Welcome to the seventeenth edition of the Floorish newsletter dedicated to providing you with insightful data, ideas and views on diversity, equity and inclusion. In this newsletter, taking no more than 3 minutes of your time, I aim to keep you informed and inspired with thought-provoking content, practical tips and inspiring stories.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve frequently heard the song “It’s Coming Home” in connection with UEFA Euro 2024. This, along with various events and reflections, has led me to ponder the concept of ‘home’.
The notion of “home” varies greatly among individuals. For some, it’s the physical place where they grew up — the house, neighbourhood, or town that holds their earliest memories. Others see home as an emotional connection, a sanctuary where they can be themselves without fear or judgment. Ultimately, home represents a profound sense of belonging and acceptance, where individuals feel understood and embraced.
As we grow older, our concept of home expands beyond the physical space where we were born or raised. For some, the notion of home even extends to the country they live in, particularly when their national team is competing in a major event. This expanded definition of home is particularly relevant in today’s globalised world, where people often find themselves living and working in different countries or cultures.
The expat
As someone who has lived as an expat, straddling two worlds without fully belonging to either, I understand the delicate balance of maintaining ties to my homeland while adapting to a new culture and lifestyle. Despite efforts to integrate, I’ve often contended with a persistent feeling of being an outsider, navigating language barriers, cultural differences, and a lack of shared history. The experience is emotionally taxing, highlighting the ongoing challenges of settling into a foreign environment.
For expats who left voluntarily, returning home is typically straightforward, contingent upon personal circumstances and immigration policies. Those who moved abroad for work or personal reasons often have the flexibility to return without significant barriers
The refugee
In stark contrast, individuals compelled to flee due to conflict, persecution, or trauma face a far more daunting journey. Even after immediate threats have receded, the emotional scars and practical obstacles of rebuilding a life loom large. Despite these hardships, the yearning to return home remains potent. Displaced individuals often express a strong desire to reclaim their homeland when conditions permit. The deep-seated familiarity, comfort, and sense of belonging associated with their native land serve as powerful motivators, even amidst adversity.
The desire to return home is profound for many, regardless of whether they left seeking economic opportunities, personal growth, or safety from hardship.
Immigration has become a highly contentious and politicised issue, frequently dominating political debates. Many people, particularly economic migrants, leave their home countries seeking better job opportunities due to economic hardship, while others flee war, violence, or persecution in search of safety and refuge. However, public perception of immigrants is often clouded by negative stereotypes and oversimplified narratives, and they are unfairly blamed for many of a country’s problems.
Do you genuinely believe the notion that many immigrants leave solely to take your houses, jobs, and for financial gain? Would you willingly leave behind your home, family, friends, and everything familiar, purely for monetary reasons? Could you enter a situation where you don’t speak the language, understand the culture, and lack security or stability, often feeling isolated and marginalised?
This simplistic narrative overlooks the complex realities that drive immigration. Many individuals leave their homes due to war, persecution, economic desperation, or the search for safety from discrimination. The longing for a secure and stable home is a compelling force that often outweighs any material allure. By challenging these simplistic narratives and embracing the complexities of immigration, we can foster a more compassionate and informed dialogue on this urgent global issue.
I hope these insights have sparked your curiosity and I invite you to share any data, ideas or views you believe should be highlighted in future newsletters. Stay tuned for the next edition.
Warm regards,
Floor Martens
© 2024 Floorish – All rights reserved