Current and Future Scholars:
I took a moment (a few days) to diverge from our scheduled topics to share something vital that deeply connects with our work at VMS. For over 20 years, I’ve dedicated myself to digital empowerment and media literacy education, particularly focused on African American and Latino communities. In 2025, this work has become more crucial than ever—especially with all that is happening, which I won’t get into.
Before jumping in, I need to make it clear that I do not have a political side. I share this with you in transparency and from a place of personal accountability.
As part of our journey of questioning and understanding, I’ve created a special podcast using responses from various AI chatbots about censorship, propaganda, and information access. Again—this isn’t about taking political sides; it’s about understanding how information flows and transforms across different platforms.
Note: I also built an independent forum as an example of how a grassroots, decentralized approach can be done. Why? Because I believe in “walking the talk.” Before I offer to start teaching organizations and community groups how they can do the same, I’m testing it myself. If you’re interested in testing it out or learning more, just let me know.
When I created this podcast using different AI chatbots, it wasn’t just about gathering information—it was about demonstrating how the same questions can yield different insights across platforms. This kind of practical exploration of modern mysteries complements our deeper spiritual and philosophical work.
Why Media Literacy Matters to Vanguard Mystery School
Here are the threads that weave this topic into our shared purpose:
- Teaching media literacy and digital skills as crucial tools for economic mobility and independence: As technology reshapes the job market, basic skills are no longer enough to remain competitive. Digital literacy can unlock opportunities for financial independence and global mobility, enabling individuals to move freely in a digitally connected world. I’m seeing many people share their desires to “leave,” but they’re tied to jobs that require them to show up physically every day.
- Understanding how to navigate information spaces, including being aware of censorship and propaganda: In a world where information is constantly filtered, manipulated, and sometimes hidden, media literacy helps us decode messages, recognize bias, and make informed decisions.
- Using strategies like “hiding in plain sight” and coded language as practical tools for information sharing: These ancient and modern techniques for safeguarding and communicating knowledge are powerful ways to resist censorship and protect the flow of critical information. The Vanguard Mystery School is a great example of how to “hide in plain sight.”
- Taking a non-partisan educational approach focused on empowerment: This is not about taking sides. It’s about equipping ourselves—and the next generation—with the tools to thrive and contribute meaningfully to a complex, interconnected world.
For Current Students: Why We’re Pausing Regular Topics
To my current scholars, you may have noticed a pause in our regularly scheduled topics. This is an intentional decision to address a critical issue that deeply impacts our collective journey. Media literacy and digital empowerment are not just standalone skills; they are foundational to navigating the modern world.
Your regularly scheduled topics will resume soon, but this moment of focus is a necessary step in our ongoing growth.
For Prospective Students: Why This Matters to You
If you’re considering joining the Vanguard Mystery School, this is a glimpse into how we approach growth, learning, empowerment, and adaptability. While our topics often delve into esoteric wisdom, mysticism, and self-realization, we also emphasize practical knowledge that supports real-world independence and agency.
By integrating media literacy into our teachings, we prepare scholars to navigate a world increasingly shaped by technology and information. This approach reflects our commitment to both spiritual and practical empowerment, ensuring that you leave with tools that are both transformative and applicable in your daily life.
Final Thoughts
Media literacy is not just about understanding the tools we use; it’s about reclaiming power in a world that often seeks to obscure it. By dedicating time to this topic, we reaffirm the purpose of the Vanguard Mystery School: to illuminate, empower, and inspire.
~ Courtney C.
P.S. Regular MATTERS topics will resume next week.