NGO fundraising imagery and the cycle of poverty

The Centre for Studies in Social Justice presents:

Kate Murray

Pulling at our "Heartstrings": NGO fundraising imagery and the cycle of poverty

 

This presentation will focus on the powerlessness that results from false or tailored images of despair used by NGOs for the purpose of fundraising.  Such powerlessness is not only felt by recipients of assistance, but is also felt by foreign donors and ultimately leads to an inability for both groups to actively participate in ending the cycle of poverty.  A critical assessment of fundraising imagery will be presented along with a first-hand account of working with various NGOs in Lukanga, North Kivu Province (Democratic Republic of Congo).  Students and community members will be invited to question where they base their assumptions about impoverished African communities, and will actively participate in breaking down stereotypical images of poverty.