In light of the recent killing of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter protests that followed it around the world, Birmingham MPs have put out a joint statement in solidarity with the black community in Birmingham and beyond, and committed to engage with and listen to the black communities they represent to help bring about meaningful, lasting change in the city.
Full text of statement:
"The death of George Floyd has sparked justified anger in the black community here in Birmingham, across the country and around the world.
We cannot ignore the deep hurt and grief felt by the black community at this time. We cannot stay silent. That’s why we stand in solidarity with all those fighting for justice and against racism in all its forms.
But more than solidarity and symbols, what we need now are answers and action. This important moment in history must be a catalyst for fundamental change.
Recent events have shone a spotlight on the many structural injustices sadly still present in society today. Injustices manifested by the many daily discriminations faced by black people and those from other ethnic minorities.
As Members of Parliament representing constituencies in one of the most diverse cities in the UK, we know that it is only through listening to those affected by structural injustices that we can begin to understand what needs to change to heal our communities.
As is incumbent on all of us, we will use this time to educate ourselves by engaging with and listening to the black communities we represent. We stand with those fighting for justice and against racism, and stand ready to bring about whatever meaningful, lasting change is necessary here in Birmingham and across the country, because black lives matter."
Preet Kaur Gill MP
Liam Byrne MP
Andrew Mitchell MP
Shabana Mahmood MP
Jack Dromey MP
Jess Philips MP
Khalid Mahmood MP
Steve McCabe MP
Tahir Ali MP
Gary Sambrook MP