With the subject of immigration and the treatment of asylum seekers at the forefront of the news, we call upon our government to demonstrate humanitarian compassion and simplify the process to enable those fleeing conflict to be given sanctuary here. For too long, public discourse on these issues has been framed around obstacles and suspicion rather than the human responsibility to give safe harbour to those who have been displaced and whose lives are at risk.
The AJR exists today because the Jewish refugees from Nazi oppression were able to flee to Britain. The government of the day gave permission for people to come while individual families and community organisations acted as guarantors. We urge the government to act now to offer homes and support to those arriving from conflict.
Our country is richer for the contributions made by successive waves of immigration. We believe those given refuge today will similarly give back – with gratitude.
