First of all massive thank you to everyone that joined our peaceful protest against war! It was brave and kind of you to stand up and voice your opinion. Over 100 people joined our protest. Some of you created manicures to support this cause (scroll through the gallery to see some of the best), others simply posted nice images and some, like Julia from LiveShopTravel even wrote blog posts. Together, we’ve reached over 1,000,000 people all around the world!
And, of course, it’s not just us, millions of people stood up against the violence – each in their own way and each for their own reasons. Many protested via social media and together, we’ve created a greater awareness of the ongoing tragedies in the Middle East and Ukraine. While unfortunately the wars continue, there are already some positive changes. Most notably, 24-hour cease-fire in Israel and Palestine, Russian regions have transferred over 800,000 US dollars to support refugees from Ukraine and France has pledged 11 million euros in humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Finally, if you’d like to help children in the affected areas directly, we’ve compiled a list of charities:
- Save the Children UK, that works in 120 countries and helps children in Gaza, Syria and South Sudan. You can donate here.
- SOS Children Villages UK is bringing emergency relief to children in Ukraine, Syria and Gaza.
- Children of Zaporozhye, Ukraine. You can donate here.
- Palestine Children Relief Fund directly helps to children in the affected areas. You can donate here.
- ANERA helps Palestinian refugees and poor in Gaza and Lebanon. See what they do here.
- Ukrainian Charity (UBB), you can help refugees from Donetsk here.
- Red Cross, you can donate here to help people in Syria, Iraq and Gaza-Israel.
I hope many of you will join me and help children in the affected areas. Guys, together we can make this world a better place!
– Maria, xx
PS. If you feel like leaving a comment, please keep it positive and constructive. Our aim is to foster peace, not create arguments. Also, if you have some suggestions about what else can be done, please let us know! If you know any other charity that helps people in the affected areas, please leave a link in the comments or email us directly at editor@sonailicious.com.
Alyssa says
This some BULLshiiit
U didn’t include half of the best posts u only posted popular pages
Also it’s a bullshit idea because creating art and posting it on social media is not going to stop what’s going on. Waste of time!!!
These posts are really boring and barely represent peace so this project was a waste of your life all you did was advertise people’s crummy art??
Maria @SoNailicious says
Alyssa, I only wish you knew how to express your opinion politely, instead of abusing people who are actually trying to do something to change the current tragic situation.
Alyssa says
I’m sorry I was so rude in my comment I feel really bad, actually the posts are beautiful and inspiring and this project wasn’t a waste of time and it’s amazing that you could try to end the war. But I still feel that a hashtag can end the war with peaceful art. Again I’m very sorry I was so rude before
Maria @SoNailicious says
Not a problem, I understand. Everyone is going a bit crazy these days. It’s not about “a hashtag ending the war”… wish it was that easy :( It’s more about voicing your opinion and standing up against the violence. Creating awareness, not ignoring. The more people will say “no” the more likely we’ll make some kind of impact. We’re lucky to be born in safer places, but that could be me or you right there. There are people exactly like us, with their little joys and little tragedies and now… it’s horrible what these families are going through now. Plus, I put the list of reputable charities up. So anyone who feels like doing something extra, they can. It was not easy even to find these charities… many organizations on the list were suggested by people from or people whose families are in the affected areas.
Kelly says
-Ignoring first comment, keeping things positive-
I am touched to be included in this group of amazing artists from all over the world! Reading through all the countries was really inspiring!
This was like nail art therapy for me, I could channel grief I was feeling into something positive and I thank Maria for inspiring me with the perfect peaceful idea.
Maria @SoNailicious says
Agree 100% Kelly! There are already some positive changes, and some things are definitely happening thanks to millions of ordinary people standing up against the violence.
Priyanjana says
Even the smallest step counts !
Maria @SoNailicious says
Exactly Priyanjana! xx
Helena says
I’m happy so many got involved, and even more for a chance you’ve gave us to participate in this great cause. The least we can do is to gave a little of our time to participate <3
May peace be with all of us <3
Maria @SoNailicious says
Thank you Helena for your kind words. Agree 100% – every tiniest action and smallest voice counts. It’s just not something for us to ignore and pretend it’s not happening. Praying for peace.