We can see in another’s story; our own mother, father, sister, auntie, grandfather and children.  

The life in Greece is increasingly difficult for many; refugees, humanitarian organisations and local people.  Lack of travel due to Corona has meant a huge drop in revenue from the tourist industry which so many small businesses in Greece rely on.  Understandably, the lack of seasonal employment has caused some additional conflict between the local populations and refugees who are able to work here.

Corona has also made it difficult for humanitarian organisations to continue the support they give to the most vulnerable in society.  The official systems of support are wholly inadequate and leave families destitute and homeless.  Frustrations build as funds are difficult to raise and some projects are forcibly suspended.  You can see all too clearly the needs; in the eyes of the people sleeping on the streets, in the camps and in the occupied, near derelict apartments around the city of Athens.

There are a few dedicated and passionate organisations and individuals in Athens providing accommodation and support for the varied communities here.  I can’t imagine what Athens would be like without these inspiration people trying to plug the gaps made by a lack of political will to create a safe place for people.

Corona is a not a leveller! It does not affect people equally, this is clear throughout the world – it hits the most vulnerable communities hardest.  You can’t stay home if you don’t have one and how can you keep high levels of hygiene if you and your family are sleeping underneath a tree in central Athens whilst temperatures soar over 39 degrees?

These are some of the reasons why The Human Voice Project is so important.  We aim to give people the opportunity to write what is inside their heart and if they wish, to express themselves through art.  To thank people for taking part, our funding provides a small amount of cash for people to spend how they wish.

Humans throughout history have needed to listen to stories to make connections and break down barriers.  It seems that often, without stories to reflect on, humans have a limited ability to really empathise with people who live vastly different lives from their own. Through stories the individual is illuminated in the imagination – numbers no longer matter – we can see in another’s story; our own mother, father, sister, auntie, grandfather and children.

My Chios family

When all your belongings are soaked in mud and rain

Yes, we aim to give people a voice, but also, to activate empathy and compassion in the reader, the more people understand and feel compelled to take action, the quicker change will happen.  In addition, as the media is seemingly bored of this ongoing crisis – we all need raise awareness and keep the dialogue open.