Council Leader Takes Stand Against Division and Hate
The leader of Rochdale Council has issued a powerful statement condemning recent attempts to sow division within the community while reaffirming the borough's core values of tolerance and unity. Speaking about the shared values that have always been at the heart of the borough, the leader emphasised that there always has been, and always will be, more that unites than divides the community.
Terrorist Attack on Manchester Synagogue Condemned
The council leader described the recent terrorist attack on a synagogue in Crumpsall, Manchester as a sickening, barbaric act. The attack, which occurred while the Jewish community was at prayer, was condemned as cowardly and going against everything the city region stands for.
My thoughts continue to be with all those affected by this horrific antisemitic attack, especially the families of those who tragically died and those that were injured, the leader stated, acknowledging this is a time of sorrow and fear for Jewish friends and neighbours.
Warning Against Divisive Politics
The council leader also called out recent concerning scenes in Heywood, where a small minority of people have been attempting to sow division within the community. Particularly concerning was the involvement of an elected member of the council representing the Reform party, who was seen at the forefront of attempts to put the politics of fear and hate at the top of the political agenda.
At a march through Heywood led by the Reform councillor and a former leader of Rochdale Council, there was a brazen attempt to whip up hatred. The council leader described it as absolutely disgraceful that an elected representative clapped while someone suggested people could take the law into their own hands.
Remembrance Sunday as Unifying Force
Looking ahead to November 9, the leader highlighted Remembrance Sunday services across the borough as an opportunity for the community to come together. The community will gather at local war memorials to pay their respects to our fallen heroes, showing the borough at its tolerant best.
Service details can be found at www.rochdale.gov.uk/events, with the council encouraging everyone to come together, united as one, to reflect and remember those who fought to protect our liberty, freedoms and values.
The council leader concluded with a firm commitment: We will never stand aside when one of our communities is attacked, nor will we let acts designed to cause hatred pull us apart. Councils across Greater Manchester, emergency services and community leaders are working tirelessly to maintain community cohesion and keep residents safe.
