Just a couple of miles away from the ACC conference center in Liverpool Docks, where Labour supporters have gathered, stands a Victorian presbytery serving as a focal point for the local refugee community.
Last year on August 5, Asylum Link Merseyside in Toxteth had to secure its premises by boarding up windows due to Far Right protests during city riots, despite the fact that refugees and asylum seekers at the center had no connection to the tragic murder of three young girls in Southport.
According to Emma Leaper, the National Coordinator at the charity, individuals from the community faced verbal abuse and physical attacks. However, amidst the turmoil, a heartwarming scene unfolded as thousands of people rallied around the building, not with hostility but with messages of love and support.
The boards that once shielded the building are now adorned with artwork by refugee groups, serving as symbols of hope and solidarity. Emma emphasizes that the city is filled with more love than hate.
In the past year, our Mirror Real Britain team, led by Claire Donnelly and filmmaker John Domokos, has traveled across various regions, engaging with communities post-last year’s riots for a video series titled “Island of Strangers.” Giga Poll data reveals insights into community sentiments, with a majority expressing love for their neighborhoods and a desire for enhanced community cohesion.
Following the Southport riots, a vocal minority has tainted the country’s image, prompting a call for genuine solutions rather than divisive rhetoric. Working-class communities, often misrepresented as hostile, are actually diverse and have historically welcomed immigrants.
These struggling communities demand tangible solutions and empowerment, advocating for inclusive governance to address their challenges effectively. The Island of Strangers films aim to amplify the voices of real Britain, showcasing diverse community connections and acts of solidarity.
From enjoying diverse entertainment in Cardiff to fostering gardens in Stockton-on-Tees, and uniting at a boxing gym in Rotherham, the stories of unity and friendship are prevalent across different regions. Together, these experiences paint a picture of a nation built on friendship, community, and unity.
To watch our films, visit YouTube, the Mirror website, or follow us on social media using #IslandOfStrangers.