Refugee Week is a global event dedicated to learning about and celebrating the stories and contributions of refugees. During this special week, schools and communities come together to explore important themes, host activities, and create a welcoming atmosphere for those who have had to leave their homes due to safety concerns. What Is Refugee Week? Refugee Week is a worldwide festival that shines a light on the experiences of refugees—people who have had to leave their homes or countries because they are no longer safe. Reasons for leaving can include war, danger, or facing unfair treatment. This festival raises awareness about the challenges refugees encounter and encourages communities to show support and understanding. The 2025 Theme: ‘Community as a Superpower’ This year’s Refugee Week, running from 16th to 22nd June, carries the inspiring message: ‘Community as a Superpower’. The theme highlights the amazing things that can happen when people work together, much like a team of superheroes. Communities can provide the strength needed to make the world a better place. Why Is Refugee Week Important? Refugee Week is significant because it encourages everyone to learn, listen, and show kindness to those seeking safety. The week is not only about raising awareness but also about building friendships and supporting refugees as valued members of our communities. It reminds us that small acts of kindness can add up to a powerful force for positive change. As expressed on the Refugee Week website: “Community is the incredible everyday. Ordinary and extraordinary. Simple acts of shared generosity. Kindness multiplied to become an unstoppable force!” How Communities Get Involved Throughout Refugee Week, people are encouraged to spend time together, forge new connections, and make everyone feel welcome. Activities like shared meals, outdoor film screenings, football games, and music-making help bring communities closer and celebrate diversity. Classroom and Assembly Discussions Primary school assemblies and classroom discussions around Refugee Week offer valuable opportunities for students to reflect and connect. Here are some activities and questions to guide conversations: Look at images showing people supporting refugees, such as a mother and daughter at a Manchester rally. Discuss how their actions might help refugees feel supported. Read about Refugee Week and check if there are activities in your local area. Watch informative videos to better understand the theme, ‘Community as a Superpower’. Talk about what community means, and think about how your community can welcome newcomers. Consider how understanding different cultures can help build a more inclusive society. Reflect on the importance of feeling accepted, and discuss ways to help refugees feel safe and valued. Useful Resources For more information about Refugee Week and to view helpful videos and resources, explore the following links: Refugee Week Information Useful Video Share Your Thoughts and Join Discussions Conclusion Refugee Week is an important annual event that brings communities together to support, celebrate, and welcome refugees. Through learning, kindness, and shared activities, everyone can help make their community a true superpower—one that creates hope and friendship for all. * Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample * Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss * Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training
