08/06/2026
Last Saturday, I attended the Migratie Salon at the Red Star Line Museum in Antwerp, and it was a truly enlightening experience.
As we walked through the exhibits and listened to the stories behind each photograph, it became clear that migration is as old as humanity itself. People have always moved in search of safety, opportunity, family, or a better future, and that reality continues today.
I was particularly inspired by the members of the Igbo Union Antwerpen Integration School who shared their personal migration stories. Despite language challenges, they spoke with courage and honesty. Their contributions reminded us that behind every migrant is a story, often filled with hope, sacrifice, resilience, and sometimes loss.
The experience also highlighted the importance of allowing people to tell their stories in the languages they know best. When people express themselves in a language they are comfortable with, their stories carry greater depth, emotion, and authenticity. Too often, important details are lost when people struggle to communicate in a language that is not their own.
Many migration stories have never been told. Some journeys ended in success, others in tragedy, and many remain unknown. Creating spaces where people can share these experiences helps us better understand one another and appreciate the human side of migration.
Thank you to everyone who shared their stories and made the day such a meaningful one.
A big thanks to FMDO vzw and all the organisers and participants 👏👏