“The social impact of lighting reminds me of why I love my job.” – Emad Hasan, TLP Associate. The Power of Light is seen throughout Philadelphia.
On November 13, 2015 tragedy struck Paris, France, bringing about a public cry for action and solidarity. Individuals and countries around the world felt the need to do something, anything that could publicly express their sympathy, support, and patriotism.
Technology delivered.
Facebook created an app allowing an individual to modify their profile photographs with an overlay of Le Tricolore, the French flag. As individuals instantly updated their social media presence to reflect their support countries turned on their lights illuminating the facades of monuments, bridges, and prominent buildings around the world with Le Tricolore.
Lighting technology, specifically RGB and RGBW LED light systems provided the flexibility and control for an immediate response. These glowing buildings became beacons. They illuminated the dark sky with a message of hope and safety. Lighting touches our emotion. By illuminating their buildings in Le Tricolore, cities and countries around the world created a powerful public display of support.
At the same time building owners, city and government officials were powerfully displaying Le Tricolore two iconic structures went dark, The Eiffel Tower and The Empire State Building. Darkness can provide a break from distraction and an opportunity to reflect. During this visual silence, Paris and New York took a deep breath and time to grieve. Then in a show of strength, they turned their lights back on and resumed their prominent locations in their respective skylines. Through the power of light, the world was able to stand together in solidarity.
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Related article: The Lights Seen Round the World
