Guest blog post on compassion from SOBIA

Today as the Illegal Migration Bill is sadly passing into law, we would like to share the words of Sobia Razzaq, Area Convenor and academic.  Here Sobia talks about the need for #compassion towards refugees and asylum seekers:

"I am fortunate to volunteer for a local charity called Herts Welcomes Refugees (HWR), which offers crucial support to refugees and asylum seekers across Hertfordshire.
HWR plays a vital role in providing practical assistance and connecting refugees and asylum seekers to their new communities. It recognises that successful integration requires more than just finding a place to live; it involves understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals who have experienced displacement. This year's theme for Refugee Week, compassion, is at the core of HWR's mission.
Compassion serves as the foundation upon which meaningful assistance and support can be provided. It means not only recognising the challenges and hardships faced by refugees, but also acknowledging their inherent dignity and resilience. By treating them with kindness, respect, and empathy, we create an environment that fosters healing, empowerment, and successful integration.
Refugees and asylum seekers share the same concerns as everyone else, they desire a safe environment for their families where they can contribute and grow, and they are genuinely grateful for the opportunities they have been given. Unfortunately, biased, and toxic rhetoric against these communities persists, making it even more important for us to stand up for their rights and dignity.
I have been fortunate to be able to integrate some of this work with my day job as a lecturer and projects I work on; as academics, we have a unique role to play in integrating students into their local communities and fostering collaboration. By providing students with opportunities to engage with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, we help cultivate a deeper understanding and empathy for the challenges faced by migrants and refugees. This first-hand exposure has the power to break down stereotypes and misconceptions, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
We also have the responsibility to encourage our students to actively participate in making positive changes. By instilling a sense of responsibility and drive to contribute to a better future, we empower them to pursue careers and positions where they can make a meaningful impact. Through education, research, and advocacy, they can become advocates for positive changes in policies and practices surrounding migration."