A thematic song dedicated to Global Minorities Alliance (GMA), and sung by Shazar Khan, received great applause from the audience, directors and composer of the program "Here We Stay", during a performance for Refugee Week in Glasgow.
Called "no2perscution", it is based on the real life stories of people facing persecution across the world. It also infuses courage to its listeners to stand up for justice, peace and equality.
"This is the theme of the song," said Shazar Khan, who also is the Alliance's Ambassador of Music and Culture. "Music is the universal language and our message through this music and art is loud and clear. We want justice in our world."
Shahid Khan, who wrote the moving song, is the Alliance's Vice-Chairperson, stated, "Unfortunately persecution is the harsh reality for millions of people who experience unspeakable and life-threatening situations in their countries. The song brings a message of hope and peace as well as it leaves us with a responsibility to stand up for our rights and have courage to say 'no2persecution'".
The song, which has been played numerous times both on local radio stations in Glasgow, as well as in live performances in the Scottish city, was dubbed as a great piece of music by the audience at the Tron Theater.
It was twice performed in Glasgow's citizen theater in a program called, "Here We Stay", which is based on a 40-minute documentary about the experiences, struggles and the issues of those seeking asylum in the United Kingdom.
The project was funded by Scottish Refugees Council and Creative Scotland. It has also been included as part of Refugee Week.
Neil Packham, one of the directors of the documentary, said, "It tells simple, yet powerful, life stories, of different people running for their lives from their home countries.
"The message of hope and change can be very encouraging, not only for them, but also for us as local, indigenous people. It further encourages us to revisit our own lives."
Mr. Packham further commented, "Through this small documentary, we have endeavored to show the positives in the lives of people when they make foreign countries their home."
Elly Goodman, one of the co-directors of the documentary, added, "Theater is a great way of communication. We believe that the movie will educate people through the power of music, as well as the power of spoken word. The stories of people have come to life through this documentary.
"It has been a privilege working with different people from different colors, race and creed, on this project. This is the first time I have done such a project as this, and hopefully, it will not be the last."
Commenting on the song "no2persecution", composer and pianist, Matthew Brown, said, "It has been a great privilege to have Shazar Khan on board and the song has been a great source of encouragement and a continuation of what we have been trying to project through the documentary."
Mr. Khan then said, "Music is my passion, and I will continue to perform songs like 'no2persecution' to reach out to the wider audience since persecution is a reality which should come to an end. What better way is there to get your message across to others, than through music?"
For more information about "Here We Stay," please go to: http://www.tron.co.uk/event/songs-from-here-we-stay--documentary-launch
