When I first moved to Glasgow ... Note

When I first moved to Glasgow from India, I felt welcomed and included. Now I just feel scrutinised | Sanghmitra Singh

The author, a human rights lawyer and writer, moved to Glasgow, Scotland, in 2018, finding it a welcoming city where she felt safe and accepted. Glasgow's slogan, "People make Glasgow," reflected a genuine spirit of friendliness and inclusivity. She experienced kindness from strangers and had the freedom to be herself, a significant luxury as a woman. However, the author observes a troubling shift in the city's atmosphere, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic, the global recession, and austerity measures. She witnesses an increase in racist disorder and far-right fringe violence. This change has led her to feel a heightened sense of being scrutinized. The author hopes that Glasgow can return to its former state of warmth and amity. She contrasts this current situation with the traditional perception of Scottish people as friendly. The article is published in partnership with Pass the Mic, an organization promoting women of color's expertise.