News / Racism
‘We do not tolerate actions that promote hate and division’
Several organisations from Lockleaze and Horfield have together condemned “far right” graffiti recently spotted outside a primary school and health centre in the area.
A statement signed and published by ten local organisations on Tuesday urges everyone to act together against any acts of hate and division, to ensure everyone in the community can feel safe.
“As a group of organisations working in Lockleaze and Horfield, we condemn in the strongest terms the recent far-right graffiti found outside Stoke Park Primary School on Romney Avenue and Horfield Health Centre,” the statement read.
is needed now More than ever
Offensive graffiti was spotted outside Stoke Nursery and Primary School on Romany Avenue in Lockleaze – photo: Stoke Park Nursery and Primary School
The graffiti on Romany Avenue, which saw swastikas painted over a bollard on a pedestrian crossing, was reported and temporarily painted over by residents within hours of being found on September 21 until the council could remove it permanently.
Ebenzer Church, Filton Avenue Primary School, Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust, Lockleaze Sports Centre, North Bristol Advice Centre, St Mary’s and St James’ Church, Stoke Park Nursery & Primary School, The Old Library, The Vench and Trinity Academy have all affirmed their intention to make the north Bristol neighbourhood a welcoming space.
The statement continued: “Lockleaze in north Bristol is a strong community of 14,000 people, and the fourth most diverse ward in Bristol. We are a place where people are welcoming and kind, where we look out for one another.
“The work our organisations and many local residents are doing will continue to bring our community together, support our community to thrive, to be heard, and combat our challenges. That includes the Our City Community Cup as part of Bristol Refugee Festival; Peace Feasts, Community Feasts, Youth Clubs and our multi-faith spaces putting on groups, events and courses.
“We must all act together to show we do not tolerate actions that promote hate and division, and to keep our community safe. Hate crimes have no place in our society, whether experienced around race, sex, age, faith, gender, sexuality, disability.
“Everyone in our community deserves to feel safe. We as the anchor organisations in Lockleaze and Horfield are here to talk through any concerns our community may have, to offer a cuppa and a chair. Please do come and see us if you have concerns.
“Meanwhile, we the undersigned will continue to work with our fantastic community in Lockleaze and Horfield, lifting each other up and celebrating who we are and where we live.”
Anyone who wishes to report a hate crime can contact the police or organisations like Crimestoppers, Bristol Hate Crime and Discrimination Service and Standup Against Racism and Inequality. Alternatively, Avon and Somert Police’s online form can be used to report a crime.
Main photo: Andrew Viney / Lockleaze Neighbourhood Trust
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