All political leaders across Stroud District Council have come together in a united front to firmly denounce hate crimes and emphasize that their community remains welcoming and inclusive for everyone. Leaders from the Green Party, Labour, Conservative, and Liberal Democrat groups jointly issued a statement affirming their commitment to unity and mutual respect within the district.
In their message, the council expressed gratitude to those who consistently demonstrate support and kindness towards others. “Stroud District Council stands in solidarity with every resident in our diverse communities,” the statement declared. “We are dedicated to making sure our district remains a safe and inclusive place where everyone feels respected.”
The statement also highlighted recent acknowledgments of Hate Crime Awareness Week and Black History Month as vital moments to reinforce community cohesion. “This is a time to come together, stand in support of each other, and make clear that hatred has no place here,” the leaders affirmed.
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They acknowledged the profound impact that unwelcoming behavior can have on minority groups, noting that it can cause fear and feelings of exclusion from the community. The council urged anyone who experiences or witnesses hate crimes to report them promptly through Gloucestershire Police’s online services, by calling 101, visiting a police station, or dialing 999 in emergencies.