A conversation with Gioconda Belli, poet and activist

Summary

The speaker expresses gratitude for winning an award, acknowledging the importance of independent journalism in Nicaragua. They discuss the challenges faced by journalists, including detentions and the targeting of prominent figures, emphasizing the need to spotlight Nicaragua's situation. The speaker also talks about their role in providing alternative narratives and fostering debate through opinion pieces and social media. Despite recent setbacks faced by their organization, they remain committed to promoting free expression and truth in journalism, with plans for new initiatives like 'Imagine Nation' and workshops on writing in troubled times.

Takeaways

• 🏆 The speaker expresses gratitude for winning an award, attributing the honor to the collective efforts of independent journalists and people of PEN in Nicaragua.
• 📰 They acknowledge the importance of Beebe in Nicaragua, highlighting its long-standing commitment to providing real news and its current significance.
• 🔍 The speaker underscores the courage of Nicaraguan journalists, who despite facing detentions and government pressure, continue to pursue truth and quality journalism.
• 🌟 The award is seen as a symbol of recognition for the dedication and bravery of independent media and journalists in Nicaragua.
• 🗣️ There's a call to defend independent and serious media against the proliferation of fake news, emphasizing the role of quality journalism in society.
• 🌐 The speaker believes that public awareness is growing regarding the damage caused by fake news, and anticipates a future where it diminishes.
• ✍️ As a writer, the speaker feels a responsibility to tell untold stories, open debates, and offer different perspectives on current events in Nicaragua.
• 📢 The speaker's work extends beyond journalism to opinion pieces aimed at encouraging public debate and reflection on actions and policies.
• 📱 Social media is highlighted as a crucial tool for the speaker in engaging with the public and disseminating information in Nicaragua.
• 🚫 PEN Nicaragua has faced government sanctions, including the revocation of NGO certification, which has impacted their operations and financial activities.
• 🔄 Despite setbacks, PEN Nicaragua is resuming activities with new initiatives like 'Imagine Nation' and workshops to foster debate and writing as a form of expression.

Q & A

What is the significance of the award mentioned in the transcript?

The award signifies recognition for the individual's and Beebe's efforts in promoting real and truthful journalism in Nicaragua, which is considered a courageous endeavor.

What challenges do independent journalists face in Nicaragua according to the speaker?

Independent journalists in Nicaragua face challenges such as being detained multiple times and currently facing increased pressure, particularly on the most important journalists in the country.

Why is it important to put Nicaragua's case in the public eye?

It is important to raise awareness about the situation in Nicaragua to support the efforts of independent journalists and to highlight the importance of quality journalism.

What is the speaker's view on the future of fake news?

The speaker believes that fake news will eventually diminish as people become more aware of its damaging effects and the importance of truth in journalism.

How does the speaker describe their role as a writer and a voice for Nicaragua?

The speaker sees themselves as having a responsibility to tell the other part of the story, to open debate, and to make people see different aspects of what is happening, beyond just journalism.

What is the impact of the speaker's work on the public, as mentioned in the transcript?

People have approached the speaker in public places to thank them for their work for Nicaragua, indicating a positive impact and appreciation for their efforts.

How has social media been important for the speaker's work in Nicaragua?

Social media has been crucial for the speaker's work, likely serving as a platform to disseminate information and engage with the public during times when traditional media outlets are restricted.

What difficulties is the organization Penny Carell facing, as per the transcript?

Penny Carell has faced difficulties such as the cancellation of their bank account due to the government not providing the necessary NGO certification.

What is the new initiative called 'Imagine Nation' mentioned in the transcript?

The initiative 'Imagine Nation' is a project aimed at fostering debate and putting the future in the minds of people, encouraging them to envision and discuss their country's prospects.

What is the purpose of the workshop with Sarah Ramirez mentioned in the transcript?

The workshop's purpose is to allow people to express themselves and write about their experiences during difficult times, with the goal of creating narratives that others can identify with.

Which three books would the speaker take if allowed to choose, and why?

The speaker would take 'The Four Quartets' by T.S. Eliot for its depth and changing interpretations, 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' for its richness, and 'Ulysses' despite not having finished it, likely for its reputation and the challenge it presents.

Outlines

00:00

🏆 Award Recognition and the Fight for Authentic Journalism

The speaker expresses gratitude for winning an award, acknowledging the significance of Beebe in Nicaragua's journalism landscape. They highlight the challenges faced by independent journalists, including detentions and government crackdowns, emphasizing the importance of their work in bringing the truth to the public. The speaker also discusses their role in promoting high-quality journalism and the impact of social media in Nicaragua. Despite facing government restrictions, such as the cancellation of their bank account, they remain committed to their mission and are planning new initiatives like 'Imagine Nation' to foster debate and workshops to encourage expression and writing about personal experiences during difficult times.

05:01

📚 Literary Influences and the Power of Narratives

In this paragraph, the speaker shares their love for literature, particularly mentioning three influential books: 'The Four Quartets' by T.S. Eliot, 'One Hundred Years of Solitude', and 'Ulysses'. They describe how these books offer new insights with each reading and have a profound impact on them. The speaker also discusses the importance of narratives in allowing others to identify and connect with shared experiences, which is a key aspect of their current work in promoting understanding and empathy through storytelling.

Keywords

💡Fake News

Fake news refers to false information or propaganda presented as news, often with the intent to deceive readers or viewers. In the video, the speaker expresses gratitude for winning an award and acknowledges the presence of fake news, but also highlights the importance of those who are dedicated to delivering real news. The term is used to contrast the work of independent journalists with those who spread misinformation, emphasizing the need for accurate and reliable reporting.

💡Independent Journalists

Independent journalists are reporters and writers who are not affiliated with any particular media organization or government, and who often work to provide unbiased and uncensored news. The speaker in the video mentions the courage of these journalists, who have been detained for their work but continue to pursue the truth. This term is central to the video's theme of the struggle for journalistic integrity and the importance of free press.

💡Censorship

Censorship is the suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security. In the context of the video, the speaker discusses the challenges faced by independent media in Nicaragua, including the lack of certification from the government, which has led to the cancellation of their bank accounts. This keyword is crucial to understanding the obstacles that the speaker and their colleagues face in their pursuit of free expression.

💡Awareness

Awareness, in this context, refers to the growing consciousness among the public about the existence and impact of fake news. The speaker expresses optimism that as people become more aware, the prevalence of fake news will decrease. This term is used to convey hope for the future of journalism and the role of the public in demanding and supporting truthful reporting.

💡Quality Journalism

Quality journalism implies in-depth, accurate, and ethical reporting that serves the public interest. The speaker in the video emphasizes the importance of defending serious and independent media, suggesting that quality journalism is under threat but also essential for a well-informed society. This keyword is integral to the video's message about the value and necessity of high-standard reporting.

💡Responsibility

Responsibility, as used in the video, pertains to the duty that writers and journalists have to inform the public accurately and to contribute to the discourse on important issues. The speaker feels a personal responsibility to tell the 'other part of the story' and to stimulate debate, which illustrates the commitment to ethical journalism and the impact it can have on society.

💡Social Media

Social media is a term that encompasses various digital platforms where users can create and share content or engage in social networking. In the video, the speaker mentions being active on social media, which has been crucial for communication and advocacy in Nicaragua. This keyword highlights the role of modern technology in facilitating the spread of information and the organization of social movements.

💡Imagination

Imagination, in the context of the video, is referenced in the planned initiative 'Imagine Nation,' which aims to foster debate and encourage people to envision the future. The speaker believes in the power of imagination to inspire and motivate, which is why they are organizing workshops to engage the public in creative thinking and expression.

💡Narratives

Narratives refer to the stories or accounts that people construct to make sense of events or experiences. The speaker in the video talks about the importance of allowing people to express their narratives, especially in times of trouble. This keyword is significant as it underscores the value of personal stories in shaping public understanding and empathy.

💡Pen

In the video, 'Pen' likely refers to PEN International, a worldwide association of writers that works to promote freedom of expression and support writers at risk. The speaker mentions 'people of Pen' in relation to the collective efforts of journalists and writers, indicating the organization's role in advocating for free speech and the rights of independent journalists.

💡Certification

Certification, in this context, refers to the official approval or endorsement by a governing body, which is necessary for organizations to operate legally. The speaker discusses how their organization's lack of government certification has led to the cancellation of their bank account, illustrating the challenges faced by independent groups in obtaining recognition and resources.

Highlights

The speaker expresses gratitude for winning an award and acknowledges the importance of independent journalism in Nicaragua.

Beebe has been a significant presence in Nicaragua for many years, contributing to the fight for real news.

The award is seen as a recognition of the collective effort of independent journalists and people of PEN.

The speaker emphasizes the courage of journalists in Nicaragua who have faced detention and ongoing challenges.

The importance of bringing Nicaragua's case to the public eye is highlighted as a crucial endeavor.

The necessity to defend independent and serious media is stressed in the face of fake news.

The speaker believes in the power of journalism to commit to truth and high-quality reporting.

There is an optimistic view that fake news and its damaging effects will eventually diminish as awareness grows.

The speaker feels a responsibility as a writer and a voice to tell the other part of the story from Nicaragua.

The role of social media in current times in Nicaragua is recognized as very important.

Penny Carell has faced challenges, including the loss of their bank account due to lack of government certification.

A new initiative called 'Imagine Nation' is being launched to foster debate and envision the future.

A workshop with writer Sarah Ramirez is planned to focus on writing during troubled times.

The speaker aims to encourage people to express themselves and write about their experiences.

The importance of narratives that allow others to identify and relate to shared experiences is discussed.

The speaker is thankful for the role they play in Nicaragua and the support they receive from the public.

Three books the speaker would take with them are mentioned, reflecting their literary preferences and influences.

Transcripts

as much as there are a lot of people who

are doing fake news there are also a lot

of people who are fighting to get real

and through news to people

I am so thankful that I won this award

because I awesome know Beebe has been

very important in Nicaragua I mean it's

been doing a lot of things for many

years ever since I can remember they

have been around and you know to get an

award like this I feel like I said in my

speech it's not only for me it's for all

this effort that the people around me

the independent journalists people of

pen have been doing and it's been a very

courageous I mean the journalism Nick

and I all have been doing an amazing job

they have been detained many times and

they let them go but you know and now

they are really going after the most

important journalists in the country so

I feel it's very important to put

nicaragua's case in the public eye

well I think we have to defend very

strongly the media that is independent

that is serious because as much as there

are a lot of people who are doing fake

news there are also a lot of people who

are fighting to get real and through

news to people so I think that's been

for me has that fight in front of it

which is to help people who are really

committed to the truth who are really

committed to having high quality

journalism still in the world I really

think it's a matter of time before this

all these fake news and all these things

that are happening in journalism go away

I seriously think that because I think

people are becoming more and more aware

of how damaging all those things are

the truth I mean I feel that as a writer

as a person who has a voice you know

internationally in the world in

Nicaragua I have a responsibility to

tell but the other part of the story to

try to open debate about different

things and so my writing is not only you

know it's not journalism it's more like

opinion pieces and it's more like trying

to make people see different aspects of

what's going on and what can we do and

what we shouldn't do and I think that is

very important

I have I have found people coming to me

in the street in the supermarket

everywhere and they say thank you for

what you're doing for Nicaragua you know

so I feel very thankful that I can play

that role and I am also very active in

social media that has been very

important in this time in Nicaragua

well you know penny Carell practically

had to stop doing everything he was

doing before for a few months now we are

beginning to be more active

we have been punished by the government

we have not given been given a

certification they have to give to NGOs

so we can have a bank account for

example so our bank account was canceled

and so we are trying to get that

resolved and now we are going to start a

new cycle you know we are going to do

something called imagine nation you know

it's imagine the nation no and we think

that debate is important to kind of put

the future in the minds of people and

then we are going to have a workshop

with Sarah Ramirez with a very important

writer in our country about the writing

in a time of trouble you know so we want

people to come and to express themselves

and to write about what they have felt

all these months we think that is a very

important aspect because we then other

people can identify with those

narratives and that's what we are trying

to do now and we want to do everything

we were doing before but you know little

by little it's taken us it's difficult

oh one book I've asked three books I

would take I would take three books okay

you're allowed three books and I will be

it would be like I love the Four

Quartets by TS Eliot I find every time I

read them it's like they tell me

something different and I would take a

hundred years of solitude because it's

also a book that gives of itself and I

would take Ulysses it's very funny that

I said all three English books but

because it releases I have never been

able to finish

you