The fragility of welcome – commentary to Gill

Darling, Jonathan

Abstract

In this commentary, I take Nick Gill’s discussion of the ‘suppression of welcome’ and the politics of hospitality, as a starting point for reflection on how ‘cultures of welcome’ are produced. In exploring the work of those supporting asylum seekers and refugees in Sheffield, UK, I argue that welcome may encompass a range of practices, with varying levels of intention and recognition attached. Yet what draws these practices together are two factors, first, a positive engagement with difference that holds the potential to promote solidaristic, or at the very least non-violent, relations. And second, a fragility that means that welcome is always at risk of being suppressed or commandeered for other purposes. In considering the implications of the ‘suppression of welcome’, I argue for a focus on welcoming as a negotiated process that involves varying durations, demands and levels of commitment.

Citation

Darling, J. (2018). The fragility of welcome – commentary to Gill. Fennia, 196(2), 220-224. https://doi.org/10.11143/fennia.75756

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 19, 2018
• Online Publication Date: Oct 31, 2018
• Publication Date: Oct 31, 2018
• Deposit Date: Nov 13, 2018
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 13, 2018
• Journal: Fennia.
• Electronic ISSN: 1798-5617
• Publisher: Suomen Maantieteellinen Seura
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 196
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 220-224
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.11143/fennia.75756
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1313704