NJPN is appalled by the events of the past days. We hold in our thoughts and prayers Alice da Silva Aguiar, Elsie Dot Stancombe, Bebe King and all those affected by the tragic events in Southport.

 We utterly condemn the violence directed towards mosques, refugees and asylum seekers and minority groups. We applaud those who stand in solidarity with victims of racist behaviour.  Targeting the most vulnerable is abhorrent as is spreading misinformation creating division within our communities.

 Language is key to how we operate as a society and the use of vicious, discriminatory, and misleading rhetoric about those other than ourselves has been increasingly evident in the public space in recent times. Truth and integrity are lacking in much of our public discourse. Seeking truth in the face of much dishonest and misleading reporting can be challenging. 

We must work to change the narrative and bring people of all beliefs and good will together to build more respectful, listening and welcoming communities. Violence is never the answer, more powerful is the witness of the many individuals and groups who came together to clear up their local areas. As faith communities we must commit to working closely together and ask what is our role in building cohesive and welcoming communities where everyone is able to thrive, to find a place to call home and walk the streets in safety feeling confident and included?

Anne Peacey – Chair, NJPN