Programme
Kommunalka-Community
The public programme of Survival Kit 11 took place both as a series of events at the festival, and outside of it, as a series of broadcasts on Radio Naba.
The programme’s title, Kommunalka-Community, points to the questions and problems we in Latvia face in developing an inclusive society. In our reluctance to accept people belonging to ethnic, racial, or sexual minority groups—it is as if some of us still feel that living together is once again being forced upon us, as it was in the kommunalka or communal flat, where very different people found themselves sharing living space during the Soviet era. At the same time, the English word community seems to invite us to think about forms of shared life based on positive and inclusive interactions. What is and what could be the model of Latvian society? In this space, we tried to explore problems, encourage discussions and seek solutions for developing a more inclusive future society.
Read more
COMMUNAL-HOW? THE COMMON FUTURE OF LATVIA: Discussion
The aim of the discussion was to renew public interest in mutual understanding among Latvia's residents, cultural dialogue, tolerance, and issues related to politicians' responsibility in this area.
Many worrying trends in Latvia's political space indicate an increase in populism, racism, and radicalism. These trends threaten pluralism and the stability of democracy and can seriously undermine Latvia's future in the global community. How to overcome social exclusion, self-isolation, and promote active participation in civil society? What will be Latvia's response to growing racism that supposedly does not affect us? Who are "we"? Is it not time to build a political nation, and how to do it? What principles, theses, and ideals need critical revision? In collaboration with experts and stakeholders from various fields, we will discuss these issues, aware that we cannot afford provincialism and xenophobia. The discussion will contribute to the culture of pluralism, and we will try to understand how to be together.
The discussion featured intercultural communication expert Dr. Liesma Ose, Lipke Memorial Director Lolita Tomsone, actor and teacher Džordžs Stils, and philosopher Dr. Igors Gubenko.
The discussion was moderated by cultural expert Dr. art. Deniss Hanovs.