On this International Human Solidarity Day, let’s embrace unity and diversity in the core of our hearts. We are celebrating the most significant day of human history in which the Millenium Declaration is identified as one of the fundamental values of international relations in the 21st century, wherein those who either suffer or benefit least deserve help from those who benefit most.
This ignites the spirit in promoting the culture of solidarity and the spirit of sharing. In the globalization contest, inequality is significantly growing, therefore, strengthening international solidarity is indispensable. According to the United Nations, solidarity is the foundation of the birth of the organization. The UN relies on “cooperation in solving international problems of an economic, social, cultural, or humanitarian character” which on 22 December 2005, the resolution number 60/209 identified solidarity as the fundamental values.
In education, solidarity is more than a concept, it’s an action that builds bridges. In Indonesia’s rural areas, children often face numerous barriers to education – unsafe school structures, lack of clean water, and insufficient learning materials. This challenge can be overwhelmed, but through collective action, these obstacles become opportunities for growth and transformation.
Happy Hearts Indonesia has demonstrated that change happens when people come through. By uniting resources, skills, and compassion, we have successfully rebuilt over 366 schools, 29 libraries, 8 water access, and empowered 1.700+ teachers. Each project embodies the spirit of solidarity, showing how every contribution, big or small, can make a lasting impact.
SDN 7 Jenggala has showcased how solidarity is the key to success. Situated on the hill surrounded by many ravines, the school was struck by a strong earthquake in 2018. 6 years later, it still hasn’t been renovated due to inaccessible access. Eventually, in 2024, Happy Hearts Indonesia with Classroom of Hope tried to reach out to the school, and work closely with the local communities to renovate the school.
Dina, a student there shared her excitement about the project “Now, we don’t have to study in the class terrace’s or in the deteriorating library building, we are so happy”. Therefore, we believe that this transformation isn’t just about new buildings – it’s about empowering children and families to believe in a brighter future. International Human Solidarity Day reminds us that global challenges require collaborative solutions. Everyone has the power to contribute, regardless of how big or small their contributions are. Let’s imagine the impact we can achieve if we continue to stand together – creating change far beyond what’s immediately visible, it will be lasting.
Together, we are not just building schools – beyond, we are building solidarity, power, communities and futures, one step at a time.
