Standing united against racist and Islamophobic violence

As a member of the Greater Manchester Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise Group (VCFSE) we join the sector and our partners in condemning the racist, anti-immigrant, Islamophobic and xenophobic attacks and rhetoric we have seen in recent days.

We stand with our colleagues, communities and all of those targeted by the reprehensible actions and behaviour of this vocal minority.

Only through respect and inclusivity will we address the real inequalities in our city region.

Given the ongoing situation we would advise everyone to be aware of risks to their safety and to the safety of those around them. We encourage colleagues and the young people that we work with to support and check in with each other and to share examples of togetherness and strength in our communities.

Many of our voluntary, community and faith groups, will be affected, and some will be afraid of being targeted. If you feel threatened, please seek advice from the police or your local authority.

The Charity Commission has also released a statement which includes safeguarding guidance and a section on how to handle and report incidents and concerns.

We believe now is the time for a social movement wave of change that we can foster within our communities. By focusing our efforts on positive actions and community building, we can create a stronger, more unified response to these challenges.

Every day in our sector we see examples of who we are and the values we cherish, the actions of this minority will not undermine our work or unity.