In just 48 hours, more than 2,000 people – including Oxfordshire MPs Calum Miller, Olly Glover, and Charlie Maynard, alongside faith leaders, academics, GPs, trade unionists, and community representatives – have added their names to an open letter calling for "unity and compassion in Oxfordshire (and beyond)".
The letter, organised by Asylum Welcome, raises deep concerns about the rise in hostility towards people seeking asylum in our county. It condemns the use of dehumanising language and the intimidation faced by asylum seekers living in local hotels.
"Vulnerable people are being used as a political football. Our clients tell us they feel frightened and unwelcome when they see hostility directed at the places where they are forced to live. Many are already traumatised by what they have endured, and these actions deepen their isolation and despair.
At the same time, we also witness asylum seekers' resilience, dignity, mutual solidarity and eagerness to contribute to British society. Their perspective, and the compassion shown by many local people, is too often missing from public debate."
Councillor Dr Hosnieh Djafari-Marbini, who represents the ward where the Oxford asylum hotel is located, said:
"As the Independent Councillor for Northfield Brook – and Oxford's first Migrant Champion – I know that many of our residents are from migrant backgrounds. I also know that many in our multi-ethnic working-class communities – white, brown, Black and mixed – are struggling to make ends meet. The answer is not to blame each other.
My own family arrived in Oxford from Iran when I was a teenager, after my father was granted asylum. We were able to come here through a safe route, as they existed then. My family and I were lucky to be placed in community accommodation when we were granted asylum. Instead of paying millions to profit-driven corporations for hotel rooms, the government should provide safe, cost-effective accommodation in our communities."
Asylum Welcome's Joint CEO, Hari Reed, added:
"We're living through difficult times, and acts of kindness make a world of difference. We are incredibly grateful to our supporters and volunteers, who represent the welcoming face of Oxfordshire. This response shows that our community rejects division and stands alongside people seeking sanctuary. We invite everyone who shares these values to stand with us, sign the letter, and support our work."
You can read and sign the open letter here: tinyurl.com/aw-letter.
To support our vital work with refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants in Oxfordshire, please visit www.asylum-welcome.org/donate
