‘Monument’ to refugees worldwide

Hope 2020 is off to a brilliant start after a holiday season that left you filled with gratitude!

Last week, I went to Madison Square Park on a tip. A friend from Liberia told me about an art installation by Krzysztof Wodiczko, an internationally renowned artist, that gives voice to refugees all over the world. Called “Monument,” the work brings to life the statue of Navy Admiral David Glasgow Farragut (a Civil War hero for the Union Army) by projecting videos of refugees onto Farragut’s body while a speaker plays clips of interviews about their experiences and what prompted them to leave their homelands. Here’s a story by Matt Katz that gives details on Wodiczko’s art installation.

Of course, there’s a big difference between migrants and refugees – it’s a matter of choice. Migrants choose to leave their homeland in search of a better life. On the other hand, refugees and asylum seekers are forced from their home due to war, violence, political conflict, extreme climate change, etc. Globally, about 68.5 million people, including children, are refugees or asylum seekers. Meanwhile, people who want to permanently live in another country are called immigrants.

This year, the Gone Girls-Migrant Mothers project will focus on collecting stories, partnering with nonprofits and other organizations that serve the immigrant community, launching a monthly newsletter, and enhancing its website. I’ll also create a podcast to share interviews with migrant mothers, adults who were left behind as children, immigration lawyers answering FAQs, and other experts offering relevant advice. I also want build the Gone Girls-Migrant Mothers community.

Spread the word: If you know any migrant mothers who left children behind, please tell them about this blog and the Gone Girls-Migrant Mothers project. Their stories could uplift and encourage other mothers in similar situations. Please share my contact information: caroljoykelly@gmail.com – and follow me on Twitter: migrantmothers1.

Check out my recent LinkedIn post and call to action.

May 2020 be your best year yet!