Global Day of Solidarity
It has been hard to articulate the feelings of grief, anxiety, and uncertainty I have felt these past few days and weeks. For me the Peace Prayer of St. Francis has been helpful in redirecting my feelings of self-centeredness and despair outward to recognize the experiences of others. The prayer acknowledges fear and anxiety, but simultaneously reminds us that even when we are feeling overwhelmed, God calls us to find peace in caring for those around us. Part of what has been helpful for me on this journey is using art to channel my sadness and anger into outward expressions of solidarity with others who are also experiencing pain.
Here in Hong Kong, I have had the privilege to spend time with and learn from Filipina domestic worker communities who have been advocating for better rights and protections not only here in Hong Kong, but also for their families and loved ones in the Philippines and around the world. This past Sunday, many of the migrant worker organizations participated in creative protests calling for, amongst many things, better protections for frontline healthcare workers in the Philippines. Their protests are particularly salient for me, because I see my own struggle in their struggles. Not only am I Filipino myself, who is invested in the health and well-being of the Philippines, but I am also personally connected to the struggles of healthcare workers – my mom being a nurse on the frontlines of hospitals in the US.
This past week, my mom tested positive for COVID-19 after coming into contact with other patients and nurses who were infected at her hospital. It has been a simultaneously sad and frustrating experience. It is heartbreaking to see my mom, and now the rest of my family living with her, experiencing illness; but it is also frustrating knowing that things did not have to happen this way if better precautions and protective measure were put into place earlier.
I have been so thankful for all the people who have been praying and coming alongside my family to bring them food, medicine, and everything they need. As of now, they seem to be doing okay for the most part. My brother made a beautiful video that explains my family’s situation that you can check out here. While I am eternally grateful for how my family has been provided for, I am also reminded that so many people do not have the same provisions and support networks as my family.
As we continue through this difficult time, let us remember to stand in solidarity with others who are struggling and do not have as much as we might have. COVID-19 has shown us that when anyone is infected, it poses a risk to everyone. Even though many of us can stay safe at home, many people do not have the same privilege. Standing in solidarity means recognizing and advocating for better rights and protections for those who are at risk knowing that our individual health and well-being is connected to the health and well-being of all those around us.
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What’s happening in the Philippines:
What’s happening in Hong Kong:
