Right now it feels like the news, social media, and many communities, are a dangerous stew of misinformation, anger and resentment, with billionaires stirring the pot. We can’t go on like this. All of us – as individuals, communities, organisations and businesses – need to take back some control of the conversation. Today we’re sharing six great resources for anyone who wants to feel better equipped to speak up and show solidarity with refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants.
For when you need the facts...
Emily Explains on instagram has this very helpful breakdown showing how to respond to arguments informed by misinformation. Not on instagram? Try this guide from Praxis instead.
For when the facts aren't helping...
If climate campaigning has taught us anything it’s that facts often (usually?) don’t change people’s minds – so what does?
This very good guide, also from Praxis, offers some powerful strategies for listening, finding common ground, and taking a values based approach to changing minds about migration.
One other thing to consider: if the facts aren’t helping, maybe our efforts would be better spent elsewhere? This short guide from Hope Not Hate explores how to identify the ‘passive supporters’ within a movement to bring more people along us.
For when you want to share a vision of what our asylum system could be...
City Of Sanctuary have shared their alternative vision of how a compassionate and humane asylum system could look by imagining the experience through the eyes of an individual seeking sanctuary. Refugee Action have a longer and more in depth vision here.
For when you feel like you're wasting your breath...
If you’re trying to have positive conversations but feel like your energy is draining away with nothing to show for it, perhaps we’re focussing our energy on the wrong people? This mini guide from Hope Not Hate explores how targeting
For when you want to bring people together but you're not sure how...
Hope Not Hate have a great toolkit for planning an act of solidarity in your community. It’s got lots of ideas and case studies to inspire you (The Llantwit Welshcake Man is obviously our favourite) as well as guidance on things like publicity, safety, and messaging.
For when you want your council to work better for everyone in the community
The Migrant Champions Network supports local councillors to champion fair, inclusive and welcoming communities that work for everyone living there. They offer training, fact sheets and lots more – simply sharing the website with your local councillors and asking their opinion could be a great conversation starter.
We hope you found something in this list useful – if you did, why not share it with someone else? And if you’re based in our neck of the woods, Splott in Cardiff, and want to make a difference in the lives of asylum seekers and refugees then do check out the amazing work of Oasis.
