Residents across Barking and Dagenham are invited to come together from 15 to 21 June to celebrate Refugee Week 2026, the world's largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary.
The week provides an opportunity for communities to connect, learn from one another and celebrate the diversity that makes Barking and Dagenham such a vibrant borough. This year's theme, Courage, recognises the strength and determination shown by people seeking safety and building new lives.
A range of free events - open to everyone - will take place across the borough throughout the week, including:
- Phosphoros Theatre Workshop – Tuesday 16 June, 4pm to 6pm at Dagenham Library. A theatre and drama workshop exploring the theme of Courage. Aimed at children aged 3 to 11.
- Outdoor Family Picnic – Saturday 20 June, 12pm to 5pm at Kingsley Hall. A community picnic featuring food, music, arts and crafts activities for children.
- Traditional Afghan Kite-Making Workshop – Saturday 21 June from 12pm at Barking Learning Centre. Residents aged eight and over are invited to learn about this cultural tradition and create their own kite. Children must be supervised by an adult.
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: "Refugee Week is a celebration of the courage, resilience and contributions of refugees and people seeking sanctuary who are part of our community. Barking and Dagenham is proud to be a welcoming borough, and these events provide an opportunity for residents to come together, learn from one another, and celebrate the diversity that strengthens us all.
"I encourage everyone to take part in the activities taking place throughout the week and help us show the warmth, inclusion and community spirit that define our borough."
Residents can find out more about Refugee Week activities and how to get involved through the council's website www.lbbd.gov.uk/RefugeeWeek