Another International Festival of Culture has been and gone. Do you think it was a success?
Yes, definitely. All the organisers are really pleased with what we achieved, which is broadening the knowledge and experience of multiculturalism of the general public, offering not only useful information but a real hands-on experience of diversity. And all that while everyone had so much fun. On top of that, the very fact that we attracted many more people than last year, and they will perhaps become interested in what we do as an organisation, is a success of its own.
This time you chose Minehead as the base of the event, and it seems every year it has been a different place. Do you not think it would be easier if the festival was associated with one place?
We have changed places every year as we believe that this way we can reach more people with our message of cultural diversity and values.
And what would these values be?
The name of the festival is the clue here, we want to showcase different cultures, religions and customs, which come from other parts of the world but have become a part of the British culture. We want to show that our views and customs may differ but we can live together alongside one another, embracing, respecting and enjoying this diversity.
What in your opinion are the attitudes towards other cultures amongst the Polish community? Are we tolerant towards people of other races, religions?
Yes, I do think so. It would seem true to say that people who have moved to Britain are quite open in their attitudes, as you tend to be being an immigrant yourself, even if it is only for a while. I think people who stay in Poland are at a much higher risk of not being tolerant of cultural differences, and keep their minds ‘closed’ to what happens outside their immediate surroundings, in the wider world.
Do you have a rough idea of how many Poles live in Somerset and Yeovil itself, where MECA is based?
It has not been investigated into officially, but the estimated number of Poles in Yeovil is a few thousand. There are over 5 thousand Polish immigrants in Somerset, which makes it one of the biggest Polish communities in UK.
How long has MECA been around in Yeovil?
We started 4 years ago. At first as Somerset Polish Community Association we aimed to integrate and help Polish migrant workers but to match the needs of the multinational immigrant community we started MECA, whose ethos and range of services is such as to reach and represent all European citizens.
Over those 4 years, would you say the image of a typical Pole living in Somerset has evolved somewhat or not really?
I believe it has, and for the better. It used to be the case that Polish people would mingle with other Poles mostly and not interact much with whatever was happening outside their workplace and a circle of immigrant friends. Nowadays, we have many open-minded, well- educated people coming to Somerset; they are eager to know people of other nationalities and enjoy cultural diversity. Perhaps what is different about immigrants now is their motivation, which is not purely economical. People come because they want the experience of working in a different country, a sense of adventure, gaining knowledge of the world. As a migrant community, we have become more open and definitely less homogenous.
Speaking of the festival again, what was the turnout?
This year there came about 400 people.
Was it more than in previous years?
Yes, it was. This year MECA organised the festival with other bodies, our main co-organiser was West Somerset Community College in Minehead. I think because of the engagement of so many people and organisations in the project, the result was so versatile and exciting. It was arguably the most elaborate of our festivals so far in terms of our offer of workshops, shows and activities. Things went on not only in the college halls but also outside in the playing fields and the sports centre situated just outside. We had a multitude of stalls and activities to suit everyone.
The posters advertised the festival as a family event. If you do go to the next event as a family, what can you expect?
It is definitely a family-oriented event. Although our aim is to cater for people of every age, I think children especially can find so much to enjoy every time. During this festival, we had (and that may well be the case next year) circus skills corner with juggling and hula-hop, drawing and painting competition with attractive prizes, face painting and drumming workshops, where children could have a good go at African drumming. Amongst the activities appealing to older visitors, we had Egyptian belly dancing, although most participants of this one turned out to be young girls somehow (Agata laughs). They received special outfits, lots of guidance and seemed to really enjoy the jig. Other attractions included the fashion show and international cuisine food stalls. I am positive that all these helped us put weight behind the motto of the festival “Against Discrimination”, and our participants will have some really good memories to associate with both the event and our message.
When and where is the next festival going to take place?
I think we might need some time to wind down after the fervour and effort of preparing this year’s one first, and then get back to you on that! We have not yet decided where exactly we will base next year’s festival, but we can assure everyone it will be an event not to be missed.
Thank you very much for the interview.
