June 21. 2010: World Humanist Day
21 June is World Humanist Day.Hivos and public broadcaster Human.nl produced five short films about self-willed people from various parts of the world. In the films they show how they take control over their own lives, which is an essential element of humanism. The films will be broadcasted on Netherlands 2 on june 21.
The self-willed people Ashubi Khan, Xin Long, Mister Chen, Nebil Abdurazak and Kizito are sailing their own course in the five episodes. They are setting an emancipation process in motion independent from governments or other rulers in their countries.And their stories are extraordinary.
These contributions for World Humanist Day are created by correspondents of the VPRO-programme Metropolis TV.
21 June, television channel Nederland 2 at 08.55, 15.55, 16.55, 19.48, 23.22 hrs
More information about the episodes:
Ashubi Khan – punishes men who drink and gamble
In rural areas of India, local village councils of wise men form an important authority. In a village in the Mewat district this Council consists of women only. Chairperson Ashubi Khan
takes the lead in maintaining order. The Council intervenes, if necessary with tough measures, if men behave badly. And they do so with success!
Xin Long - China’s great new philosopher
Xin Long from the village of Fushun in Northern China enjoys a special upbringing based on liberty and equality between parent and child. This has allowed him to gain so much wisdom and knowledge that he is threatening to surpass his parents. "Dad, there aren’t any philosophical elements in your conversation at all, are there?"
Mist
er Chen - Nanjing’s bridge operator
In Nanjing, China, Mister Chen has given the notion of ‘bridge operator’ an entirely new meaning. By driving back and forth on his motorbike along the railing of the bridge, he saves many lives of people who are planning to commit suicide. Entirely voluntary.
Nebil Abdurazak – finds a gap in the market
The 16-year-old Ethiopian pupil Nebil Abdurazak meets the demand of Addis Abbeba’s praying citizens. Thanks to Nebil, people can now pray on a paper mat in stead of a jacket.
Kizito – openly gay in Zambia
Homosexuality is legally prohibited in the Christian nation of Zambia. However, there are gay people who are more or less open about their sexual identity, including the 22-year-old Kizito from Lusaka.
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