The true spirit of our communities is compassionate and welcoming.
In recent days, anti-refugee protests have taken place across the UK, with scenes that bear disturbing echoes of last summer’s riots. The demonstrations, marked by hostility and intimidation, have targeted some of the most vulnerable people in our communities: those who came here seeking safety from war, persecution and hardship.
We’ve joined community groups, charities and concerned citizens in signing an open letter to the leaders of all UK political parties, urging them to take a united stand against the currents of racism and hatred driving these protests. The Guardian has reported on the letter, highlighting the urgency of the message and the breadth of support behind it.
While the protests are a reminder of the work still to be done, we’ve been inspired by the wave of public solidarity, with neighbours turning up to counter-protest, local businesses offering support and thousands speaking out online.
Here’s the open letter in full:
Dear Party Leaders
Anti-refugee protests across the country have been distressing to witness, with echoes of last summer’s riots making them all the more alarming.
Many of the people targeted have already suffered unimaginably, having fled for their lives from countries such as Afghanistan, Eritrea, Iran, Sudan and Syria. Now, due to unacceptable delays and a broken system, they are housed in hotels, a collective target of hostility, banned from working, with limited control over their lives or futures. Believing they will at last be safe and protected, they are then faced with further persecution and fear.
It is clear that major action is needed. It is time for you, our leaders, to take a strong and united stand. The pernicious and insidious currents of racism and hatred underlying these protests are glaring evidence of a failing system. The responsibility to end the divisive politics, racist rhetoric and demonising language of the past is yours. Only then will you bring unity instead of division and cohesion rather than hate.
For those who need our compassion to be confronted with further torment here in the UK is shocking. But the outpouring of support from communities condemning the hatred is a powerful reminder that these views do not represent the vast majority. Today we stand in solidarity with those targeted, because this is what represents our country, this is who we are.
Find out more about Together with Refugees and sign the Fair Begins Here promise.
