Root and Refuge Returns to Pollokshields for Refugee Festival Scotland
Roots of Refuge, at The Hidden Gardens, aims to celebrate inclusion, solidarity, and diversity in Scotland whilst amplifying the urgent call from the national campaign, Fair Begins Here, urging the UK Government to discontinue the Rwanda scheme.
By Samar Jamal | Photo by Roots of Refuge
Refugee Festival Scotland is set to bring a vibrant celebration to Govanhill this June, inviting everyone to join the festivities. Running from 14 to 23 June, the festival boasts a packed programme of colourful events across Scotland.
In Glasgow’s Southside, JustRight Scotland and JustCitizens will host the Roots of Refuge event at the Hidden Gardens on Thursday, 20 June, from 4pm-6pm. This gathering aims to celebrate inclusion, solidarity, and diversity while honouring the positive contributions refugees make to Scottish life.
Roots of Refuge promises an immersive experience with over 10 engaging stalls, a dedicated kids' corner, complimentary cuisine from exceptional caterers, live music, captivating art exhibitions, interactive games, and various activities. Last year's event attracted over 100 attendees, who described it as “welcoming and inclusive” and “one of the best events of the Festival.”
Read more: Refugee Festival Scotland is back and everyone is invited
This year, amidst the festivities, Refugee Festival Scotland is amplifying the urgent call from the national campaign, Fair Begins Here, led by Together with Refugees. The campaign urges the UK Government to discontinue the controversial Rwanda scheme and instead prioritise establishing safe, legal routes for asylum seekers. The recent UK Supreme Court ruling, deeming Rwanda unsafe for asylum seekers, highlights the need for immediate policy reform to honour moral and legal obligations.
The Rwanda scheme has faced ethical and legal challenges, as it seeks to relocate vulnerable individuals, including torture survivors and victims of trafficking, to an unfamiliar country without ensuring their safety and protection. This policy violates international law and challenges the UK’s commitment to human rights and refugee protection.
The Fair Begins Here campaign advocates for a fair new plan for refugees, emphasising protection, a welcoming strategy, and global cooperation. It invites the media to amplify refugee voices and support compassionate, rights-based approaches to asylum and migration.
The upcoming Roots of Refuge event in Glasgow highlights the resilience and contributions of refugees and grassroots organisations in Scotland. It calls for humane alternatives to the Rwanda scheme, aiming to pave the way for positive change and uphold the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.