The Door To Freedom: A Statue Created by Grade 3 Children To Welcome New Refugees
The children in my grade 3 classroom were struck by Syria’s struggles and the fact that so many people fro Syria were forced to leave their homes and many were coming to Canada. They had many questions and compassionate thoughts. Many of them couldn’t understand the issue - “I have a spare room,” one boy said. “So do I!” “Me too!” They were all ready to help.
Initially, the children wanted to raise money for the refugees coming to Canada. We began raising money in our school for the CCIS (Calgary Catholic Immigration Society). With the help of our school, we raised $1000.
After the fundraiser, the children spoke of wanting a symbol to put in Calgary so that new refugees would feel welcome. They felt that money was nice, but a lasting symbol would make them feel welcome for longer. This is where our Door to Freedom statue was created. The children made many plans of possible statue ideas. From doves, to kites to God’s hands, they had many beautiful ideas. After many classroom discussions and sketches, this door is what unfolded.
One side represents a refugee’s homeland and the other side represents Canada. They wanted to show the darkness of a refugee’s homeland but also wanted to show that it was home and a place of love and memories for refugees before war, violence, etc. The other side shows a welcoming and safe place where refugees can feel peace, but also has traces of memories of what they have been through (dark lines around the door and photo from home).
The children and their deep understanding and compassion for refugees and ensuring they feel welcome was truly remarkable to witness and a beautiful learning experience for all of us.
We are now looking for a home for our statue - if you know of a fitting place in Calgary, please let us know.
