The Active Partnership Network speaks out against violent, racist, Islamophobic disorder

The Active Partnerships Network is appalled by and condemns the violent, racist and Islamophobic disorder we’ve recently seen across the country. 

Our 43 Active Partnerships are based across the whole of England, and we are proud to work with people from all communities who come together to take part in sport, physical activity and movement and those who live active lives, and we are saddened that this has been impacted. 

Although it has been a challenging period, we have also seen glimmers of light and hope. 

We have heard the people that have spoken up in support of their friends, neighbours and colleagues, we have seen the acts of kindness within communities, and we have huge respect for the tireless work that all of our public services, communities, the voluntary sector and faith groups have been doing to keep everyone safe under such difficult circumstances. 

As a network we truly believe in the power of sport and physical activity to bring people together and unite communities and we will continue to focus on this in the coming weeks and months.  

We’ll also continue to champion community cohesion and inclusion, shining a light on the amazing people from all backgrounds that we are proud to work with and support. 

This viewpoint is repeated by the likes of Sport England.

This week, Tim Hollingsworth OBE, CEO at Sport England, said: “Over the past week we have seen a number of violent, racially motivated protests take place in towns and cities across England.

“At this time, all leaders across our communities have a duty to do what we can to help and restore calm. 

“This is definitely the case for us – sport and physical activity is uniquely placed to bring people together and unify us. 

“It can and should be a positive force for good in these distressing and troubled times.

“As a sector I urge all to do what we can to support our communities, our grassroots, and create the cohesion and togetherness we know sport delivers for people across England everyday.

“If you haven’t already, please do consider how you, your members or networks can come out against this violence, restate your commitment to tackling racism acros sport and amplify the call for calm in your communities.”

To read more about Active Sussex’s equality, diversity and inclusion policy, please click here.