Last weekend, while Labour supporters gathered in Liverpool for their annual conference, our team traveled to Birkenhead under the Mersey. We visited Future Yard, a co-operatively owned venue contributing to the area’s regeneration. There, we screened a film from our ‘Island of Strangers’ series for the community that collaborated with us on its creation.
The experience was deeply moving for all involved. Over recent months, my colleagues Claire Donnelly, John Domokos, and I have collaborated with the individuals behind Refugees Rock. This initiative began when a climbing wall in Liverpool offered free climbing sessions to local asylum seekers.
In a time when services supporting refugees have faced hostility, the solidarity and compassion demonstrated at the Climbing Hangar, where refugees are paired with ‘Boulder Buddies,’ is a beacon of hope. Ali, a 21-year-old refugee from Iran, shared his feelings of isolation upon arriving in a new country, likening it to being on a desert island. However, through his interactions with his Boulder Buddy Sev Domela, Ali’s transformation from a reserved figure to a young man brimming with laughter speaks volumes.
While many strive to unify our nation, there are those intent on sowing division through violence. The recent attack on the Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur, a significant day in the Jewish calendar, is a blow to all of us. The motives behind the attack by Jihad Al-Shamie remain unclear, but it threatens the harmonious coexistence of the diverse communities in the area.
Labour MP Graham Stringer swiftly condemned the assault as an attempt to disrupt the city’s tolerant fabric and damage inter-community relations. Merseyside, known for both unity and discord, has witnessed incidents like the tragic Southport murders leading to unrest. Yet, it has also been a site of remarkable unity, as demonstrated by the overwhelming support for Asylum Link Merseyside in the face of far-right protests.
In times of adversity, cities like Manchester have showcased resilience and solidarity. Following the tragic Manchester Arena attack in 2017, acts of kindness and communal support abounded, underscoring the city’s strength in diversity. As communities strive to stay united in the face of adversity, it’s essential to highlight stories of hope and cooperation, such as our ‘Island of Strangers’ series.
Through the lens of climbing, our film portrays the journey of a young man finding solace and camaraderie in a new environment. Ali and Sev, central figures in the film, joined Refugees Rock simultaneously, each bringing their unique experiences to the community. Their friendship symbolizes the power of human connection in overcoming challenges, a sentiment echoed by many who strive to bridge divides in society.
Our ‘Island of Strangers’ films are being released weekly on our Mirror Originals YouTube channel, sharing stories of resilience and unity in the face of adversity. The film set in Liverpool can be viewed here.