Should we stay or should we go?

At a packed Westminster venue, Communities for Europe was launched on Wednesday evening. The project promotes the value of the United Kingdom remaining within the European Union. It is an initiative of the European Movement UK, a grass-roots, non partisan organisation, working to give a voice to those who believe that Britain’s future lies side by side with our European partners.

The event was opened by Anuja Prashar, a graduate of OBV's Parliamentary Shadowing Scheme and the Liberal Democat EU Champion for London. She spoke passionately about the deficit of knowledge which exists and the need to impart information through grassroots engagement. She stated that, " this is a historic vote and misinformation must not win the debate".

The project plans to focus on outreach to the diverse communities of Britain in preparation for the EU Referendum on June 23rd 2016. The outreach programme aims to address the lack of knowledge among the general population about EU operations and it's impact upon their everyday lives. For example, a recent study issued by the London School of Ecnomics estimates that quitting the EU cost cost every British family £6400 an equivalent cut to incomes of the 2008 banking crisis.

The project will also ensure that communities are provided an opportunity to get the facts and freely discuss the issues of migration and the EU referendum, and it’s impact upon race & ethnic relations within the UK.

Events will be held in local groups, faith institutions and through a number of community-based organisations and Communities for Europe invite individuals to join the debate and host a meeting, for which they will provide speakers. The Sikh Federation have given their full backing to the initiative and have committed to hosting events in the Town Halls of all the 32 London boroughs.

Lord Paddy Ashdown, President of the European Movement, spoke convincingly about the successes of the European Union. He asked, "when thinking about the forthcoming referendum, I ask myself what kind of a world do I want my grandchildren to grow up in? Do I want an isolated Britain?". He proceeded to talk about the success of European integration, stating, "instead of slaughtering ourselves about borders, we can now celebrate our status as Europeans. " He continued, "The beast of nationalism is loose again and if we lose that dream, the Europe of decency will be replaced by destructive nationalism. "

If you would like to get involved with the project or hold your own community meeting, contact www.commmunitiesforeurope.org

Francine Fernandes