Routes to Roots: Celebrating Migration
When we embarked on our Routes to Roots campaign, we tasked our Team v Leaders with the challenge of uncovering and celebrating migration stories within their communities. Through this initiative, our leaders hosted 49 events and shared 240 captivating tales of migration. The journey was insightful, as Team v Leader Matt Wykes shares his learnings.
“At the start, many Team v Leaders, including myself, were apprehensive about engaging with the topic of migration. The immigration debate often feels contentious. However, as we listened to the personal stories from our neighborhoods, our perspectives shifted. These narratives showed us resilience and courage beyond the negative portrayals in the media. These individuals are brave and relatable,” Wykes reflected.
Many individuals we met, like Sa’ad from Iraq, experienced forced migration. Sa’ad, a former flight attendant, fled due to threats during the Iran-Iraq conflict. Similarly, a Team v Leader in Manchester encountered a woman from the Democratic Republic of Congo who stated, “I was an orphan in a war-torn country; the wind blew me here.”
Forced migration is a reality that can affect anyone. Those we spoke to were ordinary people—students, parents, professionals—driven by circumstances beyond their control. Their stories highlight the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in understanding their journeys.
Collaborating with organizations like Refugee Action has been invaluable. Emma Makarova, National Volunteering Manager at Refugee Action, emphasized, “The Routes to Roots campaign is crucial in fostering a society that embraces diversity and offers sanctuary.”
Despite their harrowing experiences, many migrants face unjust treatment upon arrival. This is why Refugee Action’s Bring Back Dignity campaign is vital.
Some come to the UK seeking opportunity, while others have no choice but to leave their homes. It falls on us to welcome them, recognize their resilience, and celebrate their achievements as part of our community.
Discover more about the inspiring efforts of our leaders in the Routes to Roots round-up video and explore the stories from your town.
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