Abianda condemns the racist and Islamophobic violence we have seen escalating throughout our communities in recent weeks.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families of Elsie, Alice, Bebe and all those who continue to be affected by this violence. We remain steadfast in our solidarity with young women, girls, youth services and community members that we work alongside.
Abianda is clear that the perpetrators of the recent violence have appropriated, and purported to use as justification, the harm done to girls and young women to fuel their own racist agendas and to further spread hatred and discrimination towards some of the most marginalised communities. This scapegoating serves to isolate vulnerable women and girls further, not protect them.
All young women and girls deserve to feel safe and to know that they belong. They should receive a response that centres their voices and effectively addresses the harm they experience. These most recent and vile acts serve only to facilitate increased harm and isolation for girls and young women.
We will continue resisting racism, hate and discrimination so that girls and young women are safe in their communities.
As always, and in the context of any external trauma that permeates across and within communities, our attention is first and foremost on our team and the young women we work with. Internal reflection, discussion and care comes first. Beyond these words here today, we will continue to ensure our team is supported, has the space and resources to share with and support each other, and understand our role in supporting young women and girls on these issues that cause such harm and that shape young lives.
Our support and appreciation go to our partners and other organisations who are doing such incredibly important work to support women and girls, and resist the propaganda that supports the “terrorisation of racially minoritised communities” (https://rapecrisis.org.uk/news/statement-on-the-racist-and-islamophobic-violence-following-the-southport-attack/).
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