Burngreave celebrated Refugee Week with an exhilarating event on Ellesmere Green on Saturday 24th June 2006.
Following a welcome by Aisha Special K, the sound of multi-ethnic music rang out from the New Deal mobile stage, from 2–6pm. Performers included – the Slovakian and Kurdish Communities, the African Drum and Dance Group, Sonia Bartley, Adam and a boxing exhibition by members of Brendan Ingle’s Gym.
Dancers in national dress drew onlookers in to join them. The aroma of curry donated by the Kashmir Curry Centre tempted everyone into the food tent, where Jamaican rum cake vied with other donated delicacies to part you from your money.
Many Burngreave and city-wide groups took part to raise awareness of the issues surrounding asylum seekers and refugees, including New Deal Engagement team, Streetforce, Refugee Housing, and North Sheffield Primary Care Trust. Funds raised at the event will go to ASSIST, to help destitute asylum seekers.
A bystander told me:
“It’s very important to welcome refugees, they have fled from such difficult circumstances; its great to be able to offer them something better.”
Another said:
“All of us have been strangers at some time and have been given the gift of welcome. Burngreave is one of the few places in South Yorkshire which is proud to welcome people.”
The event was initiated by Burngreave Community Action Forum working group for Refugees and Asylum Seekers, who’s next meeting is on 18th July, 3-5pm at 12-14 Burngreave Road. For more information call 272 8008.
by Saleema Imam