They are shouting it whenever they can: beyond invited participation: the power of popular communications

This overview article on the power of popular communications starts by introducing the use of popular communications, and its tools - theatre, art, poetry, video, music, etc. - in both participatory development and participation in development. For the former, popular communications provides a tool that can stimulate reflection and action within processes of planned intervention, such as development projects. As such, it becomes a means to give voice. For others it is more about people using their voices to 'shout it wherever they can'. The stories shared in this Special Issue are drawn from people who work in the borderland between the two, and are a personal journey that allows for critical reflection and learning. Key issues are flagged; these include the use of popular communications as a means through which existing personal and community strengths can find new expression, and as a medium for challenging society's perception of the marginalised, while demanding recognition of their worth. The personal commitment and involvement of the individual is another strong theme that permeates. These stories are also a means of exchanging learning and providing solidarity across continents. All the stories are political, either on a personal level or in terms of policy and social change. Additionally, in telling stories of processes, a lot more of the realities of participatory work are revealed. The article calls for future action and concludes by exhorting us to recognise our own strengths through reading someone else's story.