The Solidaritists

The Solidaritists usually follow more than one goal — that would be far too boring otherwise. Their motto of solidarity works best for that impressive crowd of people who feel connected, come together, and act as solid doers for a cause.

Sounds heroic, doesn’t it?
Alright then — let’s tone it down a little. What exactly is solidarity?

Well, today is December 23, 2025 — the day before Christmas Eve, two days before Christmas. The season of light and reflection.
And while some people may reflect themselves into exhaustion, others don’t have a community to reflect with.
Those living alone by necessity, or the homeless for the very same reason, feel the cold shoulder of society even more sharply in this glowing time of year.
No warm room, no decorations, no turkey roast, no laughter around the table.
Brutal.

But then — quietly, almost unnoticed — solidarity turns the corner.
It shows up with a few organized souls who offer a public Christmas dinner for those left out.
Just like that. Free of charge — but full of meaning.

In Germany, entertainer Frank Zander has hosted such a dinner for more than thirty years, inviting nearly three thousand people to a festive ballroom meal. Yes, it is an annual event. 
And similar acts of kindness happen in every corner of our societies — quietly, without fanfare.

The most impressive part is the effortless naturalness with which the Solidaritists act.
It’s not pity that drives them — it’s participation. The simple, stubborn will to share humanity.

Here in Newmarket, the event is called “Community Christmas Dinner.”
It takes place on Christmas Day in the Lions Club Hall.
Volunteers handle the crowdfunding, the organization, the food — and the fun.
A classic North American turkey dinner with dessert, served by — you guessed it — Solidaritists.

In the small print of the volunteer invitation, the job description reads:

“Friendly engagement with guests.”
Which simply means: talk with people, laugh with them, make them feel like they belong. Because they do. 

But solidarity reaches far beyond the dinner table.
It stands up against injustice, abuse, and the return of fascism.
Those actions may look less festive, but they’re every bit as important.

The human spirit, after all, has a hopeful rhythm when it moves together.
People are solidary by nature.