Bedford Borough Council has announced a vibrant programme of events for Refugee Week 2025, taking place from Wednesday 18 June to Sunday 22 June at The Higgins Bedford and at Bedford Charter Market. This year’s national theme, ‘Community is a Superpower’, will be brought to life through workshops, art displays, and opportunities to hear directly from people with lived experience of seeking refuge.
Highlights include:
- Poetry Workshop with Malka Al-Haddad (Friday 20 June, 11am–1pm, booking essential): Award-winning Iraqi academic, women’s rights activist, and poet Malka Al-Haddad will lead a creative workshop for people with lived experience of seeking refuge, exploring themes of exile and hope.
- Creative Workshop with Bern O’Donoghue (Saturday 21 June, 11am–3pm, free drop-in): Join socially engaged artist Bern O’Donoghue to create artworks inspired by this year’s theme, celebrating the power of community.
- Refugee Week Market Stall (Wednesday 18 June, 11am–3pm, Bedford Market): Meet staff and volunteers from BRASS (Bedford Refugee & Asylum Seeker Support) and discover the full programme of events.
- Art Displays (Friday 20 – Sunday 22 June): View posters and artworks made by local people with lived experience of seeking refuge, all on the theme of ‘Community is a Superpower’.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said, “Refugee Week is an opportunity for everyone in Bedford Borough to come together, listen, and learn from those who have sought safety here.
“This year’s theme, ‘Community is a Superpower’, reminds us that our strength lies in welcoming and supporting one another. I encourage residents to join these events, celebrate the contributions of refugees, and help make Bedford an even more inclusive place for all.”
For more information about Refugee Week 2025 events and how you can get involved, visit the The Higgins Bedford website; https://www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk/Whats_on/Refugee-Week.aspx