The Leader opened the event with a speech before the Council bosses heard from individuals and families, listening first hand to success stories from refugees and migrants who have secured higher education, employment and business start ups. They shared stories of their journey, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to become equal and contributing members of Wolverhampton’s society.
The sterling work of the Refugee and Migrant Centre was highlighted and many of the refugees, asylum seekers and migrants supported by the charity have gone on to be volunteers there.
Wolverhampton is a City of Sanctuary and is committed to being a place of welcome and safety for asylum seekers, migrants and refugees.
Syrian refugee, Ghousoun Albakari, said: "The event was very nice and I enjoyed meeting everyone, especially the leader of the Council. He was very nice and easy to talk to. I feel he understands what refugees are going through. I am so happy to live in such a welcoming city."
Councillor Brookfield added: “Wolverhampton has a long history of welcoming people from all over the globe to our city, and as a council we are proud to be a City of Sanctuary.
“I was delighted to meet refugees, asylum seekers and migrants who we have helped as a city at their time of need, and they are now repaying that help by making fantastic contributions to Wolverhampton.
“And I must praise the outstanding work the Refugee and Migrant Centre do alongside city partners to enable refugees, asylum seekers and migrants to rebuild their lives.”
A gallery of photos from the visit is also available at Flickr.
