As previously discussed, we have a new-ishly formed Advisory Council (but you already know that since you read our blog religiously, right?) This dream team of 22 provides advice, ideas, and support in areas relevant to their expertise which include but are not limited to human rights, entertainment, brand management, leadership, and overall awesomeness.
One of those members is the one and only Amy Eldon Turteltaub (yes, Eldon as in our late hero Dan Eldon‘s sister, and Turteltaub as in Hollywood director Jon Turteltaub‘s wife #shewins). She is the Co-Founder and Co-Chair of Creative Visions Foundation, which is dedicated to supporting creative activists. She is the author of four books, the producer of several documentaries, and the producer of two children.
Hi Amy (she’s the one on the right)
We sat down with her recently for a little Q&A, and it only solidified our love & admiration.
How and when did you first get connected with Invisible Children?
Jason Russell came to visit us on his way to Uganda in 2004 because he had been inspired to go to Africa after reading “The Journey is the Destination,” a collection of journal pages by my brother, Dan Eldon. We were very impressed by his spirit of compassion and sense of adventure, that reminded us of Dan- but we were worried that Jason and the guys would contract malaria, get lost in the bush, or kidnapped by guerillas. When they came back they showed us their incredible film [The Rough Cut] and we knew we had to do whatever we could to support their efforts.
How and when did social justice become important to you?
Growing up in Kenya was critical to my awareness of the importance of social justice. My parents were deeply involved in nation building and encouraging individuals to tackle challenges in the world around them. I quickly learned that in Kenya there are almost no social services–so if you want to get something fixed, you have to roll up your sleeves and get the job done. In high school one of our young Kenyan friends, Atieno, needed funds for a heart operation. My brother Dan immediately planned an ambitious campaign to “Save a girl’s broken heart.” Together with our friends, we threw wild parties to raise the money for Atieno to have the heart operation. At 13 this made a huge impression on me. I understood how important it is to not only encourage people to do good, but make the experience as engaging and entertaining as possible. IC has cornered the market on making service fun.
How can your involvement on IC’s Advisory Council contribute to the goal of ending the LRA conflict?
I am committed to being personally involved, but also to using our foundation, Creative Visions, wherever appropriate, to support the IC team as they create initiatives that will contribute to the end of the LRA conflict.
In one sentence, what do you feel the KONY 2012 campaign accomplished?
Kony 2012 taught an entire generation of American kids (and their parents) to believe that we are all members of a global tribe and we have a responsibility to look after each other.
Think people should hear about this?