Xenophobil: The first public campaign against xenophobia and racism is a fact!
The "Youth Leadership – the Exelixis Institute” and the Embassy of Norway in Greece held the first event against xenophobia and racism entitled "Now diversity tastes sweeter..."in Monastiraki Square, Athens.
The main goal of the campaign was to defend the right of diversity and the value of peaceful coexistence. This effort is sealed by promoting Xenophobil to the public, a "medicine" that relieves the symptoms of xenophobia and cures patients with a satirical prescription that gives a smile by reading the instruction sheet and chewing a sweet gum.
In the first public campaign, more than 25 volunteers from the Institute and the Norwegian embassy participated and distributed 2,500 packages! The event was honored, among others, by the presence and active participation of the Ambassador of Norway, Mr. Sjur Larsen, since the Embassy of Norway in Greece is a central supporter in the Institute's campaign against xenophobia and racism.
The president of the Institute, Mr. Dimitrios Alefantis, explained that the Institute aims to mobilize the new generation of leaders, engage the youth and create a network of partners between young and future leaders from different social sectors and with a variety of political visions through planned programs.
The General Secretary of the Institute, Mr. Jean-Daniel Kolobani, characterized the phenomenon of xenophobia and racism as a central social and political issue, adding that "Greek people must take bold initiative to highlight their world-renowned hospitality".
The actor, Mr. Yiannis Zouganelis, who attended the campaign, emphasized on the significance of understanding the needs of others while pointing out that the answer to xenophobia is a Greek word and a concept of hospitality.
Former General Secretary of the Media, Mr. Ioannis Panagiotopoulos, pointed out that we must fight xenophobia and show the authentic elements that express the Greek people.
Also, Mr. Marios Begzos, dean of the theological faculty of EKPA, stated: "Hospitality and the fight against xenophobia belong to the tradition of Hellenism from ancient times until today." Finally, Mr. Nikos Pepas, former Deputy Prefect of Eastern Attica and candidate for the European Parliament, graced the event with his presence.
The results of this first campaign were encouraging as citizens embraced the effort. The president of the Institute pointed out that this campaign will take place every year in different places.
From the Press and Communication Office