On the second day of the Jubilee of Communication, Maria Ressa and Colum McCann inspired media professionals to embrace the power of storytelling in a world filled with conflict and challenges.
By Edoardo Giribaldi and Kielce Gussie
“We live in the most and least human of times,” remarked Colum McCann, the renowned Irish writer and co-founder of Narrative 4. He acknowledged the remarkable scientific and technological advancements of our era, but also highlighted the epidemic of loneliness and isolation plaguing society.
During the event at the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, McCann and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa urged communicators worldwide to collaborate and use their platforms to spread messages of hope and unity. Ressa emphasized the potential for collective action to heal our world if everyone worked together.
Returning to the Roots of Communication
Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, Paolo Ruffini, set the tone for the discussion, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the foundational principles of communication. He called for a renewed focus on human connection amidst the rapid evolution of technology.
Ruffini stressed the need for communicators to anchor themselves in the essence of their profession and to uphold the values of hope and authenticity.
Tell stories of salvation
Journalist Mario Calabresi echoed the sentiment that while it is crucial to report on challenging and negative events, there must also be a focus on stories of hope and redemption. He emphasized the role of journalists in portraying the resilience and triumph of the human spirit.
Social platforms are not neutral
Maria Ressa drew attention to the profound impact of modern technologies on society, cautioning against the unchecked pursuit of profit that erodes trust and fuels loneliness. She highlighted the dangers of misinformation and manipulation in media, urging communicators to be vigilant in their pursuit of truth.
Ressa emphasized that social media platforms are not neutral entities, as they can exacerbate divisions and exploit vulnerabilities for profit. She called for a more responsible approach to communication in the digital age.
Be a tidal wave of change
In a powerful call to action, Ressa challenged journalists and media professionals to harness their influence for positive change. She urged them to counter the spread of misinformation and work towards a more compassionate and truthful media landscape.
Quoting T.S. Eliot, Ressa emphasized the importance of taking action now to ensure a better future. She called on communicators to use their platforms to promote love and understanding in a world filled with conflict and discord.
“We Must Understand Each Other”
Colum McCann delved into the essence of storytelling as a tool for promoting empathy and understanding among diverse communities. He stressed the importance of sharing stories from unconventional perspectives to bridge divides and foster connections.
McCann warned against the dangers of disregarding the narratives of others, as it could lead to a loss of humanity and compassion. He called for a global effort to embrace diversity and empathy as foundations for a more harmonious world.
Change Begins from Below
As the event concluded, McCann highlighted the need for bottom-up change, emphasizing the importance of empowering individuals and communities to drive positive transformation. He urged a shift away from top-down decision-making to a more inclusive and participatory approach to societal progress.
Welcome to the Power of Stories
True change, as Colum McCann believes, begins “from below.” This notion underscores the transformative potential of individual stories in shaping our collective consciousness and fostering understanding.
Colum McCann argued stories are “the glue that holds us together”
McCann highlighted the inspiring story of two fathers, one Israeli and one Palestinian, who, despite the tragic loss of their children in the Middle East conflict, have chosen to maintain their friendship. Their message is clear: understanding each other is essential, even if love or like are not present.
The event also featured the mesmerizing music of Maestro Uto Ughi, a renowned Italian violinist. His performance added an emotional depth to the dialogue, leading up to the anticipated meeting with Pope Francis.
