Labour and Conservative leaders at Lichfield District Council will set aside their political differences to make a joint stand against hate crime.
The local authority’s leader Cllr Mike Wilcox and opposition group leader Cllr Sue Woodward are behind the motion to be heard at tomorrow’s meeting of the council.
The move comes after the recent death of MP Jo Cox.
The joint motion says: “Recent media reports of an increase in racist and xenophobic incidents and hate crimes have shocked and saddened us all. We are proud of the UK’s reputation as a diverse and tolerant society and value the economic, social and cultural contribution made by people from diverse backgrounds to the life of our district.
“Every member of our community has the right to go about their daily business in safety and without fear. This includes those of us in public office who should not be subject to abuse and threats from those we seek to serve.
“We are reminded of the tragic death of Jo Cox MP and the tributes made to her by her constituents who spoke warmly of her passion and determination to represent their interests.
“We are fortunate to live in a democratic society and are determined that the principles of democracy will not be undermined by the actions and words of a small but loud minority.”
The leaders also say that everyone has a role to play in tackling the issues.
“Racism, xenophobia and hate crimes have no place here,” they said. “Lichfield District Council condemns them unequivocally.
“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 will continue to invest in our local Communities Against Crimes of Hate partnership, which provides advice and support to victims of all types of hate crime. This includes not only those being intimidated for reasons of race or religion, but also because of their gender, disability, class or simply because of who they are.
“We reassure all people living in Lichfield district that they are valued members of our community and acknowledge our individual and collective duty to stand up and stamp out racism and xenophobia.”
