Little Amal: A Symbol of Hope and Unity to Visit Lafayette on October 18

A symbol of unity, hope, and the global refugee crisis is about to make a poignant stop in Lafayette, Louisiana. Little Amal, a 12-foot puppet embodying a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl, will arrive in the city on October 18, as part of her sweeping journey across the United States.

The tour, dubbed "Amal Walks Across America," spans over 35 cities and towns, featuring 100 events and more than 300 partners. In Lafayette, a collaborative effort led by the Festival International de Louisiane and organizations such as the Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission, Lafayette Economic Development Authority, and others will orchestrate a series of theatrical "events of welcome" for Amal.

Designed and built by the Handspring Puppet Company of South Africa, creators of the award-winning puppets for the hit show War Horse, Little Amal represents the hundreds of thousands of refugees and displaced individuals around the world. Amal—whose name means “hope” in Arabic—offers an emotionally impactful way of engaging with the critical issues facing refugees and immigrants today.

“This isn’t just about Amal, but about the message she carries, a message we all need to hear and understand," said Amir Nizar Zuabi, the Artistic Director of The Walk Productions. "Each partner organization and institution has a story to tell about their unique slice of American history and culture, and Amal's journey allows us all to learn about what makes this country’s heart beat.”

Local cultural institutions like New Orleans Airlift & Music Box Village, Goat in the Road Productions, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Mondo Bizarro, and many more are joining forces to offer Little Amal a warm Acadiana welcome. Events planned will not only focus on the refugee experience but also delve into Louisiana's rich cultural tapestry, offering an educational and emotionally rich intersection of stories and perspectives.

Amal’s journey began in Boston on September 7 and will culminate in San Diego on November 5. Along the way, she aims to unite communities and refocus attention on the pressing needs of refugees, immigrants, and asylum seekers, highlighting the rich cultures and contributions these individuals bring to the fabric of America.

For a full list of events, locations, and other information relating to Amal’s journey, visit walkwithamal.org.