This short reflection was written by our very own Maggy, Organiser for These Walls Must Fall, during the period of racist riots across the UK.
Today is one of those days when I’m not feeling okay, and I admit that it’s okay not to be okay. I know I am not the only one feeling this way.
As migrant women, we have experienced trauma and have always thought we were in a safe place, a place to call home. Yet, it seems we will forever be searching for a sense of belonging. We’re tired of being told to be patient, tired of being told to be strong, and tired of recounting our emotional stories to gain empathy and acceptance. We are just tired.
This year’s Refugee Week was titled “Our Home.” I wrote a short blog about the sense of feeling at home, particularly in Manchester. To be honest, I am now feeling conflicted. I saw the face of hate in our neighbours on Saturday. I saw hate in their eyes, in their bodies, and in their actions.
Today, it’s okay not to be okay.
Amidst this, I also saw a loving community that stood firm, faced hatred head-on, and challenged the monsters. Love overcame hate. The streets are quiet now. I love it when it’s peaceful; it reminds me of the COVID-19 days. But these empty, peaceful streets carry a fearful peace. Nelson Mandela once said, “No one is born hating; if they can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love.”
My thoughts are with you, our people of colour, our Muslim community.
Remember, there is a loving community out there.
As always,
#NoOneIsIllegal
#TheseWallsMustFall
#MigrationIsLife