FIFTH ISSUE: On Third Spaces: A Common Ground for Intercultural Praxis

This article prepared as a newsletter by Nuestros Pensamientos (COMM 10 Group 3) in fulfillment of Group Activity №5.

Introduction

The term ‘third space’ is described as a place distinct from the ‘first space’ — the domestic space of home, and the ‘second space’ — the workplace and the work environment. On the surface, the third space is a place where people go to relax and unwind, somewhere to meet and talk about the mundane things, the things that matter personally, and the things that people have an interest in, and maybe make new friends or acquaintances. Beneath the surface however, the third space is something a lot more than this, observed under sociocultural lens, the third space is something of a melting pot where a variety of people with different ideas, worldview and culture coexist in, a special kind of melting pot where you can observe the individual ingredients mix in and navigate through everything else.

Aptly described by Homi Bhabha, who coined the term, third spaces refer to the “in-between” space in the clash between cultures where meaning and representation are negotiated and cultural identity can be re-imagined, a social space where you can actively participate in intercultural communication and establish an understanding of our own cultural identity, as well as culture disparate from ours.

The article presents examples of third spaces and how each tackle issues arising from the lack understanding of other cultures, as well precognitions of third spaces existing in an ultranationalist world.

I. Third Spaces in Our Society

The Christian Family Church: Prayer Meetings

By Armie Viray

Every Wednesday, we hold a prayer meeting in The Christian Family Church. It is just so nice that it is open to everyone. I am very blessed that I have the opportunity to hear different testimonies from children, teenagers, adults and even people from other places and countries. They have different stories that became my inspiration which makes me courageous in my everyday life battle. Some of them have great sufferings, but there are also people who are very brave to testify that there were moments in their life where they were the reason for the pain of other people. Because of our different experiences and even different cultures and beliefs, we can notice that we have divergent perspectives on certain matters. However, we have our pastor who helps and educates us about what is the right thing to think and do.

The Arch of Mendiola

By James Carwyn Candila

A sample of a “third space” that I feel personally ingrained in me is the literal street of Mendiola. It is found on a corner near Legarda in Manila. Beyond my sentimental ideas of it, it is undeniably historical, especially in terms of the long-standing battles that were waged there, whether peaceful, and some that have let blood shed upon the innocents, most notably the Mendiola Massacre.

The space is not a “freedom park”, which refers to an area in the Philippines where a rally or a mobilization may be held without the consent or permit of the government. Despite this, however, a lot of people, both pro- and anti-establishment, have held the space in the expression of aspirations for the Philippines as a society. Sometimes, there would be cases where two differing groups would clash near the Arch of Mendiola, but quite luckily, most of them are peaceful. They become a manifestation of negotiation and expression, both key factors in upholding the values of society, and the acceptance of diversity and inclusion in the country.

Camarines Sur Parkettes: The “Patio Goa”

By Grace Ortinero

An excellent example of a third space is the parkette in Camarines Sur, which locals often refer to as “Patio Goa.” It is openly available to the public every day; however, it is the students that populate the area the most. This area has the plainest point with a homely ambiance among all the parkettes in the district, making it a comfortable space for students to unwind and destress from exhausting classes. Since it is situated in the town center, it serves as the community’s living room, considering that students from different schools, including those from nearby towns, Catholic schools, and few international students from a Korean-operated institution, used to gather there every afternoon when classes were still held in a classroom setup. Since people in the province are naturally friendly, these students would eventually exchange a good conversation despite having different school cultures, social backgrounds and sense of identity, leading to spontaneous relationships. By hearing and understanding some of their stories, other students could generate a sense of awareness and consciousness about them as they seek commonalities amidst their diversity. It creates the idea that every single individual has a place in a much more general and significant state.

The University of the Philippines: An Institution of Inclusivity

By Princess Jherissa Villanueva

The University of the Philippines houses students with different cultural backgrounds. Given that our country has diverse cultures, students here have distinct beliefs, practices, values, life views, identities, and attitudes. However, despite the differences, people here still find a way to connect with one another. To slowly adjust not just with the environment but to start to warm up with other ‘Iskolars ng Bayan’. Furthermore, the institution lets the students join several organizations, fraternities, and confraternities that help improve communication and social skills and build relationships within the sea of culturally diverse students. Also, they allow students to express themselves the way they want to be. An example of it is permitting the students to wear clothes comfortable to them and also serves as a representation of their identity. By looking at how they express and carry themselves, one could see meaningful and wonderful life stories from these people. And interacting with them influences us to view life differently and put ourselves in his/her shoes. Hence, the reason why I think the University is a great example of third space.

Jon Mar Mangosong’s JM’s Kitchen & Deaf-Friendly Café

By Princess Jherissa Villanueva

I think the concept of “third space” nowadays must go beyond the culture. Inclusion for people with disabilities is also important. It is to show that despite their physical incapabilities, they should not be treated less than what they deserve. Hence, the reason why Jon Mar Mangosong built his JM’s Kitchen and Deaf-Friendly Café. I think his café serves as a space for people with disabilities or not to meet. It erases the line between these two groups of people and starts to give trust and understanding to one another. Going to his café is a good experience. By merely observing the hustle and bustle inside the place and the interaction between the servers and the customers, one could easily depict that verbal communication is not of much importance. It is the respect and understanding for both sides that kept the café continue its run and branch out to other places. The trust for the servers equates to the trust we give to the restaurant crews without special needs. Hence, this place creates the image of equality and space where lines written by the past society were wiped off.

High School Workshops and Seminars

By Nicole Angela Eumag

I have attended different workshops and seminars, as well as fellowships during my secondary level. These programs have helped students to boost confidence, developing skills and attaining knowledge regarding different aspects of life- can be leadership, mental health, and the like. Attending such programs are helpful, not just only for me but also to other participants which can be used for everyday life. I have met different people with different personalities and cultures. Hence, participating in these programs also serve as a way of understanding other cultures by meeting and interacting with them. Other students with different stories and inspirations which has also helped me to understand them, hence, providing solutions to other problems and helping to widened our perceptions in life.

The United Methodist Church: Youth Midweek Fellowships

By Rupert Gavin Santos

I used to attend Midweek Youth Fellowships of the United Methodist Church that my friend had invited me weekly to go with, and I think that could be an example of a third space. It was mediated by a member of the church and although at first it seemed that topics of discussion centered around Bible lessons and Christian values, eventually, it genuinely felt like a space where you can freely share experiences like how your week was going, or how life in general was going, and at the same time also listen to and exchange ideas. Because of the inclusiveness of the group, you could invite people, and I even had the opportunity to bring along my younger siblings a few times. I was able to learn about cultures distinct from mine, find a common ground and ‘obtain’ beliefs and values that I would have previously considered to be exclusive to people that have strong devotion to the gospel.

II. Roadblocks in Intercultural Communication

Anxiety: A Difference in Doctrines

One of the issues the Christian Family church addresses is anxiety. Given the fact that the pandemic really alters the way we live, all aspects of our lives also change. Since people cannot go out especially in the first months of the pandemic, anxiety rises. Now that we can have the chance to have a face-to-face service and prayer meeting (following the proper protocol), I have noticed that some of the invited ones are not that comfortable given the fact that they have different doctrines in their church. With this, anxiety increases even more (not just for them but also for us who are members of the church). However, it is such a blessing that we have a pastor who guides us. One of the methods he uses is reflection. He simply reminds us that different religions or doctrines should not be the barrier or hindrance for us to deepen our faith.

The same goes for the United Methodist Church. Although the Midweek Fellowships were open to anybody, and you were allowed to bring along friends or family, regardless of religion, there would still be feelings of anxiety. New members, including myself were apprehensive, as in my case, I was Catholic and I didn’t consider myself to be someone religious, and I was nervous because I was unsure what kind of rabbit hole I was diving into, and this could probably be the case for other new members. This is the case for at least the first fellowship you attend, but it quickly establishes itself as a third space through inquiry and positioning. The fellowship feels like a small community you could go to after school as the church is located at the town center where it is accessible even for younger students, and that it is a space where you can feel that its members are welcoming, and are interested in what you have to share and what your individual ideals are.

Anxiety: College Culture Shock

Anxiety is also something affecting students in university. Of course, meeting with new people with different cultural backgrounds and strong personalities gives us anxieties. It is normal to feel bothered with worries and insecurities of not being enough or of not feeling the sense of belongingness at first. However, these anxieties would be washed out once we started to know each other. It is the reason why there were various organizations with various identities, themes, and purposes. Every group here has something to offer and represent. But the common ground is to make the students feel like they belong. Also, for the students’ side, inquiring is the first step to take. Having the drive to learn more about your blockmates’ culture, the place where he grew up and where his visions are most likely developed, and other backgrounds is an essential step. Also, along the journey of learning something with the people we meet, we also discover that sometimes our cultural frames limit us to see others’ perspectives. Hence, we must have an open mind to widen our viewpoints in life. And consequently apply our learnings on a daily basis to let others know that justice, equity, and peacefulness were aimed to achieve within the university.

Stereotyping and Prejudice: Student Stereotypes

In parkettes he most noticeable difference between students from different schools whenever they meet in a group is their uniforms. In that way, other people can quickly recognize their schools, which often leads to them comparing and judging those students. A group of adults would often stare and tell that this particular group of friends from the Philippine Science High School would have a much brighter future because they are way more intelligent than those from the State University. Meanwhile, others always tell those students from the National High School and Catholic schools that they are more likely to have a family at an early age and become drop-outs. With this, it is evident that most are still imprisoned with the idea that one’s intelligence and future will depend solely on a school a person graduates from. Executing a proper dialogue is the best method in addressing these issues. Although it could be hard to perform at first, especially if the people to be confronted are way older than the students, a good conversation would still generate clear lines of thoughts to bring harmony and peace among them. After all, it is healthier to confront someone than to completely ignore the issue.

Even during programs and seminars students are stereotyped. By conducting such programs, its aim is to address the gap of each student leader’s knowledge about leadership and providing inspirations that they may be used for future. It also aims to shape student leaders as the next hope in the future. Teachers and administrators serve as a guide to produce effective student leaders for the future. At some point, possibly due to inexperience, youth were stereotyped that they are not able to lead, therefore by conducting these leadership workshops and seminars help in developing the next generation leaders which is a stepping stone for a productive leadership in the future.

Stereotyping and Prejudice: Preconceived Motives

Another factor that could have contributed to anxieties and have developed other issues, is the thought that somewhere down the line of attending the fellowships, new members would be encouraged and expected to convert to the church. This creates a stereotype that church members have this main goal to incorporate new people to their religion, and it could make some people apprehensive to join in similar activities. This is also likely to create prejudice in people, especially people who are very devoted in their own religion and even people who consider themselves not religious at all or upfront atheists. Unfortunately, the Midweek Fellowship as a third space can only address these issues if the person would look past stereotypes and prejudices, and choose to engage in dialogue and reflection, that within the third space you can share about your own experience, ideas and beliefs and know that other members will listen and in turn they know that you will listen to theirs, and as a result, allow both parties to share their own perspective with each other.

Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities

Prejudice and discrimination towards people with disabilities and the constant derogatory remarks like “walang magagawa ang mga may kapansanan,” “ang mga may kapansanan ay pabigat lamang sa lipunan” and “walang mararating ang may kapansanan” urged Jon Mar to establish a café for the people with special needs. To address discriminiation and to prove that despite the physical “imperfections,” they could still win success in life and be of help in the community. His actions and success in business are a slap to the people who have narrow and negative mindsets towards them. Furthermore, the intention to hire crews who have the same situation as him is a message that these people are as capable as the people who were hired in the fast-food restaurants and more. Hence, it must serve as a lesson for us and be aware of the actions we do to others. To have a reflection as to how to modify our perspectives not just for these people but with other cultures as well.

Tyranny

The issues that the Arch of Mendiola address are beyond the individualist idea of a person. It is a clash of politics — a battle of ideologies and the reclamation of the people’s spaces. However, I believe that one of the issues that it tackles; and even more important is how Mendiola, a mere “third space”, is actively addressing such an issue, is the threat against our democratic liberties and rights, especially amid the status quo.

At present, highlighting the pandemic, protest spaces in the country are often limited, and virtually prohibited by the government if it comes from the opposition. The excuses are nothing new — say, no permits, and whatnot, but one of the latest excuses is the violation of social distancing laws, even if there is no clear basis for such. This led to multiple arrests, and even an attempt of physical harassment, within the area.

This has become a clear threat to protesters, advocates, and liberty fighters, especially within Metro Manila. I have experienced an attempted arrest in this place, and certainly, the issue that Mendiola aims to struggle in favor of the people is threatened by the relentless attacks against progressivism.

III. The Future of Third Spaces

What if Notions of Ultranationalism and Rising National Borders were to Prevail?

Ultranationalism refers to when a person expresses too much devotion to his nation without minding what it could cause to other countries or people from other countries (foreigners). It could result in people having relationship gaps, primarily with those from different societies who have different cultures. A wave of conflicts and hatred between people, including racism, stigmatization, and incitement to violence based on belief would transpire. Furthermore, rising borders could lead to people being completely unaware of other societies, people, and beliefs, making them ethnocentric enough to continue dismissing the presence of people from other societies in their everyday lives.

Moreover, humans will not become open to diversity which will lead to discrimination as well. Dealing morally with other people who have different cultures and beliefs does not have a place in ultranationalism.

If ultranationalism were to prevail globally, the third space, with complete certainty, would cease to exist. it would create a society rife with prejudice, one where humans would not think twice to alienate a fellow human. Rising borders could also mean that culture would be largely dictated by ethnicity, race, or nationality, as intercultural communication would be greatly diminished.

Not only is ultranationalism arising in different parts of the world, which includes a wide variety of political ideals, including Neo-Nazism; there is also a rise in elitist nepotism, which fronts itself as a nationalist movement, but rooted in the power of the ruling clique.

The Philippines is, of course, indifferent. We face right now this very issue that also harbors fear to the people of Europe, and in different parts of Asia. It instills a culture of fear upon the people, to believe that only through isolationism and purity of races can we achieve liberation, a baseless and now supposedly forgotten idea.

The activities, groups, and advocacies we developed throughout the years to achieve culturally diverse positioning and understanding would go to waste. Social issues will once again rise and intensify the tension between nations, cultures, or religions. Furthermore, the citizens of every country will once again build a wrong impression for others, which will result in prejudicial actions and discrimination. Hence, to avoid such scenarios, we must preserve and give importance to the essence of the third space.