The IMPACT Northern Ireland group who are exploring anti racist practices in adult social care are appalled by the recent racially motivated attacks in Ballymena and across Northern Ireland.
The group collectively speaks with one voice in condemning these events which have caused fear and distress among many of our colleagues working in health and social care.
We are united in our sadness and outrage for what has happened but most importantly we are united in solidarity in affirming that there is no place in our society for racism, hate or intimidation.
Ethnic minority and migrant workers need support and protection. The anti-migrant rhetoric and the misuse of gender-based violence as an excuse for this spate of attacks needs to be confronted directly and unequivocally.
We need to see coordinated and sustained political leadership across Northern Ireland to acknowledge and confront these issues and to uphold their responsibility to protect all communities.