Sint, Nanik, and Selly back row with Joglo Preschool students 2022
Selly and Sint contributed to the “Greetings and Making Friends” theme at the Joglo Preschool by showing West Papuan greetings and traditional dance.When they met the children wearing traditional Papuan clothes, face paint, and hats, the children froze and looked around for a safe place. Even though the children knew them, they didn’t recognize them. Selly greeted, “Hello, I’m Selly and this is Sint.” The children just stood and stared, without moving. Not a sound! So Nanik said, “These are your friends Selly and Sint.”
The children began to relax and smile. They approached and touched the unusual clothes. Selly passed out hats for the children to wear. As the children warmed up, they got up the nerve to wear them, happily. Selly began to introduce the Papuan clothes and their face paint and hats. Soon the children were actively learning Papuan dance movements.
Finally, they told stories about diversity and the struggles of the Papuan people while dancing. The children engaged with joy and curiosity. “What is this?” asked Vya, pointing to the fur on the hat. “Why is his face like that?” she added.
After the dancing was over, some children borrowed hats to take home to show their families. When Selly and Sint left to return to Papua, they presented the Papuan clothes to the children in Joglo, who were really grateful for the beautiful gift. Getting to know each other we learn to not fear differences. Small but crucial steps toward peace and solidarity for justice for all.
Sint an Selly at Peace Place in Indonesia
Raynan at Peace Place in Indonesia
Altaf at Peace Place in Indonesia