Bedford Independent vows to play part in protecting area’s diverse communities
A hyperlocal news website has vowed to work with community groups across its area to support and protect diverse communities.
The violence was orchestrated by far-right actors who seized on the killing of three girls at a Southport dance party as an opportunity to whip up anger about illegal immigration. The man accused of killing the three girls is a Cardiff-born teenager who lives in Lancashire.
The statement signed by the Independent said: “As Bedfordians, we stand united against these fascists and we will not allow or tolerate any hate in our town. Bedford is proud of its diverse community, and we are seen as a town of sanctuary. We must stand in solidarity and not be divided by hate and misinformation.
The pledge continues: “Together let’s send out this message to those who want to divide us, intimidate us, and scare us that, we will not allow any form of racism or hate, including Islamophobia.
“Bedford will stand together in solidarity with all communities and people of colour, including refugees, asylum seekers, black & ethnic minorities and all faith groups. We will not be divided by hate.”
Founder Paul Hutchinson said: “Since its launch in 2018, the Bedford Independent has stood firm against misinformation, sensationalism, and biased, irresponsible reporting dressed up as journalism.
“As we and many other independent news titles have tried our best to restore trust in journalism, others at both a national and local level, even in our own Borough, have allowed the spread of rhetoric that has led to intolerance and fear.”
