Faces and voices of “Refugees are welcome here” rally in London

Photos and quick interviews with a refugee and a city council worker

On September 14, thousands congregated in Central London to show the British government support for a more generous refugee policy.

Sam Ziaee, 23, pictured below: “I’m here to support the people who have had to leave their houses because of war. I’m from Afghanistan originally; I think I understand them a little bit, I come from part of them. I heard about this and thought: I have to be here — it’s a responsibility. I hope that this is going to be helpful for them, and that they can find a safe place to stay.”

Silver-haired woman pictured above: “My name is Viv. I’m from Worcestershire, and I work in Birmingham City Council’s Social Services. Since May, I’ve been ashamed to be part of this country. Today, I am proud again, seeing the strength of feeling of everyone coming together for something that’s right. The world was created without boundaries. We don’t own parts of the planet; we’re not here for long enough! I believe that the world’s a richer place if we all join together.”