Stand Up To Racism has launched a statement (see below) with major political, trade union and faith community figures calling to keep racism out of the election. You can download a “hard copy” here general election sutr petition w signatories or sign online here. 

Keep racism out of the election

The snap election called by Theresa May for 8 June raises the serious prospect of a further rise in racism. Hate crimes soared by 41% following last year’s EU referendum, and much of the same toxic scapegoating which fuelled this rise now threatens to dominate the general election.

Since the financial crisis, migrants and refugees have repeatedly been blamed for the effects of economic stagnation and austerity. In fact, migrants play an indispensable role in society and the economy, staffing crucial public services and contributing through the tax system.

In the wake of Donald Trump’s ‘Muslim ban’ and a shocking rise in anti-Muslim hate crime fuelled by the far-right and sections of the press, Islamophobia must also be challenged at every point in this campaign.

There is no place for racism and scapegoating in our political discourse. We call on all political leaders, media outlets, candidates and campaigns to refrain from the scapegoating of migrants and refugees and take responsibility for halting the rise of racism, Islamophobia and anti-Semitism.

Initial signatories:

Kevin Courtney, NUT general secretary

Mark Serwotka, PCS general secretary

Tony Kearns, CWU acting general secretary

John McDonnell, shadow chancellor

Diane Abbott, shadow home secretary

Shahrar Ali, Green Party home affairs spokesperson

Shazad Amin, CEO, MEND

Rabbi Lee Wax, New North London Synagogue

Alan Gibbons, author

Claude Moraes Labour MEP

Rushanara Ali, Labour: Bethnal Green & Bow

Heidi Alexander, Labour: Lewisham East

Ronnie Campbell, Labour: Blyth Valley

Alex Cunningham, Labour: Stockton