Most people are aware of the Boko Haram kidnappings that occurred in April. Over 300 schoolgirls were taken, most of whom were Christian, and then were married off or "sold" and converted to Islam.
In an article I found on NBC, a story is told about a young girl named Mercy who was part of those kidnappings and escaped. She was one of only 57 who found a way out. She's only 18 and now lives in America and is learning English and going to college on a Merit Scholarship.
This article attracted my attention because its mind blowing that events like this actually occur. And not only do they happen, but they happen often. If that were to happen in America, I cannot even imagine the outcry, protests, and future actions that would result.
This article was very similar to A Long Way Gone as well. Both Beah and Mercy were robbed of their childhoods, forced into actions that are unforgettable, and had to leave their homes. But in a more hopeful way, their lives changed drastically for sure, but in some aspects they are lucky. They could have ended up a lot worse than what they are now. The experieces that they had shaped them into who they are today. These people prove to be inspirations to people all around the world.
Issues like these don't seem to be ending in the future, yet I feel as though society can offer a helping hand in making these events known to the public so that we are able to hear these innocent people's cries and prevent further catastrophes from occurring.
How do you think society can offer help in a sufficient way?
ReplyDeleteAnd also do you really believe it can get worse? Everyday those people affected in travesty, kidnappings, rapes, etc. have to relive those memories everyday. Are they really lucky? They are inspirations yes, but outside of inspiring people they still live with the devastation and that is something that will never go away. And in those survivors we only heard of a few that became public figures. Where are the rest?
Some may say they are not lucky, and sure, this could have just not happened to them, but we must look on the bright side of the situation. They potentially coins have been killed, but they were not. And also, I agree, where are the rest? We will never hear from all of them. But these select few have offered wisdom in many ways that only they could have.
ReplyDeleteIt would seems that this is a recurring theme in our media. Remember the anti-KONY movement only a few years ago, and how fast the outrage fizzled out?
ReplyDeleteI don't mean to beat a dead horse here;quite the opposite. If we are periodically grabbing the world's attention with our use of social media, maybe we should be utilizing its effectiveness even more.