by Theis Irgens
Many years ago, I attended a conference about democracy and the role of arts education in building sustainable democracy. One of the highlights was a workshop by Helgard Haug from Rimini Protokoll, based on their concept 100% City.
In the main part, we were listening to statements spoken by Helgard, and moving to one side or the other according to whether we agreed or disagreed with the statement. To begin with, the statements were easy to process. But gradually, it became more and more difficult to decide which side to move to. At some point, we were invited to ask questions to people who chose the opposite wall. There was a good mix of curiosity, tension and relief in the room.
And then, Helgard posed this statement: I’m prepared to do what it takes to build a sustainable future. Some moved instantly, others hesitated, but then moved towards the wall of “I agree”. All but one person, who went to the other side of the room. The moment of silence that followed was so intense. Then someone to my left said: Why are you over there? And the reply was: Because you are all lying.
