by Kathyn Stone - World News Trust
Sept. 27, 2006 -- The Child Protection Centre of Baghdad and the Iraq Freedom Congress hosted a day of art and play for children in Baghdad, despite onging violence and serious security concerns and roads blocked for the trial of Saddam Hussein. The exhibition of childrens’ artwork was titled “Children First: Iraqi and Japanese childrens’ paintings for love and peace.”
Baghdad children enjoyed time together drawing and playing on Sept. 24 at an event hosted by the Child Protection Centre and the Iraq Freedom Congress. Along with the daily risk of violence, mental health professionals say Iraqi children suffer from depression and stress due to chronic fear and few opportunities to leave their homes for recreation. Photo provided by Iraq Freedom Congress.
Japanese children of families that support the IFC goals of a unified, secular and democratic Iraq had sent paintings for the exhibition Sunday that focused on the themes of peace, war, and friendship. Accompanied by their parents or relatives, more than 120 children from different sects and neighborhoods across Baghdad came together to play and share music, songs and dancing, free of sectarian division and conflict. "Their parents shed tears for what has been lost," according to an IFC observer.
The children made pictures that expressed their appreciation to be sent to the Japanese children. Gifts to mark the beginning of a new school year were also distributed.
An IFC spokseperson says the event shows that Iraqis desire peace among all their people and for their children but face the challenges of warring sectarian groups seeking power within the country.
The peaceful event occurred on a day Iraqis consider of monumental import. According to Samir Adil, president of the Iraq Freedom Congress, September 24, 2002, was the day the U.S. administration decided to invade Iraq.
Children in Baghdad on Sept. 24 at an event hosted by the Child Protection Centre and Iraq Freedom Congress. Photo provided by Iraq Freedom Congress. More photos
Challenges facing the children of Iraq: