Blackwater Valley Friends of the Earth (BVFoE) had the pleasure of hosting a film and discussion event at the wonderful West End Centre on the 26th November 2025.
We were taking part in the Climate & Migration Community Film Festival 2025 where stories of climate, displacement, resilience, and hope were brought together. The festival was curated and produced by Counterpoints Arts in partnership with Earth Refuge, Climate & Migrant Justice Organising Group, and the City of Sanctuary UK. The films we chose to watch were Dead As A Dodo (2022, dir. Leena Habiballa) and Thank You For The Rain (dir. Julia Dahr)
The festival coincided with COP30 in Brazil and Climate & Migrant Justice Day (22 Nov), and offered accessible ways for communities across the UK to engage in urgent conversations about climate change, migration, colonialism, and the power of solidarity.
One of our reasons for hosting the event was that of community cohesion. Hostility to some members of our community prevents people feeling safe in their daily life. This should not be happening.
We were privileged to have three local speakers at the event: Bishop Michael Cummins, New Testament Church of God, Aldershot ; Revd Alwyn Pereria, St Michael of the Archangel, Aldershot and Zak. The talks were thought provoking and relevant and included stories of migration, seeking asylum, the good Samaritan, standing up to racism and what is is to be part of a Muslim family in Rushmoor.
Here’s a quote to that sums up part of the evening and the talks.
“The first part of the event was uniting. A warm welcome and introductions helped make me feel connected to those present. That is so important at a time of division in our community.
The speakers were powerful and inspirational. They spoke bravely of their individual experiences as Rushmoor residents some holding roles in the faith and Muslim community which sends a message of hope. A rare opportunity for conversation during the break was brilliant. We had time to share our experiences, ideas and activities which boosted us with energy and strength.” Julia