We stand in solidarity with Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller communities, and with the families and children affected by Greater Manchester Police’s actions on Saturday 23 November 2024.
BME National members stand by Friends, Families and Travellers (FFT) and the wider Gypsy and Traveller civil society sector in condemning the violent and discriminatory treatment of Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller children by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) at the Manchester Christmas market.
Reports of children being forcibly restrained, over-policed, and ejected from the town center are deeply disturbing and demand urgent accountability.
This incident highlights systemic racial discrimination that continues to stigmatise and criminalise Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller communities. It is beyond belief that instead of being allowed to enjoy the holiday festivities, young people were subjected to shocking levels of humiliation and brutality.
We join FFT in calling for:
A Full Investigation: GMP must provide a transparent and comprehensive explanation of their actions, including the decision-making processes that led to this treatment of these children.
Accountability Measures: Officers involved in any misconduct must be held to account, and steps must be taken to address systemic biases within the force.
Systemic Change: Greater protections must be implemented to safeguard marginalized communities from over-policing, racial profiling, and unjust treatment.
We urge all organisations, policymakers, and the public to recognise and challenge the pervasive discrimination faced by Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller communities. This incident is a stark reminder of the broader need for racial justice and equity as discrimination and exclusion can take many forms.
Together, we must demand better for all children and work to build a society where every community is treated with dignity and respect. We stand united in the fight for racial justice.
Yorumlar