Because we’re all human
And we all deserve dignity
¿Why DIGENTE?
We all know the situation. Walking through the city on our way to work, running errands, or meeting friends, we often pass by someone visibly struggling. You can see their malnourishment, worn clothes, and lack of basic needs like hygiene. Most people walk past without noticing, and some even go out of their way to avoid them. This is part of our socialization. As children, we look at these people with curiosity and maybe pity, feeling an urge to engage with them. But as we grow up, we learn to call them “homeless,” “beggars,” or, in Latin America, “indigente.”
These labels create a divide between “them” and “us” and make it easier to ignore their needs. Calling a temporary condition by a permanent label dehumanizes these individuals, even if unintentionally. For those labeled, it brings stigma and prejudice—assumptions of drug abuse, unwillingness to work, or even criminality. These perceptions do nothing to help improve their situation.
indigente -> ¡di gente! (Eng. “say people”)
The approach of DIGENTE is to engage with people in situations of extreme poverty, give them a bit of attention, and help to meet their basic needs. On the other side, it aims to tell their story, giving this part of the population a face and a voice in places where they are usually not represented; showing us how at the end of the day, they are human, just like any one of us.
¿What’s the goal?
Vision
Help the creation of an inclusive society, dedicated to providing a life in dignity for all of its members.
Mission
Give a voice to the most marginalized members of our society and confront extreme poverty.
Main objectives
1) Combat the stigmatization of the poor
2) Give them a voice and help to meet basic needs
¿How does it work?
In the current stage, operations focus on hitting the streets of Medellín, seeking out people in need. A conversation is started by offering a little gift (the kit), with the goal to engage people in a conversation and get to know their story. If they agree, a recount of their story (the portrait) is later shared on social media.
The Kit
A lunchbag filled with items to meet basic human needs. Including food, water, personal hygiene products and information on where to find further support.
The Portrait
Optional and only with consent of the person; A portrait consisting of a picture and an account of their story, highlighting their human struggle and hopes for the future.
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