In appreciation of the exceptional efforts exerted by those on the front line during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ‘Art Revolution’ team undertook an initiative titled ‘Heroes graffiti’ in western Mosul, supported by the ‘Spirit of Mosul’ local youth initiative. Through colours and paintings, the youth of Mosul expressed their gratitude to the security forces and medical staff who have borne the brunt of this pandemic, both in Iraq and elsewhere around the world.
Three murals were painted over an area of 13×2 metres, with the aim of documenting the actions of the frontline heroes fighting COVID-19. Shaima’, one of the initiative organisers, said: “We feel the responsibility to pay tribute and show our appreciation to all the efforts of medical personnel in this current climate,” referring to the fact that they are the ones who are constantly on call to ensure citizens’ health and safety.
A doctor in Mosul expressed his joy over this initiative, saying that it “motivates him and his fellow health workers.” He also believes the work reflects the solidarity between the ‘White Army’ (a term used to denote the various medical personnel and authorities in the city) and security forces in raising awareness about this pandemic.
The team members remind us that health providers are not alone in this fight. Food providers, grocery store employees, cleaners, and military and security personnel are the unsung heroes who have made huge sacrifices during this pandemic.
‘Social responsibility towards our community is our duty’ is a phrase repeated by the young men and women participating in this initiative. Both social solidarity and individual responsibility have proven to be among the most important tools in overcoming this health crisis, according to the organisers.
