Last weekend, while Labour supporters gathered in Liverpool for their annual conference, our team traveled to Birkenhead beneath the Mersey. We screened a film at the co-operatively owned Future Yard venue, showcasing our ‘Island of Strangers’ series to the community involved in its creation.
In recent months, my colleagues and I collaborated with the individuals behind Refugees Rock, an initiative born at a Liverpool climbing wall offering free sessions to local asylum seekers. Amid attacks on asylum services by extremist groups, the solidarity and compassion at the Climbing Hangar, where refugees are supported by ‘Boulder Buddies’, provided a beacon of hope.
Ali, a 21-year-old refugee from Iran, expressed the challenges of starting anew in a foreign land, likening it to being stranded on a desert island. His transformation from a reserved individual to someone sharing joy with his climbing partner exemplifies the positive impact of the initiative.
However, amidst efforts to unite communities, divisive forces persist. The recent attack on a synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur, a significant day for the Jewish community, highlights the ongoing struggle against hate and fear-mongering. Local leaders emphasized the importance of preserving inter-faith relations in the face of such divisive acts.
Across Merseyside, where unity has been tested before, acts of solidarity have also shone through. Incidents of violence and discrimination have been met with collective support, showcasing the resilience and compassion within these communities.
In times of adversity, initiatives like Refugees Rock serve as symbols of hope and resilience. The story of Ali and his climbing journey reflects the power of friendship and unity in overcoming challenges. As we navigate through turbulent times, these stories of courage and camaraderie remind us of the strength found in coming together.
The ongoing ‘Island of Strangers’ film series, highlighting tales of resilience and unity, is released weekly on our Mirror Originals YouTube channel. The film capturing the spirit of Liverpool can be viewed here.
Ros Wynne-Jones, the author of the Real Britain column in the Daily Mirror, advocates for social justice and community empowerment.
For a personalized news experience, make Daily Mirror your ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News.