My Son's Memory: Indonesia's Past, Present and Future | Maria Catarina Sumarsih | TEDxJakarta

Introduction

This tutorial explores the powerful narrative presented by Maria Catarina Sumarsih in her TEDx talk about her son’s memory and the ongoing struggle for human rights in Indonesia. Specifically, it highlights the Aksi Kamisan movement, a peaceful protest initiated by Sumarsih and other victims' families, aiming to address historical injustices. By following this guide, you will gain insights into the significance of memory, activism, and the pursuit of justice in the context of human rights.

Step 1: Understand the Background of Aksi Kamisan

• Learn the Origins: Research the events leading to the establishment of Aksi Kamisan, particularly the Semanggi I Tragedy and its impact on families.
• Key Figures: Familiarize yourself with Maria Catarina Sumarsih and her son, Wawan, to understand the personal loss that fuels her activism.
• Historical Context: Explore Indonesia's history of human rights violations, including the Trisakti incident and the May 1998 riots.

Step 2: Recognize the Importance of Peaceful Protest

• Purpose of Aksi Kamisan: Understand that the movement seeks to honor victims of human rights abuses and demand accountability from the state.
• Participation: Note that every Thursday, participants gather at the Merdeka Presidential Palace with black umbrellas, symbolizing mourning and resistance.
• Messages of the Protest: Pay attention to the writings on the umbrellas, which list specific cases of human rights violations, helping to raise public awareness.

Step 3: Engage with the Community

• Join Discussions: Connect with local human rights organizations or online forums to discuss the issues raised in Sumarsih's talk.
• Attend Events: Participate in events related to Aksi Kamisan or human rights advocacy to understand the community dynamics and challenges.
• Support Victims’ Families: Consider reaching out to families affected by human rights violations to offer support or solidarity.

Step 4: Reflect on Personal Grief and Action

• Express Your Feelings: Write a letter or journal entry reflecting on personal experiences of loss or injustice. This practice can be therapeutic and empowering.
• Channel Grief into Activism: Explore avenues for activism that resonate with you, whether through volunteer work, advocacy, or raising awareness through social media.

Step 5: Advocate for Change

• Educate Others: Share insights from Sumarsih's story with friends, family, and on platforms to foster a broader understanding of human rights issues in Indonesia.
• Support Legislative Changes: Familiarize yourself with current human rights legislation in Indonesia and participate in campaigns that push for reform.
• Utilize Social Media: Use social media to amplify messages related to Aksi Kamisan and other human rights causes, creating a wider reach for awareness.

Conclusion

Maria Catarina Sumarsih's TEDx talk serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of memory and justice in the face of tragedy. By understanding the history and significance of Aksi Kamisan, engaging with the community, and channeling personal grief into activism, you can contribute to the ongoing fight for human rights in Indonesia. Consider taking the next step by participating in local advocacy efforts or educating those around you about these important issues.