Little Amal is a large puppet of a 10 year old Syrian refugee who is looking for her mother. She has traveled 5,000 miles across Europe and met with Ukrainian refugees in Poland, and now she is in New York City visiting with children, artists, politicians and community leaders. Last week she visited Jackson Heights and Flushing Meadows Park, where I made this drawing. It was so special to see how people responded to this sensitive puppet with joy and affection.
Her creators hope that her walk will help highlight the experience, hardship and beauty of millions of displaced refugees. I hope that she can soften hearts wherever she goes, and help us find the will to help so many find a home and live the life of dignity that they deserve. @walkwithamal