Experiences of asylum policy and systemic racism in the UK and France
Refugee Action present their brand-new report ‘Locked Out and Locked Up’ through a compelling panel discussion highlighting the experiences of asylum policy and the urgent need to address racism in the asylum system in the UK and France, featuring Jonathan Kazembe (Refugee Action) Fatima Mahmood (Race Equality network) Ben Whittam & Haleemah Alaydi (Refugee Action report Co-Authors)
This discussion will build on the first phase of research on asylum as a racial justice issue and goes further by examining recent and intensifying trends in UK asylum policy that reinforce systemic racism within the asylum system and beyond the UK’s borders.
The research has been led by researchers with lived and learned experience of the UK asylum system and is grounded in qualitative research carried out on both sides of the UK–France border.
The event will feature a panel discussion and audience Q&A.
About the panel
Ben Whitham
TitleSenior Policy and Research Officer
Organisation Refugee Action
Jonathon Kazembe
Jonathan Kazembe is the Expert by Experience Manager at Refugee Action. He has a background in teaching and facilitating previously working for Freedom From Torture as Service User Group Coordinator.
Yolande Ghola
Moved to UK from DRC in 2002 and has since settled in Salford. Mother of 3.
Studies: BSc in Health and Social Health, Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE 14+), Master in Health, Social Care and Wellbeing.
Elected member (Councillor) at the City of Salford since 2022, representing residents of Lower Irlam and Cadishead.
Lecturer at Scholar School System Manchester (2023-24). Funder and CEO of Salford Community Upskilling CIC, based in Salford and supporting migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers across Greater Manchester with English and digital skills, as well as health and wellbeing matters.
Fatima mahamood
With a BSc in International Politics from the University of Huddersfield and a MSc in Human Rights and Politics from the London School of Economics and Political Science, I am currently working in the charity sector where I focus on community organising, advocacy, and research. My commitment to social justice and empowering marginalised communities has shaped my career, as I work towards creating impactful change at the grassroots and international level. With a deep understanding of global human rights issues and a hands-on approach to community engagement, I have contributed to several initiatives that aim to amplify the voices of those most affected by inequalities. Through collaboration, grassroots organising, facilitation skills and strategic advocacy, I work with diverse groups to tackle systemic challenges, build solidarity connections and amplify the voices of marginalised communities.
Live music in the Ground Floor Cafe
Before the panel discussion event, you are invited to enjoy a live acoustic performance by Waran Music Group in HOME’s Ground Floor Café from 5-6pm.
Waran’s music is currently a diverse mix of several nationalities including Kurds, Persians, Lorestan, Irish and Arab, and is open to all nationalities and different styles of music that can be part of Waran's message engagement.
Following the panel discussion event, you are invited to enjoy a live performance by RAS VOICE Band on HOME’s Ground Floor Café Stage from 20:30pm.
The RAS VOICE Band is a lived-experience band supported by Refugee Action. Featuring Sakuba Diala, Nicole, and Princess Dia, and supported by Jonathan Kazembe, the group uses music and voice to shed light on the challenges faced by queer and trans migrants in the UK. Join us for a performance that transforms struggle into powerful advocacy and community connection.
