STATEMENT
St Pauls Advice Centre is deeply saddened and appalled by the recent surge of racist violence sweeping across our country and particularly in Bristol. Our thoughts and solidarity are with all communities affected by these heinous acts. We unequivocally condemn such violence and stand united with the people who are targeted, as well as with our partners in the legal advice sector and charities supporting refugees and asylum seekers.
Bristol, as a recognised City of Sanctuary, has a proud tradition of welcoming and supporting those fleeing persecution, violence, and hardship. This status is a testament to our City’s commitment to inclusivity, safety, and hope for all who seek refuge here. St Pauls Advice Centre is proud of its history of anti-racism and the part that previous generations have played to support Bristol being an inclusive and welcoming City.
Time and again Bristol has stood up in defence against racist incursions and we are proud to see that those defending our communities vastly outnumber those who are intent on inflicting violent hatred.
It is appalling that some perpetrators of this racist violence claim to be acting in honour of the tragic deaths of the young girls in Southport. This is a completely unrelated event. Using this tragedy as a pretext for racist violence is not only an insult to the memory of the victims, and to their families and their community, but also fundamentally unjust and misguided.
St Pauls Advice Centre remains committed to supporting our communities through these trying times. We will continue to deliver our services and ensure that people are able to access free independent legal advice, however, this may mean that from time to time we have to close our office so that staff, and clients, can operate without risk to their safety. In such cases we will offer alternative arrangements.