There is much excitement in the air in Columbus, Ohio as Councilmember Emmanuel Remy, is partnering with the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA), Mayor Andrew Ginther, US Together, Welcoming City, Bell Tree Production, and Zen Genius to welcome Little Amal on Friday, September 22, 2023 at the Genoa Park, 303 W Broad Street from 5pm to 7pm.

Little Amal, the internationally celebrated 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, is on an expedition in “Amal Walks Across America” as part of her epic 6,000-mile journey across the United States this fall. Little Amal, a puppet that has become an international symbol of compassion and of human rights, especially for displaced children in the world.

Looking forward to Walking with Amal in Columbus, Maria Cortez, who works in the Columbus Mayor’s office as Assistant Director of Community Affairs told New Americans magazine that “we are so excited to welcome her and show our neighbors that no matter what their native country is, Columbus is home. It aligns well with our welcoming initiatives.

“We wanted to make sure we put together great performances and most importantly the symbolic walk of her crossing the downtown bridge. We believe in bridging the gap, to better serve our communities.”

Maria Cortez added that “the story of Little Amal is one that many of our Columbus families can relate to. She started at the Syrian border and has walked many countries to find her home. Our journey as refugees and immigrants aren’t always elevated or shared. The message of hope and being resilient is what Amal represents. We know the positive impact New Americans, Immigrants and Refugees have in Columbus.”

Also, Dr. Dorothy Hassan, CEO of Our Helpers, a local nonprofit organization on a mission to support and empower immigrant and refugee families in Central Ohio said “when I first heard the story of Little Amal, I imagined my own children and how helpless I would feel as a mother in such in a situation. The story of Little Amal is not novel and has become a real part of our existence as global citizens. “

“As a community leader committed to serving the needs of New Americans, I am honored to be a small part of this advocacy and awareness effort. We are expecting the people of Columbus to show and join Little Amal on her journey and show up as a statement that children displaced from their homes are not alone. They have neighbors and fellow global citizens who are willing to speak up, stand up, and show up for them.”

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