In a bustling area of South London, within one of the city’s most underprivileged neighborhoods, the festive spirit is in full swing. A Christmas gathering at the Oasis St Martin’s Village hub in Tulse Hill marks the beginning of a significant initiative. The event, named ‘Together at Christmas’, aims to host a series of community meals during the 2025 holiday season, with plans to expand to 1,000 meals by the following Christmas.
Amid growing concerns about attempts to politicize Christmas by far-right groups, a movement called We Are United has emerged. Led by grassroots leaders, faith organizations, charities, and businesses, this movement seeks to combat social division and isolation. ‘Together at Christmas’ serves as the flagship initiative of this movement, promoting connection, inclusivity, and hope through communal meals.
The essence of ‘Together at Christmas’ lies in fostering a sense of community and belonging. These free meals bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds to share food, stories, and companionship. The goal is to extend this initiative to over 1,000 locations across villages, towns, and cities in the coming years, emphasizing the importance of unity and support, especially during the holiday season.
While some groups push for a narrow interpretation of Christmas, emphasizing cultural identity and division, others advocate for a more inclusive and compassionate approach. The Archbishop of Canterbury and London Mayor have highlighted the need for unity and empathy, stressing the importance of welcoming outsiders and embracing common humanity during the festive season.
Events under the ‘Together at Christmas’ banner have been held nationwide, offering a platform for communities to come together and celebrate shared values. From Hull to Slough to London, these gatherings aim to counter divisive narratives and promote unity. Participants have expressed the joy of connecting with individuals from varied backgrounds and breaking down barriers through shared experiences.
By emphasizing the power of community engagement and shared meals, initiatives like ‘Together at Christmas’ strive to bridge social divides and foster a sense of togetherness. As individuals from different walks of life come together over food and conversation, they discover common ground and mutual understanding, transcending cultural, religious, and social barriers. This simple yet impactful concept serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity in a world often marked by division and discord.
For those interested in organizing similar events in the future, registration for the ‘We Are United – Together At Christmas’ initiative can be done by emailing peopleunite@oasisuk.org.