12 June 2026
SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood has visited with members of Derry’s migrant community to offer support following disorder across the North over the past week.
He visited the North West Migrants Forum on Friday to meet with those who had been directly impacted by this week’s violence.
Mr Eastwood also visited Altnagelvin Hospital alongside other SDLP representatives.
Foyle MP Colum Eastwood said:
“It was important to meet with members of Derry’s migrant community today and tell them clearly that they belong here, that this is their home and that people in this city stand with them. Migrants are part of the lifeblood of this city, they care for our loved ones in our hospitals, run businesses creating jobs and investment, contribute to community life and help make this city what it is. They are our friends, neighbours and colleagues and Derry would be poorer without them.
“While thankfully we have not seen the same level of disorder in our city as elsewhere, the scenes over recent days have left many families frightened and uncertain about the future. Nobody should be afraid to go to work, send their children to school or live peacefully in their own home because of who they are or where they come from.
“What has happened over the past week has been driven by racism and hatred. The response from people in Derry has shown the very best of our city. We have seen people come together, stand in solidarity and make clear that racism will never be tolerated here.
“Derry has always been a city that opens its arms to people and we will not allow a small minority to undermine the values that define us.”