On this day, and every day, we stand in solidarity with all displaced people. We celebrate the courage and bravery that people show in the face of inhumane policies and hostile State actions. We stand in solidarity and anger against the policies that force people to take increasingly dangerous routes in search of safety, and against the heightened militarisation that exposes them to violence and daily violations of their human rights. |
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On May 17th we held a 'Commemoraction' to remember Mawda Shawri. Five years ago, Mawda was shot in the head at two years old as her and her family moved in the hope of a safer life. Her family were prevented from accompanying her to the hospital - instead, they were arrested, and separated in detention. The policeman responsible simply received a 12 month suspension. |
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Illustration by Manu Scordia |
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Mawda's case illustrates the fatal consequences of the lack of safe routes available to people on the move, and the violent reality created by hostile border policies. If Mawda's family had been able to access a safe route to the UK, she would still be alive today. Read more about Mawda's story here, and follow Justice4Mawda for updates on their campaign. |
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Get Involved: World Refugee Day |
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Our friends at Refugee Women's Centre have created a truly fantastic series of Instagram posts in the lead up to today, exploring solidarity and the situation on the Franco-British border. Check out their Instagram to learn more. The wonderful people at Europe Must Act are hosting a webinar tonight, at 7-8pm CEST. "How Can I Be a Better Activist?" will focus on changing the way we advocate for the rights of people on the move, bringing together a panel of speakers from different organisations, and will be a valuable opportunity to hear from people working in European migration. Learn more here. Finally, the resources on our website feature some fantastic organisations working across the border, and more ideas on how to engage and get involved: |
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We're updating this regularly for both people in the UK, France and elsewhere - so keep checking back! And if you come across useful resources, let us know - drop us an email on advocacy@project-play.org. |
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In May, we facilitated 34.5 hours of play across 15 sessions, working with at least 89 children. |
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Circus, Senses & States of Matter |
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This month, we've loved playing together in our Circus-themed games and competitions, and had a blast during 'States of Matter' week as we got stuck into (literally!) different liquids, solids and gases, and explored changing states. We also had a fabulous day at Secours Catholique's "Journée Talents des Femmes", before exploring the themes of 'Senses', 'My Body' and 'Strength' - filled with sensory and creative delights, and activities celebrating both the strength of ourselves and of our communities. |
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Clockwise from top left: a collaborative sensory rainbow, playing with shape-shifting oobleck, having a blast with parachute games, and perhaps the most beautiful volcano to ever have erupted! |
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We were also delighted to be joined once again by Ambessa Play, who facilitated a wonderful Flashlight-making session. Click to read our activities report in full: |
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The situation on the ground in northern France remains hostile and violent. A large-scale eviction at the start of May saw approximately 200 police officers, military personnel and 'cleaning' crews systematically destroy the informal living site near Dunkirk. These violent operations involve the destruction of people's personal belongings and are mentally and physically traumatic. Click below to read our full update from last month (French coming soon). |
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Donate and Fundraise We rely on donations to run our service, and any amount, no matter how big or small, makes a difference. If you're able to support us, please consider doing so. If you fancy taking on a challenge in 2023, why not raise some funds for Project Play in the process? We'd love to support you with your fundraiser. Email fundraising@project-play.org. |
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Volunteer We're on the look out for some wonderful people to join our team in the coming months: Volunteer Playworkers - do you have experience working with children, are over 19, and passionate about every child's right to play? If you're able to commit at least two months to working with us in northern France, we'd love to hear from you. Click here to find out more: |
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Engage We advocate for children’s rights and strive to draw attention to the abuses taking place in northern France. Help us raise awareness by following us on social media, engaging with our partners at Calais Appeal, and sharing our posts. |
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Thank you for your support! |
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