Refugee Festival Scotland has launched its 25th anniversary programme of more than 150 events “celebrating art, culture and community” across the country from June 13 to 22.
ARTISTS and performers from more than 30 countries will take part in events ranging from dance performances and music workshops to film screenings and cookery classes centred on the theme of Milestones.
Festival ambassador Shahid Khan said: “Refugee Festival Scotland is a celebration — not just of culture and diversity, but of possibility.
“This year, let us honour every milestone reached — and work together to remove the barriers that still remain.
“The more we foster kindness, opportunity, and mentorship, the more milestones we’ll see for all of us.”
As the Scottish Refugee Council celebrates its own 40th anniversary milestone, its chief executive, Sabir Zazai, added: “Last summer, racist riots swept across parts of the UK, creating fear in refugee and migrant communities.
“None of us ever want to see anything like that again. By uniting against these acts of violence and hostility, we’re showing that a better way is possible.
“Refugee Festival Scotland is an antidote to the negativity and hostility.”

OLIVER SNELLING, a south London stonecarver and yeoman stonemason, relates how he is helping bring about a new festival next month

