A Call for Support for Migrants

As an organisation dedicated to representing migrant artists in the UK we are extremely concerned about the new immigration rules recently announced by the British government.

Migrants do not deserve to be the target of misinformation and resentment.

Inaccurate information and hostile rhetoric makes us feel vulnerable, unable to plan our lives and struggling to demonstrate or worth.

The UK has always welcomed people from all over the world.

Migrants are one of this country’s greatest strengths, not a burden. We are cultural frontline workers for the wellbeing of British communities.

If all changes are confirmed we will see:

• Minimum salary for foreign skilled workers hiked to £38.7K – almost no migrant artist in theatre earns this type of salary
• Shortage occupation list scrapped – this means companies will struggle to prove they need foreign artists (dancers were specifically mentioned)
• Minimum income to bring in spouse raised to £38,700, rupturing hardworking families
• Two year graduate visa reviewed depriving opportunities for organisations and professionals

We call on politicians who don’t support these changes to please make their voices heard.

We call on our industry – especially organisations and individuals with a wide platform – to show solidarity, denounce these xenophobic narratives, and think of practical steps to help those of us in need of help with visas and sponsorships.

We are stronger together.

Thank you.
Migrants in Theatre