Tore Vik
Hi. Here’s my journey in list form—because the work speaks for itself.
- 1995: I wrote a book about how urban legends (“wandering stories”) is used by right wing populists, and is used effectively to grasp power in representative democracies.
- Same era: Took MSc in Political Science, specialising in the extreme right. I wanted to understand how gossip and racism can grow into a major political force.
- 30+ years: Worked as an antiracist and antifascist researcher and writer. Still do.
- 30+ years (also): Been an antiracist activist—on the ground, protecting refugees and advocating for human rights.
- 10+ years: Activist in the church asylum movement. We sheltered over 700 refugees directly. Through that broad public movement to protect the refugees, over 5,000 people (mostly from the former Yugoslavia and Sri Lanka) found safety in Norway.
- Regularly: Contribute to media outlets. Speak publicly. Lecture on migration, peace, and antifascism.
- Public relations: Organise conferences and events on antiracism, social justice, and inclusion.
Bottom line: The urban legends, wandering stories, conspiracy theories and other gossip stories I wrote about in 1995 are still out there, and has become a real threat against individual freedom.
We have to believe in progress and the evolution of humanity. Let’s work together—or just keep showing up separately. Either way, don’t stop.