While the rest of the world including Africa has been “standingwithUkraine”, black Africans fleeing the Russia invasion to Ukraine have been experiencing racism and anti blackness both in Ukraine and at the Polish border. Videos have been circulating show casing the racial segregation and inhumane treatment directed towards African students fleeing the war. In one of the videos, a woman was holding a two month old baby in 3 degrees celsius at the border.
Two month old African baby and mother in 3 degrees celsius at night on the polish border “No shelter”
Additionally, the Ukranian police were filmed pushing a black girl from the train while allowing only white Ukranians to board. Indeed, these videos are absurd and disturbing. Who would think that people are capable of remembering colour and sorting it like laundry even when in a time of war!
Ukraine police pushing an African Girl out of the Train
“Please don’t kill us we are students”
As Africans in diaspora these events are both frightening but also awakening. While our leaders are busy opening borders, Europe is building high tech walls to keep any refugee or asylum seeker from the South from entering. Its utter disregard for the human rights they so claim to guard. Needless to say, they have signed international treaties to allow safe passage for all in times of war. Africans are treated with no dignity or respect whatsoever. It is hopeful to see Africans standing in solidarity. ” Together we shall win.
Nevertheless, different African embassies in Poland, Romania and Hungary have been quick to respond and share contacts for the Africans fleeing Ukraine to use. It is important to note that it might not be better in other countries Africans are fleeing but we stand united .
Important information for Africans stranded in Ukraine
I wish all Africans in diaspora and at home all the good vibes 🙏🏾
