Flotilla sails through harbour in support of refugees

A flotilla of ferries sailed down the River Avon to show solidarity with displaced people all over the world, including those from Ukraine.

Setting off from the Arnolfini, the aim of the nautical procession was to highlight the need for safe routes and sanctuary. It was also held to make clear that people seeking sanctuary in Bristol are welcome.

Led by Bristol Ferry Boats, the group of four vessels wove through the waters of Bristol from just past 9am towards Hotwells. The event then moved up to College Green to hear from speakers about the importance of welcoming refugees into our city.

Members of the public were dotted around the harbour in solidarity holding orange hearts, the symbol adopted by organisers Together With Refugees. Others held banners, with one reading ‘solidarity knows no borders’.

The national coalition coordinated the procession as part of a week-long series of events across the country starting on Monday, March 21

The Show Your Heart campaign calls for a more compassionate approach to refugees and asylum seeking. It laments the Nationality and Borders Bill which is currently working its way through Parliament.

It is the hope of Together With Refugees that landmark actions, such as Bristol’s flotilla, will encourage reforms to the bill by the time it returns to the House of Commons.

Manager of Bristol City of Sanctuary, a local charity which works with individuals and organisations to make Bristol a place of welcome for all, Sarah Cooper said that the bill “divides rather than unites”.

She said: “We are calling for an alternative. We are calling for a society which recognises the incredible contribution people seeking sanctuary make to our country.

“Whether fleeing from Ukraine, Afghanistan or Somalia, each person brings with them a unique story and unique talents. It is time we started celebrating this; we want policies which show our hearts instead of closing our doors.”

Sources:

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/flotilla-boats-move-through-bristol-6834553

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-60818705

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