2024 has been a whirlwind year for These Walls Must Fall, marked by moments of triumph, heartbreak, and resilience. For those of us with lived experience navigating the hostile environment, each year brings its own set of challenges—but also new opportunities to fight for justice alongside our allies.

This year tested our patience, resilience, and determination, yet our community stood strong through it all. In Liverpool and Manchester, we’ve built a loving, supportive network ready to mobilise in times of need. It’s this collective strength that has fuelled our work and led to key victories in the fight for migrant justice.

Victories Worth Celebrating

One of the most significant moments of 2024 was the closure of the Bibby Stockholm barge– a place we long argued was inhumane and unfit for housing vulnerable people. Together with Merseyside Solidarity Knows No Borders and other allies, we highlighted the devastating impact the barge had on residents’ lives. We held vigils, including one to honour the life of a man who tragically passed away aboard the barge. These actions reminded us of the power of collective anger channeled into action.

Our Liverpool community also mobilised weekly to support people at the Home Office building, amplifying the stories of those directly impacted by the hostile environment. Their resilience and dedication have inspired us all.

In Manchester, our legal education events empowered people in the system with practical tools to navigate detention risks. Through workshops on using the Right to Remain Toolkit, gathering evidence, and preparing for detention, we aimed to restore a sense of agency to those most affected by these policies.

Standing Together Against Hostile Policies

Solidarity sessions this year have brought together organisations and individuals from across the UK to address pressing issues like Rwanda deportations, accessing healthcare, 10 year immigration route, fee waivers, and reporting conditions. These spaces offered opportunities to share strategies and build unity, ensuring no aspect of the hostile environment went undiscussed.

But the pain of witnessing loved ones taken from reporting centres like criminals remains etched in our minds. We’ve worked tirelessly to provide resources and information for those detained, aiming to counter feelings of powerlessness with preparedness.

We also faced unexpected hostility this year, including riots and hate from far-right groups. For already vulnerable communities, this was a heavy blow. Yet the solidarity rally we organised in response brought immense comfort. Seeing allies, friends, and strangers show up in numbers reminded us of the humanity and compassion that exists in the face of hate.

Collaborating for Change

In Greater Manchester, we worked with local organisations to address the fallout from this hate and build stronger connections. A key moment was contributing to the Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit’s document, outlining post-election expectations for migrants and refugees. This effort ensured silenced voices were heard, offering a sense of hope and unity.

We also met with 20 out of 29 MPs in Greater Manchester this year, advocating for a more inclusive and supportive city for refugees and migrants. These meetings were met with warmth and positivity, showing that change is possible when we engage those in positions of power.

Solidarity in Action

 Photo credit: Simone J Rudolphi

The highlight of our year was co-organising the national demonstration to shut down Derwentside Women’s Detention Centre in Durham, and end immigration detention. Manchester led the way, filling a coach with campaigners, allies, and friends, all ready to stand against detention. This collective response showed the growing awareness and determination to challenge the hostile environment and end immigration detention.

Saying Goodbye to a Leader

In November, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Michael Collins, co-founder of Right to Remain and These Walls Must Fall coordinator, as he stepped down after 15 years of service. His leadership has been instrumental in building the communities and campaigns we have today. We celebrated his contributions with food, drinks, and speeches that left us all inspired to continue the fight in his honour.

Ending the Year in Celebration

To close the year, Manchester Resist Deportations invited us to a fundraising event filled with music, poetry, food, and dancing. It was a beautiful reminder of the joy and unity we find in our community, even amid struggles.

As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who has stood with us, campaigners, allies, friends, and community members. Together, we have shown that resilience and solidarity can overcome even the harshest challenges.

Here’s to continuing the fight for justice in 2025. Walls must fall, and together, we will bring them down.

In solidarity,

These Walls Must Fall