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Gathering The Voices

Gathering The Voices

testimony from men and women who sought sanctuary in Scotland to escape the racism of Nazi-dominated Europe

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Alice Malcolm – Reflection On Life

Alice talks about the kindness of Glasgow people and her happiness in Scotland.

AM: So I have enjoyed my new country.

INT: Yes.

AM: I have never lost my foreign accent because when I was evacuated I was in with so many different accents I copied them all. In the end I stayed in Scotland and I copied the Highland girl’s accents but as I’ve no contact with them out comes my mother’s accent. That can’t be a bad thing. I think it’s the best country in Europe for me.

INT: Why’s that?

AM: Scotland?

INT: Yes.

10

AM: Because they’re wholesome people. Unfortunately I have very poor sight but I like to be independent. I take my life in my hands when I go out but when somebody sees that I’m struggling to go on a bus or crossing a road they help me. Some people just grab me and I am afraid of who it might be but others say, “May I help you?” I don’t think I would find that anywhere. In other countries people are afraid to speak to strangers. I can only say good things. I’ve made good friends here, unfortunately many of them are no longer here, and I’m still making friends.

INT: It’s a good reason to make friends with people younger than you isn’t it?

20

AM: Yes, well that’s more difficult because the younger people today don’t want the older. A generation ago; 60s, 70s, yes. But not today. They’re being re-educated now.

INT: So is there any final things that you want to say before we turn this off?

AM: I said that I’m happy in the country here?

INT: Yes. You said all that.

AM: But I’m sad that my family is not here. I am now here alone. One is in New York where I have four grandsons and one is in Cambridge, who has never found a Scottish lass yet.

INT: Yes, Ok so thank you very much for your time.

AM: I would like to hear it. Thank you for coming.

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Listen to the Testimony

https://gtvbeta.jacb.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/alice-malcolm-reflection-on-life.mp3Press the play button to listen

Links to Other Testimonies by Alice Malcolm

Life Before the War
Immigration
Life During The War
Integration
Reflection On Life
Alice Malcolm with Husband, Son and Daughter

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The Gathering the Voices Association is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Registered Scottish Charity Number: SC047809

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