Celebrating York’s diverse communities
On Wednesday 15 October, Homestead Park was pleased to host a community-led celebration, in solidarity with York’s diverse refugee community.
The event was held by a coalition of social action groups who came together in the park’s Pavilion building to hold a warm, relaxed, family-focused event. Organised by members of Food Not Bombs, York Interfaith Network, York Migrant Solidarity, York Palestine Assembly, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, and Extinction Rebellion York – the gathering attracted 100 attendees, including asylum seekers and refugees supported by Refugee Action York (RAY), as well as RAY volunteers. Also in attendance were local faith leaders, and representatives from the Trussell Trust, York Community Energy, and Story Of The Changing.
Homestead Park’s mission is to become a place ‘where everyone is welcome, where nature and community thrive.’ Over the past year, our team have begun the work to make that a reality - whilst it will take time and continual work (this work will never be truly ‘done’), creating the space, opportunity and invitiation to facilitate community-led events like this feels like a big step towards realising our mission.
The coalition brough the communtity room to life with arts, crafts, and activities, sharing conversation, food and resources such as donated clothes and supplied for anyone in need.
Some of the organisers shared their reflections:
“Community organising is more important than ever. We have a duty to ensure that there are welcoming spaces and resources for those that need them, and to honour the rich heritage of York as a multicultural trading centre. We’re working with other social action groups across York to combat hate and racism in the city, and create inclusive spaces that we can be proud of.” Anirudh Unni of York Migrant Solidarity
“Now more than ever these events are needed to demonstrate the solidarity and interconnectedness of our communities in York. The event was a demonstration of the power of grassroots coalition and community-building - we were resourced in many ways; through food, art, play, song, and connection. In a room where delicious smells mingled with many languages and laughter I witnessed care as common ground, and left feeling a little more hopeful in these times of uncertainty.” Kate McLaven. Co-founder of Story Of The Changing
"The community celebration was a joyous, friendly event with so many people chatting, mingling and making connections. The food was delicious, the arts and crafts activities were a hit and there were warm clothes and bags for people to help themselves to which I really loved! People who happen to be passing by also joined in. We need more events like this, well done to the organisers!" Shamim Eimaan, Director at Eimaan Culture and Community Services
The Community Celebration event was organised in response to increased hate crimes and racism in the city. On October 4, Stand Up to Racism York organised a rally in St Helen’s Square with the York Trades Council, and NEU and Unison unions. The coalition say that more local events will be hosted in York to strengthen community connections and celebrate cultural diversity in a city known for its multicultural roots. For more information, contact 07891015955 or email yorkcommunitysolidarity@tutamail.com.
If you want to learn how you can make use of the Park’s spaces to create stronger communities - please visit our What’s On page.