Brussels residents share messages of love in chalk

As Belgium mourns the victims of Tuesday's attacks at Brussels Airport and Maelbeek metro station, the flags of official buildings are at half mast and the residents of Brussels are expressing their grief with messages in chalk, writes De Morgen.

Heartbroken but still hopeful, BXL forever, We are one, Pray for Belgium, Enough attacks and Against hatred are just some of the many messages of hope written with chalk on the ground in front of the Bourse, in Brussels city centre. People are gathered in large circles around the colourful and multilingual messages to reflect on the horrendous attacks and casualties.

According to Brusselnieuws, the spontaneous action was started by five women who began writing anti-hate messages on the ground, inspiring bystanders to join in.

The square has since filled with similar messages of love and hope.

photo: Jochem Casier