Over 30 businesses and organisations sign Nottingham anti-racism pledge

Over 30 businesses in Nottingham have signed an anti-racism pledge, following the far-right riots that have swept the country in recent weeks, in a warped response to the tragic events that unfolded in Southport on July 29.

The initiative, led by Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, comes just days after the violent demonstrations were thwarted in the city through a combined effort of a heavy police presence and a co-ordinated effort by anti-fascist groups.

Some 33 businesses have signed the statement so far, including Nottingham Playhouse, Nottingham Contemporary, Nottingham City Council, DHP Family, Arup and the Nottingham Growth Board.

The statement reads: “We, the organisations, businesses, groups and communities of our City of Nottingham and County of Nottinghamshire, stand in solidarity against the destructive and divisive riots that are taking place across our region and country.

“Our community is, and always will be, a diverse community. This community contributes enormously to the places we all call home. Our staff, customers, visitors, audiences, and artists are part of this community, they deserve to feel safe.

“The behaviour of the few, in no way represents who we are or what we stand for as a community, the violent scenes we have seen on the streets of this country only serve to divide us all and to create fear. We want to reassure the diverse communities of our city and beyond that we stand with them. There is no place for racism or violence here, there is no place for hatred or division, there is no place for destruction or aggression.

“We call for all violence to end, for calm and safety to prevail, and for respect and dignity be shown to the families of those so tragically taken on 29 July in Southport.”

To sign the statement, click here.