The Social Cohesion through Art project, a joint initiative between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Curacao, closed on Sunday 14 April 2024, marking a significant moment for everyone involved.  The activity, which included art workshops to foster interaction and community building between locals and migrants, had the objective of strengthening the human links and fostering understanding and supportive relationships between different groups living in Curacao. 

In the words of one participant "This painting session has allowed me to connect with people from different backgrounds. It's amazing how art can bring us all together. I feel so focused and creative here. The collaborative effort of ADRA and IOM has truly created a space for us to express ourselves freely. The vibrant colors and dynamic brushstrokes on our canvases reflect the diversity and richness of our experiences. It's a beautiful way to illustrate our unity.” 

The event featured an exhibition of participants’ paintings, each of which represents a unique reflection of the artist’s experiences and perspectives. The artworks served as powerful expressions of identity and resilience.  The art exhibition was complemented by stage performances from a diverse ensemble of participants representing various cultural backgrounds.  Performances spanned continents and genres: from the lively rhythms of South Africa to the soulful melodies of Curacao, Venezuela, Holland, and the US, each song celebrated the richness of global diversity.  

Aktham Abu Fakher, a migrant and refugee who works with IOM Curacao, shared his poignant personal narrative.   “As a migrant and refugee, the obstacles in my path were evident. However, giving up was never an option. I worked tirelessly, learned new languages, got back to studying 10 years after leaving it in my home country and persisted until I achieved what I have today—all because I refused to give up. I had to take on jobs I didn't particularly like, which was fine. I experienced moments of loneliness, being without family or friends, and that was also fine. Together, these challenges, if we embrace them, can have a tremendous positive impact on our personality and how we perceive life.” His words resonated deeply with the audience, creating understanding by offering insight into the challenges and triumphs of his journey. 

Melinda Lourens is the Case Manager with IOM Curacao. She informed those present about the impact of IOM's work on the community. IOM’s team is proud of this collaborative event, which was a testament to the transformative power of art and music in fostering unity and understanding. As attendees left, they carried with them a renewed appreciation for the strength found in embracing diversity.   

The Social Cohesion through Art activities were funded by the US Department of State’s Bureau for Population, Refugees, and Migration under a project being implemented by IOM Curacao, in partnership for the “ADRA Share&Care, Community Program aimed to foster social cohesion across differing social categories marked by age, gender and nationality”.  Building social cohesion contributes to sustainable goal #10, reducing inequalities between and within groups and communities.