A JOINT statement has been released by Reading Borough Council, Reading Refugee Support Group, and the Alliance for Cohesion and Racial Equality amid continued unrest across the country.
Cllr Liz Terry, Leader of Reading Borough Council, said: “Along with everyone in our community, I have been watching with concern and horror the deplorable violent events in a number of towns and cities across the UK.
“Reading has always been a diverse and welcoming place which has benefitted over the decades from a range of communities, all contributing to the richness of the town.
“The Council is working with Thames Valley Police to provide reassurance to Muslim and minority ethnic communities which are feeling particularly vulnerable at this time.
“As a Council, we are also in constant contact with the police to monitor any potential local threats.
“I would ask that any information residents receive which is circulated on social media regarding potential protests, gatherings, threats, hate crimes or other incidents related to the current situation is reported immediately and directly to the police via 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
“There is a lot of misinformation circulating from unofficial sources and it is vital that this is not shared more widely.
“I would ask all fellow Reading residents to check on their friends and neighbours and show them the care and kindness our town is historically known for. “
Victor Koroma, CEO of the Alliance for Cohesion and Racial Equality, said: “Acre in all its previous and present notations has worked hard alongside Reading Borough Council, and voluntary sector and various community partners to promote good community relations in Reading since 1968.
“Reading has developed into a rich and diverse cultural tapestry where a majority of the people respect and support each other. Therefore, we are shocked by the level of racial, religious and xenophobic sentiments currently being espoused by certain sections of the public in the UK.
“Acre calls on all who cherish the Reading society to stand with Reading Borough Council and Thames Valley Police Reading to maintain the cohesive society that we have all invested in building.”
Nick Harborne, CEO of Refugee Support Group (RSG), said: “RSG is proud to have supported refugees and asylum seekers in Reading and across Berkshire for 30 years. We are part of a wider community where diversity and culture make Reading rich.
“We work alongside, support and are supported by Acre, Reading Muslim, Reading Borough Council and all other groups and charities helping those in need. RSG stands by everyone who opposes racism, hatred and embraces diversity and cohesion.
“Reading is a place of welcome for refugees. Reading is a City of Sanctuary and “we have more in common than that which divides us”. As a community, we are stronger today than we were yesterday.”
