June 18 International Day for Countering Hate Speech: Using a Mobile Phone to Collect and Share Messages of Peace and Violence
June 18 International Day for Countering Hate Speech: Using a Mobile Phone to Collect and Share Messages of Peace and Violence
Fatmata Bangura, an Intern at the Patriotic Advocacy Network in Sierra Leone writes for us on June 18 the International Day for Countering Hate Speech.
My journey with the Patriotic Advocacy Network has been transformative. Before my internship, I was aware of the concept of peace, but it was here that I truly understood its depth and importance, especially in the context of national elections.
Understanding peace
Peace, as I’ve come to understand, is the absence of war or violence. It’s a state of harmony, happiness, and a mind free of stress. This understanding has helped me refrain from quarrelling and causing harm to others, especially during sensitive times like elections.
The role of mobile phones
The Patriotic Advocacy Network has taught me to use mobile phones as a tool for peace advocacy. We use our phones to capture information, create videos for sensitization, and share messages of peace. This experience has shown me that mobile phones can be used positively to create a significant impact.
Sharing messages of peace
Now, I use my phone to take pictures during peace programs, create stories around these pictures, and share them on Facebook. This allows everyone to see and learn about the importance of peace. It’s a testament to the power of mobile phones in spreading positive messages.
A call to action
I urge everyone to understand and work towards peace. Use your mobile phones to talk about peace and share positive information. Avoid spreading misinformation that can harm someone’s feelings or character.
As we approach the elections, remember to stay out of violence. No matter what happens, remember that peace is the answer. With peace, we can live in a peaceful and conducive environment. Without peace, we would be running for our lives.
So, let’s use our phones positively. Go beyond just watching videos or chatting with friends. There’s a wealth of knowledge in your phone. Educate yourself through your phone and see the positive impact it can create in your life.