Migrant Action took part in a networking event organised by Migrants Organise, a London based charity. The event brought together a diverse group of migrant ‘organisers’ and organisations from across the country. Against the backdrop of austerity, Brexit and growing anti-migration rhetoric, Migrant Organisers explored strategies for effective mobilisation towards building common ground and growing capacity for advocacy and system change.
Conversations also examined the ‘Vulnerability and Needs discourse’ which often underpin migration analysis and interventions. There was a strong consensus for challenging stereotypes whilst generating and evidencing alternative narratives that capture migrant agency, capacity, humanity and social justice.
Migrant Organisers highlighted the deficits and risks of reactionary approaches to migration issues in contrast to the positive impact of proactive long term approaches. Policy and service delivery compliment humanitarian assistance with building capacity and resilience amongst migrants, removing barriers to participation in the labour marketplace and wider social integration, improving advocacy pathways and access to justice, campaigns, collaborative working etc. To do this effectively, migrant organisers need to build common ground, grow power and forge strong alliances.
The event was a great opportunity for finding out about other organisations and ‘organisers’ work whilst building networks and partnerships. Migrant Action will continue to participate with these conversations and forge partnerships with Migrants Organise and other organisations within the network.
