Tackling racism and valuing diversity

Like many of you I spent the last month fully immersed in the buzz of the Euros. It was a welcome respite after the very difficult year we’ve had. I was even lucky to attend one of the England games at Wembley! 

Despite the heartbreaking loss in the final they have inspired the country and made us all proud. Not only are they great players but they are role models made up of various backgrounds who stand up against racism, support LGBTQ+ rights and campaign for free school meals. 

The horrific racist abuse directed at three of the players and other members of our community is yet another example of the widespread racism that sadly still exists in our society. 

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.

Just this week, the Council had an internal livestream for staff on the internal practices the Council has introduced in the last year and the further work it has planned in pursuit of racial justice equality. 

We are also progressing a diversity mural to celebrate the diversity of our borough and show our commitment to ending racism. 

In Sutton, we value and support our diverse community. We celebrate the increasing diversity and the richness that it brings. Whether you are of black, minority ethnic or of any other heritage, Sutton is a great place to live, work and raise a family. We will continue to work with community, faith, voluntary and public and private organisations to help ensure we are one of the safest, welcoming and most inclusive places in London.

Cllr Manuel Abellan