Cllr Bev Craig OBE asserts Manchester’s core values as a welcoming city with diversity and respect at its heart ahead of a Britain First march in the city this weekend.
The message from Manchester’s leaders is one of unity, urging residents to come together against hatred in all its forms.
Cllr Craig said:
“Whatever challenges we face, Manchester stands together. Our unity is stronger than hate and the values that unite us will always hold firm.
“We are a welcoming and friendly city, with a proud history of tolerance, fairness and respect. But the hate and division that Britain First foster has no place here. We have no time for racism or hatred.
“Manchester does not welcome Britain First to our city because they seek to divide our communities and spread hatred.
“We understand the alarm and distress that comes when a group like Britain First, which is widely regarded as a far-right hate group, chooses to gather in our city. However, UK law protects the right to freedom of expression and assembly. This means that protests are allowed on the condition they engage fully with the local police force.
“GMP have given assurances that they will be policing this protest seriously, robustly and with public safety as their top priority. We want to ensure the demonstration is carefully managed to limit disruption and to keep Manchester open, safe and peaceful for everyone.
“At a time when groups promoting division seek attention, our strength comes from standing united – celebrating our diversity and supporting one another. Let’s come together and send a clear message that hate has no place in our city.
“We are making a poster available for residents, communities and local organisations to download and display should they wish. By sharing it in windows, workplaces and community spaces, we can visibly show that Manchester stands together as one city against hate.”
You can download a copy of the poster from our website
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