SOLIDARITY, SUPPORT AND PEACE IN DIFFICULT TIMES

Schools, universities, libraries, faith groups, ambassadors and communities of sanctuary are united in the belief that everyone deserves to live in safety, no matter who they are or where they are from. Thank you so much for all you do to turn that core belief into a culture of welcome and inclusion. These values are needed now more than ever.

We have all been disturbed by repeated images and news of misinformation, rumour-mongering and violence fuelled by hatred, racism and ignorance. Sadly, many vulnerable people who came to these islands seeking safety from violence and persecution have been experiencing attacks of hatred against them. It is important for us to strengthen our sense of solidarity and to demonstrate that tolerance, kindness, peace and love are much stronger, and that we far outnumber those who have joined in demonstrations of hatred and violence.

We need political leadership that does more than just condemn these hate-fuelled acts. We need leadership which stamps out systemic racism, tackles the real issues facing us all, and inspires belief in a better world. Meanwhile, it’s up to all of us to call out racism and bigotry in all its forms, to look out for our neighbours, and to double our efforts in building an Ireland that is a true place of welcome for all.

If you or someone you are supporting is experiencing fear or feeling threatened, please reach out initially to your local gardai and support network. Also feel free to reach out to us for any support you may need. You may also want to look again at this helpful and simple document, which presents the facts about migration in a compassionate and rational way.

https://cdn.cityofsanctuary.org/uploads/sites/168/2024/06/Refugee-Week-24-Flyer-A4-Revised-1.pdf

Let’s draw strength from knowing we are part of a really big movement of people standing up for kindness, fairness and equality. We will be in touch soon with more important resources and opportunities to help us all build and strengthen sanctuary across all communities.

Yours for Sanctuary

Sara, Homayoon, Tiffy, Sive, Veronica and all the team at Places of Sanctuary Ireland

August 2024 [email protected]