Tavis Smiley Season 7 Episode 408 Leymah Gbowee
- October 5, 2011
In season 7 episode 408 of Tavis Smiley, the focus is on Leymah Gbowee, a Liberian peace activist and 2011 Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Gbowee is interviewed about her life experiences and the work she has done towards achieving peace and stability in Liberia.
The episode starts off with a brief overview of Gbowee's background and the circumstances that led her to become a peace activist. She grew up in Liberia during a time when the country was ravaged by civil war, with violence and instability rampant. Gbowee recalls witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of war on her community, and feeling a strong sense of responsibility to do something about it.
As a young woman, Gbowee became involved with an organization called Women in Peacebuilding Network (WIPNET), which was focused on empowering women to take on leadership roles in their communities and advocate for peace. Gbowee quickly rose through the ranks of the organization, becoming its executive director and leading countless demonstrations and protests in support of peace.
Gbowee's efforts culminated in a historic moment in 2003, when she organized a group of women to stage a sit-in protest outside the Presidential Palace in Liberia's capital city of Monrovia. The group, which became known as the "Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace", held daily protests for months, drawing attention to the devastating impact of the civil war and calling for an end to the violence.
Eventually, their efforts paid off, and a peace agreement was reached that brought an end to the civil war. Gbowee and her fellow activists were credited with playing a crucial role in bringing about peace in Liberia.
Throughout the interview, Gbowee reflects on the challenges and triumphs of her work, and discusses her continuing efforts towards empowering women and promoting peace around the world. She speaks movingly about the power of grassroots activism, and the importance of giving voice to those who have been marginalized and oppressed.
Overall, season 7 episode 408 of Tavis Smiley is a powerful tribute to Leymah Gbowee and the incredible work she has done towards achieving peace in Liberia and beyond. The episode is filled with inspiring stories and insightful reflections, and serves as a reminder of the impact that one person can have when they are committed to making a positive change in the world.