Dr Martin Bloomfield’s Post

🌍 HALE: Human Rights and Inclusion Network Celebrates International Democracy Day 2024! 🎉 Today, we join the world in celebrating the International Day of Democracy—a day to reaffirm the values of freedom, equality, and participation that uphold democratic societies. Democracy is strongest when everyone's voice is heard, and when all individuals are empowered to shape their collective future. As we continue advocating for transparent governance, human rights, and civic engagement, let’s ensure that democracy thrives in every corner of the globe. This year is particularly notable, as over 50 countries—representing half of the global population—are set to participate in elections. In reflecting on this significance, we echo the wisdom of Kofi Annan: "No one is born a good citizen; no nation is born a democracy. Rather, both are processes that continue to evolve over a lifetime. Young people must be included from birth. A society that cuts off from its youth severs its lifeline." — Kofi Annan, The Elders On this 15th of September, we call upon young leaders everywhere to advocate for their communities and actively engage in strengthening their democracies. Your voice matters, and your participation is essential to building a more inclusive and brighter future. Let us stand together, empower our youth, and ensure that they are central in shaping tomorrow’s democratic processes! #InternationalDayOfDemocracy #HumanRights #Inclusion #YouthEmpowerment #DemocracyMatters #SDGs

Be political vs not be political on LinkedIn. That is the question I have had posed by clients and friends. Lots of differing opinions on this. I understand both sides. I think it depends on who you are, what you believe, companies you work for, risks you are willing to take and what you consider “political”. Some issues that others consider political I consider human rights, and to steal a term from season 3 of The Bear (best show on tv, don’t fight me on this) “non negotiables”. Those are not “aww let’s agree to disagree” political issues. I fundamentally believe they are necessary for us to continue as a society of fully functional, whole and healthy humans. So in that case… it’s kind of impossible to not be “political”. Because all issues with any real value are political in some way. Childcare crisis: political Women’s rights and safety: political Food insecurity and the unhoused: political Freedom of speech and religion: political Inequality of the race, gender, sexual orientation, religion variety: political But all of these things are about your jobs, your work life, your performance, your circumstance, your ability to function, who you are and how you walk through your work and personal life. I’m going to be political in that sense. Because these things are critical to our lives as parents, workers, humans. That intersection is not blurry. It’s crystal clear. But I respect others desire not to get political. It’s risk and it’s puts you out there. For the rest of you? LFG, ready to get into it, I love election time because everyone gets to do more critical thinking and have lively debates and share their passion issues. I love learning from smart people. #election2024 #womensrights #vote #lfg

Why I Believe Young People Should Care About Politics? You don’t have to want to be a politician to care about politics. For me, it’s about understanding how our country works, how decisions are made, and how those decisions affect us all-every day, in ways big and small. When young people take the time to learn about our political history and how democracy functions, they’re not just learning facts-they’re learning how to make their voices heard, how to stand up for what’s right, and how to take responsibility for themselves and those around them. Politics isn’t just something that happens in Parliament or during elections; it’s about how we live together in our communities, how we solve problems, and how we build a future that works for everyone. That’s why I believe it’s so important for young people to get involved, to ask questions, and to challenge the status quo. In the end, it’s not about becoming a politician-it’s about becoming someone who cares deeply about their community and is willing to take action to make it better. That’s the kind of leadership we need, and it’s something we can all strive for, no matter where life takes us. For me, politics became more meaningful when I started to see the importance of inclusion. My journey with the Centre for Peace Building and Reconciliation (CPBR) opened my eyes to how crucial it is that everyone, no matter who they are, has a voice and a place in our society. I’ve come to realize that politics isn’t just about laws and policies-it’s about people. It’s about making sure everyone feels heard, valued, and included. That’s why I’m so passionate about it. It’s not just about influencing decisions; it’s about building a community where everyone feels they belong. #inclusionmatters #youthengagement #civicresponsibility #Leadership #DemocracyInAction #communitybuilding

🌏 How can Int. Orgs & governments better uphold youth #socialrights and ensure young voices are heard? Let's discuss empowering the next generation of changemakers! Learn more : https://go.coe.int/5YMgq #OurCommonFuture #SocialRights #HumanRights

**SUNLIGHT OF HOPE....BUT FOR WHO?** Some sobering thoughts to keep in mind alongside the 'sunlight of hope' referenced as we witnessed the recent change of occupancy in Downing Street The full report is worth a read, a summary is below. The headlines: Voter turnout was 11-13 points higher in constituencies with the highest proportions of homeowners and over-64s... ...and 7-10 points lower in constituencies with highest proportions of 'minority ethnic' and Muslim voters Overall turnout was 52% of adults. So just over half. Those snapshots are a useful shorthand for the extent of the inclusion journey ahead in Britain. It goes beyond age, ethnicity, and 'class' towards highlighting those who 'have' and those who don't. Those who can participate with relative ease, and those for whom 'participation' can feel like a faraway dream, or a pathetic joke. Alongside what this means for the future of 'democracy', this level of 'inclusion' is interwoven with what we want to say or do about what happens within the workplace. It speaks much more to belonging in society, and the security or otherwise we can 'take for granted' in relation to our place in the world. No easy answers. Just something to keep in mind. (Full report: Patel P and Valgarðsson V (2024) *Half of us: Turnout patterns at the 2024 general election, IPPR*

Yesterday was 🗳️ International Democracy Day (& today is US' National Voter Registration Day). In honor of those, I remind and encourage everyone to ➡️check/update-if-necessary your voter registration, at vote.org ➡️ read the platforms (on their websites& snippets in any interviews) of candidates in local, state, and National elections. Your local election board might have a list and summaries, or other ways to direct you. ➡️ If you'll be traveling, or are an American Citizen living overseas, register for a mail-in ballot (& pay close attn to the detail instructions like where you sign, etc) ➡️ exercise your right to vote on or before Nov 5. 💪So many around the world fight to have that right recognized; and so many in US history have fought (& some still have to now) to have that right both recognized and supported not suppressed. Please appreciate that right, and all that it means-- democracy, discussion of multiple PoV, choosing leaders who inspire us to be the best versions of ourselves. This gentleman sang about standing up for rights: https://lnkd.in/eAK4eFwC And this gentleman calmly explains why voting is so important https://lnkd.in/e6uPGT7K #democracy #resilience #leadership #corporatecitizenship #voterregistration

Witnessing the U.S. election season firsthand reveals its profound impact on individuals and communities. The passion and intensity of political discourse can lead to divisions within families and friendships. The Challenge: Elections highlight diverse opinions and strong support for different candidates, often straining relationships as differing perspectives emerge. People often say to avoid discussing sexuality, politics, and religion to maintain harmony in social settings. However, approaching these topics consciously, with respect and curiosity, can lead to fruitful conversations. American freedom is built on the four pillars of freedom—freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of the press, and freedom of assembly. These pillars form the foundation of democracy, emphasizing diverse opinions, individuality, respect, and kindness. Even though I don't understand much about politics, I clearly see the polarizing effect elections have on families, communities, and friendships. Here are my five cents: By taking a conscious approach rather than resorting to accusation, blame, and shame ("How can you vote for this person?"), we can learn to navigate and discuss difficult topics respectfully and mindfully. A Conscious Approach: - Emotional Awareness: Perhaps we can try to recognize our feelings and reactions during political discussions. - Genuine Dialogue: Approaching conversations with curiosity and openness might help foster understanding. - Responsibility: Taking responsibility for our feelings can help us manage interactions more thoughtfully. Let’s uphold these principles with respect and kindness, fostering unity amidst our diversity. #Election2024 #Vote #Democracy #PoliticalDebate #ElectionDay #YourVoteMatters #Vote2024 #ElectionSeason #AmericanPolitics #VoteSmart #PoliticalEngagement #ElectionNews #BallotBox #VotingRights #ElectionIntegrity #CivicDuty #CampaignTrail #ElectionUpdates #ElectionAwareness #VoterTurnout #ElectionTime #trump #PoliticalCampaign #ElectionResults #YourVoiceMatters #ElectionCoverage #VoterEducation #DemocracyInAction #biden

Article :  Ireland rejects constitution changes, keeps ‘women in the home’ language (source: spokesman.com) Reflection: One wonders as to why after do many soap operas 'sympathising the plight of women', 'highlighting religious orders as sanctuary of pedophiles' and 'demonising Nuns' , how could the Voters still not be influenced?  Because a serie, a book or a work of fiction is just a stimulant by a content creator who crafts a story through his/her lens of Vision & his frames of reference: on the bygone times, about groups, events, taboo, superstitions. These are excellent tools to tickle the fear within the readers' psyche. Out of many parallel events, incidents/facts that support their claim/story are carefully distilled, aiming to influence. But, it takes a 'Living' who has lived life there, to remember that these places also were medium for education, empowerment, collective Strength, a place to turn to for consolation , an epicenter of gathering and promoting development and common Good. The evil side can't be denied or overlooked, yet should not overshadow the Good part.Would 'a change in phrase', make change in real world? Would it raise the social situation of women stranded in the bottom of social system? Would a change in phrase of constitution , convince the well-to-do mothers Change the storyline , they whisper to young Ones about 'that woman' ? Highly improbable! Perhaps the article has it right, the Voters were human enough to identity the 'opportunism' of the referendum; an attempt to win People By superficially embracing 'Feminism' & 'International Women's Day.

Celebrating Democracy The Cornerstone of Freedom Today, on June 12, 2024, we celebrate democracy - a system of governance that empowers us all. Democracy is more than just a political framework; it’s the lifeblood of a free and just society. It grants us the power to shape our future, ensuring that every voice, no matter how small, can be heard. Why Democracy Matters: 1. Empowerment: Democracy gives us the right to participate in the decision-making processes that affect our lives. 2. Equality: It ensures that all individuals are treated equally, with the same rights and opportunities. 3. Accountability: Elected representatives are accountable to the people, fostering transparency and reducing corruption. 4. Freedom: It protects our fundamental rights, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. Inspiring Examples of Democracy in Action: - Grassroots movements advocating for environmental protection. - Citizens coming together to demand fair elections. - Communities uniting to support social justice causes. Your Role in Democracy: - Stay Informed: Knowledge is power. Stay updated on local and global issues. - Vote: Your vote is your voice. Use it to make a difference. - Engage: Participate in community discussions and civic activities. - Advocate: Stand up for the rights of others and promote equality. As we reflect on the significance of democracy today, let's remember that it’s a collective effort. Each one of us has a role to play in building a more inclusive and just world. Together, let's continue to nurture and protect this precious system for future generations. #Democracy #Freedom #Equality #Empowerment #CivicEngagement

Confessions of a politically aware, state-educated woman from an immigrant background, on the morning of the general election results. Elections have me conflicted. I'm massively aware of our opportunity and responsibility to check a box and make a change. I watch the debates. I read the manifestos. I try to convince people to vote. I know the results of the exit polls. I fall asleep in front of 'election live' in the early hours of the morning. I've also seen much of the footage of racist and homophobic people expressing their bigoted views up and down the country. I hear the relentless conversation on immigration as a personal attack on my presence in the place I was born. I reflect on all the times the term 'identity politics' has been weaponized against me when expressing how I experience life in the UK. So while we woke up to some real wins today and I'll have the coverage on in the background all day, feeling joyful that: 🎇'The UK officially has its most state-educated government ever' - The 93% Club 🎇There will once again be a record number of women in the new House of Commons It’s not lost on me that representation under the conservative government didn’t mean the change we hoped for. And whilst Reform only took 4 seats in the end, they still had 15% of the vote. Leaving me, and many people with intersectional identities knowing the rise of Reform is tied, not only to the failures of the conservatives, but the anti-immigrant sentiment across the UK. So, while we celebrate a win today, welcoming a new government and hopes for change. Many of us will be feeling conflicted with feelings of unwelcomeness, knowing that there are people around us wishing that we weren't here at all - and if we voice it aloud, we'll be gaslit by the people in our circles. #Election2024 #Immigration #StateEducated #Politics