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In their own words: a voice from Syria

3/1/2021

 
I struggled with the assignment to write about the work of providing for refugees in winter in Syria. What could I say that hadn't already be said, about the dismal wet and cold (plus new COVID-19 uncertainty) and the heroic efforts of those tirelessly working to improve the situation? I reached out directly to the Mercy Corps team in Syria. Knowing their time is precious, I asked them to just tell me: what does it feel like, taste like, smell like, sound like — to be there, right now? One Syrian team member, whose identity cannot be shared due to security risks, described their experience to me. Their words captured the paradox of hope and despair embedded in their work — despite English not being their first language, I wanted to change these words as little as possible. Combined with recent photographs, I think it is a kind of poem about the nature of being human.

Read the story.

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All photos credit to Mercy Corps

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Half Sky Writing & Half Sky Journeys

My name is Ila Asplund. My vision is to increase the impact of purpose-driven businesses and organizations — particularly those advancing gender equity and social justice. I do this through creating in-person and digital engagement experiences, storytelling, and thoughtful communications and content strategies for my clients. I've also provided international journeys to give travelers the opportunity to meet and engage with global leaders in countries like Cambodia, Kenya, and Rwanda. ​Thank you for checking out my website!
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