MANILA, Philippines – How does cartooning help in raising awareness on social and political issues?
For some, the answer lies behind the shades and lines drawn in comics and political cartoons — a medium that uses humor and wit to push people to think. The hope is that visual art can help change perspectives and spark important conversations and debates.
On Sunday, September 29, DAKILA, Cartooning for Peace, and Rappler, with the support of the Embassy of France, invited eight local and international political cartoonists to the Rappler newsroom for a roundtable discussion on cartooning and its role in strengthening democracy, freedom of expression, and raising awareness on pressing issues worldwide.
The roundtable, discussion, entitled, “PAK Dem! Political Cartooning for Democracy and Human Rights,” is part of the 12th Active Vista Human Rights Festival’s “Politikal ang Komiks” activities.
French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel shared a message about the French embassy’s commitment to promoting human rights and freedom of speech.
“We have to fight and ensure that in the long run, journalists and cartoonists will be able to continue to do their jobs. And doing your job makes you sometimes [a] human rights defender,” Fontanel said.
Paul Eric Roca and Cartoonist Zach of PITIK Bulag, a member of the #FactsFirstPH anti-disinformation network, showcased their cartoon pieces highlighting local political and social issues. By turning fact-checking into comics, they made information more engaging and sought new ways to make it accessible to everyone.
Rappler’s head of Community Pia Ranada moderated the panel discussion with Cartooning for Peace president Kak, from France; Taipei-based cartoonist Stellina; Indian cartoonist Nath Paresh of Khaleej Times; Australian cartoonist Cathy Wilcox; and Rappler’s head of creatives Emil Mercado.
The discussion centered on the state of media freedom in their countries and the impact of technology and social media on their creative work. The cartoonists also answered questions from the audience, through the Public Art chat room of the Rappler Communities app.
Meanwhile, Filipina cartoonist StephB of Cartooning for Peace, and PITIK Bulag, did live drawing during the program, demonstrating the versatility and possibilities of the visual art form.
The recording of the roundtable discussion will premiere on this page at 5 pm on Wednesday, October 2. It will also be streamed on Rappler’s YouTube and Facebook pages. – Rappler.com
Are you an artist or someone who appreciates art and its power to spark conversations and debate? We invite you to join the Rappler chat room, Public Art, where we have a thriving community of artists, activists, and supporters of art.
