Council Leader lends support to Hate Crime Awareness Week

To mark Hate Crime Awareness Week, Council Leader, Cllr Alyson Barnes has issued the following statement:

I have always said that Rossendale is one of the most friendly and tolerant places you can find but sadly, even here we have seen first-hand the terrible consequences of hate and where it can lead to if unchecked.

Hate crimes are appalling and can destroy lives. They also have a much wider impact on the borough and society. Society seems more divided than ever and I fear the conditions for hatred to flourish are being created.

So it is even more vital than ever that we must challenge hatred in all its forms. All citizens have a duty and responsibility to do so and report it. Only by working together can we stamp hatred out.

I also want again to highlight the campaign at a national level to make misogyny, or hatred of women, categorised as a hate crime. Some of the things you read directed at women, especially women in the public eye, are disgusting. I know all right minded individuals call it out but there is quite a lot of abuse that goes on.

I have been encouraged by the results of a recent pilot which has improved the everyday lives of women and girls. Hopefully more police forces will make that positive change.

Hate Crime Awareness Week runs until October 19. During the week, Lancashire Police and the Crime Commissioner is encouraging people across the county to sign up to their #SayNoToHate pledge. Sign up now.