Together With Refugees

 

Horrified by the last few weeks events? Feeling helpless ? 

Here are some things you can do to show your support for victims of war and terror.  In this particular time of crisis in Europe it is more important than ever that we draw together to support each other and help those in need. In spite of the public outcry that the UK should be doing more to help refugees, our government is continuing with plans to introduce the new Nationality and Borders Bill, which is expected to pass into law later this month. that, according to most of the organisations involved with refugees and asylum seekers, will actually make reaching sanctuary in our country more difficult and more dangerous.

The Nationality and Borders Bill is not for the protection of society, but is a potential threat to the helpless refugees who travel through the jaws of death to reach Britain, a place that they believe to grant them safety. Despite the Ukraine crisis, the Bill is  being brought forward.

The plans outlined in the bill will have grave consequences for people fleeing conflict, and that they are unlikely to stop people attempting to reach safety, but will instead punish and criminalise  the most vulnerable.This bill will see people fleeing war and persecution, like those fleeing Ukraine right now, criminalised, detained and deported. We need to say it loud and say it clear “Refugees are welcome here” 

Today is Anti-Racism day  there are Stand Up to Racism national demos  taking place which will have a strong focus on the Anti-Refugee Bill. and on Sunday 20 March Cardiff STAR and Stand Up to Racism have organised a  rally will be meeting at City Hall at 12 and marching to a rally  the Senedd from 2:30pm.

‘Together With Refugees’ www.togetherwithrefugees.org.uk - an umbrella organisation uniting many of the different support groups - is calling for us to highlight the need and the response to people fleeing for their lives, and  for a better approach to supporting refugees in the UK no matter how they came here and ensuring people can live in dignity while they wait for a decision on their asylum application. 

March 21st is the official start of Spring, a time of rebirth and hope for the coming year.

So, at 4pm my local Amnesty and refugee support groups will be on the beach at Poppit Sands near St Dogmaels and, Cardigan, West Wales, where local sand artist Rachel will create one of her wonderful designs, featuring the orange heart symbol of Together with Refugees. Come and watch, or take part . Wear orange ! Fly a kite ! Wave a flag ! Build a sandcastle ! Bring a picnic! And take a few minutes to stand together as a community sending our thoughts and prayers to those who do not have the luxury to enjoy all these things. Rachel will create a space within the heart for musicians, silence and contemplation. Stay for as little or as long as you wish..Hopefully  you can join us, you will be most welcomed.Together we can spread a message of hope and solidarity.