BLOG: Standing up for diversity in divisive times
07.10.26 - Merseyside
As Hate Crime Awareness Week approaches, it’s a timely reminder that discrimination has no place in Merseyside or anywhere in our country.
The Prime Minister's recent message of hope, unity and inclusion at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool is one that should resonate across our region.
Strong communities are built when people feel valued, respected and welcome, regardless of their background, faith, identity or beliefs.
At a time when conversations around race, religion, identity and difference are becoming increasingly polarised, public debate must be conducted responsibly. Healthy discussion and differing opinions are an important part of democracy, but there is a clear line between debate and deliberately stoking division.
We've recently seen events cancelled in our region that celebrate diversity and recognise the histories, cultures and heritage that have helped shape our region. Attempts to undermine or erase those contributions for political gain are irresponsible and wrong.
Those with a public platform should be bringing people together, not driving them apart. When fear, mistrust and intolerance are used to further an agenda, prejudice can become normalised and communities can become less safe and less connected.
Recently, we visited a school on the Wirral where young people were taking part in an anti-racism workshop. Hearing them speak so confidently about challenging prejudice, racism and division was both powerful and inspiring. It gives real hope for the future, but also highlights an uncomfortable truth: some adults could learn a lot from these young people.
National Hate Crime Awareness Week gives us an opportunity to stand with victims, but tackling hate is a year-round priority. If you experience or witness hate crime, please report it, either to the police or to Stop Hate UK, the independent charity I fund to support victims across our region.
Together, we can send a clear message that hate has no place in Merseyside or modern Britain.