interpretations of gender. Non-binary representation, along with characters that break from traditional binary gender roles, has grown in prominence. Over time, the authors have continuously pushed society’s ideas of gender, breathing life into characters with nuanced voices amongst a sea of cookie-cutter male/female dynamics. Breaking Gender Norms in Sci-Fi and Fantasy Over the years, Sci-Fi and Fantasy novels have enjoyed more freedom to break gender norms through more progressive and diverse gender representations (cite). This genre flexibility allows authors to imagine worlds that do not conform to traditional societal expectations. Becky Chambers, for example, uses the expansive possibility of science fiction to challenge conventional notions of gender in her Wayfarers series. Her characters span a broad spectrum of gender and sexual identities. Chambers creates species whose gender norms defy societal conventions, such as one that transitions biologically from female to male and ultimately allows individuals to choose their gender as they mature. She juxtaposes these characters with the human main character, Rosemary, who navigates her companion’s realities with curiosity and an open mind. Tasha Suri’s The Burning Kingdom series takes a fantasy approach to gender subversion by placing women in traditionally male roles. Both main female characters are placed in conventional roles with non-traditional characteristics. Priya, a religious figurehead, is a caretaker whose compassion and strength shape her community. Malini, a political figurehead, is a ruthless and determined leader driving her forces to reclaim her kingdom with ferocity. Additionally, the series centers on a queer romance, defying heteronormative expectations often found in fantasy. Suri’s work illustrates how authors can use their imaginative settings to critique and dismantle patriarchal norms. Subverting Gender Norms in Literary Fiction While speculative fiction often receives attention for its gender-bending narratives, literary fiction also interrogates and redefines gender roles. Caleb Azumah Nelson’s debut novel, Open Waters follows the deeply introspective journey of a Black British man navigating grief, love, and personal growth. By centering a male protagonist who is vulnerable, reflective, and emotionally expressive, Nelson subverts the traditional stoic and emotionally repressed male stereotype. In the novel, the main character is not out to save a damsel in distress, but readers watch as he tries to save himself and grow from his circumstances and pain. Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah’s debut novel Chain-Gang All-Stars critiques systems of oppression, including those based on gender. By placing female characters in a position of power in a hyper-masculine world of death matches, Adjei-Brenyah interrogates how power dynamics shift when traditional gender dynamics are upended. Trailblazing Literary Figures: From Alice Walker to Today The contributions of contemporary authors build upon the foundation laid by literary pioneers like Alice Walker. In The Color Purple, Walker reimagines gender roles through characters like Celie. Celie evolves from a submissive wife and mother to a self-made businesswoman. She becomes the epitome of a self-made woman who builds a life for herself despite the role society places her in. Similarly, Shug Avery’s unapologetic embrace of her sexuality and independence defies traditional expectations of women during the time. These characters—and Walker’s broader body of work—paved the way for today’s authors to explore intersectionality, reject binary gender roles, and create more fluid, inclusive narratives. Looking Forward: Literature’s Gender Revolution As the literary landscape continues to evolve, more trailblazing voices are emerging to challenge traditional narratives around gender. Writers such as Becky Chambers, Tasha Suri, Caleb Azumah Nelson, and Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah represent just a handful of those contributing to this cultural shift. As the new year approaches, new authors will emerge to join the list of voices interrogating and reimagining gender norms, ensuring that the conversation remains dynamic, inclusive, and transformative

Beyond the Headlines: The Untold Stories of 2024’s Global Struggles

February 10, 2025 No Comments

— by Bright As we navigate through 2024, the headlines often overshadow the complex realities faced by communities around the world. Headlines were about wars, elections, and climate disasters which were not only for reading and watching, they also raised discussions around the world and on various platforms. When we talk of the CEO murder and the CCTV footage, we talk of how it brought a range of discourse on social media, especially Twitter. A few others like the CrowdStrike Update, and the HPE Buying Juniper in $14B Blockbuster Deal have been tagged as the 10 Biggest News So Far on the CRN channel. However, some of these headlines had a minimal attraction and some, remained untold. Gender-based violence and inequality have always been present in society but are frequently underreported, especially in societies that normalize or silence these issues. The struggles faced by women and marginalized genders extend beyond physical violence to include barriers to opportunities, autonomy, death, and safety. A case in point is one Alicia who is a woman from Montana. She had gone missing for some days. Alicia, a 46-year-old woman from Montana, went missing at the end of November. Her loved ones grew worried when no one could reach her for days. When the police started searching, they found her car abandoned on a highway, with bloodstains and a bullet casing inside. Days later, the investigation led them to a landfill, where they believed Alicia’s body might be hidden. It turned out that William Glenn Olson, a man with a history of domestic violence, had killed her. He admitted to putting her body in a suitcase and dumping it in a dumpster near a school. Her story is just one of the many struggles this year. Global conflicts, too, often leave fresh wounds than the headlines suggest. The immediate horrors of war and political turmoil are visible, but the long-term effects on displaced families, fractured communities, and the entire region persist in silence. This can be seen in the Russia-Ukraine war which has been ongoing for some years now. It has raised many concerns and caused a lot of distractions among people. Another sighting of global conflict is Sudan. It has led to displacement and movement and has brought deaths in Sudanese society. Economic growth has always been uneven, but this year shows just how much success for some can make struggles harder for others. Take Nvidia and Intel, two giants in the IT world, as an example. Nvidia has soared, thanks to smart planning and a growing demand for AI technology. Years of investing in cutting-edge tech and building strong partnerships have pushed the company into the same league as Apple and Microsoft. On the other hand, Intel, once a leader in semiconductors, is struggling to find its footing again. It’s working hard to rebuild through new strategies, investments, and a focus on its core strengths, but the competition is tough. This contrast between the two companies tells a bigger story about the economic challenges of 2024. Success often comes at a cost to others. In many industries, rapid advancements in technology and artificial intelligence have created clear winners and losers. Companies that innovate quickly and build strong networks thrive, while others struggle to keep up and risk being left behind. It’s not just about big corporations. These changes ripple through society, affecting workers, consumers, and communities. For every headline about record-breaking profits, there are untold stories of people losing jobs, rising inequality, and neighborhoods grappling with the effects of these rapid changes. Nvidia’s success shows what’s possible for some, but also demonstrates the barriers that keep others from achieving similar growth. This year has also exposed the ongoing tension between growth and fairness. Some places benefit from new investments and innovations, while others are left behind, unable to compete for resources. Supply chain issues from recent years still linger, making these gaps even worse and showing how broken our systems can be. These struggles aren’t just about companies—they affect real people and families who depend on stable and fair economic conditions to make a living. As we step into 2025, maybe it’s time to pay attention to the voices we didn’t hear this year. And listen to the ones beyond the headlines.

The Role of Writers in Gender Equality: Breaking Boundaries in Literature

February 3, 2025 2 Comments

— by Nichole In a world where the written word holds the power to challenge societal norms, writers have emerged as trailblazers in the fight for gender equality. From shattering stereotypes to amplifying marginalized voices, the literary landscape has become a battleground for the pursuit of true equity. Writing has always been a means of passing on information about society, history, people, and culture since time immemorial. This informed the way people reacted consciously and unconsciously to their culture and society. The fight for gender equality began through writing in the feminist period. In the early days of feminism, female writers assumed male pseudonyms. They did this to avoid gender bias and increase their chances of getting published. Later they used their works to criticize those gender stereotypes and some began to publish using their real names. Writers play a significant role in gender roles and stereotypes through their works. Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes Research shows how literature can perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes. Moula (2014) conducted a study that analyzed the prevalence of gender stereotypes in children’s literature. The study found that traditional gender roles were heavily represented. Koumakpaï’s (2016) analysis of contemporary literary genres revealed significant findings. Genres such as romance tended to reinforce traditional gender norms. They depicted women as submissive and in need of male rescue. The study also identified several common stereotypes associated with gender. For instance, women are often seen as nurturing and caring. Men, on the other hand, are perceived as dominant and aggressive. Several studies focus on analyzing gender roles in contemporary literature. They also examine the impact of gender stereotypes on readers’ perceptions and attitudes. Khanna (2024) conducted a study investigating the effects of exposure to gender stereotypes in literature on readers’ beliefs. The study found that readers of literature containing gender stereotypes tend to hold traditional gender role beliefs. These readers also exhibit stereotypical attitudes. This suggests that the portrayal of gender roles and stereotypes in literature can have real-life consequences. It can perpetuate and reinforce societal norms. Challenging Stereotypes Some portrayals of gender roles in literature are controversial. They aim to challenge societal norms and provoke discussions on gender equality. The novel “Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie provides an example. It explores the experiences of a Nigerian woman navigating love and identity in the United States. The protagonist, Ifemelu, challenges traditional expectations placed on women and questions the limitations and stereotypes imposed on her gender. (Rasmussen, 2017). This portrayal prompts readers to reflect on their own beliefs. It also encourages them to reconsider assumptions. The findings of this study also highlight regional and cultural variations in the depiction of gender roles. Similarly, an analysis by Khanna (2024) examines postcolonial literature. It reveals how authors from different regions and cultures use literature. They challenge or subvert traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Conclusion Writers have a role in shaping the perception of people regarding gender roles and stereotypes. Their opinions might differ depending on their culture. Opinions can also vary based on what region of the world they live in. These regional and cultural variations in depicting gender roles show how important it is to consider diverse perspectives. One should also think about various contexts when analyzing gender portrayal in literature. It emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and global understanding of gender roles. This involves moving beyond the limitations of a singular, Western-centric perspective. References 1. Koumakpaï, T., & Towa-Sello, K. J. (2016). Exploring Women’s Identity in Selected Charles Dickens’s Works: A re-visitation from a Contemporary African Perspective. International Journal on Studies in English Language and Literature(IJSELL) Volume, 4, 85-95. 2. Khanna, A., & Singh, R. (2024). Subverting Stereotypes: Empowerment AND Agency OF Women IN Manjula Padmanabhan’s Works. Migration Letters, 21(S5), 1306-1314. 3. Moula, E., & Kabouropoulou, M. (2014). Art and Fairy Tales in an interdisciplinary interplay: teaching interventions towards negotiation and subversion of gender roles and stereotypes. Journal for Critical Education Policy Studies (JCEPS), 12(1). 4. Rasmussen, E. E., & Densley, R. L. (2017). Girl in a Country Song: Gender roles and objectification of women in popular country music across 1990 to 2014. Sex Roles, 76,188-201.

The Changing Landscape of Human Rights in the Digital Age

January 27, 2025 1 Comment

— by Dorcas Kongwie In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the very foundations of human rights are being tested and transformed. Like a tightrope walker navigating the dizzying heights of technological progress, we find ourselves grappling with new challenges and unprecedented opportunities in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world. The Changing Landscape of Human Rights in the Digital Age Before the widespread accessibility of technology or anything digital, a lot of people had concerns about the impact it would have on humanity in the long run. While others embraced it, others vowed not to get involved or even use anything related to it with little knowledge that technology has come to stay and has become a part of our lives. Their anxiety is felt considering the pace at which technology is evolving-there are emerging ways of doing things every passing second. The only way out is to accept it and learn how to evolve with it. It is not wrong to say that technology has positively impacted lives, for instance, it has provided platforms for marginalized voices to share their experiences and mobilize support globally. Also, how would life have been after the Covid-19 pandemic that hit the globe in 2019 and 2020? Technology plays a huge role in our individual lives. On the other hand, it has its own downside. Imagine a world where your most personal thoughts, conversations, and moments are just a click away from being shared, analyzed, or manipulated, it has become a tool for control and surveillance, so it is a YinYang affair or maybe a double-edged sword. A Ray of Light With Digital Revolution Gone are the times when sharing a human rights violation meant hoping a journalist might listen or the newspaper publishes it. Now, a smartphone can broadcast injustice to millions in seconds. A single video can spark global movements, topple oppressive narratives, and create instant solidarity across continents. Take the Kenyan youth who took to the streets to protest against an unfair financial bill in June 2024, with the use of social media like X, millions of people supported that protest even without traveling to Kenya. Take the Arab Spring or global climate protests – these weren’t just movements, they were digital revolutions. Activists who once whispered now roar through social media, turning local struggles into international conversations When Your Data Becomes Their Weapon Despite the government and other countries buying into the technology, there is a question mark about the invisible watchers. Freedom comes with a price. Every tweet, every search, every digital footprint is potentially a piece of a massive surveillance puzzle. Governments and corporations have developed an almost omniscient ability to track, predict, and influence our behaviors. The Human Cost of Connection Who’s Really Writing Your Story? Fate, God, or yourself? Digital privacy has become an oxymoron, your data is never private when it is online. Our personal data is bought, sold, and traded like a commodity. Facial recognition, fingerprints, scents, predictive algorithms, and data mining have transformed human experiences into marketable insights. Take this instance where your medical history, political views, and personal preferences are just data points in a corporate database. Where an algorithm might decide your job prospects, creditworthiness, or social standing before you even get a chance to speak, you are privately judged and jailed before you even speak to defend yourself. The Wide Divide That still Persists To date, there are still areas and people who are still in the dark when it comes to technology, especially in the global south. Technology promised universal access but delivered a new form of inequality. In many parts of the world, digital connectivity remains a privilege. While some scroll through infinite content, others struggle to get basic internet access. This divide isn’t just about technology – it’s about opportunity, education, and fundamental human potential. Potential Solutions The solution to this is not rejecting technology, that is highly impossible since it has gone beyond the ends of this world and has become ingrained in our lives. The solution lies on: The digital age presents a dicey landscape where technology simultaneously threatens and at the same time enhances human rights. There can be a balance if we harness technological potential while mitigating its risks. Governments need to work hand in hand with technology companies, civil society organizations, and individual citizens to create a digital ecosystem that respects, protects, and fulfills human rights.

International Education Day: AI & Education

January 24, 2025 No Comments

— by otsibahbertha In today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, keeping up with evolving educational methods is crucial. As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world.” Education is not just a fundamental human right but also a powerful tool for unlocking potential, fostering cultural understanding, and promoting global peace. Every year, on January 24th, we celebrate International Education Day, a moment to recognize the significance of education in shaping our world. Established by the UN General Assembly in December 2018, this day reminds us of the transformative power of education and how artificial intelligence (AI) is now becoming an integral part of this evolution. The Role of AI in Education AI is revolutionizing education in exciting ways, offering personalized learning experiences, improving accessibility, and increasing efficiency. Take personalized learning, for instance. Everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid. _ Albert Einstein This quote highlights the importance of tailoring education to individual needs. AI can do just that by analyzing student performance and preferences, adjusting lesson difficulty, and offering feedback to help students thrive. Beyond personalization, AI plays a critical role in creating inclusive learning environments. It provides tools such as real-time captions for those with hearing impairments, alternative communication methods for speech-impaired students, and learning aids for those with visual challenges. These features ensure that learning is more accessible and engaging for everyone. Efficiency is another area where AI shines. From automated grading systems to intelligent tutoring platforms, AI takes on repetitive tasks, allowing educators to focus on what they do best—teaching and inspiring. Programs like ALEKS and Q-interactive have already helped millions of students worldwide by adapting to their learning needs and offering insights that help educators fine-tune their teaching approaches. Addressing the Challenges While AI presents numerous benefits, it’s not without its challenges. One of the biggest concerns is data privacy. With AI systems processing vast amounts of personal information, security breaches are a real risk. It’s important to find ways to protect sensitive data while leveraging AI’s capabilities. Another challenge is the over-reliance on technology. Sure, AI can make learning more efficient, but what happens when technology fails? Moreover, excessive dependence on AI tools might limit critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are vital for personal and professional growth. Let’s not forget the importance of human interaction in education. While AI can simulate conversations and interactions, it cannot replace the warmth and motivation that human educators provide. Striking the right balance between AI assistance and human engagement is key to a well-rounded learning experience. The Importance of Human Agency Despite AI’s capabilities, maintaining human agency in education is crucial. True learning happens when students take charge of their education, develop a growth mindset, and embrace challenges. Mistakes should be seen as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. Educators have a vital role to play in guiding students to see AI as a supportive tool rather than a substitute for human effort and creativity. As Steve Harvey puts it, “We gain nothing from winning; it’s the learning journey that matters most.” This journey, filled with trials and triumphs, is what shapes resilient learners. Moving Forward: Striking the Balance So, where do we go from here? First and foremost, educators should leverage AI to streamline administrative tasks, allowing them to spend more time engaging with students. Critical thinking and creativity should remain at the heart of curricula to ensure students become independent problem-solvers. Furthermore, introducing social-emotional learning programs can help students develop essential interpersonal skills, ensuring that technology enhances, rather than replaces, meaningful human interactions. Collaborative projects that combine AI tools with teamwork and communication can be an effective way to prepare students for the future. Conclusion AI in education offers a world of opportunities, but it also comes with responsibilities. As we embrace these technological advancements, we should ask ourselves: How can we ensure that AI serves as an empowering tool rather than a hindrance to human potential? What strategies can we adopt to foster critical thinking and creativity in an automated world? And most importantly, how do we prepare both educators and students to navigate AI’s ethical implications thoughtfully? By finding the right balance, we can create an education system that not only embraces AI’s potential but also empowers individuals to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

The Role of Fiction in Exposing Global Injustice: Case Studies in Literary Truth-Telling

January 13, 2025 No Comments

In a world where the truth can be as elusive as a mirage in the desert, the power of fiction to expose the harsh realities of global injustice has never been more vital. Like literary detectives, authors armed with the pen have uncovered the darkest corners of our society, shedding light on the struggles of the marginalized and the oppressed

Cultural Exchange and the Creative Economy: How Migrants Shape Art and Culture

January 6, 2025 1 Comment

— by maibrahimblog In the ever-evolving tapestry of our global community, the threads of cultural exchange have become the lifeblood of the creative economy. Like a symphony of diverse voices, the stories and experiences of migrants have the power to transform how we perceive and appreciate art, music, and literature. Introduction Migration, like most things, has existed since the existence of the earth. If you have any religious sentiments, the first created human, Adam, and his counterpart, Eve, were the first migrants; from the Garden of Eden to earth. On the other hand, if you are without religious inclinations, then the Primates (the first evidence of humanity), the ancestors of current humans, moved per the requirements of their needs. The needs of Primates during “the Miocene Epoch were characterized by major global climatic changes … that led to more seasonal conditions … stimulated novel adaptations involving locomotion” (Britannica 2024). Migration is the relocation of people from one place to another either permanently or temporarily: “Since the earliest times, humanity has been on the move. Some people move in search of work or economic opportunity, to join family, or to study. Others move to escape conflict, persecution, or large-scale human rights violations. Still others move in response to the adverse effects of climate change, natural disasters or other environmental factors” (UN 2024). The Role of Migrants in Creative Industries “The current global estimate is that there were around 281 million international migrants in the world in 2020 … which equates to 3.6 percent of the global population” (IOM 2024). Typical of any creation, whether human or animal; migrants tend to move with their personal effects, in other words, their culture. These cultural effects; arts, storytelling, writing, language, drama, food, religion, music, dance, oral traditions, laws, capabilities, habits, symbols, architecture, etc are transported and wholly practiced or practiced in part or adulterated with cultures of the new place of settlement. Currently, migrants transmit culture and arts through the creative economy. Fostering Inclusivity in the Creative Economy The term creative economy is relatively new. Thus it is not exactly defined: “In some countries, the definitions revolve closely around the arts and culture. Other countries have broader definitions that include, for example, food and gastronomy on the basis that food and cuisine have both economic and cultural significance” (Newbigin, 2012). “There is no single definition of creative economy, and the different definitions usually overlap” (UNEN, 2024). However, the creative economy which is at the heart of the creative industry ( “ the cycles of creation, production, and distribution of goods and services that use creativity and intellectual capital as primary inputs” (UNEN, 2024) ) can be defined as making innovative use of cultural aspects with (or without) technology for economic gains. Thus the United Nations Economist Network (UNEN, 2024), says “The creative economy (also known as the orange economy) is an evolving concept based on the contribution and potential of creative assets to contribute to economic growth and development. It embraces economic, cultural, and social aspects interacting with technology, intellectual property, and tourism objectives.” “By 2024, the global creative economy market could reach $1T” (Sokolova, 2012). Economic Contributions of Diverse Artistic Perspectives The question is, “How do migrants shape arts and culture through the creative economy?” Through art, food, music, writing, fashion, language, sense of humour (comedy/stand-up comedy), etc migrants have been shaping cultures; and currently increasingly with the help of content creators and bloggers. A few cultural aspects that have become the subject of cultural exchange and the creative economy are visual arts, performing arts, and literary arts. Arts fall under culture. It encompasses visual arts (paintings, drawings, filming, architecture, etc), performing arts (music, dance, theatre), and literary arts (fiction, drama, poetry, prose). The UN Peace Window by Marc Chagall. Marc Chagall is among the notable visual artists in the world. He was born Moishe Shagal. He was of Jewish ancestry born in part of the Russian Empire (currently Belarus) in July 1887. He influenced French culture with (his modernist art ideology containing Jewish folklore) the establishment of the Ecole de Paris, stained glass windows for Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, Metz Cathedral, Fraumünster in Zürich, windows for the UN, Art Institute of Chicago, the Jerusalem Windows and a large-scale painting for the Paris Opera (Wikipedia, 2024). Music & dance Jazz and hip hop (rap) are among the well-known American music genres in the world. These two music art forms are very much like the Takamba of Mali and the appellations accompanied by the fomtomfrom of the Ghanaian drum, respectively. Thus these musical forms are believed to have been transferred by enslaved Africans to the Americans. The Ghanaian fontomfrom drum “The elements that make jazz distinctive derive primarily from West African musical sources as taken to the North American continent by slaves, who partially preserved them against all odds in the plantation culture of the American South” (Britannica, 2024). Ballet/Dancing en pointe (on toe) is a precise dance originating from Italy. It was transported to France when Catherine of Medici of Italy married the French King Henry II; “From Italian roots, ballets in France and Russia developed their own stylistic character. By 1850 A ballet troupe. Russia had become a leading creative center of the dance world, and as ballet continued to evolve, certain new looks and theatrical illusions caught on and became quite fashionable” (Atlanta Ballet, 2024). Salsa from Eastern Cuba, is another dance form that has been transported through migration. Food Pizza, spaghetti, and cheese were originally Italian foods that were world favourites. They are among the Italian cultures delivered to the world through migration. Pizza is a flat-round dish made from dough etymologically from “Pitta”, Greek for baked dough. It has become part of the world’s favorite foods. It originated in Gaeta (then part of the Byzantine Empire), Italy in 997 AD (Wikipedia, 2024). Yoghurt is another dairy product conveyed through migration from Turkey; “Its first known appearance was during the Neolithic period (around 5,000 BC) in Mesopotamia. That makes yogurt well over 7,000 years old! It’s believed that,

2024’s Defining Moments: What a Year It Has Been

December 31, 2024 No Comments

— by maibrahimblog As the curtain falls on the tumultuous year of 2024, we find ourselves reflecting on a journey that has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. When I think of the year 2024, I think of a roller coaster ride. Then again a collection of synonyms and their antonyms come to mind; excitement and subduing, hopelessness and hopefulness, systole and diastole, ebb and flow, peaks and valleys, oscillation and vacillation; I do believe you get my gist; “come on, you and I know what I’m talking about.” “I actually, I don’t,” replied Bret Baier of Fox News (in an interview) to Vice President Kamala Harris’ response of “Come on, you and I know what I’m talking about,” an obvious evasion of a question concerning what she thinks about the 79% respondents’ belief that the US is taking the wrong trajectory under the Biden-Harris administration, the journalist’s quick comeback exposed her. That was among my instances of vacillation, ebb, diastole, valleys, and hopelessness: I had some hope, albeit a teeny-tiny one, that the superpower of the world would have its first female president; a moment of glass-ceiling being broken, alas! it evaporated into nothingness. Further on, my lows are the continuous wars in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan, the likely deterioration of Syria into another Iraq and Libya, and an ominous feeling of World War III with Iran in 2025; the detrimental effects of these wars on women and children. Thus the United Nations Foundation (2024) reiterates this concern of mine, of the devastating effects of wars on females: “And once again, wherever there is conflict, disaster, or destruction, girls and women unfairly bear the brunt.” Speaking of “brunt”, how about Artificial Intelligence and its “brunt” on the world; influencers are creating media content that is rivaling that of mainstream media and even royals are sharing the brunt of Artificial Intelligence: Kate Middleton’s “fidgeting” with Artificial Intelligence was exposed by the eagle-eyes of her followers. Later, sadly but bravely, she told the world how she was undergoing treatment for cancer (CNN, 2024). I guess that will be her version of “coming out of the closet.” She does seem to shy away from cameras. But there is some good news for Kate: Russia has just discovered the cure for cancer: “Russia has announced a groundbreaking development in cancer treatment with the creation of an mRNA-based vaccine designed to treat cancer patients. This revolutionary vaccine is set to be launched in early 2025,..” (Business Today, 2024). Finally, the United Nations is waking up to the concept of inclusivity. For an organization that proclaims to be for everyone no matter what corner of the world, it’s a little elitist; most especially when it comes to its Security Council: imagine the elitism; permanent and non-permanent members, really? It’s a recipe for vetoing and doing as we wish. But the new kid on the block “Pact for the Future” seems promising: “The Pact lays out 56 actions across five key areas, from safeguarding peace to financing the Sustainable Development Goals to governing new frontiers in cyber- and outer space. But as Julie explains, “The central connotation of the Pact is rebuilding trust through the reform of outdated institutions.” Calls for greater representation of emerging powers and smaller nations on the Security Council grew louder this year” (United Nations Foundation, 2024). What a year 2024 has been: over sixty countries in the world went through the democratic process of elections (Pew Research Centre, 2024), not excluding the USA and Ghana. I cannot wait to see what 2025 brings with the return of controversial President-elect, Donald Trump of the USA, and diplomatic and hope-inspiring President-elect, John Drama Mahama of Ghana. Works Cited Vice President Kamala Harris grilled on pivotal issues as election nears on ‘Special Report’. 16th October, 2024. https://www.foxnews.com/video/shows/special-report The world this week. France 24. 20th December, 2024. https://www.france24.com/en/tv-shows/the-world-this-week/20241220-the-world-this-year-2024-a-look-back-at-events Rabbitt, Megan., Altman, MJ. Year in Review: the events that shaped the UN and Our World in 2024. United Nations Foundation. 13th December, 2024. Stalter, Brian. Year in Review: Top Media Stories of 2024. December 2024. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/23/business/video/top-media-stories-2024-yir-stelter-pkg-digvid Massive breakthrough: Russia develops cancer vaccine, will distribute it for free from 2025. Business Today. 2024. https://www.businesstoday.in/amp/india/story/massive-breakthrough-russia-develops-cancer-vaccine-will-distribute-it-for-free-from-2025-457823-2024-12-18 Wike, Richard., Moira Fagan., Clancy, Laura., Global Elections in 2024: What We Learned in a Year of Political Disruptions. Pew Research Centre. December 11, 2024. https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2024/12/11/global-elections-in-2024-what-we-learned-in-a-year-of-political-disruption

Writing as a Voice Against Transactional Crime

December 23, 2024 No Comments

Writing may not always change the world, but it keeps the fight for justice alive, inspiring others to continue the pursuit of truth despite the risks.

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