THE Mayor of Solihull has urged communities to work together, after the riots in the town following the Southport stabbings.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Coun Shahin Ashraf MBE, said racism and Islamaphobia has no place in Solihull.
She said: “I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.
“As I mentioned in my acceptance speech, I am here on this journey of service, unity, and progress for Solihull.
“These are the words I continue to echo throughout the borough on my visits from north to south, east to west.
“I know the last few days have been challenging. Many families have expressed their fear and nervousness, wondering how to navigate the challenges on the rhetoric of racism and Islamophobia.”
“The comments and protests of a few individuals do not represent the values of our community.
“We must work together to protect one another, and I ask us all to continue to offer each other assurances, speak to each other, and support each other during these times.
“I know that together, we will navigate these challenges and emerge stronger, united, and as a more resilient Solihull.”
A 17-year-old has been charged with murdering the three girls who were stabbed at a Taylor Swift-themed dance.
Axel Muganwa Rudakubana has also been charged with 10 counts of attempted murder after eight other children and two adults were seriously injured in the attack on Monday.
The suspect, who is from the Lancashire village of Banks, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court, and also faces a charge of possessing a curved kitchen knife.
He was remanded into youth detention accommodation.
The Cardiff-born teenager could not previously be named due to his age but Recorder of Liverpool Judge Andrew Menary KC ruled it could be made public following applications from the media.
