Giant fresco in Paris to show solidarity with migrants and refugees

A giant fresco showing hands joined was unveiled at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in Paris to support SOS Méditerrranée, a charity that rescues migrants. More than 50 non-profit organizations have come together to show support for people forced to flee their homes.

The image of 15,000 square meters of joined hands, designed by the French artist Saype, extends across the length of the Champs de Mars lobby. It will be unveiled just before World Refugee Day on June 20th.

Using a database of photographs of the hands of people ranging from celebrities to politicians, to ordinary citizens, the work "Beyond Walls" represents hands that strive to help.

SOS Méditerranée, which manages the rescue vessel Aquarius, has saved nearly 30,000 people in difficulty since March 2016, but its activities have been suspended for administrative and judicial reasons.

After France, the works of art will travel in twenty cities around the world, including Geneva, Berlin, New York and Nairobi.

Dance, debates, activities for children
Meanwhile, for the second edition of Saturday's event, organized by the City of Paris, many stands, round tables and activities for young people were organized.

"We have organized this outdoor event to show that we can have fun while remaining in solidarity with the integration process," said Hugo Repeto of the charity France Terre d'Astre from a group of capoeira dancers visiting.

"The idea is to show that we can work together in favor of inclusion, integration."

Another group is made up of young people in exile, trained in the martial art of kuan kido by the Kaolia organization.

Their coach says it helps young people regain confidence after such long trips.

Reception center for migrants and refugees

On June 20, the Paris City Hall will inaugurate the "House of Refugees" in the 14th district. A place where newcomers can get useful information to help them integrate into French life.

The new day center "symbolizes the will of Paris to distinguish itself as a place of refuge" and "point of reference" where migrants will receive a "quality information", according to Dominique Versini, deputy secretary of Solidarity for the town hall of Paris at a public meeting in April.

On the 800-square-meter site, there will be health tips, a coffee shop, computer workshops, a library and conversation sessions.