One of my favorite words in Filipino is “Kalinga”. It’s a complex and multifaceted word whose meaning encompassing feelings of caring, refuge and kindness.
The fallout from the reprehensible actions of the rage blogger ‘Requires Hate” (et al) has made one thing very clear. There is a need for a place where writers like me (People of Colour and other marginalized groups) can express our thoughts and opinions, raise issues and express emotions, or simply be our authentic selves without fear of repression and bullying. This, I feel (without passing judgement), is best done on a site run by people who are primarily PoC, on an online home where we can control our own narratives.
Tade Thompson and some PoC volunteers have now put up the site called ‘Safe‘ where PoC writers can feel the inexpressible comfort of feeling ‘Kalinga’ — a place of fellowship and friendship, as well as a place of refuge where those who have been hurt can come to heal.
Because ‘Safe‘ is meant to be an inclusive environment, everyone – no matter what your ethnicity, gender, gender preference, etc. – is welcome to be a part of it, as long as we all agree to be respectful, act like mature adults and follow the rules of the site.
“The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.” – Maya Angelou
Art: “Ang Bayanihan” by Mattersmost
The Infinite Library and Other Stories 