In a bustling area of South London, within one of the city’s most economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, the holiday spirit is in full swing. At the Oasis St Martin’s Village hub in Tulse Hill, a Christmas celebration is underway, marking the launch of the inaugural ‘Together at Christmas’ community meal initiative. This event is part of a series of pilot programs planned for the 2025 holiday season, with the goal of expanding to 1,000 meals by the following Christmas.
Amid concerns raised by church and faith leaders regarding attempts by the Far Right to politicize Christmas, grassroots leaders, faith organizations, charities, and businesses have united under the banner of We Are United. Their mission is to combat division and polarization in society by fostering connections, inclusivity, and hope through community-led initiatives like Together at Christmas.
The concept behind these gatherings is simple yet profound: bringing people together over a shared meal to promote unity and understanding. These events, which are open to all members of the community, offer a space for individuals to forge connections, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company, all supported by local volunteers and community partners who believe in the importance of combating loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging, especially during the holiday season.
While some have sought to use Christmas as a tool to drive wedges between communities, others, like London Mayor Sadiq Khan, have emphasized the importance of love, unity, and compassion during this festive period. Across the country, ‘Together at Christmas’ events have been held, with individuals from diverse backgrounds coming together to share in the joy of the season.
Through initiatives like these, communities are pushing back against divisive rhetoric and embracing the values of togetherness and mutual support. By breaking bread together and celebrating their shared humanity, people are finding common ground and building bridges across differences. As one community leader aptly put it, “We really need each other. People need people. We just need to help each other.”
Looking ahead, the organizers of ‘Together at Christmas’ are hopeful that these gatherings will continue to grow and expand, serving as a beacon of unity and goodwill for years to come. To get involved or express interest in hosting a ‘We Are United – Together At Christmas’ event next year, individuals can reach out via email at peopleunite@oasisuk.org.