Sebastian and Atif. In Calais. This little fishing and ferry harbor is facing the coast of England. Their dream is to go to England. By determination and patience certain of them managed to cross over the English Channel.
I was invited by the Association created to help them; I met their members, men and women that I admire for their daily solidarity. On a waste ground swept by icy wind, I saw people without legal permit, often chased by police, gathering to collect their food. I came to them. I saw this long line of young ones; they were calmly waiting their turn then went away and disappeared.
I could not stand this. People without legal permit got together after nightfall with some activists and sympathizers to demonstrate in the streets of the city. Arriving at the city centre, they were given a hot meal by the Association. A new line was formed in the cold under the poles of the city lights. Once served, every one went to find a place with their paper plate.
I ate with them. It was quick but welcome. Then we gathered for listening some speeches. I cannot stand that politicians don't move to solve this situation and let the associations take care of it. By saying that people without a legal permit have nothing to do in Calais does not help at all. These foreigners were victims of poverty and violence in their own country; they will continue to come to our country, whatever the laws and our speeches. Having the chance of having a bed, it took me some time to fall asleep, thinking of these young men who have nothing.
They are left to hide somewhere in the forest. Christmas mass. It was night and not easy to find the place of the "committee for a lodging" located in a dead end street. As soon as we entered the room, it was a pleasure to see a well-decorated room, full of light. It was not big but intimate. Mourad spent his afternoon to prepare the feast. The people without a legal permit were already there, most of them are Moslems. Some activists, some Christians or not finally managed to find the place.
