In South London, away from the bustling main road, the holiday spirit is in full swing in one of the city’s most disadvantaged areas. At the Oasis St Martin’s Village hub in Tulse Hill, a festive Christmas party is underway, featuring a variety of foods from cheese sandwiches to beetroot cake, accompanied by houmous and olives. The venue is adorned with a twinkling Christmas tree and a large tropical fig tree illuminated with festive lights.
This event marks the beginning of the inaugural ‘Together at Christmas’ community meal initiative, part of a series of pilot gatherings planned for the 2025 holiday season. The aim is to expand this initiative to host 1,000 meals by the following Christmas.
Amid concerns from church and faith leaders about the Far Right’s attempts to politicize Christmas, a sense of unity and togetherness is being fostered through initiatives like ‘We Are United.’ This movement aims to combat societal division and promote connection through community-led events, such as shared meals.
The Christmas meals, which are free to attend, bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds to share food, stories, and companionship. Volunteers and community partners support these gatherings with the belief that everyone should feel valued and included, especially during the holiday season.
Recognizing the challenges that some individuals face during Christmas, the initiative seeks to create a sense of community and belonging. It emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and solidarity, sending a message of acceptance and support to all participants.
The holiday season has also seen various events across the country under the ‘Together at Christmas’ banner, from Hull to Slough to London. These gatherings serve as a response to divisive forces, promoting unity and understanding among communities.
Through shared meals and communal activities, people are finding common ground and building relationships that transcend differences. The message of inclusivity and unity resonates strongly, emphasizing the value of coming together during the festive season.
As the movement grows, the hope is for more communities to embrace the spirit of togetherness and extend a warm welcome to all, regardless of background or beliefs. By fostering connections and promoting dialogue, these initiatives aim to bridge divides and foster a sense of community cohesion.
For those interested in organizing a ‘We Are United – Together At Christmas’ event for the upcoming holiday season, registration can be done by emailing peopleunite@oasisuk.org.