#WordsOfKindness—refugee campaign launch

In the lead up to World Refugee Day, Refugee Voices is launching a campaign to support people who are locked up in Australia’s detention system.

The campaign is called #WordsOfKindness and invites the public to record voice messages of support and kindness for people who have been isolated from their families and the world for prolonged periods of time. The messages will be delivered throughout Australia’s Refugee week, 20-26 June 2021.

Approximately 150 people are currently being held in makeshift detention across Australia, many in hotel rooms, after arriving from Manus and Nauru under medevac legislation. Some have been locked up for over eight years, with no certainty about when or if they will be released.

The toll of indefinite and prolonged detention is severe, and many refugees are experiencing deteriorating mental and physical health.

The director of Refugee Voices, Ahmad Hakim, says, ‘The aim of the campaign is to remind the refugees that there are many people across Australia who welcome them to this country, and that they are not alone.’

‘These people came to Australia seeking our protection but instead have been separated from their families and isolated from the world and the Australian government is adding to their misery and the difficulties they are facing. This campaign delivers voices of support to lift their spirits, and connect the community more strongly with one another.'

Refugee Voices has created a web page where the public can record their messages, either through their phone or computer microphone.

The webpage will be launched on 20th May 2021 and will be open for voice message recording until World Refugee Day, 20th June 2021. The messages will be delivered to refugees throughout Australia’s Refugee Week, 20-26 June 2021. The theme for 2021 Refugee Week is Unity—the way forward.

Web page: Words Of Kindness

Live on 20 May 2021

For interviews and information:

Ahmad Hakim, Founder and Director, refugeevoicesaustralia@gmail.com