Two long-term UK residents, Rosa Shanzala from Zambia and Nish from Mauritius, are feeling the pressure of potential racism due to Nigel Farage’s focus on migrants. Rosa, a care worker engaged to a Welsh man, has been caring for the elderly in Wales since July 2022. Nish, a youth worker and trafficking survivor, has been in the UK since she was 14, raising her British-born daughter.
Despite being dedicated workers and taxpayers who have enriched British society, both women face the risk of deportation under Reform UK’s proposal to eliminate Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if the party wins. Rosa expressed deep concern over Farage’s plan, fearing the disruptive impact it would have on her and those she cares for.
Rosa highlighted her substantial tax contributions and the emotional bonds she has formed with her care home residents. She emphasized how sudden deportation would not only devastate her personally but also leave a significant gap in the lives of those who depend on her.
On the other hand, Nish, who recently obtained ILR after years of uncertainty, now worries about losing her stable status if Farage’s proposed changes come into effect. She expressed the turmoil of potentially starting over and the anxiety regarding her daughter’s safety and well-being in a country they call home.
Both women conveyed their distress over the rising atmosphere of racism and division in the UK, emphasizing the positive contributions migrants make to the country. Nish urged for unity and fair treatment, emphasizing the need to be seen and respected as valuable members of society.