*APNA KARACHI*
Karachi, one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world and historically known as the *"City of Lights"* has now becoming a developed city with every passing day. Karachi has been there way before any of the other settlements in this region, hence today known as the *“Cultural Capital of Pakistan”* with people travelling here from all around the world belonging to different cu
ltures and ethnic backgrounds to settle in this rich piece of land and start a new life. Therefore, this city has a history worth telling the world and the people of this land are likewise full of culture and talent, every individual is a story in themselves, every structure is reflecting a history and hence we call it *“Mini Pakistan”*, that has all the colors from the entire country. Unfortunately, this city of lights has previously been painted as one of the dangerous cities to live in, with religious extremism, violence and patriarchal mindset flourishing in it. As a result, the people started experiencing significantly fewer opportunities for socialization and recreation. For example, previously there were 136 cinemas spread across the city. Today, only 75% remain. Similarly, Karachi witnessed a substantial reduction in cultural activities of all sorts because of obvious reasons. That’s where *"Apna Karachi"* comes in the picture, an initiative started by the citizens of this land to bring back life to this city of colors, to bring back the smiles, to resurrect the rich culture, precisely, to make Karachi great again. "Apna Karachi" is a city-wide movement that inculcates hope, pride and ownership in *Karachiites* to collectively strive for a peaceful and vibrant city. Few of the *objectives* of "Apna Karachi" are:
1. Reclaim Public Space:
A public space is a place that is generally open and accessible to people but in this case, are particularly used to promote cultural side of Karachi. This city has had a history full of vibrant culture. However, over the years these public spaces for social and culture exchange have continually been diminished. "Apna Karachi" believes that shrinking of such public spaces in a significant factor is contributing to the issue, hence "Apna Karachi" aims to reclaim public space to
a. Promote social and cultural activities in Karachi that encourage positive exchange of entertainment instruments
b. Revive public spaces and cultural institutions for greater inclusion and engagement
c. Create fresh safe public space promoting open interaction and exchange of ideas
2. Bring Civil Society Together:
Civil Society plays a pivotal role in strengthening social and cultural fabric by advocating for the facilities of the people. "Apna Karachi" aims to
a. Create a common platform for the public synergy and collaboration
b. Eradicate poverty and help prosper the society
c. Increase interaction and engagement between civilization and other relevant states sectors of government
3. Enhance Public Awareness and Advocacy:
The increasing violence is one of the major issues for the society and has threatened the norms and values. To provide the security, peace, safety the dignity, "Apna Karachi" is taking initiatives to lobby and advocate for
a. Providing awareness to the society regarding the importance of norms, values and unity
b. Promoting cultural and entertainment sectors for the public
c. Raising voice against "Violence"
*“Apna Karachi” is emerging as a vision, a movement, an initiative; and above all, as the identity for the city of lights!*
*How can you participate?*
Join the initiative, pledge your support for "Apna Karachi", spread the message and became an activist for peace volunteer for the noble cause! For more information, you can connect with us on our page or call us on the number given on the website!
