We really do live in a global village where we can all have an impact. Social media has made us more connected, with the power to make our voices heard, whether that be through leading a debate, arranging a march, or simply signing our names to a petition.
While we have the ability to be more involved, I believe we also have a duty to make sure we're well-informed and don't get caught in an ''echo chamber''. It's far too easy with social media to only see what we want to see, to only encounter articles that reinforce our own viewpoints.
With every click on a link, you give information about your likes and preferences. The logarithms built into search engines and social media websites then filter information to provide similar content to what you've already shown an interest in.
This is great if you're wanting information about your favourite TV shows, clothes, sports or some other interest but it's incredibly dangerous when you're wanting to be well-informed and enter intelligently into political debate.
Sure, enjoy the amusing videos, articles and cartoons about the person you don't agree with (I certainly do) but don't lose sight of the bigger picture.
To really be informed we need to genuinely seek to understand other perspectives and see where people are coming from.
I have a friend in the United States who is pro-Trump and I'm glad, because it means I get to see the articles she likes and shares, which circulate among Trump supporters. I've found that in trying to understand others we're far more likely to find some common ground to build on.
Without a doubt we need to speak up for human rights. New Zealanders are known internationally for our mediation skills and for being ethical and trustworthy.
This is precisely why we have a responsibility to speak up for those whose rights are being undermined, such as transgender people, women and religious and ethnic minorities.
And isn't what's going on a reminder to be better ourselves - to look in our own backyard and take the time to truly listen to other perspectives and genuinely seek to understand?
As we head into Waitangi Weekend it's an opportunity to stop and take the time to know the history of this country well - including multiple points of view, not just the mainstream colonial story. A broad perspective is one of the things we try to encourage at the museum.
If we all truly understand each other and how we got to where we are now, we can surely move together into a positive, collaborative and vibrant future.
Events:
• Cole, Michael Griffiths explores the colourful life and timeless songs of Cole Porter, February 16 and 17, Century Theatre from 7.30pm. Tickets available from Ticketek.
• Guided Tours of the Earthquake Gallery, February 16, 17 and 18, 11am. Free with museum entry.
• Sileni Estate Opening Soiree, official opening for the Art Deco Festival, February 17, from 5.30pm at MTG Hawke's Bay Museum main foyer (sold out).
• New Zealand Male Choir, February 18, Century Theatre, from 4pm. Tickets available from Ticketek.
• Vintage Brass Plays Deco Music, February 18, Century Theatre, from 6.30pm. Tickets available from Ticketek.
Laura Vodanovich is the director of the Museum Theatre Gallery (MTG) Hawke's Bay.
