Ros Wynne-Jones, a columnist at the Daily Mirror, advocates against government cuts and supports ordinary citizens in her Real Britain column every Friday.
Near the ACC conference centre on Liverpool Docks, a Victorian presbytery serves as a gathering place for the local refugee community. Last year on August 5, Asylum Link Merseyside in Toxteth faced Far Right protests during city riots, prompting the boarding up of its windows.
Although the refugees and asylum seekers at the center had no involvement in a tragic incident 20 miles away in Southport, they faced public backlash. Emma Leaper, the National Coordinator at the charity, recounted incidents of verbal abuse and physical attacks on community members.
Despite the hostile environment, a heartening sight unfolded as thousands of individuals rallied around the building with messages of love and support, countering the hate-driven protests.
Today, the boards used to secure the building have been transformed into symbols of hope by refugee art groups. Emma Leaper emphasizes the prevailing love and unity in the city.
The Mirror Real Britain team, led by Claire Donnelly and filmmaker John Domokos, has traveled across the UK, engaging with various communities affected by last year’s riots for the video series “Island of Strangers.” Survey data reveals a strong desire for improved community cohesion and support for multicultural initiatives.
Following the aftermath of the Southport riots, a minority of voices have shaped a negative narrative about the country. The working-class communities, historically multi-ethnic, reject being labeled as hostile or racist.
Communities in need of real solutions demand empowerment and unity, not divisive rhetoric. The Island of Strangers films, screened at the Labour Conference and other venues, aim to amplify the voices of real Britain.
From Cardiff to Stockton-on-Tees, stories of diverse communities coming together in music, gardening, and sports highlight the true spirit of friendship and solidarity across the UK.
A year later, the message remains clear: Britain is a land of camaraderie and community, not of strangers. Follow the Island of Strangers films on YouTube, the Mirror site, and social media using #IslandOfStrangers.