NICVA calls for action on racist attacks

NICVA has issued a strongly worded press release condemning the racist attacks that have taken place in Belfast over the last two months, and in Craigavon last October.

The release begins “Northern Ireland has been in denial about racism for far too long. We have sheltered behind notions that we are a friendly people who welcome strangers .” and goes on to condemn the violence and the people responsible for it.

Chief executive, Seamus McAleavey, commented on the current situation saying, “Many reports in recent years have shown that racism is a serious and growing problem. Yet, little has been done about it. The government, police service, housing executive and other agencies need to give the protection of ethnic minorities and the arrest of racist thugs top priority. We urgently need tougher race crimes legislation and strict enforcement to signal that violence against Black and Asian families will not be tolerated .”

“It would be intolerable if private landlords reacted by discriminating against ethnic minorities as tenant. That would penalise the victims and do the racists’ work for them .”

Changes need to made in public services and society to make clear that Northern Ireland welcomes the participation of ethnic minorities. It is also time for a public awareness campaign to promote tolerance and diversity in society. The voluntary and community sector, which exists to serve disadvantaged groups above all, also has a responsibility for racism.

“Local community groups have a special role in protecting and supporting ethnic minority residents, ” Mr McAleavey added."They should state publicly that they do not tolerate racism in any form .”

NICVA press releases