The leader of Birmingham City Council has issued a stark warning that residents are confronting 'blatant racism' reminiscent of the worst examples from the 1970s. Councillor John Cotton expressed horror at rhetoric being repeated both online and in person, stating that such behaviour was thought to be consigned to history.
Social Media Amplifies Hate, Says Labour Leader
Speaking during a Q&A hosted by BirminghamLive, the Labour leader revealed he has been sent racist commentary directly on social media that 'crosses way beyond the line'. He criticised social media providers for failing to take down such content, allowing it to remain visible.
Councillor Cotton, whose own family includes people of different ethnicities, stated this experience is multiplied many times over for people of colour, particularly women of colour. He referenced data showing rising racism in the city, including Islamophobia and antisemitism, and shared concerns that young Brummies from diverse backgrounds are talking openly of leaving due to amplified hostility.
Flags Weaponised to Cause Division
The council leader also addressed the controversial display of flags on lampposts and street furniture across Birmingham. He argued that national symbols like the Union flag and the Cross of St George are being weaponised by racists to discriminate and target communities.
'We cannot allow racists to take the Union flag and Cross of St George as their emblem,' Cotton stated. 'This is an emblem that should belong to everyone.'
He clarified the council's position: while supporting the right to fly flags on private property, it will remove them from street furniture where they pose a safety hazard or are used to attack communities. He reported that council staff have faced threats while carrying out this work.
A Call for Unity and Action
Councillor Cotton condemned mainstream politicians, specifically citing Conservative MP Robert Jenrick's recent critical commentary about Handsworth, for empowering divisive dialogue. He called for a collective stand against those seeking to divide communities.
Birmingham City Council is a key signatory to a new document titled 'Forward Together for a City Beyond Racism'. The statement, supported by leaders from West Midlands Police, local universities, businesses, and faith groups, condemns the rise in racism and hate-motivated acts targeting schools and communities.
The partnership vows to stand for a Birmingham that is proudly anti-racist, where every community belongs and the city's future is built on unity, justice, and hope.
