There are so many mixed feelings about the Beijing Olympics. China's record on human rights issues has been deplorable, but the spirit of international camaraderie that the Olympics brings to the world fosters global awareness and reminds us that we're all one race, one race that needs to get along. So, instead of launching the massive protest that many expected, the Dalai Lama came up with a far better idea.
Let's at least shake hands on the fact that we need to talk. This started the "handshake" revolution that swept the streets of London as people wearing "Give Real Talks a Hand" t-shirts walked through the city shaking hands with people and inviting them to sign a petition to Chinese leaders to begin international talks on Tibet, Darfur, and Burma. Now almost 2 million people have signed the petition.
You can sign up by visiting AVAAZ.org.
Viral Peace Initiatives
The Dalai Lama Handshake Revolution
Trend Themes
1. Handshake Revolution - Developing campaigns that foster global awareness and encourage peaceful dialogue through simple yet powerful gestures.
2. Petition Power - Creating online petitions that drive international dialogue and put pressure on leaders to engage in diplomatic conversation.
3. Awareness Apparel - Designing and distributing t-shirts and other clothing items that promote global awareness and encourage people to take action.
Industry Implications
1. Activism - Utilizing innovative communication strategies and technologies to drive social movements and effect significant change.
2. Apparel - Incorporating social and political messaging into clothing designs to promote awareness and inspire action.
3. Online Activism Platforms - Developing web-based platforms that allow for the creation and distribution of online petitions and other social campaigns.