Today, more than 65 million people are displaced globally. Forced from their homes by violence, fear or desperation, each is deserving of safety, freedom and hope.
The stories we hear and the stories we tell are important. They help us shape our thoughts, form our opinions and set the agenda.
So when refugees are portrayed negatively in the media, their inherent dignity is challenged. But every one of us has a voice in this story, and in times of political uncertainty at home our message of shared humanity is more important than ever.
Changing the story
We want to tell a story that upholds those escaping injustice and war, and that celebrates those who offer a welcome.
We believe we are all created equal with the image of God within us. We stand for a UK that refuses to turn a blind eye to the suffering of people seeking sanctuary.
While many communities and churches are united in welcoming those seeking refuge, the response of the UK Government has not matched the scale of the crisis.
Through sharing stories of hospitality, and the positive contributions that refugees make in our communities, we demonstrate our commitment to a United Kingdom that refuses to turn a blind eye to suffering and affirms that everyone deserves a safe place to call home.
Justin
I would like people to know that I am a human being. Maybe the difference is my colour, and my very soft voice, and my big structure, but I breathe the same air you breathe.
I come from Ivory Coast. I was a teacher back home. I got involved in the student union and activities – that is how everything changed. I had to leave.
You lose so much and people don’t see it. If something happens to your relatives at home, you can’t go back. And people think that you have no education, no background.
God is helping me. Without him, I would not be able to do it.