The protest will launch the Manchester branch of STAR’s national campaign ‘Let Them Work’, to give asylum seekers the right to work during the asylum application process. The campaign is being supported by the Refugee Council and the TUC. Currently the UK’s draconian asylum system prohibits those applying for refugee status the right to work in the UK, leaving many feeling depressed and demoralised.

STAR’s protest this Friday will draw attention to the injustice of the current situation, and raise awareness of the plight of the many unfortunate asylum seekers in the country currently experiencing this ordeal. The action will involve STAR activists and asylum seekers binding their hands to symbolise the unfair restrictions placed on those applying for asylum in this country. STAR, a group based in Manchester Student’s Union, will be joined in the protest by local refugee campaign groups, including Manchester Refugee Support Network and Refugee Action.

It is hoped that many more will come and support the action, find out about the work of STAR, and about the hardships facing refugees and asylum seekers in Manchester. It is estimated that several thousand failed asylum seekers live in Manchester, deprived of the right to work, to get basic public services, and live a life of dignity. The protest on Friday is intended to raise awareness of this deplorable situation and begin a campaign to secure a better life for marginalised asylum seekers and refugees.

For more information contact Ben Cheetham on 07846894351, or Rick Sims on 07891095245.

STUDENT ACTION FOR ASYLUM SEEKERS AND REFUGEES
 starmanchesteruni@gmail.com