Digital activism and Vietnam

Viet Tan, the Asian Pacific Law Student Association and the Vietnamese American Law Student Association will present “Digital Activism: A Tool for Change in Vietnam”   — a seminar on how activists are using the Internet and social media to challenge authoritarian regimes around the world  — on Feb. 27-28 (Saturday and Sunday)  at Chapman.  According to Viet Tan, the seminar is open to “dedicated youth activists.”  Registration fee is $25, and some scholarship opportunities are available. Contact seminar@viettan.org.  Registration deadline is Feb. 19.

Using the Internet and social media, activists in Iran, Moldova and around the world are challenging authoritarian regimes and realizing social change.  In Vietnam, according to seminar materials, “a blogger movement is sparking public debate and mobilizing civic participation.  Netizens are learning to circumvent the government’s firewalls and are bringing Facebook back.”

Organizers said the seminar will “share perspectives on Vietnam’s democracy movement, the challenges and opportunities. Learn about the mission of Viet Tan and how dedicated youths around the world can become effective democracy activists.”

The mission of Viet Tan, stated on its Web site (www.viettan.org) is “to overcome dictatorship, build the foundation for a sustainable democracy, and demand justice and human rights for the Vietnamese people through non-violent struggle based on civic participation.”

Dawn Bonker

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