ON TAKING A STAND AND HIS BAFTA It blows my mind that we could make such an impact
in the storm of 30,000 complaints and just a torrent of racially charged abuse, threats, all of it, it was a dark time and that support made all the difference.
“In a way, I have to say thank you to the people that complained, the people that did all of that abuse because you showed the truth. You showed exactly why this performance, this moment, was necessary.
“And for me, this is about not representing the minority. It felt like we weren’t at the time, but standing here right now, this represents the majority.
“Let’s keep having those difficult conversations, standing up for what’s right regardless of the colour of our skin and we will achieve that equality.”
Sadly, that hope seems some way off still. Ashley feels that especially after England’s players were booed when they took the knee before their games with Austria and Romania last week.
To anyone in doubt those boos are racism, he says: “To actively go against somebody who is showing they think black lives matter, that is racist, yes.
“To be silent is one thing, but to actively take action to protest against, it’s hard not to see it as racist action.”
Nevertheless, Ashley remains optimistic. “I grew up taking certain things as, ‘This is life, it’s the way it is’.
“Since George Floyd’s death there is more awareness and conversation.
“Whether that culminates in changes that create genuine equality, I think that will take time, probably a generation’s worth. But it’s been great
to see it open up in that way.” He’s quick to state that all lives matter, and every section of society has its own problems.
Praising campaigning footballer Marcus Rashford, he opens up about his own support for a scheme that aims to give back to society.
Ashley is backing “ebay for Change” – a dedicated hub to help connect shoppers with small businesses that support disadvantaged communities.
He says: “Following a year that has been socially and economically testing on underprivileged communities, it’s more important than ever we step up and act to instil change.” Ashley’s need to stand up for what he believes is right also stretches to friends and colleagues.
The Dancing On Ice judge could easily stay silent on new allegations about John Barrowman but wants him to remain on the show’s panel.
Barrowman admitted flashing on the set of Doctor Who and Torchwood, acts which he has previously apologised for, saying it was “highspirited behaviour” and “only ever intended in good humour”.
Ashley says he has spoken to the star and although admits he may not have the full picture, he says he would work with him again.
He adds: “John is always fun on Dancing on Ice and he’s been great, very respectful and considerate. I would like to see him come back, and also know the full extent of the story.
“But the impression I get from this one it’s something small and historic blown out of proportion.”
He explains: “What I’m not a supporter of is cancel culture, where the speed of allegation is much faster than the speed of investigation. Before I make a judgment I want to see and understand the facts.”
As someone who has weathered online abuse, he knows only too well the effect it can have. To find out how you can support communities every time you buy, visit ebay.co.uk/ebayforchange.
It was a dark time and that support made all the difference ASHLEY BANJO ON MESSAGES AFTER ABUSE
The UK Government may have teamed up with dating apps to encourage people to get the jab. But that’s nothing compared to the incentives being offered in US’S Washington State. Believe it or not some pharmacies are offering a free joint – marijuana is legal there – to anyone aged 21 or older who gets the vaccine.
It’s been dubbed the “poke and toke” programme.
Personally I’d prefer a “Jab and Cab” – a nice free glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.