March 5, 2012. Just another day. Right? Right.
Well, except for the fact that one of the largest digital campaigns launched by Invisible Children swept not just the nation but the world. The 30 minute youtube video (below) was viewed round-the-world by over a million viewers. The video was engaging and informative. The use of technology and emotion kept the audience actively engaged for the duration of the film and the practical, hands on challenge at the end took the film from youtube to hearts of many. All with one simple message - let's make (Joseph) Kony famous in 2012.
As not only a fan and supporter of Invisible Children, I'm also a fan of bringing light to injustices in the world. I knew even before I clicked the play button, I would be on board with their new campaign. I was not wrong. And no, the bad press and criticism that followed, didn't influence or sway my decision.
Invisible Children built up their organization by giving teens and young adults something to be passionate about. Not only do they challenge viewers to "Discover the Unseen" child war soldiers in Uganda, they also provide easy ways for people to get involved and make a difference in the world. They are more focused on raising awareness than they are raising money. They are not concerned about fame but more concerned about changing the world. They know the value of social media and technology and use it to their advantage to relate to and engage their audience.
So why am I blogging about this now? Well, tonight is the big night. Tonight is the night when viewers were challenged to go out and "Cover the Night" - to bring awareness to Joseph Kony. This here, is my humble attempt to Cover the Night from Albania.
But I'd say Kony's 15+ minutes of fame has surfaced. Kony has become a household name for people from all walks of life, round the world. Over 104 MILLION people have watched the video, and whether they were compelled to act, they at least know Kony, who he is, and what he does. It's my prayer that it's not just fame but that the increased levels of awareness will be followed up with action on the parts of authorities so that Kony will be caught and arrested.
Like I mentioned before, I am a fan and supporter of Invisible Children, I am excited for them and their success with this video- not because they've become famous but because they've made Kony famous.
Yet, at the same time, my heart is torn in two. I can't help but think what the world would be like if the video was about Jesus. Ok, maybe not that video, but what if there was a campaign that launched, and spread like wildfire around the world, to make Jesus famous. A campaign that people latched on to and wanted to share with others. I can't help but wonder what it would be like if people around the world were not talking about Kony, but if they were talking about Jesus instead. If people spread the Good News with the same passion, urgency, concern, and desire to make Jesus famous in 2012. That would be pretty cool.
Kony 2012 Part 1
Kony 2012: Part 2- Beyond Famous
