Wakefield Council leader backs peaceful protests for racial equality

Coun Denise Jeffery said: “It is so important that we all stand together in a shared desire for equality. Discrimination has no place in our society and my council and I are united in our support for those protesting peacefully for change.

"I am very proud of the diverse communities that are at the heart of our district and our multi-cultural history, which makes us who we are.

"As part of this we are looking at the history of the district and what we commemorate through monuments or other means, to make sure we are not valuing the historical activities which caused the prejudice we are challenging today.”

With more protests planned across the country this weekend, the council leader added: “We will always support people’s rights to express their views in a peaceful and respectful way and hope that anyone joining demonstrations in the UK this weekend will show their solidarity and support in a way that shows these values.

"I also urge everyone to bear in mind the current pandemic and maintain social distancing to keep themselves and others safe.”