Moromoke’s Story: ”I had no one to fight for me”

Moromoke first joined Migrants Organise in 2016. After years trapped in a cruel immigration system, she was struggling to feed her family after the death of her husband.

Moromoke, far left, on last years #LondonLegalWalk

”When I found Migrants Organise, it was a bad time for me. My husband had died, we had been refused leave to remain again by the Home Office. I think the stress had a big impact. A month later he was gone.

I came to the UK from Nigeria, and we had children here. When my husband died, I felt like I had no one. I was so alone.

At this point we had spent a lot of money on four different solicitors so that we could get our papers. It was a hard life-  we were not able to work, not able to afford food for my children, and people taking advantage of us.

I thought ‘’I don’t have anyone to fight for me’’.

The day I came to Migrants Organise, in 2016 I saw some light. I spoke to the staff who said they’d find me a solicitor, and apply for legal aid. They gave me a small grant and helped me find clothes for my boys. I thought maybe there is a hope. I had been desperate and my mind could not take it.

The staff here have really fought for me. It is like, I have a voice here. It is heard.

They helped us find legal aid.

We have since been given our papers.  I cannot tell how how thankful I am.

But, I often wonder- what would have happened had I have not found this place? Where would I be?

There are many people like me, this is not a fair system.

I still come to Migrants Organise for the activities- I love the sewing group and poetry. I love the Maya Angelou poem ‘’Still I Rise’’. I feel good in with these people. In these moments my mind feels clear. It’s nice space with people of different backgrounds – we share our cultures and make friendships.

Now, I’m looking to the future with my children. I’m looking for work. I still feel so sad that my husband is not here- I think the stress of our situation really affected him. It was too much.

This system is really bad for poor people. I could not work. I could not feed my children. I didn’t know who to turn to and I could not afford justice.

We should not have gone through that. ‘’

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On a daily basis we at  Migrants Organise are humbled by the dignity and resilience with which our members endure this unjust treatment, which sadly goes on for years.

The demand for advice, training and mentoring as part of our Community Programme is overwhelming and we need your help.

On Monday 17th June Migrants Organise will join the #LondonLegalWalk to raise funds for our front line services. Show your solidarity- support and donate today.

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