Congolese Political Refugees
Among the most recent migrants to Britain have been the Zaireans seeking political asylum. This community of about four thousand people, lives in east and north London. Their arrival has come at a time when European countries, through the European Union, are tightening immigration laws. Only a very limited number of Zaireans have been granted refugee status.
In response to these problems, the Community of Zairean Refugees in Great Britain (COREZAG) was formed in 1993. This organisation addresses social problems facing refugees in Britain. It also seeks to defend Zaireans in establishing legal status and supports them when they are in prison or detained at various ports of entry. I have worked with COREZAG, documenting these newest settlers who are trying to establish viable lives. Recent changes in Zaire are an example of how Empire Windrush is keyed into developing events in the world and how these changes affect people living in Britain. After the extraordinary events in Central Africa, the reason for immigration (now) Congolese political refugees has been lifted and COREZAG is presently helping these once politcal refugees return to their homeland.