This was the rallying cry that echoed round the beautiful hall at 422 Community Hub
on Stockport Road, Longsight, Manchester on Saturday 16th September 2023.
This was an important day marking the official launch of the Syrian Community Council and
volunteers from Manchester City of Sanctuary were delighted to be part of the
celebrations. This well organised day gave us an insight in the determination and
resilience of the Syrian community as they work to help members of their community
seeking to rebuild their lives in the north west. It was an honour to be there.
Both Joyous and Moving
This was an amazingly happy day, highlighting the history of Syrians in the Manchester area and outlining a vision of future work. There were speeches from a range of visiting dignitaries – for example, Yasmine Dar, Mayor of Manchester, Bev Craig leader of Manchester City Council, Kate Green, deputy mayor of Greater Manchester, and also the local MP, Afzal Khan.
As well as an official ribbon cutting by Bev Craig there was also a moving moment of silence led by local children who held up signs proclaiming solidarity with Libya and Morocco following the recent catastrophic events in those countries.
Following the solemn opening, members of the local Syrian communities across the region clapped and cheered. Balloons popped, children shrieked with laughter, and chased around Mickey Mouse. The pride in Syrian culture, dress, and music was on evident display as we enjoyed traditional Damascene drumming followed by THE most spectacular dancing with spinning and whirling and lights!
Important Work
Syria has been a country devastated by war with at least half a million people killed
and millions more fleeing. The Syrian Community Council has a goal to promote
social inclusion for the benefit of people in Greater Manchester and Manchester City
of Sanctuary was proud to be part of their special launch day.
For further information about the work of the SCC:
422 Stockport Road, Manchester, M12 4EX
syriancouncil.org.uk