The exhibit that we shall see on Friday consists of pictures of African migrants in Europe. Specifically, the pathos, predicament, and challenges that they encounter as they try to migrate illegally in Europe. Why is that relevant to us, at MEC? For several reasons.

First of all, the exhibit presupposes some familiarity with the concept of border among countries. Borders have several implications. The first is to be found in the Hellenic distinction between Greek and barbarians, which encompasses all who were not Greeks. By the way only Greek males can be citizens. the same concept remains among the Romans; the Roman borders were meat to keep the Barbaric tribes such as the Goths and other tribes that invaded Rome several times to conquer it and secure citizenship. The notion of borders as a means of distinguishing citizens versus invaders makes its way throughout the centuries and became more potent among European nations in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. As a result of the numerous wars among European nations, establishing specific borders to separate the kingdoms was a necessity. That was carried out via the various treaties (versailles, Westphalia, etc..)  

In the USA, the concept of border is maintained through Homeland Security. The border between USA and Mexico attracts a lot of media attention. The concept is nevertheless the same, inclusion and exclusion; those who are legitimate members of a specific state or territory and the invaders. But here is more than geographical space at stake in borders. The included members are entitled to the protection and privileges of the states, the invaders are threats. 

So, in the exhibit in Europe, Africans are perceived as the invaders, threats, and the contemporary barbarians. The exhibit is meant to invite reflection about whether the treatment of Africans in Europe is arbitrary or just? especially, since Europeans invaded African countries without qualms and still do. The dilemma consists in the fact that Europe has the duty to protect its territories and the safety of its citizens, but yet the continuous invasion of Europe by Africans is the outcome of Colonialism and the slave trade. Ponder and be prepared to respond during the exhibit!