The Foundation condemns the racist violence that we have seen on several cities over the past week.
It is beyond obscene that the murder of Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasisla Aguiar has been used as a pretext for unleashing further male dominated racist violence. Those who have then tried to excuse this behaviour in terms of justifiable anger must share the blame for what is happening on our streets.
As an organisation who has worked with individuals, families and communities to prevent violence, we understand that what’s happening relates to wider structural causes. However, the fanning of anti-Muslim and anti-migrant hatred by politicians and other bad-faith actors is a specific factor that has been on the rise. Unfortunately, our national broadcaster has regularly platformed those who have contributed to this vilification and whilst we have laws that should stop this hatred from being spread, the responsible regulator has remained silent.
Immediate action is needed, including the Government funding improvements in the security of mosques. This must be accompanied by calling out those who express and share anti-Muslim and anti-migrant hatred. They should also be denied a platform not only on social media but also on our national broadcaster. At the same time, the Government needs to ensure that those who have responsibility to ensure our laws are observed, should be independent of political influence and have the leadership and resources to act.
Longer term action needs to be taken too, specifically to prevent violence, including violence against women and girls. The Foundation remains committed to working with communities and our partners to achieve these changes.
