A message from Groundswell Project Team
Dear friends
A week on from some of the most shocking scenes to be seen in this country for many years, the Groundswell team has been reflecting on why the work we do is so important, as we try and build back as a country to overcome the hate and division sown by a week and a half of madness.
While there have been a number of demonstrations in the second half of last week and over the weekend standing up to racism and opposing the far-right narratives that created the riots, the fact that such hate is bubbling under the surface in some parts of the country shows how we cannot lose focus on the work we are doing to build peace, understanding and collaboration between all communities.
In this month's edition, you can read about some of the events and activities our Community Connectors have been involved with - but do get in touch if you want to discuss future collaborations or ways that we can work with you to tackle the friction we've seen in so many locations up and down the country.
With our love, Hadiya and the Groundswell Team
Conversation not division at Luton chat event
A week on from the last of the protests that rocked the country, our new Community Connector in Luton - Leela - enlisted the help of Luton's very own Deadpool superhero to get people talking. Engaging in conversation rather than fostering division.
In an event advertised as a safe space, free of judgment, shame or hostility, people from a range of backgrounds in Luton got together to talk about their perspectives on the world and their hopes for the future.
Speaking afterwards, Leela said: "I think we all left feeling closer together, more connected and bonded - and therefore stronger as a community. This is the first of many such events and we hope to see even more people next time."
Manchester finds its strength in diversity
The people of Manchester came out in force last weekend to demonstrate to the far-right rioters that shook several cities in the north of England that there is far more strength in peace and community understanding.
Our Community Connector in the city, Angela, was out and about with people from a range of communities at the Caribbean Carnival in Alexandra Park, where she was joined by the team from Radio Diamond for a central spot at the festival. She also liaised with local police on the day who were on hand to keep the peace in case any issues arose.
That was followed on Sunday by attending the Salana Gurmat Samagam event in Heaton Park organised by the local Sikh community.
Bringing communities together in Glasgow
Our Community Connector in Glasgow, Adeel, has been working with other community leaders in the Pollockshields area to hold a community unity event at the weekend.
An event was held on Saturday which included music, sharing of food and talks and activities, and the day was even covered by local STV News.
Speaking to the broadcaster, co-organiser of the event Tabassum Niamat said: "I don't think you can be complacent about these things, but I have faith in all the communities around here - people from all walks of life. This is a city that has always come out and fought for justice."
Groundswell Lewisham supports central London rally
Soxie, our Community Connector in Lewisham, was part of the central London rally that marched through the capital to stand up to racism on Saturday.
The march ended in Trafalgar Square, where a number of activists spoke and further demonstrations took place - supporting our message of finding, connecting and amplifying community action to stand up to racism and hatred.
Download Flare - your personal safety app
During these uncertain times, where we may feel worried for ourselves, and our families and friends, we are pleased to bring to you a new personal safety app.
Flare, developed by our partners at CAUSE, have developed the app which allows users to pre-write a message which will, with one press of a button, be sent to your chosen friend or relative if you feel in danger.
Especially at this time of heightened tensions and when you may be considering going to an anti-racism or peace demonstration, consider downloading and using the app before you leave. Simply search Flare by CAUSE in the App Store or Google Play Store.
Chicken shop posters make a return
Last year, we ran a successful campaign that used takeaway chicken shops' digital screens to reach young people with our messaging.
Following the recent unrest, we've again worked with our partners at ACMS to switch on our 'Spread Love Not Hate' campaign - particularly in locations throughout south London.
At this time, this is a really important message to remember. If you see an ad while you're out and about, snap it and share it on your social media, and don't forget to tag us!
Check out new 'Refugee' show at the theatre
For a limited time only, a great new show is playing at the Key Theatre in Peterborough.
We've been involved in supporting the show and advising on its depictions of communities. The show - Refugee! - is a piece of political theatre weaving together interviews, conversations and real-life testimonies.
Tickets are available from just £3 and the show is on today and tomorrow. Click here to find out more.
Ivan's story is still so important today
We've been resharing the story that we filmed and promoted in 2020, about former EDL member Ivan Humble.
His story of change from being driven by hate to focused on building peace and unity is one that is so important in the current climate.
Ivan has been working with us over the past four years to run sessions as part of our Communities Countering Hate series.
Check out his story once again on Youtube by clicking on the image.
Useful reading
- Volunteer with The Refugee Council
- Love Not War 2024 - get involved with World Peace Day
