Hands around Todmorden Town Hall
Sunday, 24 July 2016
Todmorden Town Hall was ringed with anti-racists on Sunday, July 24, in a show of solidarity against race hate.
Photo: Joan Heath
It was organised by local people in response to an increase in racially-motivated incidents following the vote for Britain to leave the European Union, and was supported by many activists from Hebden Bridge.
One organiser, Beth Paramour, said, "We wanted to do something in response to the rise in racist incidents nationally and show that Todmorden is a welcoming town.
"We decided on a show of solidarity with a big circle of hands around the town hall."
Photo: Joan Heath
Another organiser, Emma Decent, said, "The increase in race crime is concerning.
"We need to do the opposite of that and show that we are welcoming to each other and care for each other, and to draw people in and show we are part of the same community."
Town Mayor Councillor Tony Greenwood said, "We easily surrounded the town hall which is a large building.
"There were lots of people, diverse, enjoying the occasion and each other's company, all united around the strengths of the town – cohesion, diversity and kindness."
The Rev Jo Kershaw of Todmorden St Mary's church said the event was "a sign of solidarity against hatred, bringing people together from all sections of the community."
Photo: Joan Heath