Scottish Refugee Council

Scottish Refugee Council’s PROCESSIONS group was made up of women from Glasgow from at least five different nationalities. The women first came to Scotland seeking refugee protection and not all of them had the right to vote.

This banner was designed and embroidered by women from the refugee community in Glasgow, along with artists, Paria Goodarzi and Helen de Main. The banner features fabric from the women’s home countries, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kurdistan, Pakistan and Iran. Most women with refugee status in the UK are still excluded from voting in Westminster elections.

“The best thing about the workshops has been getting together with other women to share our thoughts and ideas. I’ve enjoyed the mixture of nationalities in the group, meeting new women from different backgrounds and making new friends.”
Zeenat, workshop participant.

“It makes me happy to know that people are speaking up for women’s rights. It’s important that people listen to women so I am happy that we are here and talking about these issues.”
Parween, workshop participant.

“It was a surprise to me to learn about the history of the suffragettes in the UK. I didn’t know about this and it is so totally different from my own cultural background and the history of women I know.”
Aleena, workshop participant.

Scottish Refugee Council are passionate campaigners for refugees – providing vital advice and advocacy since 1985. In 2015 Scottish Refugee Council celebrated 30 years of working to ensure that all refugees in Scotland are treated fairly, with dignity and that their human rights are respected. Their vision is for a Scotland in which all people seeking refugee protection are welcome.