Large crowds gathered in Glasgow on the first anniversary of the Kenmure Street protest to show the UK government that Scotland welcomes refugees.
We were proud to join so many of our friends and neighbours for the Kenmure Street Festival. The event marked one year since the spontaneous show of community resistance which led to the release of two men who had been detained in a Home Office raid.
To celebrate this anniversary, people of all ages and backgrounds came together in a show of friendship and solidarity with people seeking safety.
A short history of the Kenmure Street protest
On the morning of 13 May 2021, two men were taken from their homes on Kenmure Street in Pollokshields by the UK Home Office. They were detained in a van on the street.
Shocked friends and neighbours organised a spontaneous protest and word quickly spread. Soon hundreds of concerned citizens occupied the street in a peaceful sit in which prevented the van from leaving. After an eight hour stand off, both men, Sumit Sehdev and Lakhvir Singh, were released.
The Kenmure Street resistance made headlines around the world. It was named as one of the 10 most influential protests of 2021.
A Festival of Resistance
One year on, the community gathered once again to commemorate this historic victory. And what a weekend it was. We enjoyed glorious sunshine, fantastic speakers, fabulous food, great entertainment and a truly amazing turn out.
Thanks so much to everyone who came along to support this event. It’s been a difficult year for refugee rights but moments like these remind us that there is still hope. Say it loud and say it clear, refugees are welcome here.
