Agenda Alliance responds to far-right violence

We are appalled by the racist, Islamophobic, and anti-migrant far-right violence across recent days, and stand in solidarity with affected communities, our members, and the women and girls they support.

Those who are Muslim (or perceived to be), Black or Asian, are currently living in legitimate fear of direct violence or threat, as are refugees and asylum seekers. The spaces where these communities can connect and should feel safe have been targeted. This is unacceptable.

The far-right began by weaponising the tragic murder of young girls in Southport and, as ever, continue to use protecting ‘women and girls’ to justify their actions. We know that this has nothing to do with protecting the marginalised. This is about spreading hate.

In fact, fascists are seen regularly using rape, misogyny and violence against women as a threat. Their destruction of mosques and community spaces is not only abhorrent, it will make it harder for women, girls, and those at the sharpest edge of disadvantage in society to access support they need.

And let's be clear: their actions have come from a climate of racism and division purposefully stoked by politicians and the media. We are particularly concerned for our members who directly support women and girls from affected communities, and work tirelessly to keep them safe.

To our members, partners and friends who are Muslim, Black, Asian and minoritised and/or migratised: we stand in solidarity with you in the face of racism and division and wholeheartedly champion you in delivering services of care and kindness despite such hostility.