On Monday, September 11, 2023, Little Amal, a 12-foot puppet representing a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, will be embarking on a 6,000-mile journey across the United States, including a stop in Columbus, Ohio. This unique and impactful journey will take her through more than 35 cities and towns over a two-month period.
The Columbus Association for Performing Arts (CAPA) is organizing the event, which aims to bring communities together and shed light on the challenges faced by displaced individuals and families. Little Amal will arrive in Columbus on September 22, and various artists and institutions from all over the country will join her, adding their own touch to the diverse tapestry of America’s story.
The festivities will begin at 5 p.m. in Genoa Park in downtown Columbus. Visitors will have the opportunity to create welcome signs and love notes for Little Amal, and there will be food trucks available on-site. Free parking will be provided at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.
At 6 p.m., Little Amal will commence her journey near the U.S. Supreme Court Building and walk across the Broad Street bridge into Genoa Park. Local artists and performers will accompany her on this symbolic walk, creating a memorable experience for all involved.
Chad Whittington, the President and CEO of CAPA, emphasized the role of art in fostering empathy and shared experiences, highlighting the importance of recognizing the value of America’s new communities. The project aims to unite people from different backgrounds and honor the shared humanity we all possess.
The City of Columbus has a significant number of residents who were born in countries such as Bhutan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and Mexico. The event is an opportunity to showcase cultural diversity and extend a warm welcome to Little Amal, helping her learn about her new home and make new friends along the way.
Little Amal has already traveled across 13 countries, engaging with over a million people in person and reaching millions more through online platforms. Her journey across the United States is expected to be one of the largest free public festivals ever held, promoting understanding and dialogue about the experiences of migrants seeking a better future in America.
