Liverpool’s diverse communities are to celebrate their culture and the contribution they have made to the city in a special event at the Town Hall.
It will mark International Migrants Day on Wednesday 18 December.
The day was officially recognised over ten years ago by the United Nations, to mark the anniversary of the signing of the UN Convention on the Rights of Migrant Workers and their families.
This will be taking place for the third time in the city and the first time after Liverpool acquired City of Sanctuary status, welcoming everybody to the city and recognising contributions made by migrant communities.
There will be celebrations taking place across the UK. The one organised by Liverpool City Council will provide migrant communities with an opportunity to showcase their culture and heritage to key decision makers in the city, representative of services and each other. Events will focus on promoting positive image of migration and achievements of members of those communities.
The event will be opened by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Councillor Gary Millar, who said; “This day is a great opportunity to celebrate the contribution very many communities have made and continue to make to Liverpool.
“Liverpool has a special place in the history of migration as countless numbers travelled through the port on their way to new lives. But it was not just a gateway for migrants as the history of the city was built on waves of migrants who have enriched the life of the city.
“Liverpool now has the status of City of Sanctuary and we should be proud that so many communities have chosen to make their home here and I am looking forward to seeing diverse cultures celebrated.”
Entertainment for the evening will be provided by a number of the community groups with traditional singing and dancing.
Samiq Nuriyev, owner of Santino restaurant on Smithdown Road and successful entrepreneur, said: “I am happy to be a part of this fantastic celebration. As a migrant myself I know how difficult it can be for people to arrive in a new Country and make it your home. When I first came to Liverpool I spoke very little English. Now, 13 years later I am a successful businessman and my newly opened restaurant just won a Restaurant of the Year 2013 award. I think we should promote success stories of people who migrated here. I’ve made Liverpool my home and my success”
