https://villageone.vhx.tv/products/blind-spots
Blind spots
Hello everyone!
Yesterday, along with other fellow students, I had the privilege of experiencing a wonderful moment.
PXL University College Hasselt invited us to watch the film "Blind spots". The film explores:
The film journeys from a Ugandan classroom to a Belgian train station, showcasing how education, culture, and institutions shape the way we think and act. Central to the story are the students in the history class of teacher Godfrey. Their questions and explorations serve as the driving force as they unpack, challenge, and strive to overcome colonial mindsets and racist systems. Through Godfrey's efforts to redefine "discoveries," Kalule's struggle to preserve his culture, and Billy's call to reclaim Africa's stolen wealth, the film poses the question: can we truly progress without addressing our own blind spots? "Blind spots" offers a thought-provoking and non-judgmental exploration, utilizing humor and personal narratives to challenge viewers' perspectives.
Why is it that the world only learns about Belgian colonization, without knowing how Africa has experienced its own history?
"Africa is like a birthday cake, so delicious that everyone wants a piece. On the day they cut and share the cake, all invited guests were present, except the birthday celebrant, Africa!"
Why don't our schools teach that our past has a mental impact on African children today? They are born with the notion that we are superior to them. We are treated as gods, when in fact, we are all equal as humans. How is it that Belgians take it for granted that they can get a visa to visit Africa, while the people there can't even say they are 50% certain?
I had the great honor of personally meeting the filmmaker, Mr. Steven Janssens, and the actor Godfrey Mumpe after the film.
Mr. Mumpe is a remarkable history teacher from Uganda, who is aware that he alone cannot change the world and Africa, but he can plant a seed for the future. He had to receive invitations from colleges and universities to have his visa approved, just to stay in Belgium for one week. After a lengthy and profound conversation, I can confirm that there are far more blind spots than we are aware of. Consider renting an apartment: would you choose a Belgian or someone with a non-Belgian name?
The meeting with Mr. Janssens was also very enlightening. A behind-the-scenes glimpse revealed that many changes are being made today, yet the blind spots persist! Mr. Janssens has a wife of Ugandan descent. When they go on vacation and her husband (a white Belgian) is not by her side, she is often singled out for baggage checks by security. Is this normal in today's world?
I promised Mr. Janssens and Mumpe to keep them informed about our internship experiences. Hopefully, they can be proud of the seeds they have already planted among our PXL students.
To all teachers, students, and parents at home, watch this enlightening, non-judgmental quest where humor and personal stories challenge the viewer's perspective. Please share your thoughts!
Click on the link! https://villageone.vhx.tv/products/blind-spots
See you soon!