Taking the hate out of politics will boost efforts to promote equality

Political campaigning can be robust, but it must be respectful, says Councillor Jane Lofthouse, the Council lead on the Race Equality Alliance which aims to promote equality for all and take the heat and hate out of public affairs.

Eliminating hate speech and abusive communications in public discourse is essential if we believe in fostering constructive debate, promoting democratic values and the true realisation of equality.

Equality entails full inclusion and wide consultation, however, hate speech and abuse stifle true debate, silencing many and diverting discussion from analysis of important issues to a focus on personal antipathies.

Many people will be deterred by this and, as a result, alternative explanations and possible solutions become obscured. Discussion between equals is replaced by a ‘them and us’ confrontation, with ‘them’ being seen as ‘other’, as alien and outsiders.

This situation can only divide and fragment society, and ferment hatred. Respect, equality and democratic values are the sacrificial victims of abusive campaigning and hate speech.

The move must be towards understanding and respect, not away from these, if we are to progress; it must be towards rational debate, not irrational hatred.

Public figures have the opportunity to influence debate within the community: the more strongly policies and principles are held, the more it is incumbent on us to hold to these, rather than to descend into personal abuse, disrespect and hate, which not only forfeit trust but also set a tone of aggression and division and forgo the necessary analysis of core elements of debate.

Council’s overall commitment to ending discrimination in any form.

This campaign is driven by programmes including ‘Tackling Racism, Inequality and Disproportionality’, the newly launched Commission on Multi-Ethnic and Inclusive Newham (See Page 7) and the Newham Race Equality Alliance.

The Alliance was set up in August 2021 to find practical solutions to help address the systemic discrimination and disadvantages experienced by residents because of their race or ethnicity. Listening to and learning from local communities and organisations is intrinsic to this and those interested in active involvement are welcomed to find out more at: www.newham. gov.uk/council/get-involved-shaping-new-newham-race-equality-alliance

It’s a challenge to respond to abuse with dignity and respect, however, if we do not, we slide down the road to futility.

Politicians of all persuasions need to retain our trust and respect and we all need to provide leadership in eliminating abusive communications at election time and in public life.

The campaign to embed values of equality and respect at all levels of the community is integral to Newham