Belfast rally in support of the people of Afghanistan and all refugees

Q Radio News

Around 100 people gathered in Belfast on Thursday night to pledge their support for the people of Afghanistan and all refugees. 

The United Against Racism rally outside City Hall was part of action across the island of Ireland.

Spokesperson Ivanka Antova said it's vital a safe haven is provided here for those in fear of their lives.

🎥 United Against Racism rally outside Belfast City Hall after shocking scenes in Kabul. Spokesperson Ivanka Antova calls on Stormont to open our doors to Afghan refugees: pic.twitter.com/sDZbBtHbJ9

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) August 26, 2021

She added: “We have all seen the shocking and harrowing images from Kabul in recent days, it is imperative that we make it known to our Assembly, the Westminster government, the Irish government, the EU, and beyond, that people here want to help. We want to provide a safe harbour.

"Refugees must be welcomed and made to feel safe and supported. At the same time the rise in hate crimes against refugees, asylum seekers and migrants betrays deeply-held racist views and attitudes in some people. These people are a minority and they don't speak for all of us. This is why it's important we all show our solidarity with refugees."

United Against Racism rally this evening outside Belfast City Hall in support of refugees and asylum seekers across the world - with a particular focus on all people currently fleeing Afghanistan in fear for their lives.

Pics: Alan Lewis. pic.twitter.com/h4WGdkh2g1

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) August 26, 2021

Ivanka continued: "Refugees are welcome here and we need to open our borders; there can be no quotas on human life. These arbitrary numbers and time limits the government seeks to impose serve only to prolong the suffering of people who need our help. 

"We need to end all deportations and take Afghanistan off the safe return list immediately.

"No human being should ever be viewed as illegal. We should all look to help dispel the vicious far-right rhetoric and lies promoted against refugees, asylum seekers and migrants in the mainstream and social media.”