LCNI Statement

Law Centre NI stands with refugees. 

The Law Centre’s thoughts are with the victim of Monday’s brutal knife attack, his family and the first responders. Our thoughts are also with those targeted during last night’s violent racist disorder. A number of our clients have been affected. Their stories are heartbreaking. A refugee client spent the night hiding in a stairwell of an apartment block “I cannot return to my country, and I am scared here. I don’t know where to find a safe place. I am so tired of all of this—of the aggression and the uncertainty. I feel like I will always be labelled an outsider here”. Another client had to flee his home with his family during the night. He has lived in Northern Ireland for more than 40 years.  

Despite the horror, we are heartened by the response of people from across our communities: from those who bravely intervened during Monday’s knife attack to those who are now mobilising to support people who have been attacked, displaced and traumatised in the recent attacks.  These actions demonstrate courage, compassion and solidarity during this difficult time. We know that the majority of people in Northern Ireland support refugees. Last night’s racist hatred will only strengthen collective resolve –it certainly will ours.  

People seeking sanctuary are here because they are fleeing war, violence and persecution. The right to seek asylum is a fundamental human right. The right is enshrined in international law and applies universally to everyone.  We urge you not to be swayed by those who are trying to stoke division and hatred. Stay informed, speak up if you can and show your solidarity in the days ahead.   

Recently, Liz Griffith, Head of Migration Justice at the Law Centre NI, spoke on Good Morning Ulster (from 1:56) and Talkback (from 1:10) to seek to counter some of the harmful misinformation and disinformation in circulation.