It’s that time of year again. The annual Refugee Week is a UK-wide programme of cultural and educational events to celebrate the contributions made by refugees to the UK.
With the aim of Refugee Week being to counter the negative perceptions of refugees and asylum seekers, 2013’s Refugee Week seems more poignant than ever, with the increasing attention on immigration reform and discussions on EU referendum, and with concerns being voiced on the lack of an informed general public.
A wide array of events up and down the country, from a Refugee World Cup in Manchester, to MP Panel discussions in Exeter and from a Film Festival in Bradford to Exhibitions in London, the agencies that come together to put on Refugee Week certainly ensure there is something for everyone!
One of the noted highlights of Refugee Week 2013 is the collaboration with artist Marcus Crocker, who has designed tiny sculptures of famous faces, which are appearing in different locations across London until June 23rd. The figures include Freddie Mercury, Lucian Freud, Sir John Houblon and Richard Rogers. All not only have a strong connection with the UK capital, but also all were refugees who fled their native country in the face of violence and persecution.
Find out more about Refugee Week and the events being held in your area this weekend.