Leeds City of Sanctuary

We are sad to hear today of the death of school teacher and Palestinian activist Awdah Hathaleen.
Awdah lived in the South Hebron Hills in a village called Um-al-khair.
He was an advocate for the rights of Palestinians and often highlighted the waves of attacks from settlers and the Israeli army that his village and others often suffered
Yesterday evening settlers drove a JCB into his village destroying property.
A settler named Yinon Levi can be seen on video footage shooting wildly into a group of people. Awdah, who was standing some distance away was shot in the chest and killed outside the village community centre.

In this film made by a women's football team who visited Um-al-khair in 2018, Awdah is interviewed. His beaming smile and warmth will never be forgotten.
Sumud brother, you will always be in our hearts 💝

Here is the film with Awdah is in... feel free to share this too x

https://youtu.be/E3xana8ifKA?si=bxiSX4Ceuz-rZFWD

🔥What a day!

For 20 years, we've been building a growing movement of welcome. Today, change-makers from every corner of our City of Sanctuary networks came together in London to share stories, spark new ideas, and forge the path forward.

Together we're transforming communities, one welcome at a time.

A huge thank you to everyone who came to our conference today!

Today was the award celebration at the University of Leeds. Thanks to Anne, Fathelrahman and Nelson for their involvement in the process and for being part of the panel. Fathelrahman and Ian were part of the presentation lineup today, along with people from the University.
The University is already heavily involved in supporting people seeking asylum and refugees, not only in Leeds but globally as well. It is fantastic to have the University as part of the network.

Feel free to join us and share the event for Refugee Week.

You’re invited!!!

Leeds Volunteer Interpreting Service is a new initiative from Manuel Bravo in partnership with multiple organisations around Leeds.

Our aim is to create a network of volunteer interpreters that can be accessed by multiple services to increase access to vital care, legal appointments, advice and support for vulnerable asylum seekers. We are celebrating the launch of this innovative project and want as many people who are or work with asylum seekers and refugees to attend.

There will be a professional networking event 2-5pm with light refreshments and then the evening do will feature a full buffet with a variety of food styles and entertainment including music and dance from local asylum seekers open to everyone and anyone who wants to join us!

Please do come along and support this project which will change the lives of many people. We would also appreciate it if you could display this poster, share the invite with colleagues and asylum seeker or refugee clients and reach out if you want a digital copy of the poster.