I got into international nonprofit work because of effective storytelling. I was moved by some really powerful documentaries and talks. But the longer, I stay in this work, the more I’m also concerned about ethical storytelling.
I’m glad problems like poverty porn and the white savior complex are being talked about more. At the same time, it can be easy to lose sight of why ethical storytelling matters.
It’s not to avoid criticism. It’s not to be the “good guys.” It’s not for the sport of calling others out.
It’s all about the humans on the other side of the screen who have entrusted us storytellers with something special.
I still have plenty to learn, but I made this video knowing the things I have learned are important, and the sooner other storytellers adopt more ethical practices, the better off we’ll all be.