These are challenging times and we all face a variety of problems. We believe, however that looking for scapegoats and intolerance offer no solutions whatsoever.
Migrant workers, immigrants, asylum seekers and members of any one faith are not responsible for financial crisis, hardship, cuts and unemployment. Despite this we note an increase in anti-Muslim Islamophobia and other forms of racism in Britain and the rest of Europe.
The North-East has a well-deserved reputation for solidarity and social cohesion. We pride ourselves on the diversity of our communities and our mixed heritages. We are aware that the racist ‘BAAI’ is intent upon importing its hate filled message into Bishop Auckland on 11th June.
We believe that such a development will only stir up division and besmirch the name of our town and the North East. We believe that ‘BAAI’ must be stopped from spreading their message of intolerance.
In the event of ‘BAAI’ provocative event going ahead we are committed to supporting a vibrant, peaceful, multi-cultural and multi-faith counter-demonstration involving people from the widest possible backgrounds.
The aim of our protest would be to send out clear and simple message: ‘BAAI’ is not wanted in Bishop Auckland, the North East or anywhere else. We must all stand together in unity in the face of Islamphobia, anti-Semitism and all forms of racism and fascism.
Durham Miners Association, County Durham Trades Council, Unite Against Fascism, Newcastle Unites, Stand Up To Racism.
