The centerpiece of this project -- a WHITE FLAG – has been recognized for centuries as a symbol not only for surrender but also a wish for peace, the willingness to have a civil conversation and to thoughtfully listen. Partnering with local institutions such as a town library The WHITE FLAG project will collect used clean, recycled white cloth from bedding or clothing. Local volunteers will cut this cloth into strips about 2” wide by at least 24” long. These white cloth strips along with slips of white paper, will be used to write and draw upon – responding to WHITE FLAG prompts, questions and suggestions. Such as:
How do you make friends with someone who is different than you? Why might it be important to do this?
What or who might you want to make peace with?
How do you make peace?
What brings a community together?
What do you and your neighbors share?
What or who do you love?
What do you think makes good conversation?
How do you open the door to a conversation with someone who you have disagreements with? Why might it be important to have a conversation with that someone?
What’s at stake? What do you risk by opening this door?
What do you hope that a WHITE FLAG might achieve?
Can a WHITE FLAG symbolize something other than surrender? Can it symbolize strength? Or perhaps a first step towards good will? Not necessarily an act of weakness but strength?
How can conversations help bridge the gap of differing opinions and beliefs? How will you start that conversation?
Tell me a story about your childhood.