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Thursday, March 5, 2009

Activism and SL


The first example of activism that we found in Second Life is an area dedicated to War Child Holland (221,25,27). There are many different tools used to make their statement. The most obvious were the pictures that can be seen immediately after entering the space. Images of children in war zones are posted on the wall with captions describing where they are from. War torn places such as Kosovo and Sierra Leone are depicted. There are three panels of information shown that included the topics about War Child Holland, Mission Statement and history of War Child Canada. This space successfully conveys its message in it's FAQ section. There are clear instructions on how to support War Child, donate funds, what projects they are initiating in right now as well as other questions people may want to know. A link to the War Child Holland website is provided which is linked to other War Child chapters so people from different countries can participate in their own country's organization.

The second example of activism that we found in secondlife is exemplified by The Bridges Womens support group. (99,218,23) in the Non-profit Commons. In this space, Bridge's uses educational tools like notecards, pictures, and URL links to make their mission statement clear. Although a relatively small space, Bridges utilizes it effectively. Notecards are available in 2 spaces, and bulletin boards which elucidate their goals. Their purpose is, "...Our programs aim to reduce the effects that abuse, trauma and violence can have on employability. Bridges’ students work on self awareness, self esteem, communication and anger management skills; and then they progress to career assessments, resume and interview skills, and successful workplace habits." Bridges provides many outlets for user's to become interactive with their organization. Like many of these support groups, they provide donation boxes in many different places throughout the space. www.bridgesforwomen.ca provides users with another outlet for information and support. Bridges also organizes weekly support meetings on fridays at 11:30EST for Second Life users to come together and speak about their issues in a group.




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