Syrian-Dutch citizens launch the "We Rise" campaign to make their voices heard in migration discussions.
A group of Syrian-Dutch citizens has launched a new organization called We Rise, aimed at voicing their opinions in the ongoing debate about immigration in the Netherlands. The founders stated that they are tired of their issues being discussed in politics without their involvement. In their statement, they said: "We are the people for whom the government fell, but no one talks to us. We demand our voice."
The initiative brings together students, entrepreneurs, teachers, and activists seeking to achieve fair representation in public dialogue. During an election meeting held on Thursday evening in The Hague, co-founder Mahmoud Al-Nasser emphasized that politicians should stop talking about refugees and start talking with them. He said, "Politics should stop talking about us and start engaging with us." He explained that the organization We Rise has already sent an open letter to all political parties urging them to include the voices of refugees in discussions on asylum and immigration.
The group aims to create a "fair dialogue in which newcomers can speak for themselves," while promoting mutual respect among community groups. Al-Nasser emphasized: "We are part of this community too." He pointed out that Syrian-Dutch citizens deserve to have their voices heard in shaping national policies and public opinion.
In addition to political engagement, the organization We Rise focuses on civic awareness within the Syrian-Dutch community by introducing newcomers to the concepts of democracy and elections in the Netherlands, and encouraging them to participate in political life. Al-Nasser, who has lived in the Netherlands for more than seven years, said, "We want to inform people about the importance of participation and using their voices in elections." About thirty people attended the meeting to discuss these goals.
The evening also featured a live debate with several politicians, candidates, and parliament members from different parties, including D66, GroenLinks-PvdA, SP, DENK, Partij voor de Dieren, and VOLT. Although all parties were invited, some did not attend. Nevertheless, Al-Nasser expressed his gratitude to the representatives who were present, saying, "We are happy to have you here." This evening marked an important first step for the organization We Rise towards building a real dialogue and broader recognition of the Syrian-Dutch community in Dutch society.