This is a message from Syrian artist Rania al-Najdi, with whom TSC has collaborated with to ensure Syria’s disappeared are not forgotten. We’re calling on people everywhere to fold an origami bird in solidarity with the missing. Join Rania, TSC, and Syria’s families in demanding truth and answers now. Justice cannot wait.
When I create a piece of art, I am not just making something beautiful in the world, I am sending a powerful message to everyone who sees it.
I have been making small paper birds for every person still missing in Syria. The process is fairly simple but every fold is an act of solidarity and also of activism. The birds are fragile but they are also a symbol of freedom.
Will you join me and make an origami bird for those who have been arrested and detained in just the past few months and for those who have been missing for years? Throughout August, in preparation for international day of the disappeared, families of Syria’s disappeared will be making origami birds to display in their homes and communities – and we invite you to join us.
When I exhibited 1,000 birds hanging in central Damascus in June, families came together to talk and share their grief and remember. It was a powerful moment that we can all be a part of.
Together we can make the largest global origami action flying around the world
By hanging a bird from your window or somewhere important to you, we can in some way push back against authoritarian regimes that detain and torture.
I myself know the horrors of arbitrary detention. I know that freedom only comes with justice and accountability, with an end to impunity and a fair and inclusive government.
Our birds will not achieve these things by themselves but together they can remind the interim authorities and the international community that there is a groundswell of people that is demanding action.
You can also add your name to Syria Waits which is calling for evidence of war crimes to be preserved, crimes investigated and all perpetrators held to account. Your solidarity means so much. Your actions have real impact.
With gratitude,
Rania