Justice and Peace

Fabric as Social Identity: An initiative of YMCA Lahore and Beaconhouse National University

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Fabric as Social Identity-ںویک ؟ںاہک ؟نوک؟

As the textiles of any region represent its roots; history, political significance and cultural narrative, the geographical placement of a city’s buildings hold a particular meaning. Similarly, the YMCA building in Lahore stands as a testament to the identity of the city; as a city of poets, artists and visionaries. As one of the buildings that was commemorated to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1887, it is significant as a part of the historical narrative of Lahore. Since the era of Queen Victoria to the partition of Pakistan, the YMCA has been a standing symbol of Inclusivity. It is a platform that recognizes individuals as Pakistanis, above any race or religion.

For the Lahore Biennale installation at the YMCA, the students of SVAD, BNU will work on pieces of their individual narratives, which will be brought together and developed into a large piece of social fabric. This concept will be divided into an overarching theme of Fabric as a marker of the identity of its society, divided into the three streams of societal constructs; Who, where and why which are depicted by the following visual sub-themes: ؟نوک

1 نوک Kaun/who? Personal Narratives; which will be the stories stemming from the idea of the self through accounts of positivity, struggle, joy and empowerment. Stories of personal choices, of passion and hardships and stories that are close to our hearts. These narratives will be depicted by the different shades of red and its associated tones, as shown in the mood board below..

؟ںاہک

2 ںاہک Kahan/where? Intergenerational stories; or narratives that have cultural or generational significance. These have passed down through grandparents, family lineage, etc. Stories of inheritance, stories of archives, letters, partition, and traditional artifacts etc. These will be depicted by the different shades of rusts, browns, vintage colours and their associated tones, as depicted in the mood board below.


؟ںویک

3 Kyun or why? Political Narratives; The stories of political turmoil will show what role political influences play within a society. For example, the current political discourse in the country as well as the instability that surrounds it. The stories of Gaza, the Bengali students movement and what it means for the youth and us in these troubling times. These will be depicted by the different shades of blue, gray, black and its associated tones This is also depicted in the mood board below.


Final Assemblage :The fabric would be stitched in the form of three large final pieces, handmade in tonal variation of the different shades that represent the diverse nature of Lahore; the city that blends different people from every walk of life. When the three streams of who, where and why from the society come together and form one conceptual space, we as a diverse society will be able to view the impacts of the untold nuances that will be shown through artistic expression. This can be analyzed in a deeper way once the audience begins to survey and observe prominent elements furthering on into the minute details. This fabric would feature crafts from the many regions within the country.

؟ںویک ؟ںاہک ؟نوک

In Collaboration with Kaarvan- a joint workshop to stitch the social fabric

The faculty and students of Textile, Fashion and Accessories Design as well as students across SVAD, will collaborate with Kaarvan in a joint-two day workshop, in order to stitch the pieces for the final installation. These workshops will be based on BNU SVAD’s previous association with Kaarvan, where both have come together to break societal norms, cultural barriers on Rural Women's Day.

These activities in the past few years were conducted to envision a better reality, where boundaries that exist between the urban and rural communities were blurred and a dialogue could be formed between the urban and artisanal communities. The objective was quite simple; to explore diversity and commonalities through various activities. This was also a learning platform, where the women of Kaarvan made a mark by voicing their opinions and sharing their experiences with the students of Art and Design. They also brought their craft work to engage in dialogue regarding the process students of SVAD followed. This allowed for both students and artisans to learn from one another through exchange of knowledge. Hence, Kaarvan and BNU come together for the Lahore Biennale installation so that the fabric we create as a society, can represent the diverse identity of our culture collectively. The purpose is also to continue the ongoing dialogue, as a constant undertaking to bring society together and blur the economic gaps that exist within the urban and rural constructs of the society.

Stitching all the pieces of the fibre art, will involve critical thinking, problem solving, and integrating diverse groups of cultures under one platform. While both organizations' common goal is to bridge the gap between art, craft, artisan and designer, this task will serve as a mode of engagement, forming new techniques of fabric manipulation such as patchwork, sewing, appliqueing. These layers will make the process and the outcome both more meaningful. The stories will be curated by incorporating materials that have been passed down through generations of the artist’s families, or materials the artists have been working with for a significant amount of time. There will be three panels/or rather streams of society that will be built through this concept, where the participants will stitch the collective pieces, within each colour palette. The concept of ںویک ؟ںاہک ؟نوک a sa egaugnal gnisu ,txetnoc lacol eht htiw detaicossa eb lliw ؟prompt for viewers to respond.

Once the three streams of society (who, where and why) are stitched, they will be brought together in the form of a three wall-triangular room, within the YMCA hall. This idea, inspired by Judy Chicago’s Dinner Party, will be a representation of the deeper aspects of society coming together to create one space. When the audience views the panels, they not only experience the deeper reality within their physical reality, but will also feel like a part of the installation.

Judy Chicago, The Dinner Party

This is so, when the narratives are collectively stitched, they not only create a visual representation of each artist/craftwoman’s work, but more importantly showcase a diverse culture that is tied to the geographical importance of the YMCA building. We hope that this activity serves as an example of many more in the future, where diverse groups of individuals come together to form a social fabric. One that is representative of diversity, inclusivity, empathy and equity present within its society.  The outside walls of the structure will be of white fabric, to provide a completely blank canvas to the general public to interact with, while the patchwork panels will be patched and incorporated inside the room/installation.

YMCA Exhibition- Public Interaction and Political Discourse:

On the day of exhibiting the fabric, in order to ensure the dialogue for inclusivity is carried forwards through the narratives of BNU students and Kaarvan artisans, BNU will also open the floor for audience, to join us in stitching their intergenerational fabrics as well as textile narratives to become a part of our collective social narrative. This installation would be a symbol of the changing times, political narratives and positivity that surrounds Lahore. BNU will place colour coded fabric, stitching material as well as stationary, according to the three streams; Who, Where and Why? Fabric, threads and textile material will be placed near the installation so that they can respond to our open call for active participation. Small sized fabric flags will also be lined up in the colours of our respective themes while the open roof of the installation will be covered with ropes. The flags will give a covering and the interplay of their colours will give us an analysis of the political discourse surrounding the installation. The public can also interact by placing the flags of their choice of colour/or the theme they associate with, on the string/rope. This activity will ensure that the installation is meaningful. The engagement will be documented and facilitated so that this significant journey of becoming a part of the social narrative will unite the people of Lahore, with YMCA and Lahore biennale as the platform and the data collection from the interaction can give us insights on the ideals of our society.


Qudsia Rahim

Executive Director

Lahore Biennale Foundation



 

Launch of Y+: A first ever collaboration between Singapore’s 3Ys to serve persons with disabilities

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Launch of Y+: A first ever collaboration between Singapore’s 3Ys to serve persons with disabilities.

Metropolitan YMCA Singapore, YMCA of Singapore, YWCA of Singapore recently announced the launch of Y+ - a pioneering collaborative community engagement initiative to serve persons with disabilities and their caregivers.  This collaboration saw the 3 Ys coming together for the first time and partnering SG Enable, a government agency that focuses on disability and inclusion in Singapore, enabling persons with disabilities to live, learn, work and play in an inclusive society.  The ultimate goal was to have support from a government agency that specifically impacts persons with disabilities and helping them secure employment opportunities for their futures.

The Y+ collaboration aims to roll out innovative community solutions as part of a collaborative framework to better support persons with disabilities and their caregivers.  This is especially critical after they turn 18 years old and opportunities shrink during the critical transition from Special Education schools to employment and community integration. This is known as the post-18 cliff effect. Y+ aims to plug the gap for persons with disabilities and additional needs to ensure they continue to lead fruitful and meaningful lives. Initiatives such as Y Crops @ Metropolitan YMCA, Y Dance @ YMCA of Singapore and Y Wellness Weave @ YWCA are the three pilot programmes that will be rolled out under the Y+ initiative to meaningfully engage persons with disabilities through urban farming, dance and craft-making. The end goal is to foster a sense of community, inclusion, and therapeutic interactions to promote mental wellness.

In attendance were YWCA’s Executive Director, Ms Ong Puay See, General Secretary, YMCA of Singapore’s CEO Ms Wu Mei Ling, and Metropolitan YMCA Group CEO Ms Grace Chan, along with the Mayor of Central Singapore District Ms Denise Phua. The event also saw MYMCA staff, Mr Isaac Komatt, a person with disabilities under MYMCA’s Place and Train programme, leading the session on hydroponics farming, and conducting a brief teaching session with guests and beneficiaries.

L-R: Ms Wu Mei Ling, Ms Denise Phua, Ms Grace Chan, Ms Ong Puay See (Photo: MYMCA)

3 CEOs of the Ys interacting during the Y+ event. (Photo: MYMCA)

Mayor Ms Denise Phua interacted with some of the persons with disabilities.  (Photo: MYMCA)

MYMCA President Mr Charis Lim, YMCA of Singapore President Mr Tony Soh and Mayor Denise Phua at MYMCA’s Hydroponics Urban Farm posing for a photo during the Symbolic Act of Partnership. (Photo: MYMCA)


For more information, please visit our website at

https://www.mymca.org.sg/social-enterprise/

 

Hiroshima YMCA International Youth Peace Seminar

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Last Updated (Friday, 09 August 2024 12:32)

   

YMCA Korea and APAY participated in the 1st Korea Peace Day, organized by Border Peace School in Cheorwon, near the DMZ

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Last Updated (Tuesday, 02 July 2024 15:44)

YMCA Korea and APAY participated in the 1st Korea Peace Day, organized by Border Peace School in Cheorwon, near the DMZ

On June 6th 2024, the 1st Korea Peace Day was held in Cheorwon near the Demilitarized Zone (or DMZ), where more than 800 participants from various ecumenical organizations and civil society organizations were present, yearning for reconciliation and peaceful co-existence between the two Koreas. Among them were the delegates from YMCA Korea, Korean YWCA, NCC-Korea along with many pastors of the Presbyterian Churches of the Republic of Korea (PCRK). APAY has also joined the event in support of the peace initiatives made by the Border Peace School (Principal Dr. Jung Ji-Seok).

During the event, Mr. Nidal Abu Zuluf, a peace activist from Palestine and coordinator of the Olive Tree Campaign, conducted a special session. Several local YMCAs, including Goyang YMCA led by GS Lee Yun-Hee from Korea, have been participating in this campaign. Mr. Zuluf expressed solidarity and support for the collective efforts of like-minded ecumenical communities in Korea on peace and reconciliation in the Korean peninsula. He also shared the current challenging situations faced by the Palestinian Christians and the general population due to the ongoing war in Gaza and other areas.

Towards the end of the peace event, all participants unanimously adopted a “People’s Declaration for Great Peace” and were resolved to commit themselves towards peacebuilding, reconciliation and re-unification in the long run of the Korean Peninsula.

Dr. Jung Ji-Seok, Principal of Border Peace School, is leading a solidarity performance with participants and Nidal Abu Zuluf.Nidal Abu Zuluf is making his solidarity remarks at the opening ceremony.
Four representatives among participants are reading the People_s Declaration on Great Peace.Participants performing a solidarity action with Nidal Abu Zuluf on peacebuilding in the Korean Peninsula.


By Yura Rhee

Secretary for Youth Empowerment and Admin


“People’s Declaration for Great Peace”

 

Myanmar YMCA Hosts 73rd Annual National Board Meeting Amid Ongoing Crisis

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Myanmar YMCA Hosts 73rd Annual National Board Meeting Amid Ongoing Crisis

The National Council of YMCAs of Myanmar commemorated its 73rd anniversary with the 73rd Annual National Board Meeting, held at the National Council office in Yangon on April 2-3, 2024. The event theme, “Community Wellbeing,” aligns with the global YMCA Vision 2030 pillar.

In the wake of the evolving crisis in Myanmar, the YMCA remains steadfast in its commitment to support the people affected by ongoing conflicts. Demonstrating solidarity, the event brought together representatives from all 33 local YMCAs and affiliated YMCAs, both in-person and virtually.

Key Details of the Meeting

Venue and Participation:

Location: National Council of YMCAs of Myanmar office, Yangon, Myanmar

Date: April 2-3, 2024

Attendance: Approximately 50 representatives attended physically, while around 40 participants joined via Zoom

Objectives and Outcomes

The primary focus of the meeting was to discuss the future operations and constitutional guidelines of the YMCA in Myanmar. The discussions aimed at aligning the national agenda with the global YMCA priorities. Key outcomes included a renewed strategic plan to enhance community wellbeing and a commitment to adapting the organization’s constitution to better serve its members in these challenging times.

Insights and Reflections

Participants gained valuable insights into the current state of affairs and the role of YMCA in fostering community resilience. The hybrid format, utilizing the Zoom platform, allowed for inclusive participation despite the challenging circumstances.

International Partnerships and Projects

In 2023, Myanmar YMCA partnered with several international organizations, including DCA-NCA, Danish Refugee Council, Bread for the World, International Organization for Migration (IOM), UNICEF, Impulse NGO Network India, Y's Men International, and Livelihood and Food Security Funds (LIFT). These collaborations resulted in eight ongoing community development projects nationwide, focusing on critical areas such as:

  • Food Security
  • Protection from Gender-based Violence
  • Support for Internally Displaced Populations (Dry Rations and Agroforestry)
  • Anti-Human Trafficking
  • Counseling Services
  • Youth Employment
  • Child Protection
  • Community WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene)

These projects significantly contribute to the YMCA's mission of fostering community wellbeing and addressing urgent humanitarian needs.

Quotes from Participants

Mr. Maung Maung Win, National General Secretary: “This meeting reaffirms our commitment to community wellbeing, especially during these trying times. The solidarity shown here gives us hope and direction.”

Mr. Dan Yae La, a virtual participant: “Joining this meeting online was crucial for me. It allowed us to stay connected and contribute to our shared goals despite the physical distance.”

Conclusion

The 73rd Annual National Board Meeting of the National Council of YMCAs of Myanmar was a significant milestone, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to community wellbeing amid ongoing challenges. The hybrid gathering underscored the adaptability and resilience of the YMCA community, ensuring continued support and solidarity for those affected by the crisis in Myanmar.

With robust international partnerships and impactful community development projects, Myanmar YMCA continues to make a positive difference in the lives of many. The National Council looks forward to implementing the strategies discussed and continuing to support the communities they serve.

For more information and updates on future activities, please visit www.facebook.com/myanmarymca

 

By -ALEX KAUNG MYAT HTOO

Country Team Lead | Humanitarian Programme Manager

Impulse NGO Network Humanitarian Relief Support Programme

National Council of YMCAs of Myanmar

   

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