Bedfordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, John Tizard (Labour) has reiterated his stance “against racism, discrimination, and inequality” throughout a series of events around the county.
His words come after engagement with local community groups alongside representatives from mosques around Bedfordshire to highlight the importance of solidarity and inclusion.
Sentencing for violent disorder and associated crimes continue across the country after online misinformation falsely claimed the fatal stabbing of three girls in Southport was committed by a Muslim asylum seeker.
Bedford did not witness any violent disorder after the local community, particularly in Queens Park, came out in force in a show of solidarity.
“We are one Bedfordshire. Our strength lies in our diversity”, said Mr Tizard.
“There is absolutely no place in our county for racism, Islamophobia, or any form of hate crime whoever it is directed at or whoever commits such heinous behaviour.
“As PCC, I am dedicated to eliminating such behaviours and ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their ethnicity or faith is treated with fairness and respect.
“I am pleased that communities under the threat of attack were reassured by the actions and support from the police. Social cohesion is important, but we must ensure that all communities and people of all races feel safe and are respected.”
Zero tolerance
Mr Tizard also says there is a shared commitment with the Chief Constable and the Bedfordshire Police Service in upholding these values.
He said, “We must do more than just condemn these actions – we must act decisively to eliminate inequalities in all their forms.
“This includes making strategic investments in our communities, prevention and equalities programmes.
“Racism is evil. We must have a zero tolerance to it. It is not enough to say you are not racist, we must all be anti-racist and challenge racists and institutional racism.
“My Police and Crime Plan, launching in October, will focus on criminal justice, social justice, and equality under the law, ensuring that resources are allocated equitably across all our diverse communities.
“I am committed to strengthening police community relations, to be vigilant in tackling hate crime, addressing discrimination and inequality, and to celebrate our diversity.”
The PCC recently launched a survey for residents to ask for feedback on his upcoming Police and Crime plan.
You can complete the survey here.
