Voice4Change England and 10 other race equality organisations stand united with the people of Ukraine. As organisations working with marginalised communities in the UK, we express our deep concern at the escalating conflict in Ukraine, which will result in catastrophic loss of life, suffering, and subsequently lead to many fleeing the country as refugees.
We view this as an opportunity for Britain to demonstrate that it is a welcoming nation and ask that the Government does what is right for the people of Ukraine who seek refuge in the UK. Many people in the communities we support have first-hand experience of the horrors that those in Ukraine are now facing. We have an opportunity to make sure our immigration system does not add trauma to trauma. We urge that there be immediate cross-party agreement on granting asylum to all those displaced by the conflict, and the Home Office must go further on immigration concessions for those seeking entry to the UK
Additionally, we are also very concerned to hear reports of black and Asian people trying to flee Ukraine but facing discrimination at the borders (particularly at those with Poland). The support we give to Ukraine must be made available to all people in peril regardless of their ethnicity or countries of birth.
We urge that the Nationality and Borders Bill in its current form is immediately revised, as it will criminalise Ukraine nationals based on their resettlement routes, and subject them to inadmissibility procedures, which will in turn prevent them from achieving full refugee status.
We strongly hope that the Government reconsiders this harmful bill and its impact in shaping a hostile environment for migrants, including those impacted by the current conflict in Ukraine.
Signed by
Voice4Change England
Race on the Agenda
BME National
South Asian Health Network
Friends, Families and Travellers
Caribbean & African Health Network
UNJUST C.I.C
Black Wandsworth Community
Wandsworth Stand up to Racism
Tower Hamlets Stand up to Racism
Hackney Stand up to Racism
Organisations for you to donate
Ukraine Red Cross – Red Cross has launched a campaign to help raise funds and supplies for those affected, from food and water to first aid kits and shelter.
Come Back Alive – Ukrainian non-governmental organisation is urging people to donate to help support freedom and democracy in the country.
Nova Ukraine – Non-profit organisation, Nova Ukraine provides humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and is helping to build a strong society, reform the education system and eliminate corruption in the country.
Choose Love – This fundraising organisation supports refugees and displaced individuals around the world. Right now, they are reaching out to their community to garner urgent support for the people of Ukraine.
Razom for Ukraine – Razom has launched an emergency response in line with the devastation that’s going on right now in Ukraine. They are responding by providing critical medical supplies and helping to amplify the voices of the people of Ukraine.
With Ukraine – The Embassy of Ukraine in the UK has set up a donation service, helping to provide assistance for victims in need.
Voices Of Children – Charity Voices Of Children offers support for children affected by war trauma. They offer psychological and psychosocial support for those who have suffered as a result of war.
Polish Humanitarian Action – Polish humanitarian group is helping those on the border of Ukraine and Poland, offering hygiene products, support, food and blankets to those in need.
Petitions to Sign