Paper Cranes for Peace

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On the founding group's first visit to The Dwelling Place, they were proudly shown the lovely and colourful paper cranes made by a former resident. She dubbed them "peace cranes", and attached profound sayings to them, which she said would bring joy into their owners' days. When days seemed bleak and the women's hurdles seemed to be infinite, the vibrant bird hanging in the corner would remind them that there was someone quietly supporting them at all times. Inspired, (In)visible Women NYC then began an initiative in which we teach students and members of the community to make Peace Cranes. After they have folded a crane, they write their own message to a resident of The Dwelling Place, and volunteers deliver these on visits to the shelter. The dozens of handmade Paper cranes represent a bridge between two seemingly different generations who come together as one to help women in need. Paper cranes have been used for centuries to symbolize everlasting peace, originating in China 105 A.D. and we strive to continue this tradition on to the 21st century in New York.