Many of us will have been watching the events of the last week unfold and continue to do so with horror and fear, and I wanted to reach out to the network directly to share my stance.
I stand in solidarity with communities of colour across Sheffield and the UK, particularly the Muslim and refugee communities, and everyone who has been affected by the violent racist attacks happening across the country.
The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is unequivocally committed to intersectional practice, and there is no disabled liberation without liberation from all forms of oppression – including racism, xenophobia and islamophobia.
The network has a zero tolerance policy for any forms of racism and I absolutely condemn the terror attacks being perpetrated against people of colour, Muslims and refugees. Everyone has the right to feel safe in their homes, whether permanent or temporary, and to experience the deliberate and joyful diversity of this beautiful city without fear for their safety or that of their loved ones.
We are stronger together, and I will continue to stand beside you as a friend and an ally through these difficult and frightening times.
Voluntary Action Sheffield are working directly with Sheffield leaders to coordinate the city response and try to maintain access to crucial services whilst also keeping people safe. If you have any specific concerns, please reach out to me and I will endeavour to get the information you need or pass on any updates to the leadership team to feed into that work.
If you feel unsafe or are in danger whilst out and about, please use the Sheffield Safe Places map here or their app to find your closest Safe Place refuge location where you can wait for the danger to pass or call for help.