Proposer: Leader of the Council, Councillor Cory, and Group Leaders, Councillors Goss, Laws, G. Oxford and T. Young
C.... Motion that:
1. This Council believes that we are proud to live in a diverse and tolerant society. Racism, xenophobia and hate crimes have no place in our country. Colchester Borough Council condemns racism, xenophobia and hate crimes unequivocally. We will not allow hate to become acceptable. We are pleased to note the strong stance that Essex Police have taken against these issues. Colchester Borough Council will work to ensure local bodies and programmes have support and resources needed to fight and prevent all these anti-social acts, and reassures all people living in Colchester borough that they are valued and welcome members of our community.”
2. As reflected in our Equality and Diversity Policies, the Council will continue to:
(a) ensure that unfair discrimination does not arise by promoting equality of opportunity, valuing diversity and promoting good relations between the diverse members of our community, as well as tolerance and understanding of the needs of others; and
(b) recognise that people need protection from unfair discrimination, as set out in the Equalities legislation;
(3) The Council notes:
(a) that, in December 2016, the UK Government became the first European Union country to formally adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of Anti-Semitism; and
(b) the letter from the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, dated 30 January 2017, strongly encouraging councils to adopt the definition of Anti-Semitism.
(4) The Council adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of Anti-Semitism, as set out below:
“Anti-Semitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of Anti-Semitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
(5) The definition of Anti-Semitism, together with the accompanying illustrative examples, be used to guide the Council in the delivery of its equalities duties in relevant circumstances.
As the motion relates to a non-executive matter, it will be debated and determined at the meeting.