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In photos: Bristol Refugee Festival celebrates ‘community, creativity and cultures’
Spectators cheered as the lead singer of Iranian folk fusion band, Vilk Collective, took to stage proclaiming “Sing it loud, sing it clear, refugees are welcome here” on Sunday afternoon.
The band were one of several acts to perform in Queen Square on Sunday as part of Bristol Refugee Festival’s final event: ‘Celebrating Sanctuary’.
For over seven years, Bristol Refugee Festival has organised a programme of events in June which celebrates the contributions refugees and asylum seekers make to the city.
is needed now More than ever
Each year, the festival culminates with a large free celebration in Queen Square.
This year saw hundreds party in the park and listen to music from the likes of Vilk Collective (accompanied by Turkish bağlama player Özcan Ates), Hélélé, Dawn from HK and Superwomen Drummers (the result of a collaboration between Vital Beats, Refugee Women of Bristol and Tolo Ko Tolo) as well as watch dance performances from Movema and a children’s capoeira dance company from Move Free CIC.
Those interested in supporting small businesses were treated to an array of arts, crafts and clothes stalls including a large selection of West African-inspired clothing from local vendor Ann Win and live watercolour painting by Bristol-based artist Maisy Chiu.
Many local charities also had a presence at the festival, including Jacari, Refugee Women of Bristol, Bridges for Communities, Common Ambition Bristol, Refugee Welcome Homes, Learn English West, Aid Box Community and Bristol Refugee Rights.
Finally, for anyone feeling a peckish, there were also several food vendors at the event, with Moveable Feast, Salha’s Sudanese Kitchen, far faraway and Afghan Bristol Cuisine all making an appearance.
Jules Olsen, CEO of Bristol Refugee Festival, said: “In a world facing so many challenges, Celebrating Sanctuary is a celebration of diversity — a reminder that when we come together in joy and mutual respect, we can build something truly powerful.
“This festival is a celebration of community, creativity and cultures — and a call to keep opening our hearts and our minds to one another.”
All photos: Rob Browne
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