Last weekend, while Labour supporters gathered in Liverpool for their annual conference, our team traveled through the Mersey to Birkenhead. We visited the Future Yard venue, a co-operatively owned space at the forefront of local regeneration efforts, where we screened a film from our ‘Island of Strangers’ series for the community that contributed to its creation.
In recent months, myself and colleagues Claire Donnelly and John Domokos have collaborated with the organizers of Refugees Rock, a remarkable initiative that originated when a climbing wall in Liverpool provided free climbing sessions to asylum seekers in the area.
Amid challenges faced by asylum hotels and refugee support services due to Far Right opposition, the Climbing Hangar’s compassionate approach, where refugees are paired with ‘Boulder Buddies,’ stands out as a beacon of solidarity. Ali, a 21-year-old refugee from Iran, emphasized the difficulties of adjusting to a new country but found solace and companionship in his climbing experience, transforming from a reserved individual to someone who shares moments of joy with his climbing partner.
While efforts are made to unite communities, there are factions aiming to sow discord. The recent attack on the Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur, a significant day for the Jewish community, underscores the need for unity in a diverse and multi-faith city like Manchester.
In response to the incident, Labour MP Graham Stringer condemned the attack as an assault on the city’s tolerance and inter-community relations. Divisive forces are not unfamiliar to Merseyside, known for instances of misinformation leading to turmoil, yet also recognized for displays of unity during challenging times.
Despite adversities, instances of solidarity shine through, such as the overwhelming support shown to Asylum Link Merseyside in the face of Far-Right protests. People rallied to protect the organization, symbolizing a city united against hate and discrimination.
Manchester has also demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity, exemplified by the community’s response to the Manchester Arena attack with acts of kindness and unity across different faiths.
In a time where division threatens social cohesion, initiatives like Refugees Rock and the ‘Island of Strangers’ film series aim to highlight the positive connections within communities. The films underscore the importance of unity and collaboration in overcoming societal challenges, paralleling the problem-solving nature of bouldering to life’s obstacles.
Sev and Ali, central figures in the film, epitomize the transformative power of friendship and shared experiences. Their journey through climbing and camaraderie illustrates the potential for individuals from diverse backgrounds to find common ground and belonging.
As we navigate through turbulent times, these stories serve as reminders of the strength found in unity and mutual support within our communities. The ‘Island of Strangers’ films are released weekly on the Mirror Originals YouTube channel, showcasing tales of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
