TakingITGlobal

Global citizenship will not be defined by one set of actions - it is an ongoing conversation about multiple ways to enable equity around the world. Because of different positions in societies, people will experience global citizenship differently and will have different sets of responsibilities. There are, however, some pillars that we feel hold up global citizenship as a moving and dynamic concept that enables the possibilities for equity. These pillars are what can make global citizenship accessible to everyone: deep listening to others, self-reflexivity, and engaged action within a global community. Trying to address global citizenship is an ambitious task. In this paper we focus on three key themes through which we seek to speak to this delicate concept: interconnection and complexity, diversity and difference, and community and compassion. I. Interconnection and Complexity Our Ideals ● We want all people to be aware of the variety of connections between people and nations (historical, economic, political, social, cultural, etc) and therefore aware of complexity of the world. ● We want a widespread understanding among people engaging in global citizenship that due to the complexity of the world, any and all knowledge we have is incomplete. ● People can and should challenge global citizenship (or refute it completely) but we can all agree that the world is complex and interconnected, due to past and present occurrences. ● Global citizenship actions should be done with all of the above in mind. ● Global citizens need to be aware that complexity and interconnectedness of the world has impacted our individual situation, and have an understanding of the specifics of their position. The interconnectedness and interdependency of the world is what makes global citizenship complex, so an understanding of connections leads to a deeper understanding of global citizenship; one which asks people to question, constantly question and be critical of the idealistic simple solutions.

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