December 9, 2015
On December 9, International Anti-Corruption Day, U.S. Ambassador Margaret Ann Uyehara, together with representatives of NGO JUVENTAS and NGO ATAK, presented the book “Stories of Everyday Ethics” authored by a group of Montenegrin students at American Corner Podgorica.
The “Stories of Everyday Ethics” book is a result of a larger program supported by the U.S. Embassy which gathered a group of high school and University students from different parts of Montenegro to share their personal stories on everyday ethical choices. In September 2014, the selected group of 15 students participated in the Stories of Everyday Ethics camp implemented in cooperation with the renowned American performing arts group, The Moth, and supported by the U.S. Embassy Podgorica. During a weeklong workshop, the students developed their performing arts skills and learnt how to speak out publically about issues such as bribery, corruption, human rights and ethical behavior through personal stories. They also took part in activities designed by the U.S. Embassy’s local program partners Juventas, ATAK, and MAYAA. The program, culminated in two public performances that gave students a chance to tell their inspiring stories to live audiences. After that, local partners Juventas and Atak continued to work with the students to turn their stories into the “Stories of Everyday Ethics” book.
Through this project, the U.S. Embassy in Montenegro wanted to give an opportunity to young Montenegrins to stand up against corruption and other social issues by using art as a way to raise their voice.
At the book presentation, Ambassador Uyehara said: “No effort to make Montenegro stronger can succeed without engaging young people. This is why the Embassy supports projects like this one, which engage youth early in this important struggle.”
