Many Cultures, One Community: Celebrating Refugee Week

As part of Refugee Week, we helped plan and host an annual community celebration at Redcar Baptist Church. The event focused on celebrating culture, belonging and the personal stories of people seeking sanctuary within our community.

The celebration was delivered in partnership with organisations including Thirteen and MAP, working collaboratively to support asylum seekers and refugees.

Women who attend our ladies’ group, along with those involved in the Welcome Project and English language classes, were invited to bring a traditional recipe and dish to share. They were also encouraged to wear clothing representing their cultural heritage.

More than 100 people attended the celebration, with over 12 countries represented. Asylum seekers, refugees and members of the local community came together to connect, share experiences and celebrate one another’s cultures in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Food, music and shared stories

Throughout the event, attendees shared inspiring personal stories and enjoyed food from around the world. Guests were invited to perform a song or demonstrate a traditional dance from their culture, encouraging participation and cultural exchange.

Lizzie, a Welcome Project worker, reflected:

“I was asked to suggest a traditional British song and chose the Hokey Cokey. This proved to be a great way to bring everyone together, with people from many different countries joining in the dance, creating a fun and memorable moment that reflected the inclusive spirit of the event.”

Practical support for those attending

We were also grateful to receive a number of donations from the NHS, including clothing, toiletries and other essential items. These were made available to those attending the event and were greatly appreciated, providing practical support for individuals and families within our community.

Celebrating what brings us together

The celebration offered people from a wide range of backgrounds the opportunity to meet, share their experiences and learn about one another’s cultures through food, clothing, music, dancing and personal stories.

Lizzie also described the community craft activity that took place:

“In addition, we provided a community craft activity where attendees were invited to decorate an individual piece of a large jigsaw puzzle. At the end of the event, the pieces were assembled to create a single display, symbolising how people from different backgrounds and cultures come together to form one inclusive community. The completed puzzle now serves as a lasting reminder of the celebration and the message of belonging that Refugee Week represents.”

We are thankful to everyone who helped to plan and deliver the event, contributed food, shared their culture or joined us for the celebration. It was encouraging to see so many people coming together and creating a welcoming and inclusive community during Refugee Week!

Loving God,

Thank You for the many people, cultures and stories represented within our community.

Help us to welcome and support those seeking sanctuary with compassion, generosity and kindness. May everyone within our community know that they are valued and included.

Continue to bring people together and help us to create a community in which everyone can experience dignity, friendship and belonging.

Amen.