‘We’re a multicultural city – be proud of that’
RESIDENTS have been urged to ‘be proud’ of their city’s multiculturalism after hundreds gathered for a candlelight vigil last night.
The message came from vigil organiser Simon Magorian as people from different backgrounds remembered the victims of the terror attack in New Zealand in Friday.
Stand Up to Racism campaigner Mr Magorian said Portsmouth’s diversity was one of its largest assets.
‘We’re a multicultural city and I think this is a reason to be proud,’ he said.
‘We want a united society that is stronger because it is diverse.
‘When I was a youngster, Albert Road was full of grotty second-hand shops – now it’s our Brick Lane – and that makes Portsmouth such a fun place to be in.
‘That’s why we’ve got to celebrate and validate multiculturalism and validate antiracism because it makes for a better society for everyone.’
After mourners observed a minute’s silence and laid candles and tea lights on the Guildhall steps, Mr Magorian said now is the time to ‘call out intolerance’ in a bid to abolish hatred behind attacks like that which occurred on Friday.
‘When we hear it, we have to stamp on it and say we don’t want it,’ he said.
Portsmouth South MP, Stephen Morgan, urged residents to ‘remain unified and resilient’.