Philip Goldenberg welcomed everyone and ably compered the session. The participants were sorted into mixed groups around four tables. A clip from You Tube introduced the idea that our DNA shows that we come from many different races. Then a set of questions provided discussion points to investigate where each person was born; where their parents were born and finally where their grandparents came from. As well as looking at the geographical migration - if any; occupations and life-styles were deliberated.
The plan was to stop for afternoon tea around a table laden with scones, cake, rice cakes samosas and biscuits, but everyone was finding the conversation so intense and absorbing that people simply went and helped themselves to a plate of food; then returned to their table to continue chatting.
Towards the end of the time, each table was asked to feedback their observations and the places were recorded on a map of the world and/or the United Kingdom. There were very many countries represented, including South Africa, Nigeria, Ukraine, Kashmir, Pakistan and India. Also several Scots had travelled down to London to find work. WW1 and WW2 had impacted the lives of several families. Others had moved for economic or educational reasons. Some noteworthy family members were an International Hockey Player for India; a food tech expert in Health & Hygiene; and a Major in the British Army at a time when non-white soldiers could only aspire to junior positions.
Everyone commented that it had been a very enjoyable afternoon and that they felt they had really got to know people from other faiths and ethnic backgrounds, who all lived in Woking. It was a shame that only 20 people came due to the many other activities going on that day.
Date: Saturday 24th November 2018
Location: Parkview, Blackmore Crescent, Sheerwater, GU21 5NZ
Time: 2pm - 4pm