Syrian Refugees Find Community and Hope on the Isle of Bute

The Isle of Bute has welcomed over 100 Syrian refugees fleeing civil war, providing them a safe haven while posing questions about their sense of home. Locals have supported their integration, with some refugees starting businesses and raising families. As political developments in Syria offer hope for return, many refugees reflect on the balance between past ties and present lives.

Bute, a small island off Scotland’s west coast, has embraced over 100 Syrian refugees in the past decade. These individuals fled the brutal civil war in Syria, relocating to Rothesay, a quiet town with a population of 4,000, more than 2,000 miles away from their homeland. Many have successfully integrated into the community, raising children and establishing thriving businesses, while some have acquired UK citizenship.

The recent fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime has revived hopes among refugees of returning to Syria, yet it raises complex questions about their concept of home. The initial group of Syrian refugees arrived in Rothesay in December 2015, totaling 125 individuals, including 17 babies born to those families. Mounzer Darsani, who fled his barbershop in Damascus in 2011, faced significant cultural adjustments upon his arrival in Scotland.

Despite the trauma of losing loved ones and enduring a devastating war, Mounzer has found a supportive community in Rothesay where he operates two salons. He is now considering a visit to Syria to reunite with relatives, despite his children lacking memories of their birthplace. He remarked, “My kids have all their lives here,” reflecting on their roots in Bute.

Youssef Al Najjar, who arrived in 2017 after escaping Aleppo, has also settled well, feeling grateful for the community’s warmth and support. While he mourns family members lost to the civil war, he expressed contentment in Rothesay, stating, “I’m not going back to Syria because lots of my family died there. My kids were born here, and we’re very happy here.”

Although many Syrian refugees have moved on to larger cities like Glasgow, approximately 35 remain in Bute, with Yahya Fasi leading Helmi’s bakery, a beloved establishment that began with fellow refugees. Yahya, who arrived during the pandemic, shared sentiments about feeling at home in Rothesay, where he now sees his future.

Initially, the arrival of Syrian refugees prompted some resistance in the community. Nonetheless, local organizations and residents offered a warm welcome, assisting newcomers in their adjustment. As Angela Callaghan from Bute Oasis stated, “You just cannae imagine what they have been through.” Over time, many locals have come to appreciate the kindness of the Syrian families.

Reflecting on his journey, Mounzer considers himself fortunate to possess citizenship in both countries, recognizing the fulfillment he has found in Bute. He expressed, “I am too lucky because I have two countries, two citizenships, and I can live anywhere I want, but I prefer here because my best time I spent here, with very good people.”

The integration of Syrian refugees into the Isle of Bute highlights the complexities of identity, belonging, and community resilience amidst challenges. While many newcomers have found a sense of safety and acceptance in Rothesay, the pull of their homeland remains strong. Ultimately, the experiences shared by these individuals illustrate the profound impact of war on family, culture, and personal aspirations, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of home.

Original Source: www.bbc.com