Conflict remains Lacuna’s theme at the start of 2015. That seems inevitable given the persistence of violence in the world.
But if there is to be hope that change in these circumstances can ever be brought about then perhaps non-violent traditions of protest and tolerance for resolving differences through peaceful means need to be taken more seriously. It has prompted Lacuna to revisit some of the issues and subjects of our articles published last year.
In our main feature, Adam Weymouth interviews the inspiring Rajagopal, founder and leader of Ekta Parishad, the landless people’s movement in India that was forged on a commitment to Gandhian principles of non-violence. Breaching the seemingly intractable cycles of conflict and violence against the poorest in India has been at the centre of Rajagopal’s mission for more than 40 years. It has been a lifetime’s endeavour, testifying to the level of commitment his cause has required and he has been willing to bear.
We also revisit the subject of Palestine. Laila Sumpton has written four poems in response to the persistent stories emerging from that country in her lifetime. Articulating wrongs is perhaps the beginning of any protest. Laila’s poetry unpicks those images that can make the concerned wince and encourage voices of objection.
Photo by ActionAid India
