This creation was probably the first in the hobby that wasn’t related to, or inspired by an aspect of, the pandemic of lockdowns that were implemented for public health measures. This creation was inspired by something very different. It was inspired by shock, disgust and anger towards an issue that still remains very current.
Across July and August 2021, particularly the beginning few weeks of August, the UK public, bared witness to the migrant crisis unfolding, and which continues to unfold, in the English Channel with refugees making the dangerous crossing of the English Channel in nothing more than dinghies with nothing more than the clothes on their backs.
Certain individuals and press outlets in the UK incited that the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institute) should stop rescuing migrants when they get into trouble – with some saying “they’re offering a free taxi service to England”.
The RNLI is a coastal rescue service that operates in the UK, saving lives when people get into difficulty in the water. The short video below from the RNLI, explains their work.
The RNLI, at the time, made no apologies and continues to make no apologies, for carrying out their humanitarian duty of rescuing any person that is in difficulty in the water, be that the water in the River Thames or the water in the English Channel. They’re a life-saving charity that serves with pride, passion and dignity.
The migrant crisis is still ongoing and really sad to see. These folk are daring the crossing for a better life with nothing but the clothes they wear. Being sympathetic and empathetic towards these people would be a step in the right direction rather than framing them as criminals. Each individual has a story, a journey, and likely trauma, that they bring with them. The least they deserve is respect and dignity.
As I say, the RNLI with support from HM Coastguard continues to help those in distress at sea. The RNLI is fully funded by the public and receives no continuous government funding. If you’re able to donate and would like to, you can do so here.
This blog post is available in audio as a podcast and can be found here: A Stormy Day in the Channel audio
Artwork in Progress 