The Prime Minister, David Cameron, wrote:
The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, said:
“As we mark the start of Hate Crime Awareness week, my thoughts are with all of you who have suffered as a result of these deplorable and cowardly acts against individuals and entire sections of our society.
“Your strength and unity reminds us all that hate crime must be challenged. Hate crime is always an attack on the core values and freedoms which underpin our society. Standing together in this way is the greatest show of strength for those who suffer hate crimes, and demonstrates the greatest condemnation of those who commit them.
“This Government stands with you.”
And the Leader of the Opposition, Ed Miliband stated:
The Act of Remembrance and Renewal provides an opportunity to remember all those affected by hate crimes. The act of lighting a candle of hope is not just about remembering; It is also positive affirmation of our collective commitment to speak up and speak out against hatred and persecution.
As we approach the fourth year since the appalling murder of Ian Baynham in Trafalgar Square, the annual events of Hate Crime Awareness Week play a vital role in bringing communities together across the country.
We have come a long way on the journey against homophobia and transphobia. I am proud of the part that Labour MPs and Peers played in securing the successful passage of equal marriage through Parliament. Britain is better because of equal marriage.
Together, we have brought equality closer, from ending Section 28 to outlawing discrimination in the workplace in the everyday provision of goods and services.
But there is still unfinished business.
For every young person scared to come out or facing bullying in the playground, we still have a job to do. For every gay couple abused in the street, we still have a hob to do. For every victim attacked for simply being who they are, we still have a job to do.
I know that Britain is better than the prejudice and hatred directed at too many lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people. As you gather at events and vigils throughout Hate Crime Awareness Week remember those who have suffered, and be restless for change.
Together we can build a more equal and just society.”
Comment by Mark Healey, 17-24-30 No to Hate Crime Campaign
I’m very pleased to receive these important messages of support from our Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.
Four years on from the death of Ian Baynham the organisation 17-24-30 has established October as the month where we encourage people across the UK and abroad to do something to tackle hate crime in our communities. It is good to see people working together in partnership with each other, with their local police and councils, promoting and supporting local anti-hate crime initiatives.
I hope this week will inspire more people to get involved. That we can continue to build upon the National Hate Crime Awareness Week each year until there is absolutely no place for hate in any of our communities.
Once this week is over let’s start planning for next year. In April we mark the 15th anniversary of the London Nail Bomb attacks on Brixton, Brick Lane and Soho.
Hate Crime Awareness Week 2014 will take place between the 11th – 18th October 2014.
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