Chasing Dreams and Wonders in an Ancient World
Originally written for Globe Aware.
Chasing Dreams and Wonders in an Ancient World: Providing Opportunity for the Forgotten Children of China
With an ancient civilization that dates back earlier than almost any other in the world, China inevitably has a rich history full of transformation and development. From dynasties to open socialism, China has experienced both the pressures of political unrest and the peacefulness of political dominance. After many years of metamorphosis, this ancient civilization has reached the dawn of ultimate strength as it becomes a potential world super power today. Home to over one billion people, China possesses the world's fastest growing economy.
While China still remains governed by the Communist Party, movements in recent history have initiated significant change. Reform efforts in the 1960s shifted the economic direction of China towards an open market economy. This newfound freedom for citizens to establish their own private businesses has caused an economic boom, creating an abundance of job opportunities within urban centers like Beijing. As a result, rural workers have started to migrate from their homes in the countryside in order to find better work in the cities. However, in attempts to control mass migration and maintain stability, the government enabled the Hukou policy, a home registry system that restricts internal movement within the country. Citizens must now go through a lengthy and difficult process of requesting formal permission in order to relocate, resulting in many who migrate without going through the legal process. But their migration is not without a price. Without governmental permission, the workers are denied basic rights such as health care and education - essentially being treated as illegal aliens in their own country. Most devastating of all, the children of these workers are not allowed to enroll in city schools and thus the cycle of misfortune and in-opportunity is perpetuated.
That's where Globe Aware steps in. Globe aware partners up with the only non-governmental school in Beijing that provides free educational opportunities for the children of these migrant workers.This school incorporates creative techniques for educating children that have never been in a classroom before, making lessons interesting and fun. The school is always in need of helping hands to build, paint, and construct in order to improve conditions on the campus. In addition, enrollment at the school continues to increase, with new students registering each week. Globe Aware volunteers have the opportunity to assist in building projects and to teach English, helping equip students with skills for a bright and successful future.
The Great Wall, the Forbidden City, delicious cuisine, and incredible products... China is the land of so many enticing attractions. As one of the world's greatest countries yet also one with great need, it is sure to offer you something invaluable, and it is certain that you have something invaluable to offer back. Consider the wonders of this ancient culture that await you, and consider how you could be a part of offering a future of opportunity and hope for the forgotten children of China