Active Citizenship Cafe

Cafe Mohalla gathered on 13 February outdoors next to Albert Hall for a cafe on the theme of active citizenship. A number of new members came out to learn about this concept and about PJI, and were welcomed into the community. We started out with games and energizers, to help everyone get to know each other and have a fun time.

The discussion on active citizenship was prompted by an active citizenship shopping game, where everyone sat in small groups with a number of cards with different statements on them. Each card described a different action, such as "I will start a literacy campaign for children," or "I will think about the consequences of my actions," or "I will try to understand others' points of view." The groups decided which card represented active citizenship most to them from each stack, and wrote down their reasons.

Afterward, the whole group got back together and had an intensive discussion and reflection about their choices. Some felt that we should "firstly change oneself, then only can we make change in society." But others thought that taking some action to help others is important, and should not wait for a long process and self-exploration. The discussion led to a heavy amount of reflection on what active citizenship means, especially as relates to self.

Bhomik next gave a short presentation on the concept of the "fifth space"--a space for youth separate from their normal responsibilities that provides a platform for self-exploration and active citizenship. We also hosted Jayesh and Amit Deshwal, who were visiting from Udaipur, and they gave a talk about Swaraj University, an alternate education community they are a part of, and Shikshantar an NGO that shares many of the same values. Afterwards, our guest Jimmy Potter delighted everyone by singing Kabir songs  for those in attendance.

The cafe was organized by Bhomik, Amreen, Maneesha, Meenu, and Sonya, and about 35 people were in attendance. After all the discussions, we shared snacks and played games like frisbee and shuttle. The feedback was very positive overall, and many new members said that they become more informed about active citizenship and also were motivated to try to learn more about themselves.