Some people may argue that Brexit has defined British identity in a very specific and rigid way which is not inclusive of varied cultures from all over the world. A large portion of the immigrant population views the policies as a threat in a city with the highest number of immigrants globally. Statistics show that people from around 50 countries reside in London itself, speaking over 300 different languages. So in such a varied country, the hostile climate caused by Brexit forms a huge threat to the society which has over the years become accustomed to diversity.
What does Brexit say about immigrants?
Back in 2015, Theresa May, British Prime Minister, made a series of comments which came as a shock to many. She said:
“There are millions of people in poorer countries who would love to live in Britain, and there is a limit to the amount of immigration any country can and should take.”
May is credited with creating this climate, because of the Windrush Scandal and Hostile Environment policy which prevents some recognised refugees from getting British citizenship because of the way they entered the UK in the first place.
These policies are in a way responsible for a massive increase of immigrants being stripped of their citizenship. In fact, 2017 saw a 600% increase of citizens being deprived of citizenship, according to the Centre for Migration Studies, Home Department.
In response to these policies, many people came forward to criticize the atmosphere that she is alleged to have created. Simon Walker, director general of the Institute of Directors, commented:
“The myth of the job-stealing-immigrant is nonsense. Immigrants do not steal jobs, they help fill vital skill shortages and, in doing so, create demand and more jobs. If they did steal jobs, we wouldn’t have the record levels of employment we currently do.”
In agreement, Refugee Council chief executive Maurice Wren said:
“The Home Secretary's clear intention to close Britain's border to refugees fleeing for their lives is thoroughly chilling, as is her bitter attack on the fundamental principle enshrined in international law that people fleeing persecution should be able to claim asylum in Britain.”
The 2016 referendum has left the country split down the middle, with many dissatisfied with what it means for immigrants as thousands of people have protested on the streets and signed petitions. They have also written to their MPs regarding the welcoming of refugees who are fleeing for their lives and, they claim, should be given shelter.
What makes Britain so popular with immigrants?
The majority of people come to Britain with a hope for a better life, which can be attributed to the positive economic and labour market. This increases the employment opportunities, seemingly making Britain a land of prosperity. Language, study options and easy immigration policies urge individuals to relocate to the UK.
Besides the inflow of Asian migrants, many people from the EU also want to relocate but with the restrictions caused by the ban on free movement, the difficulties have increased.
It has been almost three years since the referendum in 2016 and yet the public is still in a state of confusion and chaos. This is hardly surprising as there hasn't been a stable leadership and clarity of action on behalf of the government or the opposition.
London as a multicultural hub
This city has always had multiculturalism embedded in its history and over the years London has slowly absorbed people from different nationalities, cultures and ethnicities. Many people have become so accustomed to such varied cultures that it has become a part of their daily lives and even identity.
Be it the lip-smacking shawarma on Edgware or the amazing Indian curry in Southall or even a Thai massage, these things have become indispensable to many individuals. People can now enjoy food from different parts of the world right outside their doorsteps. London is a part of the various festivals celebrated by the immigrant population which has become an excellent example for religious tolerance.
Reactions from Elephant and Castle
As the infographic above shows, among all the boroughs in London, Elephant and Castle is the most inclusive when it comes to immigrants. Due to this factor and large Hispanic population, this area has come to be known as the ‘Latin Quarter of London’. This area also hosts communities from the Caribbean, North Africa and the Middle East, which reinforces the area as ethnically diverse. An example is the Elephant and Castle Shopping Centre, which has 44 different stores run by people from a variety of ethnic groups.
What does it mean to be British?
In a series of interviews with the shopkeepers and employees in the Elephant and Castle Shopping Centre, it becomes clear that many see themselves as British even if they are from different ethnic or regional backgrounds. This projects that being British is a part of their identity as they have become an integral part of the community. Stripping this away could mean dismantling an important part of that identity. The word British then does not become synonymous with just one ethnic group but the amalgamation of world culture.
Anonymous, cashier, born in London, said:
“Brexit is a bad thing, Britain has never stood on its own.”
Loveth, shop assistant, born in Nigeria, said:
“It is not the best decision as it is affecting people.”
Anonymous, tutor, born in London, said:
“Brexit feels opposite of British as it is exclusionist, racist and doesn't welcome other cultures.”
Imad Mighal, shopkeeper, from Egypt, said:
“Brexit is just a political gimmick which has divided the country.”
As illustrated by these quotes, the various threads which had formed a unique fabric of society can be seen slowly withering away due to Brexit. It can be argued that cultural discrimination should be ignored, as it leads to racism and otherization. Many agree that there needs to be a change in the policies and regressive ideologies. A country which has got used to a range of different people looks as though it is being pushed back centuries.
This thought can be perfectly summed up in the words of Antonio Guterres:
“The fact that societies are becoming increasingly multi-ethnic, multicultural, and multi-religious is good. Diversity is a strength, not a weakness.”