Refugee Week is approaching, and there’s never been a better time to show solidarity with people sekeing sanctuary in your community and beyond. The beauty of this annual celebration is that participation doesn’t require grand gestures or expensive commitments – meaningful involvement is accessible to everyone, regardless of where you live or how much time you have.
Watch Stories That Matter
One of the simplest ways to participate is through the free online film programme. These carefully curated screenings allow you to engage with powerful refugee stories at your own pace, from the comfort of your home. Whether you have 30 minutes during lunch or want to dedicate an evening to learning, these films offer intimate glimpses into experiences that might otherwise remain invisible to many of us.
Bring the Kids Along
Families can participate together through community activities designed specifically for children which combine storytime with art workshops, creating spaces where young people can learn about solidarity and compassion through creativity and play.
Connect Through Poetry
Join us for online poetry readings with The Other Side of Hope magazine. Poetry has always been a powerful medium for sharing stories that transcend borders, and these virtual gatherings create connections across distances while amplifying often-unheard perspectives.
Find Local Community
While online participation is valuable, nothing quite replaces in-person connection. The Refugee Week calendar lists events happening across the country, from small town gatherings to major city celebrations. Whether it’s a community meal, cultural performance, or discussion panel, local events offer opportunities to meet neighbors and build lasting relationships within your own community.
Show Your Support
Sometimes solidarity is as simple as wearing your values. The City of Sanctuary solidarity merchandise lets you carry the message of welcome into your daily interactions, sparking conversations and showing support in visible ways.
The power of Refugee Week lies not in any single activity, but in the collective participation of thousands of people across the country. Every film watched, workshop attended, and conversation started contributes to a broader culture of welcome and understanding.
Getting involved doesn’t require expertise in immigration policy or fluency in multiple languages. It simply requires showing up – whether virtually or in person – with curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to listen. In a world that often feels divided, Refugee Week reminds us that community building happens one connection at a time.
Ready to participate? Visit the links above to find your perfect way to get involved, or check the Refugee Week website for the full range of opportunities available in your area.