Saturday, October 1, 2011

What is news?

When Amy Winehouse dies, it makes front page headlines in India. Her “career” is recounted; and the cause of her death much speculated upon. She is news, after all- alive or dead.

But when Wangari Maathai passes away, we only hear of it through the electronic media- facebook and twitter. Mention her name, and all you get are blank stares- the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, a winner of the Right Livelihood Award, someone who worked tirelessly to make the world a better place for everyone. And she is virtually unknown.

Except to those who care!
 "When we plant trees, we plant the seeds of peace and seeds of hope."
Wangari Maathai 
(April 1, 1940- September 25, 2011)
Requiescat in Pace 
_____
drabble is a story told in exactly 100 words.

9 comments:

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sad isn't it? Wangari did far more for humanity.

Cruella Collett said...

I care! She was such an admirable woman.

Anonymous said...

You're so right... she was a strong and wonderful woman! Somehow the media focus on all the wrong things.

dipali said...

Yes, I don't recall seeing any coverage in the newspapers.
I need to know more about her.

Danette said...

It is an upside down world-- and you keep it in perspective for us. Thank you! Glad your doing NaBloWriMo again!!!

Chuck said...

A succinct commentary on our society...sensationalism is news, not achievement. Truly sad.

Sueann said...

What a beautiful face and such a terrible loss!!
Hugs
SueAnn

Anonymous said...

Natasha - Thanks for highlighting this amazing woman and her life. You're right that the media certainly didn't pay any real attention to her passing. Skewed priorities if you ask me!

Grammy said...

Hi, What a shame that is so true! Thank you for posting about her.
Ruby

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