Lady Liberty Lives

It has been an interesting and surprising few days on Lesbos. This little island is a refugee epicenter, and the impact can be felt in every corner. The street art is a constant reminder that we are all human, we are all connected and we are all welcome. Something we often forget.

Lesbos has its own version of Lady Liberty, welcoming the world's people to the island with open arms. The statue itself is a young girl holding a torch, and serves as a symbol of freedom. Seeing this statue, and the street art depicting her response to the refugee crisis right next door, creates bittersweet emotions. It can't be a coincidence that her island is creating safe passage for hundreds of thousands of people searching for freedom. This lady liberty is a strong and fierce girl, yet her eyes offer glimpses of mourning and sadness.

It's this sadness - a feeling of loss - that is palpable. But also a resilience that's hard to truly understand unless you talk to its residents, both old and new. The Greeks are survivors, having weathered many storms over the centuries. They know that even in the midst of struggle, that this too will give way to balance and prosperity again. It's this common ground - this hope and determination in the face of suffering - that unites Greeks and refugees.

We visited two refugee communities - Kara Tepe and Pikpa. We were not allowed to take pictures inside the camps, and are asked not to share personal stories we hear from refugees. So while I can't tell you about the amazing people I met, I can share with you my experience. These communities are built on mutual respect. On dining together, creating safe spaces for families. Celebrating the little moments, like a little boy's birthday, amidst a very long and uncertain journey. And while not perfect, there was a certain sense of relief you could feel from refugee residents. I'm leaving with a sense of deeper commitment. A greater understanding of the broader refugee situation. And a fuller appreciation for the moxy it takes to constantly rebuild in an ever-changing situation.

Originally published February 11, 2017