Refugee Festival Scotland is back and everyone is invited
Refugee Festival Scotland has announced an exciting line-up of events sharing the stories of people and communities who have settled in Scotland.
Photo by Jamie Simpson
In a year of terrible conflicts that’s seen millions of people around the world forced from their homes, the festival brings together people from different backgrounds in friendship and solidarity. The theme of this year’s festival is RISE, to honour the resilience of people who are rebuilding their lives in safety in Scotland.
More than 130 events will take place across Scotland from 14-23 June. The diverse programme - the largest ever - includes contributions from artists and performers who came to Scotland seeking refugee protection, along with the communities that have welcomed them.
Refugee Festival Scotland has something for everyone, from music and dance, DJs and drag queens, food and drink, football tournaments and family-friendly picnics. The line-up brings people from different backgrounds and cultures together to meet, mix and get to know each other better.
Scottish Refugee Council Chief Executive, Sabir Zazai said: “The last year has been incredibly tough for people in the refugee community. It’s important to make time for moments of joy, connect with one another and revel in not only what we have in common but also what makes us all unique.
“The festival is an opportunity to come together and share stories, celebrate each other’s culture and learn more about our new neighbours. Together, we can rise above the hostile environment and find strength in our communities.”
As part of the festival, Greater Govanhill has been hosting radio skills workshops with refugees and people seeking asylum. Participants will showcase their skills by presenting a live radio show around the theme of this year’s festival, “RISE”. Tune in to Radio Buena Vida on 20 June from 1pm-2pm to listen to the show.
There is also a diversity of other events taking place in Govanhill.
Come Fly with Me – Kite making workshop
When: 15 June 2024, 10am – 12pm
Where: MILK, 452 Victoria Road, Glasgow, G42 8YU
Kite making wokrshop in solidarity with all children who have been forcibly displaced from their homes, from Gaza to Sudan to Ukraine to Yemen.
When: 21 June 2024, 2pm – 4pm
Where: The Wee Retreat, 2 Myrtle Park, Glasgow, G42 8QU
Storytelling workshop through collaborative artwork.
Building Together - Community in Construction
When: 15 June 2024, 10am – 4pm
Where: Top Drawer Construction, 2 Hollybrook Place. Govanhill. Glasgow G427HB
Woodworking skills workshop where you will learn to make items to be installed in the local community.
Refugee Festival Scotland Manager, Mónica Laiseca said: “Packed with unique events and exceptional talent, the festival honours the resilience and courage of New Scots and celebrates a vision for a Scotland where everyone can blossom and has equal opportunity to thrive.
“At a particularly dire time for refugees and asylum seekers living in our communities, our festival puts forward an empowering message of welcome and makes visible the support that is overwhelmingly present and active across Scottish society.”
Elina, a Refugee Festival Scotland ambassador who travelled from Ukraine to Scotland, said: “We are spreading a message that anyone can rise out of any circumstances they have faced in their own life since unfortunately, most refugees experience the worst things that can happen to any human. We can share our experience to inspire other people too.”