MANILA, PHILIPPINES — We are familiar with the work of cartoons, but it’s not every day that they inspire dissent by the thousands. As the artist behind Tarantadong Kalbo, Kevin Eric Raymundo would know a thing or two about this— most especially because his latest work, dubbed “Tumindig” (translated as to stand up or to rise), has currently amassed over 104,000 likes on Facebook, and 15,000 retweets on Twitter.
T u m i n d i g ✊🏼 pic.twitter.com/ODYkPqRn0T
— Tarantadong Kalbo (@KevinKalbo) July 17, 2021
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On July 17, Raymundo posted a simple digital drawing depicting closed fists bowing down to resemble the fist bump popularized by President Rodrigo Duterte and his allies. While still part of the crowd, one figure is set apart by his stance, upright and seemingly glowing. In this position, the figure mirrors a raised fist, a symbol of strength and solidarity for those brave enough to dissent.
— Tarantadong Kalbo (@KevinKalbo) July 24, 2021
Speaking to ANC Dateline, Raymundo expressed why he started the now-viral #Tumindig creative solidarity action. “Because for me (Para sa akin kasi), art is always political whether you like it or not… Even if you choose not to participate in (doon sa) political discourse, that in itself is staying silent. And when you stay silent, you are siding with the oppressors.”
Artista ng Bayan, Ngayon ay Lumalaban! ✊🏼✊🏽✊🏻✊✊🏾#Tumindig https://t.co/Vc5Pq8gVv9 pic.twitter.com/5NlOSMpMyI
— Tarantadong Kalbo (@KevinKalbo) July 21, 2021
Several artists have since joined, contributing their own versions of a raised fist to signify their indignation. In the next illustration shared by Raymundo, the first glowing figure is no longer seen alone; instead, he is surrounded by fellow artists who join him in standing up for their rights, freedoms, and democracy.
In solidarity with @KevinKalbo and @KapitanTambay ✊ https://t.co/TSYWZQRbn2 pic.twitter.com/iJUp4DsE1D
— Cartoonist ZACH (@cartoonistzach) July 20, 2021
As one of the first artists to create their own avatar versions of “Tumindig”, Cartoonist Zach says, “I initially thought this visual campaign would only spread to our immediate artist connection, but I was really shocked (and literally cried) when a number of people joined. Mala-Avengers Endgame ang dating.
This campaign made people less afraid to air out their thoughts through their art; it encourages people to speak up and engage in healthy discourse. Through this visual campaign, the “raised fist” becomes destigmatized, which was being falsely tagged by a government task force as a “communist” symbol. I really hope “Tumindig” will translate into a bigger cause, most especially to inspire people to vote.”
Please register to vote, besties! 💗 #Tumindig https://t.co/FvJ6djpFHM pic.twitter.com/P798m3dgrn
— Colourette (@heycolourette) July 22, 2021
Colourette Cosmetics founder and CEO, Nina Ellaine Dizon-Cabrera, also shares why the company decided to take part in the campaign. “More than a beauty brand, we are Filipinos first. A progressive brand takes a stand. In times of injustice and oppression, you shouldn’t let fear keep you silent. Stand up, talk back, take up space. And register to vote! #Tumindig.”
Until now, more and more raised fists continue to take the place of the bowed ones. In an effort to consolidate all entries, artists can upload and submit their work through this link.
In Raymundo’s own words, “Noong nakita ko na merong sumama sa akin, doon ko naramdaman ‘yan. Ay di pala ako nag-iisa. Madami pala tayo.”
