Several hundred gathered outside Downing Street yesterday for a protest vigil to demand David Cameron does more to help refugees across Europe with winter fast approaching. Michelline Ngongo, a refugee from DR Congo and founder of education charity Light Project Pro International, told the crowd that 9 refugees had died on this day (12 November) across Europe, and said more would follow unless governments do more.
Protesters lit candles and held placards reading “Refugees Welcome Here” and “Open The Borders”. There was also solidarity from trade unionists in the London UCU branch who brought along their banner to the vigil.
Weyman Bennett Joint Organiser of Stand up to racism said; “Thousands of people could freeze to death in camps this winter because David Cameron is telling them there is no room at the inn. Well Cameron does not speak for us; we want to welcome refugees here.” He also urged people to support the Stand Up To Racism Winter Appeal by raising money for refugees in Calais.
Sabby Dhalu Joint Organiser of Stand up to racism added: “Across Europe we are seeing refugees without proper shelter, warmth, food and sanitation and aid agencies lacking resources to cope. In 21st century Europe human beings should not be living like this. With winter approaching unless EU governments including Britain step up and do more, this situation will worsen.”
Just last week Peter Sutherland, the UN’s Special Representative for International Migration, warned David Cameron not to turn his back on refugees as winter gets closer.