Story: Sarah Finnegan
One of our friends at New Roots Café is being threatened with deportation to Libya. His name is Ali Bashir and he is a dedicated volunteer and friend to all at New Roots. He has been seeking asylum in this country for 10 years, but in March, was once again turned down by the Home Office.
He is much loved by fellow volunteers, customers and he is always a favourite with the children that come to the cafe. His contribution to the running of this community café for the last five years has been a key part in being able to keep the cafe open.
Due to the most unfortunate and traumatic experiences, Ali does not want to talk about his past and the reasons he came here. It is therefore up to his friends and local community to speak on his behalf and expose the injustice to a fellow human being if he were to be deported back to Libya.
Under the Gaddafi regime deportation for Ali anytime in the past would have lead to his lifelong imprisonment or worse. However, given the current situation of the war in Libya, it would almost certainly mean death. His whole family live in, or near, Tripolli and he is finding life difficult enough worrying about loved ones that are there amongst the bloodshed. Despite all of this, Ali wants one day to return to a peaceful Libya and until then all support that can be given to keep this wonderful member of the community safe would be gratefully welcome.
There will be a petition at the New Roots Café for people to sign, to raise awareness of his case and support his claim to stay and continue contributing to the local community. You can contact the Café on 270 0972.