Westmorland and Furness Council is marking Refugee Week which takes place this year from Monday 16 June to Sunday 22 June.
The week coincides with World Refugee Day, celebrated globally on 20 June, and is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary.
It also aims to raise awareness of the issues facing many refugees and asylum seekers who come to our country.
The theme for this year is ‘Community as a Superpower’ where everyone is invited to spend time with friends and build new connections in and beyond our neighbourhoods. As part of this, the campaign encourages ‘simple acts’ which are everyday actions we can all do to stand with refugees and make new connections in our communities. From sharing a meal, to meeting your neighbours and learning something new.
As part of this year’s Refugee Week, staff across Westmorland and Furness Council will be pledging simple, everyday acts of kindness and connection over the next 12 months, showing support for refugees and celebrating the power of community.
Councillor Helen Chaffey, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, said:
“Refugee Week is a great opportunity to learn more about the experiences of refugees and asylum seekers. It brings together people from different backgrounds to connect beyond labels and foster a deeper understanding of why people are displaced, and the challenges they face when seeking safety.
“Simple acts of welcome, kindness and connection can make a powerful difference in helping people feel safe, included and valued in our communities. We’re encouraging everyone to get involved and think about the small but meaningful actions they can take in their communities. Whether that’s learning a few words in another language, sharing a meal, checking in on a neighbour, or attending a local event. Every act counts.”
For more information about Refugee Week, visit: https://refugeeweek.org.uk/