perhaps I took it too literally but anyway I was standing from 10-5 the past 2 days and still have a bit more to go later but the results have been pretty satisfactory.
we've got about 200 photos which means 200 more supporters. i've got a sore throat from explaining and a portion of the people probably still didn't quite grasp what they were taking a photo for as they rushed past our booth; but for those who stopped, I was happy to explain. and for those who asked questions, i was even happier to answer. i'd rather people really understand what the cause is about than just take a photo for the sake of taking a photo. sure, to some this attempt might seem like we're grasping at straws, but with enough straws we can form a hay stack.
some people (those who actually bothered to think) asked me how on earth taking a photo with a number could contribute to ending poverty. in this case, their photo is akin to signing a petition, visually. plus becomes part of a very meaningful Countdown Clock to remind world leaders that time is running out.
again, even with that, people ask how does this really help? how can small fry like us get anything moving at the bigger, broader policy/ government level? well with more public awareness these policies can get more public support and then they're more likely to get passed at the level where it matters (it doesn't stop there of course, then you need trustworthy people to ensure that the plans are effective but at least it gets the ball rolling).
who knows, with enough such movements, maybe the SDP or WP might even win a seat in future based on social issues!
And it can work too - from the StandUp website: "Just three years ago, global leaders meeting at a G8 meeting in Scotland listened to voices like yours and canceled the debts of 17 of the world's poorest countries. The result? Funds were freed up in these countries for free vaccinations, to eliminate school fees, to clean up drinking water and much more. "
Of course putting pressure on world leaders is just one possible avenue. Personally I'm all for micro-financing, but it doesn't hurt to put pressure this way either. Even if some rich countries and their leaders are now preoccupied with saving their own countries from imminent poverty...
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