United Against Hate Crime
Caerphilly County Borough Council is united in its stance against hate crime, which was reinforced at a meeting of Full Council this week (Tuesday 19th July).
In a Notice of Motion put forward by Cllr Roy Saralis and supported by Cllrs James Fussell and Nigel Dix, councillors unanimously agreed that:
“We are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society. Racism, xenophobia and hate crimes have no place in our country. Our council condemns racism, xenophobia and hate crimes unequivocally. We will not allow hate to become acceptable. We will work to ensure that local bodies and programmes have the support and resources they need to fight and prevent racism and xenophobia. We reassure all people living in this area that they are valued members of our community”.
Cllr Roy Saralis said, “Sadly we are all too familiar with the national reports of recent racist and xenophobic incidents and hate crimes, and here in Caerphilly we are clear that we totally condemn such crimes. We are proud to live in a diverse society and would seek to reassure all people living in our county borough that they are valued members of our community.
Caerphilly’s Equalities Champion Cllr James Pritchard added, “We must stand together to fight discrimination wherever it rears its ugly head. This council will do its utmost to tackle hate crime, and we’ll work with the community and our partners to make sure the best support is available for victims”.
Visitors to this year’s Big Cheese festival in Caerphilly (29th-31st July) will also be able to find out about work being done to tackle hate crime across the country at a dedicated information and advice stand.
Hate crimes should be reported by calling Gwent Police on 101 (or 999 in case of an emergency). Victim Support are also available 24 hours a day on their free helpline 0300 30 31 982 or go online to www.reporthate.victimsupport.org.uk
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