This project celebrates multiculturalism in reaction to the shifting ideas about what it means to be a British person and the growing opposition to welcoming immigrants. It examines what it means to be British in the present era through interviews and images.
The British Dream
Larysa Bylchyc
“ I was born in Ukraine in 1985 when Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union before Gorbachev became president. After the fall of the Soviet Union, I moved to France and started working as a journalist. I moved to the United Kingdom in the early 2000s, I wrote three books in memory of my homeland. When I look back on my journey, I feel privileged to live in this country, especially when there is a war going on in Ukraine.”
The vyshyvanka (pronounced vish-ee-VAHN-kas) is a traditional Ukranian garment which is known better by sight than name. The stitchwork embodies tradition, identity and protection. A Poppy is one of the most common designs which represents a desire for protection or a feeling of sorrow over a loved one’s death. Different regions in Ukraine have traditional patterns and symbols which are worked on to the cloth and passed down from generation to generation and have very specific meanings.
Bhatiyya
“ I came to the United Kingdom as a student from Burma (Myanmar) to study master’s. At the time I wasn’t aware of any cultural differences. Especially as a monk, it was somewhat of a shock to me. But over time I started to understand the British ways of life here and I joined a monastery bringing my own culture to this country.”
Nurul Islam
“ I came to Oxford from Bangladesh to be a volunteer in a mosque. I found the culture very fascinating. The culture is very accepting before I travelled I was worried if a person who dresses differently practices a different religion, or speaks in a different accent will be welcomed or not. It’s been a few years since I have been living here but my fears haven’t come true. I intend to continue to be a volunteer at the mosque for a few more years but after that, I hope I can stay here.”
Prema Jaywikrama
“ I came to England to work as a nurse with my five children. All my children grew up in a Western manner and I am thrilled to see all of their hard work has paid off. The only thing they couldn't carry forward was religious traditions. I couldn't practice my religion and as a result, children grew up without knowing anything about it. But they got very good education and opportunities. This country has changed our lives, gave us better opportunities and everything we have.”
In Buddhism, a statue of Buddha is a symbol of enlightenment which can be attained by conquering egoism and the wants of the material world. The sculpture conveys the message that one must first find inner serenity via the process of introspection. People have revered and held awe for it as a subject of meditation and a source of inspiration from the beginning of time. Statues of Buddha can be found throughout the world and are different depending on the country. The most common depiction of Buddha is sitting, standing and lying down.
Akshay Subhash
“ I moved to the UK when I was 9 and could barely speak any English. I was teased of course for my broken English and how little I knew of British norms and culture. Years passed and through my high school and university career I have met the kindest, most caring people. They treat me like family, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’m now 24 years old. I still have to face some sort of prejudice on a sadly regular basis. Yet, I wouldn’t call anywhere else my home.”
Dominic Peterman
“I wanted a fresh start, so I made the decision to move to the United Kingdom. Just before the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, I moved my whole life here with just one suitcase. I always had this dream of owning my own coffee business. My outlook was quite bleak a few years ago, I didn’t think it would ever be possible for me as I don’t come from a wealthy family. Now, after three years of living here, I’ve managed to achieve that dream. I hope to return to South Africa one day. It’s still home and I miss the people who are so bright, friendly and kind.”
Durva Chandra
“ 17 years ago I left my home in India and moved to the United Kingdom for a job. I can’t remember what the city I lived in was like. Over the years my life has changed. My way of living and thinking has evolved and is influenced by the people around me. Everything I am today is because of where I have been for the past seventeen years. I can’t imagine going back to India. I wouldn’t know how to live there.”
Janeyu is a sacred thread worn around the shoulder of a person. It is an essential part of the Hindu belief system, which indicated the entry of the person into a school of Hinduism. Three threads of the Janeyu represent three goddesses, goddesses of knowledge, wealth and strength. Hanuman Chalisa is one of the most popular religious texts in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is believed to be written by 16th-century poet and saint Tulsidas.
Hiroshi Nakamura
“ I must confess that I initially harboured some anxiety about being away from home and forming new connections. However, I have come to appreciate the diverse friendships I have formed, transcending nationality as a barrier, and sharing thoughts and experiences with my peers. Additionally, I am pleased to report that British cuisine has surpassed my expectations and has been quite enjoyable. However, I do plan to return home soon.”
Japanese Handmade Chopsticks
Giuseppe Parisi
“ I came here to do my postgraduate studies a few years ago. There were a few cultural differences, I somewhat struggled in the first few months. During the whole Brexit, I faced many challenges as a European living in the United Kingdom and was tempted to go back. I was determined to stay here for my research and then for a job. Everything I must go through to stay here, made me rethink my decision to come here for my degree.”