Thank you for reading this edition of Together.
In Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis writes that ‘solidarity… is a way of making history’.
In the run up to producing this edition of Together, the UK saw violence against people of colour, members of the Muslim community, and people seeking sanctuary. In response, we saw thousands of people across the country coming together with and for those affected, to stand up for a society that welcomes people who have been forced from their homes. We must continue to draw hope and inspiration from these examples of solidarity, for there is still more to do. Though some positive policy changes have been announced under our new government, notably scrapping the Rwanda plan, there are many things that need to change, and on which the government must change course. Notably, in mid-August the new government announced plans to further increase immigration enforcement measures, including expanding immigration detention and increasing forcible removals.
In this newsletter, you’ll find reflections on solidarity from volunteers and staff, as well as our 3 main asks for the new government.
This World Day of Migrants and Refugees, I hope you’ll continue to walk with us as we strive for change in our asylum system. For by standing together, and standing firm in our vision of a welcoming society, perhaps we can effect change, make history, and set up a fair and humane asylum system.
"I now have confidence... I will say now I feel I have a little more strength to do things"
Quine, JRS UK Refugee Friend
Take a peek inside...
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Life of an IDP in Myanmar
Page 2
The majority of forcibly displaced people around the world are displaced within their own country. JRS Asia Pacific serves people in 7 countries, including Myanmar where four years into a civil war, there are now over 2.6 million people internally displaced.
From our kitchen to yours!
Page 3
Basarat, head chef at the JRS Social Drop-in, shares her recipe for Yam Porridge.
Want more? Fried fish, fried plantain or sauteed bell peppers are perfect side dishes. Serve with chilli sauce.
New government
Pages 4-5
This is a vital moment to change the conversation around people seeking sanctuary in the UK. There are three urgent priorities we believe are fundamental to this endeavour.
WDMR: God walks with his people
Page 6
Every year, on the last Sunday of September, the Church celebrates World Day of Migrants and Refugees. The theme of this year’s WDMR, which falls on Sunday 29th September, is “God walks with his people”. We hear from Martin, a Detention Social Visitor who offers support to people held at Harmondsworth and Colnbrook detention centres.
5 things to know about immigration detention
Page 7
We’re calling for an end to immigration detention. From our work in detention, we know just how harmful it can be. Here are 5 things you need to know about immigration detention.
Rehumanising is powerful and hopeful
Pages 8-9
The violence that erupted across England and Northern Ireland in early August was rooted in racism, Islamophobia, and anti-migrant hatred. It did not happen in a vacuum. Mark, Community Projects Coordinator, reflects on how local initiatives can be a way to rehumanise and show each other’s dignity.
"Today I can walk a bit faster than I used to walk before"
Pages 10-11
Omer, Digital Communications and Marketing Volunteer, speaks to refugee friends about their experiences of the gym sessions run by JRS UK.
Thank you for walking with us
Will you help us continue nourishing hope with and for our refugee friends?
In this letter, Dunstan reflects on the importance of hope amidst the violence and hostility we’ve seen in recent times. JRS UK’s community projects create opportunities for encounter between refugee friends and neighbours. The experience of people from different backgrounds meeting and forming new friendships is powerful.
You're invited...
