The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Birmingham Members of Parliament, Leader of Birmingham City Council and the police have met to discuss concerns around hate crime.
Following the meeting in which West Midlands Police re-iterated its zero-tolerance approach, the attendees have urged people to report incidents of hate crime and come together to show that the city and the region remains a tolerant place in which people get on with each other.
The meeting was co-ordinated by Perry Barr MP Khalid Mahmood who, speaking on behalf of MPs from the city, said: “It was important and reassuring that the police, PCC, MPs and the council leader have come together and set up a strong structure to tackle issues that have arisen.
“It shows our unwavering commitment to maintaining strong social cohesion in our region and that we are determined that all issues are recorded and dealt with as a matter of priority.”
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson said:
“We are all extremely proud that the West Midlands is a diverse region, where people from different backgrounds and cultures get on. That will not be allowed to change.
“Hate crime is not acceptable and tackling the crime is a priority of mine and West Midlands Police have a zero-tolerance policy on it. If it is reported it will be investigated.
“People in the West Midlands have different views on certain issues, but one thing that unites us all is that we are tolerant, decent people who get on with each other. Hate crimes have been committed by a tiny minority of people.
“If you are a victim of, or see any evidence of hate crime please report it. It is only by reporting the crime that we can tackle it.”
Leader of Birmingham City Council John Clancy said: “I’m proud to live in a city and region where communities come together regardless of race, faith or sexuality and anyone who tries to create disharmony and division will not succeed.
“I would urge any victims of hate crime to report the matter to West Midlands Police.”
If people experience hate crime, they should:
- In an emergency dial 999 for help.
- Phone West Midlands Police on 101 and ask for their local station.
- Complete the True Vision online reporting form at www.report-it.org.uk.
- Go to a 3rd Party Hate Crime Reporting Centre. There are more than 200 across the West Midlands. Download 3rd Party Reporting Centres (XLS)
