Our statement on recent racist incidents, and the importance of community

The past few weeks have been deeply concerning, with a rise in racist incidents and a sense that such behaviour is becoming more normalised. Across the country, hate crime is increasing, and national symbols such as the Union Jack and St. George’s flag are being co-opted as emblems of division. This is unsettling, threatening, and damaging to community cohesion.

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Local infrastructure organisations are already seeing the effects: communities feeling unsafe, people experiencing aggression, and frustration at the wider response. Our role, now more than ever, is to support strong, united communities. That means listening, offering support, and building a shared, positive and inclusive sense of place.

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We can call out aggression, amplify anti-racist voices, and focus on the power of communities working together. Local infrastructure organisations are uniquely placed to provide the spaces, relationships, and trust that help people feel connected and safe.

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While the challenges are significant, the work of local infrastructure makes a difference every day. Supporting inclusive, resilient, thriving communities is vital – and NAVCA will continue to work with our members to make this possible.

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Useful resources

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We want to make sure members and the wider voluntary sector are equipped with useful resources to take local action.

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When Hate Spills Into Workplaces - A Leaders Guide: This useful guide by New Ways has practical, active steps we can take, including around using appropriate language, and creating space for conversations.

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Building strong communities requires practical skills. HOPE note hate has a useful page with resources to help you respond to the far-right threat. View the page and download the resources here.

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NAVCA members can also log into the NAVCA Member Hub here and download resources on anti-racism.