York leaders condemns hate crime and urges people to report it
It comes after two families were sent racist letters
City leaders in York have condemned racist letters sent to York residents and are urging anyone experiencing any kind of hate crime to report it and to seek support.
Racism or other forms of hatred targeted at someone because of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender is a crime. It can have a devastating impact upon individuals and communities and it will not to be tolerated anywhere in the city.
Cllr Darryl Smalley, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Communities at City of York Council, said: “This is unacceptable in York or anywhere else, and we're horrified to see this. This is not in the spirit of York, which staunchly welcomes and appreciates the contributions of all who have chosen to make York home.
“My heart goes out to those receiving such hateful mail and I am glad to see that these recent incidents have been reported to North Yorkshire Police. Anyone receiving letters like these, or experiencing any other hate crime, should report it to the police who can also offer support.
“We must work together to support our communities and continue to call out racism and hate in all its forms. No one should ever fear being abused or discriminated against; not in York or anywhere else.”
Cllr Denise Craghill, Executive Member for Housing and Safer Neighbourhoods, said: "This appalling incident will naturally be a cause for concern by those immediately affected and by the community so please, do report this and any other incidents of hate crime if you have experienced or witnessed.”
Hate crime can be reported via:
• North Yorkshire Police by calling 101 or North Yorkshire Police
• Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or Independent UK charity taking crime information anonymously | Crimestoppers (crimestoppers-uk.org)
• Supporting Victims by calling 01609 643100 or supportingvictims.org
• True Vision at report-it.org.uk.