Local Resident Defends Migrants Amid Kent Anti-Immigration Protests

Anti-immigration protests are set to take place in Kent this Saturday, targeting the Napier Barracks in Folkestone, following similar demonstrations in Canterbury and Faversham. Local resident Jacqueline Durban has voiced her support for the migrants residing at the former Ministry of Defence site, emphasizing their positive impact on the community and urging against the scapegoating of vulnerable populations.

Durban expressed her concern over the rising anti-immigration sentiment in the country, which she believes is fueled by misinformation and fearmongering from influential figures. She shared her personal experiences over the past five years living near Folkestone, where she witnessed the arrival of migrants who are often labeled as “illegal.”

Describing her proximity to the barracks, which houses around 450 men, Durban recounted how local residents initially welcomed the newcomers with a community festival. The event was marked by shared activities like volleyball, dancing, and cultural exchanges. She remarked on the sense of community that developed, stating, “They enrich the fabric of our lives, or would if we let them.”

Regular interactions between locals and the migrants have fostered a sense of camaraderie. Durban noted that the men often engage in community activities, such as helping with gardening and participating in local events. “When our neighbours’ dog was lost, they helped us look,” she recalled fondly. Such gestures highlight the mutual support and respect that has emerged.

Despite their challenging circumstances, including restrictions on working and limited financial support of £9 per week, the migrants have been proactive in contributing to the community. Some have organized lessons for their peers, while others assist in local food initiatives, ensuring that surplus produce reaches schools and charities.

Durban highlighted the challenges faced by the migrants, particularly the abrupt notifications they receive about relocations. “One man I knew had a wife and young children in the north of England but was not allowed to live with them or even visit,” she explained. Such policies, which lack consideration for family connections, add to the distress experienced by those seeking asylum.

She underscored the resilience of the migrants, noting their acceptance of difficult situations without expressing anger or bitterness. “They are good neighbours,” she asserted. “I will not stand by and allow my neighbours, members of my community, to be scapegoated.”

As protests intensify, the timeline for the Napier Barracks has evolved significantly since its opening in 2020 under the Conservative government. Originally established to house asylum seekers amid rising hotel costs, the site has faced various challenges, including a fire in 2021 that led to arrests. In 2022, the High Court ruled the accommodation unlawful and inadequate, prompting legal challenges from asylum seekers.

The barracks were initially scheduled to close in September 2025, with plans for the site to be returned to the Ministry of Defence. However, recent developments suggest it may remain operational until early next year, with future plans for housing developments by Taylor Wimpey.

In the face of growing opposition to immigration, Durban’s perspective offers a poignant reminder of the human experiences behind the headlines. Her call for empathy and understanding resonates as communities grapple with the complexities of migration and integration.