6 of us went to the Labour Party conference to try to lobby delegates to the conference. We found a brilliant space at the back exit to the hotel, where there were a steady stream of people coming out of the main hall. The pictures of Annociate proved quite effective. We gave out 200 leaflets in all, and some supportive people promised to copy more and distribute inside the conference. I am not particularly good at recognising MP's, but the ones we did speak to included Hazel Blears "Thankyou I will read this" Tony Benn "I will see what I can do", John Cowan (PPC for South Cmbs) "Please keep me informed". We spoke to lots of people. I also spoke on a soapbox outside the hotel, although the audience were mainly policemen- but this did lead to me being introduced to Denis Afernado who was helping to organise a fringe event on "Multiculturalism's role in Modern Society" for which the speakers included Keith Vaz, Doreen Lawrence (mother of Stephen), Pav Akhtar (Unison) Soumaya Ghannoushi (Researcher, School of Oriental and African Studies) Mohammed Azim (NAAR) Before the meeting I was able to speak to Keith Vaz, who was very supportive. He then mentioned Annociate in his speech. After the speeches I asked the first question and talked about Annociate. Everyone was very supportive. Doreen Lawrence said we could use her name as a supporter.I returned to Sheffield feeling much more confident that we can still win this campaign. But now we only have 3 days left. We need to double our efforts!
2 comments:
Steve Biko never gave up,Dr Martin Luther King,jr never gave up,William Wilbeforce never gave up, Kwame Nkrumah never gave up, what you are doing is amazing, it will prove to the many Burundians and other Immigrants who fear deportation that there are still some People who stand for what is morally right.Already,a number of People were deported back to Burundi and other Countries, UK can turn around the system in favour to those who only want to rebuild their lives, and are willing to contribute to the British's economy.Our Humanity relies in the way we relate to others, especially those who are from different Culture,Religion and Country.I remember that despite what my Country Burundi went through, the most affected People in the Country have always showed open arms to those fleeing other Conflicts, yes, a poor Country like Burundi still welcomes Refugees from other Countries, how much more Britain?While the World is grieved by Human Rights conditions of some Countries, UK should show an example that it gives a chance to People to have a better life on its soil, not just People who are wealthy but anyone starting from scratch.
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