Over 500 Andorran and French Pupils Form Human Chain for Solidarity Mural

Over 500 pupils from Andorran and French schools in Sant Julià de Lòria, including the local nursery, formed a human chain on Tuesday, May 19, linking their schools to Plaça de la Germandat. They passed more than 100 puzzle pieces to assemble a giant mural displaying the message "Junts som més forts" – "Together we are stronger."

The sixth Solidary School Chain, run by Càritas Sant Julià and Càritas Andorrana, ran from 10am to 11am. Participants handed pieces along the route before fitting them together in the square. The event created a festive atmosphere, backed by educators, volunteers, and the Comú's traffic team.

Once complete, the pupils gathered around the mural as four children read a manifesto. It stressed unity and shared responsibility toward vulnerable people, using the puzzle as a symbol that every small act of support helps forge a fairer, more cohesive society. The text commended Càritas' efforts and called on children, young people, schools, and institutions to work together and ensure no one is left behind.

Parish priest Pepe Chisvert said the event sought to embed solidarity in the parish's youth. "Our aim is for the new generations here – more than 550 pupils from various schools today – to appreciate what they have," he explained. He described the puzzle as a reminder to "stick together and support one another," invoking the motto "Virtus Unita Fortior." Chisvert pointed to local challenges, noting that Càritas listens to, encourages, accompanies, and aids families facing hardship to make ends meet.

The activity has changed over time. Early editions involved passing food for the food bank, but organisers switched to anonymous vouchers so families could select essentials like meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables, preserving dignity. This year returned to a symbolic chain.

Càritas plans to roll out the initiative across all Andorran parishes next school year to build solidarity and mutual aid among young people, especially amid rising social inequalities and individualism. One girl shared how her family donated clothes for Valencia flood victims last October, filling bags for church collection.