A City of London policing leader has encouraged the public to call out hate crime when they see it.

Speaking to the charity National Hate Crime Awareness Week, Chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, James Thomson, said: “when people are targeted based on their disability, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or gender identity, we need to call it out for what it is. A hate crime.”

He said: “National Hate Crime Awareness Week follows the tragic events that are taking place in the Middle East. We all can play a role in ensuring people feel safe and protected and I want to affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting all the communities we serve.”

 The former special constable said: “The best thing we can all do when we see hate crime occur is call it out. This means being aware of when someone's behaviour is inappropriate or threatening and choosing to challenge it. Whether you do this yourself or go to someone in authority, if you do not feel comfortable doing this directly, calling it out can help stop hate crimes reoccurring.”

 Hate crime will not be tolerated in any form and the City of London Police are here to help victims, members of the public or people feeling vulnerable.

 If you are subjected to, or witness, a hate crime - report it by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency - or online via Report hate crime | City of London Police.

The City of London Corporation’s Court of Common Council is the Police Authority for the Square Mile. It is responsible for supporting the City of London Police and holding its Commissioner to account. It aims to make sure the force is running an effective and efficient service, ensuring value for money, and setting policing priorities considering the views of the local community.

Mr Thomson said: “By doing this we tell those perpetuating hate crimes that their behaviour is not welcome or tolerated in the City, London, or the United Kingdom.”

He said: “We are lucky in the City in that we have our own dedicated police service. It’s my goal to help make the City of London Police the most inclusive police service in the country. A truly inclusive and diverse police service that treats people with equity and fairness must reflect all the communities it serves.”

Throughout the year the City of London Police work with the Community Security Trust, Tell MAMA, Transport for London, and places of worship to build working relationships together to tackle hate crime. And this week, City Police officers will be putting up Hate Crime Awareness Week stands to engage with our richly diverse community. 

ENDS

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK –  www.cityoflondon.gov.uk