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Tag: racism

Blood, art, racism, science: what are we up to?

On 30 September we’ll be participating in Science in the City 2016 with an installation that challenges stereotypes and invites reflection on diversity.

The ‘Science in the City—European Researchers’ Night’ festival, is organised by the University of Malta, the Research Trust of the University of Malta and the Malta Chamber of Scientists together with a large number of partners. Funded by the European Commission’s Research and Innovation Framework Programme H2020 (2014-2020) by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions, it is recognized as a ‘festival’ by Europe for Festivals and Festivals for Europe (EFFE).

It is supported by Parliamentary Secretary for Research, Innovation, Youth & Sport, General Soft Drinks and a number of corporate sponsors.

Entitled ‘Colourism|Haemophobia’, our installation playfully uses blood in order to immerse viewers in questions about identity, prejudice, social cohesion and community.

Essentially, our installation promotes the value of equal human dignity as a fundamental principle and guiding social norm.

The ‘blind’ solidarity expressed when donating blood is a perfect context to underline the need for us to be ‘blind’ to skin colour, and to embrace the common humanity we all share.

Want to know more? Follow the Science in the City programme (regularly updated) for details on our installation’s location…

 

…and we’ll see you there!

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Solidarity with MEP Mestola

The recent threats against MEP Roberta Metsola are a worrying reminder of what happens when societies ignore, support or fuel right-wing sentiments and expressions. It is unacceptable for any person to be attacked in such a manner,  and we expect a full and unequivocal condemnation of these threats by the competent authorities.

Discussions on migration are challenging and often trigger deep emotional reactions. It is a complex subject that touches upon those elements held so dearly by many persons: identity, religion, security and family. Because is so sensitive and complex, it demands respect for all involved, accurate information on which to base arguments and conclusions and a common understanding that the expression of disagreements is an integral part of democracy.

The values of decency, human dignity and fundamental human rights must be at the core of our discussions on migrants and refugees, whatever our positions and opinions.

Yet hatred, violence, and vulgarity seem to be the only values known to those persons who are unwilling to engage in a more respectful, dignified and constructive manner. They seek to instil fear in the hope that the debate will scurry away or, worse, that it will be killed.

“aditus foundation supports a more productive expressive freedom. Often on the receiving end of similar threats, we nonetheless insist on upholding fundamental human rights at all times, and at all costs. We therefore express our solidarity with MEP Metsola and with all persons and institutions who come under vicious fire for their work, opinions and beliefs,” commented aditus Director Dr. Neil Falzon.

We therefore invite the Maltese authorities and all of society to take a clearer stand against racism and hate speech, in support of a migration discussion that is inclusive, respectful and dignified.