A BLACK Lives Matter and anti-racism protest takes place in Shirley today.
West Midlands Police is helping to ensure the event takes place in a safe and organised way, say organisers.
It is being supported by Solihull Green Party, which will be handing out face masks for those who need them.
Attendees are urged to protect themselves and observe social distancing.
Councillor Shahin Ashraf MBE (Shirley South) said in a Facebook post: “We should all have the right to be part of a peaceful protest. It’s moments of solidarity such as this that show togetherness in our communities. It is up to all of us to root out injustices.”
Councillor Dr Rosemary Sexton (Shirley West) said, “We’d like to think that in 2020 racism has been rooted out from our society, but sadly that is not the everyday experience of many black and ethnic minority people. We must make sure that their voices are heard.”
Alison Wilson (Meriden GE Candidate, 2017) said: “At this time it has become clear, again that black people are unfairly treated because of the colour of their skin. It is important that all of us, no matter the colour of our skin, say with one voice ‘we will not accept this anymore!’”
Councillor Steve Caudwell (Group Leader, Solihull Council) said, “The truth is that black people have always played a huge part in British society, but that often isn’t recognised or understood. BLM is a vital movement that can help us come closer together as a community in Solihull.”
