In front of the parliament building in Tbilisi, a dedicated group of volunteers stands with the protesters. They march with trumpets and slogans, demanding "No Russian law, but Europe." Amid the demonstrations against the controversial "foreign agent" bill, they bring essential supplies: food, water, sweets, protective equipment, and raincoats.
These volunteers provide first aid to the injured, transport them to ambulances, and offer their own cars to those staying late into the night. In the morning, they bake cakes for the evening demonstrations, and during the rallies they collect garbage, ensuring the area remains clean. These Georgians, from all walks of life, are known as the April-May campaign volunteers.
Despite weeks of massive protests in Tbilisi and other cities, Georgian lawmakers approved the "foreign agent" bill on May 14 pushed by the ruling Georgian Dream Party, which has used the security forces to violently crack down on protesters, using water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets.
Mariam Pirashvili: The Girl With The Trash Bag
If you've attended the protests, you might have noticed Mariam Pirashvili. Draped in a Georgian flag and carrying a large black trash bag, she follows the protest marches, diligently collecting any waste.
Pirashvili can be seen walking behind the protesters, asking, "Do you have any trash?" She often joins the rallies but spends most of her time ensuring the protest areas are clean, especially after the event ends.
"At first, the protesters were surprised," she said. "I also go up to the police. They once asked: "Why are you collecting these bottles? Are they going to be thrown at us again?"
At the end of the day, her bag is always full.
Koka And Friends
Koka Jakhutashvili was present at the March 2023 protests, and when this year's demonstrations began, he did not hesitate to join the crowds again.
Initially, Jakhutashvili and his friends pooled their resources to help however they could. Their efforts attracted dozens of volunteers, forming "Koka's team," which evolved into a dedicated volunteer group.
Sometimes they distribute raincoats; other times they distribute masks and saline solutions. They also assist people affected by tear gas or pepper spray, ensuring they receive medical attention.
"I know that every person standing there is crucial for the country, and that I am standing on the right side," Koka said. "I feel that what we are doing makes it a little easier for others to stand there."
Salome Kvaratskhelia: The On-Site Doctor
Salome Kvaratschhelia, a medical student at Davit Tvildian Medical University, joined the protests to ensure that anyone injured would receive medical care.
Her bag contains essentials for both self-defense and assisting others: bottles of saline, medical bandages, specially treated cotton pads for cleaning up pepper spray, and protective eyewear.
Zura Tatanashvili: Need A Raincoat?
Meet Zura Tatanashvili, who is happy to distribute raincoats to those who were not prepared. He is also on hand to distribute food to those who have been standing for hours.
Mariam Gaprindashvili: Mother Of Three Who Protects The Protesters
"Today I received 200 face masks and 60 glasses. We will distribute them at Republic Square," wrote Mariam Gaprindashvili. She divides her day into several parts: work in the morning, a little time for her three children, taking care of her cats and other pets, and volunteering at the rally in the evening.
Gaprindashvili was also one of the first to raise funds during the initial days of protests, purchasing essential supplies like water, masks, glasses, and food for the participants.
"At first, my Facebook friend Teona Kobidze wrote to me that she wanted to make sandwiches and take them to the rally and asked if I could organize it," she said. From that point on, Gaprindashvili's efforts grew into raising money, and they were able to collect over $750 for supplies for the protesters.
On May 11, the day of the European march, she distributed protective glasses, masks, water, and chocolates in advance; everything was gone in a second.
Guja Tughushi: The Courier With His Trusty Moped
Guja Tugushi, a dedicated courier known for zipping through crowds on his trusty moped, stands out as a key figure among the convoy of two-wheelers seen at the rallies.
Driven by a deep sense of empathy, Tugushi didn't hesitate to offer his assistance long before the protest against the "foreign agent" bill started and even during the tumultuous times of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the onset of war. His initiative was evident when he took to social media groups, expressing his willingness to transport essential supplies such as medicines and food to the Ukrainian refugees seeking shelter in Georgia, utilizing the mobility of his moped for the greater good.
"I can't just sit and watch what's going on. I want to do something. I came up with the idea of taking people during these rallies together with Gvantsa Pertia," he said before adding, "I have a 3-year-old daughter, and when she grows up, I want her to know which side of history her father stood on."
Nina Zhvania: From In-Person To Cyberspace
Nina Zhvania's commitment to the cause extends across various platforms, from the streets to cyberspace. While she takes part in the rallies, she also spearheads a Telegram channel, disseminating crucial information and discussing the significance of the ongoing protests with her peers.
Her TikTok and Instagram accounts serve as additional avenues for amplifying her message of activism.
"It's a wonderful feeling when you help someone at an event; for example, you provide a physiological solution. At that time, you think that you have wings and you can do anything, but sometimes I feel a little weak when you can't help everyone, and this anger turns into physical pain," the 17-year-old Zhvania said.
Nana Tsomaya: The Young Woman With The Sweets
"I should have bought more bananas," said 25-year-old Nana Tsomaia, distributing fruits and sweets in parks. She and her friends have been regularly distributing foods purchased through collective contributions.
"Everyone was very happy, some were shy at first, but when you offered it a second time, they accepted it happily. It is a very nice feeling to feel love and unity in the battle that we are in now."
Robi Khuroshvili: Helping Those Who Need It The Most
Robi Khuroshvili, 23, has also been a familiar site at the rallies, distributing sweets and water to fellow demonstrators. Whether it's providing assistance or aiding in the distribution of goods brought by friends, he is committed to serving his community.
Having spent six years away from Georgia, Khuroshvili closely monitored the March 2023 rallies from abroad.
"I wanted to help people as much as I could," he said. Now back in his homeland, he balances work, training, and late-night rally attendance with a sense of fulfillment and pride.
"I am proud to be here in my country on such days as this."
Anuka Gurgenidze: 'We Will Write History Now And Here'
Anuka Gurgenidze echoes this sentiment of duty and solidarity. Alongside her friend Gvantsa Ekaladze and with the assistance of a fellow expatriate, she spearheads a volunteer initiative where they also bring much-needed refreshments to protesters weary after hours of standing and demonstrating.
"We try to cheer up our comrades in a small way, but with all our hearts," Gurgenidze said.
Sometimes the volunteers don't even know each other's names, but as Gurgenidze adds, it's a kind of unspoken agreement to do things together.
"We were distributing for four hours last night; we left early in the morning, tired, and at 7 a.m. we were back at the parliament. We will definitely win. It's not easy to stand hungry at a rally and your government gets you wet, beats you, tries to disperse you, detains you, and so on, but I rarely remember such a united Georgia," she said before adding, "Yes, we will write history now and here."
