https://youtu.be/HaBlSQODZZg
Background-Deep Social Networks (DSN) in Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand.
from November 2008 to November 2010, Deloria Many Grey Horses and Francisco Violich demonstrated how the Digital Fourth Way could help build a people-centered Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This work is based on the "Deep Social Networks and the Digital 4th Way" model, authored by Jon Ramer and Chief Phil Lane Jr.
The DSN Core Training Team consists of five members and three mentors. It has grown to include eighteen certified DSN Trainers who now train others in their own communities. The core team included Tom Litchfield, Pitipat Phairot, Deloria Many Grey Horses, Francisco Violich, and Budhie Himawan, mentored by Indigenous Elders Bernice See, Chief Phil Lane Jr., and Jon Ramer.
The DSN Project participants come from urban and rural areas in Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand, aged 10-30, from Ethnic Minority/indigenous communities, including Kayan, Igorat, Ahka, Lahu, Hmong, Karen, and other Indigenous Peoples.
The SEARCH DSN project began in November 2008, creating an online network of Indigenous youth and ASEAN constituencies collaborators. Their goal is to improve the lives of marginalized communities and future generations, promoting their participation in building a people-centered ASEAN.
The DSN project provides training on website design, productive social networking, and social media. Participants discussed and raised awareness about human rights, ethnic minorities, Indigenous rights, child rights, environmental sustainability, gender equality, and participation in building a people-centered ASEAN.
Over the two years, more than 40 Deep Social Networks were created, music was recorded, social media videos were made, unique stories were documented, and moments were shared through photos.
Southeast Asia has over 3 billion people under 25, with 66% in the region. Marginalized communities face human rights challenges, motivating young people to bring positive change to their loved ones and communities. The DSN project provides technological and digital tools to enhance computer literacy, social networking, and productive social media skills, giving communities a stronger voice and supporting a people-centered ASEAN.
The DSN project collaborates with emerging grassroots movements across ASEAN, addressing issues faced by Ethnic Minorities and Indigenous Peoples, including human and child rights violations, statelessness, gender issues, human trafficking, poverty, inter-societal conflict, refugees, and migrant workers.
Initially, doubts existed with partners about the sustainability of this approach and whether marginalized Indigenous young people would feel comfortable using computers and creating websites.
However, after two years, the DSN project continues to grow, driven by the desire, dedication, and leadership of participants and certified trainers in Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
While more resources and training are needed, certified trainers inspire their peers to develop digital capacities, develop their networks, and contribute to a people-centered ASEAN.