Hate Crime Awareness Week statement
During Hate Crime Awareness Week, East Ayrshire councillors stand united in their support for marginalised minority groups, condemning the rise in extremist rhetoric, and committing to challenge hate and division wherever it arises.
In a joint statement, issued on behalf of all elected members, from every political party, they said:
“East Ayrshire has a proud history of welcoming people who are fleeing conflict and oppression in their homeland, and this has included providing safety, refuge and support for people from Syria, Ukraine and Afghanistan, many of whom are now well integrated within our communities.
“However, in recent weeks we have become increasingly concerned by the hateful rhetoric being spread through false accusations and misinformation online, resulting in divisions in our communities.
“Such behaviour is a threat to the compassionate and inclusive values we hold strong in East Ayrshire. We neither recognise nor condone this behaviour in our communities.
“East Ayrshire is better than this and we stand united in our efforts to reaffirm our commitment to human dignity, freedom and equality, and to support every member of our communities, regardless of background, belief or religion."