I’m shocked and appalled by the events that have taken place across UK towns and cities over the past week. Particularly because of the horrific murders of children which served as a pretext for them, and our hearts go out to those families who are still grieving. What followed were scenes of violence which include targeting people simply because of their race or religion, or because of where they are believed to be from.
I know that children and young people across Wales have been very worried by what they have been seeing and hearing in the news and online, and many don’t feel safe. I was saddened to hear from one parent that their child was too scared to go and play in the park and asked their mum why some people didn’t like them. This should not be how children are spending their summer holidays.
But the show of unity and solidarity we witnessed in so many towns and cities last night gives us reason to be hopeful. Ordinary people of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities showing that they would not tolerate mindless racism and violence in their communities. In Wales, the Welsh Government has committed to being a Nation of Sanctuary, a country of safety and welcome, and to being an Anti-racist Wales. There is also fantastic work going on every day across Wales to promote diversity and community cohesion.
But clearly more needs to happen. We all need to reflect on how this situation arose, and how it can be prevented from happening again. I have spoken out previously about the impact of racism on children and young people in Wales, and my office published research on this topic last year. We called for more education on the topic for children and adults, and for better ways of responding to racist incidents when they happen. Misinformation and the way it is spread also needs to be challenged, and the new Online Safety Act has a key role to play.
For now, let us hold on to hope, to the strong messages of unity we heard last night, and remember – in the words of Jo Cox – that we have much more in common than that which divides us. If you’re a child or young person and you’re worried at all, it is important to tell a trusted adult or organisation. Our office can be contacted on 01792 765600 or by visiting www.childcomwales.org.uk
Here are organisations who can help if you feel worried: