7 Aug 2024

Statement from Sport and Recreation Alliance on UK rioting

Statement from Sport and Recreation Alliance on UK rioting news article image

The Sport and Recreation Alliance has issued a statement following the recent riots in the UK.

Over the last week we’ve witnessed a wave of rioting and Islamophobic and racist attacks across parts of the UK.

We, the Sport and Recreation Alliance, unequivocally condemn these attacks in the strongest possible terms. Such actions are abhorrent and have no place in our society.

As a community united by the spirit of sport, we believe in the power of diversity and the strength that comes from unity. Sport and recreation create spaces and places where people from all backgrounds come together, not just to compete, but to celebrate our shared humanity and the joy of sportsmanship.

We are acutely aware that all of our members will be affected by the attacks and violence in one form or another, and that people from across the country – especially those from an ethnically diverse background – may not feel safe in their communities, let alone able to take part in sport, recreation and physical activity.

We therefore wanted to reaffirm our commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected, and in supporting our members and partners to continue to do so too. We stand in solidarity with all those affected by these heinous acts and restate our dedication to fighting against discrimination in all its forms.

Together, we will continue to promote a culture and society of inclusivity and stand up against hatred and bigotry. Let us all remember that through unity and mutual respect, we can create a stronger, more inclusive community for everyone.

Lisa Wainwright MBE
CEO, Sport and Recreation Alliance

The following information from ProtectUK is also useful to take a look at in light of these events:

Public Safety Advice | ProtectUK

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