“Black History Month has been marked in our community for many years, including by people whose families have been part of this country for generations.
For me, this has never been about division. It is about recognising the contribution of people who have helped shape our country, listening to all voices, and bringing our communities together.
Our council should stand up for those who are vulnerable and make sure every part of our community feels heard and valued. We should not judge people by their race or their creed, but by how they treat one another and by the contribution they make to the community we share.
Senior figures have a particular responsibility to set an example. At a time when there is already too much division in public life, we should be careful about the messages we send and do everything we can to bring out the best in people.
St Helens deserves a council that is defined by what it does, rather than by what it doesn’t do. We can disagree about many things while still believing that everyone in our community deserves dignity, respect and a voice.”
