An innovative and interesting introduction to Refugee Week
As taster events go, the launch of Refugee WeeK Scotland on the 20 June at the Tron Theatre in Glasgow certainly whetted the appetite for more.
The clever mix of speeches, live performances and the very emotional first screening of the short film Courage was an innovative and interesting launch of a full week of activities and events highlighting the positive contribution that Refugees and asylum seekers make to Scotland.
Myth busting revelations and lively performances
A packed Tron theatre, with guests and representatives from the diverse range of organisations that contribute to and support this well-established event, was treated to a healthy and timely reminder of the reality of the global challenges for those seeking sanctuary from famine, drought and conflict around the world by Scottish Refugee Council’s John Wilkes. He took the opportunity to remind us that, contrary to the mythology of the UK being “flooded” with refugees, the UK takes less than .2 per cent (something like 250, 000) of the 49 million displaced persons in the world.
John’s sobering contribution was preceded by an excellent excerpt from YDance’s performance; a happier more enthusiastic bunch of expressive dancers would have been hard to find. Two further performances, from different projects at the Maryhill Intergration Project, Vox Asylum and ‘Here I am‘ provided two contrasting takes on the life of those who have come to Scotland seeking sanctuary in dance, song and the spoken word.
Refugee Week film Courage triumphed at launch
But the talk of the bar, where we retreated when the formalities were done, was of the premiere of the short film Courage – made entirely by refugees, the film had a huge impact. There were several in the audience wiping away a tear as the credits rolled and the impact of it struck home.
A must see film!
Courage is a must see, and is available online as well as being screened at film festivals across Scotland. In this, the 60th anniversary of the UN Refugee Convention, it is a timely reminder of why the this life-saving document came into being and why it’s needed even more in the 21st Century.
All in all, a great launch for what is shaping up to be a fantastic week of events and activities to mark the achievements of those who have come to Scotland seeking sanctuary.
Go and see something, you won’t regret it!
