Burnley Council’s political leader, Cllr Afrasiab Anwar, has spoken out about the recent nationwide far-right riots that followed the tragic deaths of three young girls in Southport. In a statement to the borough’s Full Council meeting on Wednesday night, Cllr Anwar expressed his gratitude to police officers who kept the community safe during the riots and wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.
While Burnley did not experience violence locally, the community was deeply affected by the nationwide unrest. Cllr Anwar acknowledged that many residents felt fear, anxiety, and a sense of uncertainty as they witnessed the chaos and destruction unfold. He also condemned the heinous provocations that took place in the borough, including the desecration of Muslim graves at Burnley cemetery and the mural at Valley Street Community Centre.
However, Cllr Anwar was proud to report that the community came together to combat hate and Islamophobia, sending a clear message that there is no place for racism and anarchy in Burnley. He praised the council officers who worked closely with the police and community to provide reassurance and timely communications during the crisis.
The council has been invited to contribute to the Local Government Association and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s national recovery and learning exercise. Cllr Anwar expressed his enthusiasm for this opportunity, stating that it would be a valuable chance for the council to share its experiences and insights with other local authorities.
In addition to the council’s efforts, Cllr Anwar highlighted the importance of community-led initiatives in promoting unity and combating hate. He praised the organizers of the “Bubbles in the Park” event, which took place on September 15, for bringing the community together to send a message of solidarity and support.
The event, which was attended by huge crowds despite torrential rainfall, aimed to show that Burnley is saddened by the tragic deaths of the three girls and that there is no room for division in the borough. Cllr Anwar was proud to have attended the event alongside the Mayor, MP, and chief executive, and he expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed to its success.
Cllr Anwar emphasized the importance of unity and reassurance in the wake of the national unrest. He urged the community to come together to promote tolerance, understanding, and inclusivity, and to reject hate and division in all its forms.
“We must work together to build a brighter future for our borough, one that is free from fear, anxiety, and hatred,” he said. “We must stand together against those who seek to divide us and promote a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding. Together, we can achieve great things and make Burnley a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected.”
Cllr Anwar also acknowledged the bravery and dedication of the police officers who worked tirelessly to keep the community safe during the riots. He praised their professionalism and commitment to serving the community, and he wished those who were injured a speedy recovery.
The council’s efforts to promote unity and combat hate were not limited to the “Bubbles in the Park” event. Cllr Anwar reported that the council had been working closely with local community groups and organizations to provide support and resources to those affected by the riots.
He also emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of hate and division, and of promoting a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding. He urged the community to come together to promote tolerance and inclusivity, and to reject hate and division in all its forms.
In conclusion, Cllr Anwar emphasized the importance of unity and reassurance in the wake of the national unrest. He urged the community to come together to promote tolerance, understanding, and inclusivity, and to reject hate and division in all its forms.
“We must work together to build a brighter future for our borough, one that is free from fear, anxiety, and hatred,” he said. “We must stand together against those who seek to divide us and promote a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding. Together, we can achieve great things and make Burnley a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected.”
Cllr Anwar’s statement was met with applause and support from the council members and community leaders who attended the meeting. His words of unity and reassurance were a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together to promote tolerance, understanding, and inclusivity in the face of hate and division.