We Are The Voice of the Grass: Interfaith Peace Activism in Northern Uganda

The Acholi Religious Leaders Peace Initiative (ARLPI) is an inspiring example of a community organization that works to resolve conflict and rebuild communities in northern Uganda. This book by philosopher David Hoekema documents how the ARLPI has overcome centuries of mistrust and helped bring an end to one of the most horrific conflicts in recent history. It demonstrates how local communities and their leaders can work together to resolve conflict and rebuild their communities, even in the face of overwhelming obstacles.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 28 March 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

East Africa is often portrayed in the international press as a region plagued by civil war, child abduction, rebel militias, Muslim-Christian violence, and extreme poverty. The Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) led by Joseph Kony in northern Uganda has become a symbol of the challenges facing contemporary Africa. However, a different reality emerges when viewed from within the communities themselves. Local communities and their leaders are collaborating to resolve conflicts and rebuild their societies.

One remarkable example is the Acholi Religious Leaders' Peace Initiative (ARLPI), which operates in northern Uganda. Despite its limited recognition beyond this region, ARLPI is an inspiring example of how a small group of dedicated community leaders can make a significant impact in a situation where military force and international pressure have had limited results.

In his book, "The Acholi Religious Leaders' Peace Initiative: Overcoming Mistrust and Ending One of the Most Horrific Conflicts in Recent History," philosopher David Hoekema delves into the story of ARLPI and highlights the remarkable achievements of these local leaders. Through a combination of published sources and interviews with organization leaders and LRA survivors, Hoekema sheds light on the historical roots of both the depredations of the LRA and the healing work of ARLPI. He documents the courageous efforts of Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim leaders who constitute ARLPI to overcome centuries of mistrust and contribute to ending one of the most devastating conflicts in recent history.

Hoekema argues that the work of ARLPI not only puts philosophical and theological ideas into practice but also offers new insights into the relationship between religion and politics, the resolution of brutal conflicts, and the ability of communities to reclaim their future through locally-initiated initiatives despite overwhelming obstacles.

ARLPI's approach is rooted in the belief that conflict resolution is a local responsibility that should be driven by the community. The organization works closely with local leaders, religious institutions, and community members to address the underlying causes of conflict and promote peaceful coexistence. ARLPI's initiatives include reconciliation programs, trauma healing, and community development projects that aim to rebuild the social fabric and provide economic opportunities for affected communities.

One of the key achievements of ARLPI has been its success in mediating peace agreements between the LRA and the government of Uganda. Through its negotiation efforts, ARLPI has helped secure the release of thousands of abducted children and facilitated the return of LRA fighters to their families and communities. The organization has also played a crucial role in promoting dialogue and understanding between different religious and ethnic groups in northern Uganda, which has helped to reduce tensions and prevent further violence.

ARLPI's work has received recognition from international organizations and governments, including the United Nations, the United States, and the European Union. However, the organization faces ongoing challenges, including the need for sustained funding and support to continue its operations and the ongoing threat of violence and instability in northern Uganda.

Despite these challenges, ARLPI remains an inspiring example of how local communities and their leaders can work together to overcome adversity and build a more peaceful and prosperous future. The organization's commitment to promoting peace, reconciliation, and community development is a testament to the power of human resilience and the potential for positive change in even the most challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, the Acholi Religious Leaders' Peace Initiative (ARLPI) is a remarkable example of how a small group of dedicated community leaders can make a significant impact in a situation where military force and international pressure have had limited results. Through its work in promoting peace, reconciliation, and community development, ARLPI demonstrates the power of local initiatives and the potential for positive change in even the most challenging circumstances. The organization's commitment to promoting peace, reconciliation, and community development is a testament to the power of human resilience and the potential for positive change in even the most challenging circumstances.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 166 x 243 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190923150