Engaging in honest, open debate about issues including immigration, asylum, and national identity is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. But recently, the conversation has taken an uncomfortable turn, becoming more divisive, hostile, and dangerous.
Tragically, this danger was manifested in the most shocking way in yesterday’s attack on worshippers in a Manchester synagogue on Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar.
Even before this horrific event, colleagues were telling me they feel less safe and more anxious about where things may be heading. And we’ve been hearing reports that people who come to us for support are feeling it too. When fear and hostility start creeping into our teams, our services, and our communities, we need to call it out.
Change Grow Live is not a charity that specialises in migration or community cohesion, and others are better placed to lead those urgent conversations. We do, however, know what we stand for: we’re open, bold and compassionate, and we Believe in People. Which means a belief in the dignity, worth and rights of every person.
We live our values through our actions: checking in with a colleague, being a steady presence for someone walking through our doors, listening to those with views that may differ from our own, and speaking up when people are discriminated against or dehumanised.
Most of all we can keep doing what we do best: showing up without judgement and creating a place where anyone can feel safe, supported, and seen.
Let’s keep talking and let’s hold on to our humanity.
Nic Adamson