'We share our world, and we share responsibility for making it the kind of place we want to live in. This includes responsibility for protecting each others human rights and freedom' - Amnesty International.

Right now there are millions of displaced people around the world who have been forced to flee their homes. Instead of helping them, many countries are closing their borders in the name of national security. It is up to each of us as individuals how we want to treat each other. It is up to all of us to open our hearts and welcome people fleeing from war and persecution to our homes. Amnesty's campaign 'I welcome refugees', released in October 2016, aims to encourage all of us to make this personal commitment and simply say I welcome refugees.

Inspired by this campaign, and the success of last years Run for Refugees, the Amnesty International Society at the University of Aberdeen, is organising a 5K and 10K charity run on Saturday 21st March. But this year we promise it will be bigger and even better! You can participate individually or as a society or club and win amazing prizes!

Both the 5K and the 10K route will be along the Beach Esplanade, which is a central location in Aberdeen. We welcome everyone to share our message and of course Run for Refugees with us. Each participant is encouraged to get sponsor/s to support their efforts. A minimum amount each participant must raise to be able to participate is £10.

All funds will go towards the 'Aberdeen Shining Lights Scholarship' Fund at the University of Aberdeen. Aberdeen Shining Lights scholarships offer refugee students a chance to shine. Students with refugee status who want to further their education in Aberdeen have the opportunity of special support. Help us welcome and support even more refugee students to gain the benefits of studying at the University of Aberdeen.