- Monday's powerful earthquake struck Cali, rendering the Capri neighborhood unrecognizable.
- The devastating tremor killed at least 273 people and injured thousands, with hundreds still missing.
- Andres Solomon, a 46-year-old musician, began offering free hugs under a sign reading 'HUGS HERE' in Cali.
- As the 72-hour critical window for finding people alive drew to a close, volunteers held survivors close.
- Solomon's service was used by rescuers, volunteers, logistical staff, healthcare workers, and local officials.
- Colombia's quake victims need emotional support in addition to medical assistance, food provisions, and shelter.
- Solomon believes giving hugs helps address the collective trauma, stating that listening, embracing, and inviting people to release pain is an important addition to material assistance.
- Lyda Arias, 72-year-old president of the Evangelical Confederation of Colombia, expressed deep empathy for the pain, imagining people still buried alive.
- Law student Oriana Ordonez, 21, said her peers were going through a hard time, many left without a home and putting on a tough front while deeply sad.
In the aftermath of a catastrophic 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Cali, Colombia, musician Andres Solomon has taken to the streets to offer free hugs, aiming to provide emotional support to those affected. The quake, which occurred earlier this week, has left the city in ruins, with the Capri neighborhood rendered unrecognizable.347
"We are going through a collective trauma, and I think the best way I could help was by giving away the energy I have and the vitality I have left," Solomon told AFP. His initiative highlights the critical need for mental health support alongside the physical aid being provided, as many survivors struggle with their emotions.89
As the community faces the aftermath of the disaster, volunteers have joined Solomon in offering comfort. Rescuers and healthcare workers have also utilized his service, grappling with their own pain while trying to assist others. "It's a release," Solomon explained. "Everyone is holding things in because they think they have to feel strong in order to be able to help."
The earthquake has resulted in at least 273 fatalities and left thousands injured, with many still unaccounted for. Law student Oriana Ordonez noted that her peers are struggling, stating, "Many of them have been left without a home. Many are here putting on a tough front, but deep down they're really very sad."
As the 72-hour critical window for finding survivors closes, the emotional toll of the disaster is becoming increasingly evident, underscoring the importance of holistic support for the victims.5
“The 7.4 magnitude tremor killed at least 273 people and injured thousands, with hundreds still missing. As the 72-hour rescue window closed, volunteers held survivors close, and law student Oriana Ordonez noted many peers were left homeless and deeply sad.”
