This International Migrants' Day we are celebrating migrants’ lives and the many ways in which Migration Makes Britain Great.
To mark the day, we have been holding events across the country, showing the huge range of ways in which migration enriches communities and the country as a whole.
After a year in which we have seen society affected by far-right riots, and hostile political rhetoric around migrants increase, we wanted to come together and celebrate who we are and the resilience of our communities.
Through photographs and poetry, stories and music, our events across the country showcased some of the talents and successes of migrants and our stories, hopes and dreams.
Our exhibition in Glasgow, ”Outside In” started off the series of celebratory events, launching on 6 December. Through the lens of photographs, the exhibition shows how migrants have helped build Scotland. This was followed up with our “Zine poster Exhibition”, showcased on billboards in Glasgow and Edinburgh. In London on 11 December, we joined with the University of Westminster HOMELandS Centre to celebrate the lives, experiences and stories of migrants. Using films and music we brought people together in solidarity and hope for the future.
Finally, in Birmingham on Tuesday 17 December, through the outlets of film, music and poetry, we once again highlighted and celebrated the lives of migrants.
This International Migrants’ Day we are celebrating. We are celebrating not only what we bring to this country, but who we are and how we live in this country. The friends and families we have built. What we can learn from one another, the differences our lives make.
Most of all, it is about how Migration Makes Britain Great.