24-Hour iPeace Member

Having been in China last year where I photographed the people from a yard away, (and had two photo shows thus far with these photos) I realize that I am constantly learning more and more about the people, and know that the need to comunicate with them is extremely important. When I sent out iPeace invitations, I saw that one of my close Chinese friends joined: a young extremely bright Chinese boy. I was thrilled! This was yesterday. And today I received an email from him saying that the website is "a little political" and that he could not "really relax in that kind of environment".
Actually I would have been surprised to see him continue, and couldn't imagine that he would know how to respond or listen to any negative comments about China if and when they would come up. I know the boy quite well and he was always very supportive of his country, saying that it is much better than it has been in the past.

It is a shame that he is no longer a member, but the freedom of speech on the web and definitely here on iPeace is something that the Chinese are not used to - everyone speaking their opinions good or bad.

I do know one thing - in the same way that we say, "Give Peace a Chance", I think we have to perhaps watch our words in dealing with certain countries, knowing that they may be seeing and hearing things for the very first time! I, in China, was often told (by a translator) that I was their very first foreigner. So, I think it is important here on iPeace to first to hear about the Chinese themselves (or other countries that are less used to opening up to the world,) and THEN perhaps see what they want to know about us, and what exactly they are willing to accept as a starting point to comunication. Otherwise, they may be fearful to be here, or just leave due to uncomfortable feelings.

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Permalink Reply by Stephanie on December 4, 2008 at 1:14am

Thanks Rùach
Stephanie

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Permalink Reply by Stephanie on December 4, 2008 at 9:58am

Thanks Mike! S

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Permalink Reply by Stephanie on December 4, 2008 at 9:49am

ROBIN's comment made me think to add this. Taking photographs you put yourself in a situation of understanding people better sometimes. I remember being in the States and asking to photograph a black woman and her two sons dressed in very modern hip clothing. My reason? Living in Italy I wasn't used to seeing this hip-hop fashion and knew my daughters would love seeing them. The mother pulled her sons away. If we don't really understand what is in someone's mind, how can we offend them (perhaps she had had bad past experiences - of ANY kind .- how could I know which). In the same way, not all people, Chinese included, are used to expressing themselves or have fears that they can't express themselves on certain matters. We can't know that until we get to know them personally. And THAT from my experience means making friends with them to know them better. Of COURSE there are those who feel comfortable and open up to everything and those who are cautious for whatever reason they may have (and there can be dozens of valid reasons). I feel very fortunate that I made many Chinese friends during my stay of 6 weeks in Dalian, China. I realize now more than ever, how important comunication is. It is the beginning - and a necessary one.