For the year July 2023 – June 2024 COWC chose as its theme to look more at some of the main reasons why refugees have had to leave their homes and we hosted a series of monthly talks and films to do this.
We heard about persecution for beliefs, way of life and sexuality from some speakers, the need to flee from war and conflict from others and also how the journeys were extremely challenging, dangerous and some of the risks taken along the way. Countries we heard about included Sudan, Afghanistan, Namibia, Iran, Kenya, Ukraine and Syria. We are so grateful for everyone who spoke and shared their stories with us and those who attended the events.
We also heard about the impact of the climate crisis on people in Bangladesh and other countries around the world and how the shortage of land and opportunities is creating increasing numbers of climate refugees. Finally we played a key role in the hosting of the Escape to Safety interactive exhibition in Carlisle College in March. Many thanks to everyone to either volunteered or helped at that
We will continue to raise awareness about this and other important causes of migration and ask our leaders to look at them in ways that don’t prompt fear and panic but that are analytical and raise the right questions about what can be done to support some of the poorest and vulnerable countries in the world.
For more information about the specific topics we covered, or about the work of Carlisle Refugee Action Group (CRAG) which has now become and independent charity, or Carlisle City of Sanctuary and related projects, contact us at contact@cowc.org.uk.