“Racism has no place at Derby City Council, nor in our community”

On 20th August 2020, online comments surfaced raising concerns about Derby City Council’s approach to anti-racism.

In response, a Derby City Council spokesperson said:

“Racism has no place at Derby City Council, nor in our community and we continue to do all we can to reinforce this by educating ourselves, supporting, and implementing change where required.

“As set out at Full Council, Derby City Council stands in solidarity with black communities around the world. We know we are living through a moment in history where our values are challenged, and Derby City Council stands on the side of racial and social justice.

“If we’ve learnt anything over the last few months, with the events happening across the globe, it’s that despite best efforts, we won’t always get it right first time, and every single one of us has more to educate ourselves on.

“We are continuing to listen to our Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic colleagues and residents about their experiences living and working here in Derby and we will not shy away from having any difficult conversations that arise. 

“As an employer in Derby, we recognise the need to work alongside our Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Employee Support Network, our Race Equality Hub and our partners to ensure we’re able to develop a culture and environment that promotes race equality, inclusion and individual human rights in our workplace, and have been working with these networks to develop training for all colleagues and councillors.

“Derby is a city only strengthened by its rich diversity. I’m sure we can all agree that everyone should be treated with respect and dignity.”