‘Community as a Superpower’ Our Refugee Week 2025
By Alaa from Integrated College Glengormley
Refugee Week commenced this year on the 16 June with a host of new events, activities, and a powerful theme, “Community as a Superpower”.
“Community as a Superpower” as a theme highlights the strength we gain when we unite together, supporting one another regardless of gender, religion, class, race, or sexuality. Celebrating Refugee Week is important not only to raise awareness about the challenges people seeking sanctuary face but also to provide a space for them to share their stories. It’s a way to show support, to remind refugees that they are not alone, and let the world hear and acknowledge their experiences and struggles.
Law Centre NI attended several joyful events within Refugee Week. Events took place in all areas of Belfast, carrying the spirit of welcome to the whole city.
"Small Worlds" workshop
To kick off the Law Centre NI’s Refugee Week celebrations, on 17 June we co-hosted Belfast City Council’s ‘Small Worlds’ workshop with Together CIC in Belfast City Hall. To introduce the event, Niamh from Law Centre NI gave a heartfelt presentation, including a detailed meaning of the term ‘refugee’ and the many different reasons why people seek asylum.
Around 40 people attended and were seated in a cafe style, where they were greeted by a host. Table hosts were primarily refugees and other people with lived experience sharing their stories. They spoke about what is currently happening in their countries, the positive aspects of their cultures and the struggles they went through both in their countries and within the immigration system.
Additionally, Dr. Stephanie Mitchell from Together CIC gave sincere and moving speeches both at the start and the end of the workshop, setting a thoughtful tone for the whole event. It was a great event to learn that we can’t rely on the narratives we see on social media about people seeking sanctuary, and that we should listen to the point of view of people who have lived experience.
Cultural Exchange Workshop
On the afternoon of 17 June, we attended a cultural exchange workshop which was organised by Belfast City of Sanctuary and held at Belfast Central Library. The event focused on enhancing and sharing cultures, such as Sudanese culture. People who attended heard meaningful stories about Sudan’s traditions, its traditional clothing, the countries’ history and ongoing conflict. Traditional food and drink were shared with everyone who attended, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere of connection.
Queen’s University Belfast - University of Sanctuary
On 17 June, Queen’s University proudly celebrated becoming the first university of sanctuary in Northern Ireland. This marks Queen’s University as an official university of welcoming and a safe place for people seeking sanctuary. Thanks to Dr Federica Ferrieri and Dr Maurice Macartney for their commitment, and thanks to Coordinator, Israel Eguaogie and Chair Mehrshad Esfandiari for their continuous and dedicated support.
Big Sanctuary Information Fair
On 18 June, Queen’s University Belfast brought together over 40 organisations, including Law Centre NI. Each organisation set out their own stall to share information about what services and support they can offer, particularly to migrant and minority ethnic communities. Organisations that were present provide advice and support in areas including: housing, education, health, employment, safety and immigration.
World Refugee Event
Central to Refugee Week is World Refugee Day on 20 June. Thanks to the efforts of the Anaka Women’s Collective and Friends of Africa, who hosted a wonderful event. The event had range of engaging activities, including drawing national flags and placing them on a map, fun games, a photo booth, live music, and a variety of food and drinks for everyone to enjoy.
Last Day of Refugee Week: Great Refugee Week Picnic
On 21 June Refugee Week concluded with a wonderful family friendly picnic at Ulidia Playing Fields, South Belfast. Stalls from various organisations shared information about welcoming events and community programs. Entertainment included live music and dance from local and refugee artists, a dedicated playing area for children, free cuisine and drinks from all around the world and henna painting for guest of all ages. Law Centre NI volunteers took up their brushes to offer facepainting for children!
The Great Refugee Week Picnic truly embodied the theme of ‘Community as a Superpower’.
Actions matter!
This week has taught us that kindness, connection, and understanding are powerful. Even small actions like a warm greeting can make a difference to make someone feel welcome. Refugee Week has helped us learn about the real stories of refugees and see that many stereotypes are not accurate. It also showed us that this week isn’t just about listening, it’s about the need to take active steps toward achieving justice and equality. Our actions matter: let’s welcome everyone including people who are seeking sanctuary, volunteer when we can, educate others, and always choose kindness.