Staff spotlight: Patrick Lesslie on life and IT at the ASC
At a recent staff meeting, after sharing his usual updates, the Asylum Seekers Centre’s Head of IT, Patrick Lesslie, shared… Read More
On Saturday 11 October, people around the world will be walking, running, jogging, or rolling in solidarity with those who have been forcibly displaced and/or are living in poverty.
In Sydney, the Asylum Seekers Centre joins our sector partners at Parramatta Park — but you can take part wherever you are.
The Global Solidarity Run is a shared moment of unity, compassion, and resistance to injustice — across borders, time zones and communities.
Why it matters
Some may ask: what difference does a run make? Displacement won’t end overnight, and inequality won’t disappear with a single walk. But this isn’t about offering a quick fix, it’s about choosing not to look away.
When you take part, you’re using your freedom of movement to honour those who’ve had theirs taken away. You’re making visible what is often unseen: the dignity, strength, and humanity of people forced to the margins by war, persecution, and danger.
It’s also a chance to reflect on our privilege, our connections, and how we can continue to support and learn from one another in the face of global challenges.
Whether you walk around your block, roll through your local park, or join the Sydney community at Parramatta Park at 7:30am, your steps are part of something bigger.
In Sydney, we’ll be joined by well-known advocates like Craig Foster, community members, and organisations supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. But wherever you are — solo or in a group — your presence and participation matters.
How to take part
There’s no cost, no registration. It’s simple and open to all:
- Wear blue
- Walk, jog, run or roll — anywhere, any distance that feels right
- Post a photo or video on your social media using #GlobalRun2025 to show your support
A global movement
The Global Solidarity Run is happening in more than 100 countries, from the Solomon Islands to Hawaii. It’s a reminder that the causes of displacement and inequality are global — and so is our ability to respond.
In Australia, it’s also a chance to reassert our solidarity with people who’ve moved here from elsewhere, and with all those who are marginalised. A moment to reignite our engagement, confront complacency, and stand together for dignity and justice.
So bring your walking shoes, a blue T-shirt, your friends, your family — and join us in your own way on Saturday 11 October.
Together, we’ll show that when we move in solidarity, we move the world in the right direction.
