By Amanda Froelich Truth Theory
Though we cannot change the way others behave, we can improve upon their contributions to the world. This is what 37-year-old Ibo Omari, a German artist, is doing with a group of young artists in Berlin.
While walking around one day, Omari was disgusted to see dozens of swastikas spray-painted around his community. So, he decided to turn the hateful signs into works of art. Best of all, he recruited a team of young street artists to help him.
GoodNewsNetwork reports that since Omari and his team began the Paint Back campaign in 2015, they have transformed over 25 swastikas into fun street art. Each time, the group received permission from the property owner.
Over the past two years, Omari has noticed a reduction of swastika graffiti. He partially credits this to the group’s activism. Their work is being noticed. In fact, it has inspired other artists in Hamburg, Kiel and Bremen to cover up similar hate symbols.
“It was important to spur young people into action and to encourage them to take responsibility so they don’t just ignorantly walk past such symbols of hatred,” Omari told Reuters. “It offends the whole neighborhood if someone in our midst paints swastikas in a children’s playground and I take it personally.”
Following are 5+ swastika transformations:
What are your thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!Read more: Don’t Forget: Before The Swastika Symbolized Hate, It Was Beloved Worldwide