Ms Hana Ganji, a women’s rights activist from Afghanistan and co-founder of the refugee-led organization “Hidden Goddess”, shared her personal story of resilience and urged the audience to unite in solidarity for all refugees. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
The B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts and Music and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, pieced together artistry with solidarity in a moving event that took place on Tuesday 21 November, in the context of the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” international campaign. Attendees from the humanitarian, diplomatic, corporate, media and artistic spheres assembled at the Foundation’s auditorium to honour the remarkable strength of refugee women.
The event served as a platform for the audience to learn about UNHCR’s efforts in promoting gender equality and protecting forcibly displaced women from gender-based violence. It also prompted reflection on the potential that refugees bring when given the opportunity.
In his welcome speech, Dr. Fotis Papathanasiou, General Manager of B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation, praised the work of UNHCR in Greece for being at the forefront of support for refugees and asylum-seekers. “Just as music unites different elements in harmony, that’s how people should be with each other, without ever losing their humanity”, Dr. Papathanasiou stated. “As Greeks we have a great hospitality and solidarity tradition, which we must respectfully continue”, he concluded.
Ms Maria Clara Martin, UNHCR Representative in Greece, thanked B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation and Dr. Papathanasiou for their support and hospitality. She highlighted the negative impact of perpetuating stereotypes around refugees and commended the strength of refugee women. “When you think of refugees, the first thing that comes to mind is boats and helpless people. No. They are doctors, engineers, mothers, sisters, members of society who work and contribute”, she noted.
“Refugee women have gone through unimaginable situations to find safety and they have proven their resilience. This is what we want to show you today”, the UNHCR Representative stated and called to the floor Ms. Hana Ganji, a women’s rights activist from Afghanistan and co-founder of the refugee-led organization “Hidden Goddess”, to share her story.
Ms. Ganji, who arrived in Greece in 2020, described the obstacles she faced and emphasized the importance of standing by people who have seen their lives falling apart.
“A refugee woman may be a victim of different forms of violence. Every day I see women losing their hope”, she said. “When we decided to flee, we left everything behind. When I arrived in Greece, I kept wondering who would help me stand on my feet again”, she added and stressed the pivotal role of solidarity and support from the host community so that refugees can rebuild their lives.
The event culminated in a music concert featuring pianist Mr. Aris Grekousis and flautist Ms. Emma Aksonova. The captivating solo and duet performances added a unique dimension to the event, leaving a lasting impression on all those in attendance.
Ms. Aksonova, who fled Ukraine almost two years ago, shared her experience, stating “I fled home with my son when the war started. My flute was one of the few things I took with me. Since then, I feel lost. If someone asks me, I do not remember who I am. But what I still remember, and I never forgot, is that I am a musician”.
To further support UNHCR, the Theocharakis Foundation will be hosting until the end of January 2024 in its Art Shop handmade creations and ornaments by MADE51, an initiative promoting the economic inclusion of refugees in global value chains.
Ms Maria Clara Martin, UNHCR Representative in Greece, and Dr. Fotis Papathanasiou, General Manager of B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation, talk with Ms Lila de Chaves-Chronopoulos, President of the organization Η & Μ, Heritage & Museums, Athens, Paris, NY, before the event. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
Pianist Mr. Aris Grekousis and flautist Ms Emma Aksonova performed together during the event, giving ode to the strength of refugee men and women around the world. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
Attendees exchanged views and reflections at the reception after the event. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
Dr Fotis Papathanasiou, General Manager of B. & M. Theocharakis Foundation, in his welcome speech highlighted the need for hospitality and solidarity towards all people forcibly displaced in Greece and around the world. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
Ms Maria Clara Martin, UNHCR Representative in Greece, in her introductory speech commended the strength and the potential of refugee women, and the need to break stereotypes. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
Ms. Emma Aksonova - professional flutist and music teacher - fled Ukraine almost two years ago. Her performance during the event captivated the audience and reminded everyone of the diverse skills and resilience refugees bring along. © UNHCR/Achilleas Zavallis.
A few words about the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence”
“16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. This year’s campaign theme is “UNITE! Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls”.
The campaign was started by activists at the inauguration of the Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991. It is used as an organizing strategy by individuals and organizations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
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