Marking UN anti-racism day in Sutton

“On March 20 we mark UN Anti-Racism day in Sutton, along with other councils and organisations across the country. Over the last year, issues of racial inequality have been brought into stark relief - both by the inequalities the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed, and by the violence against Black people in the United States - which sparked widespread anger and protest.

In order to mark UN Anti-Racism day we are lighting up the flagpole at the Civic Centre purple as a symbol of our commitment to be a free and equal borough.

Racism has no place in Sutton, and as a Council we are actively working to address inequalities by listening, engaging and working with our residents to bring about change. In the last year I have spoken to many organisations, residents and staff in the borough to listen to the concerns of Black and minority ethnic residents.

In Sutton, diversity is an important feature of our community, and a part that we take great pride in. Having so many communities represented in the borough is key to making it a great place to live, work and raise a family. We want our children to grow up in a place where we welcome diversity and enjoy learning about different traditions and backgrounds.

As a Council, we have been reflecting on the events of the last year, with a particular focus on how these have impacted on our Black and minority ethnic communities and ways in which we can make a difference. We are determined that our residents, from every background and heritage, should be free and equal in the borough. We are united in our efforts to eliminate racism in Sutton.”