Solidarity with Refugees started life as a demonstration and march of approximately 90,000 people through central London on September 12th 2015.
This march was a message from the people of the UK that we would like to welcome more refugees into our country. That we believe that the only appropriate response to the current refugee crisis is to allow many many more people to come here, be safe here and build their lives here, and to create safe and legal routes for them to achieve that. Before that march, the UK had resettled 216 Syrian refugees. In the week of the demonstration, the UK government committed to resettle 20,000 Syrian refugees by 2020. The public show of support made a difference in creating awareness of refugees and prompted political action.
We organised a second huge demonstration in September 2016.
It became clear during 2016 that the huge public response to the refugee situation included the creation of a large number of new groups and organisations working with and for refugees and asylum seekers. Before 2015, the sector was much smaller, and well networked. Now, it is difficult for those working in this area to know who else is out there, and what services they are providing. Solidarity with Refugees is helping to strengthen those networks, forging connections between groups working in connected fields, convening groups and workshops to help to facilitate greater collaboration, and organising social events to help alleviate feelings of isolation for those working in the sector.
The more connected we are, the more visible we become, and the greater our strength. SwR is providing a space for the incredible number of organisations and individuals working with and for refugees, or on refugee issues to unite behind a common banner and to be seen for the huge movement that we are.
As well as here on our website, we also share news on our Facebook page
If you’re looking for ways to get involved or to make a difference to the lives of refugees, or if you have any questions about what the issues are please do get in touch. If we can’t help you ourselves we can direct you to someone who can.
Solidarity with Refugees is also very proud to be a partner of Refugee Week, which celebrates its 20th year in 2018!