The Justification for Dishonesty

Two days ago my facebook news feed blew up with KONY this and that.  It was a very emotionally provoking video put together by the nonprofit organization, Invisible Children.  Later that night I began to see postings that argued the legitimacy of the video's claims (read this link).  As skeptics posted these links others promptly provided the ICN's response (read this link) in the organization's defense.  The ICN's response is a well played and necessary PR move to save face by clarifying the situation in Central Africa.  They do not address all of the confusing matters but now we're just splitting hairs.

From what I  have read it seems that Invisible Children has a worthy and necessary cause. But I have to say that regardless of what good your organization does, it does not justify half-truths and misleading information.  Lets call it what it is:  Dishonesty.  Every generation  seeks to paint a broader grey area between truth and lies.  "Lies is such a harsh word.  Can't we call it something else?"  Argue for all the good the organization does and defend your position to those who want to fully understand what is ACTUALLY going on.  Argue for the justification of dishonesty. 

I hold no judgement on those who are advocates for what the organization pursues - striving to stop the violence in Central Africa.  I am not disappointed in the choice to donate to Invisible Children.  If you understand the situation and desire to donate, that is fantastic.   My disappointment lies with the organization - the editors of the film and the management of the organization that chose to let this misrepresentation of the facts in essence represent THEIR organization. 

Just as no one is perfect, an organization made up of imperfect people will also be imperfect.  I just hope that the large influx of funding they are receiving as a result of their video does not encourage more of the same.  There should be an accountability for truth.

But as I've said before, I do not condone finger pointing and evading personal responsibility.  Opting out of giving to charitable causes for every reason under the sun does not exempt you from the responsibility you have (as an American and/or Christian) to give.  While I hesitate to walk the fine line of justification, I do empathize with why an organization may feel that speaking to emotions seems necessary.  Why does it take such a provoking video to prompt us into action?  I'm not saying you aren't giving at all, but did you miss the $10 you donated that day?  Probably not.  Maybe you can do that every week - without waiting for something to anger, scare or sadden you.  Give.  Give more.  Give thoughtfully.  Just give.