The Council Motion was shared with us by Sutton Liberal Democrats calling upon the council to reaffirm it’s commitment to community cohesion and supporting diverse communities.
Council notes:
- In [AREA NAME] we celebrate the fact that we are a diverse, inclusive, respectful and welcoming community where people of all cultures and national backgrounds get along and thrive.
- [AREA NAME] has a deserved reputation as a community that has welcomed people fleeing persecution.
- [AREA NAME] has recognised and celebrated the important contributions people from a
range of different cultural and national backgrounds have made to our society and to
our workforce, particularly in the care sector and in local hospitals.
Council further notes:
- That there has been an increase in extreme narratives and support for those narratives over the last 15 years, as seen through increases in Islamophobia and antisemitism, and more recently, the focus on migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.
- With concern the way statements and policies associated with some political leaders have created uncertainty and fear, particularly the suggestion that those with indefinite leave to remain in our country and who have lived and worked here for many years may find their status changed. This contributes to concerns that they may be threatened with deportation, breaking up long established family units and losing experienced people from their jobs.
- With concern the recent terrorist attack on the synagogue in Manchester and the appalling arson attack on the mosque in Peacehaven and the impact that these have had on many of our communities in [AREA NAME].
Council resolves to:
- Offer reassurance to all our communities in [AREA NAME] and to reiterate its support for a respectful and inclusive society.
- Continue to work alongside the police and our charity, community and faith sector to build community cohesion.
- Write to the Home Secretary to urge them to provide support and resources to local authorities to help build community cohesion and oppose racism, hate, hostility and anti-migrant sentiment.