‘Eastbourne is united against racism’: Councillors voice support of Black Lives Matter

It comes after the shocking death of George Floyd sparked a wave of anti-racism protests across the world – with a march planned for Eastbourne this Saturday (June 13).

Councillor Rebecca Whippy, who is cabinet member for equalities, said, “In Eastbourne we are lucky to benefit from a diverse and multicultural society that has grown and prospered over many years.

“Living in our town makes it even harder for me to comprehend the intolerance, racism and prejudice we have seen in America, but we mustn’t think that it doesn’t exist here too.

“It does. It is maybe more subtle, less prevalent, but it is here.

“An equal, fair and just society should be an automatic right for every individual, wherever they are living. And in my role as a local councillor I will always do what I can to ensure that our services treat everyone the same way.

Black Lives Matter march planned for Eastbourne

“The June 13 Black Lives Matter demonstration will show how Eastbourne residents are united against racism.

“My plea to all those who attend is to be mindful that to avoid a second wave of Covid-19 infections we must all continue to observe social distancing.”

Eastbourne Borough Council leader David Tutt also expressed his support for the movement.

He said, “Racism has no place in our communities. We stand with other councils in the UK and across the world in their work to tackle the scourge of prejudice, in all its forms.

“The determination to fight for fairness, equality and social justice flows through everything local government does. The diversity in Eastbourne is what brings the richness to all of our communities.

“I fully support the Black Lives Matter march in Eastbourne on June 13 and will always defend the right of people to demonstrate and protest peacefully.

“Anyone who does join the march must observe social distancing - the coronavirus pandemic has not gone away, we must continue to limit the spread of the virus.”