Minister’s anti-racism pledge

MINISTER for Social Justice Jane Hutt, pictured, has reaffirmed the Welsh Government’s commitment to delivering a truly anti-racist Wales.

The pledge came on the anniversary of the tragic murder of George Floyd in the USA.

Jane Hutt said: “Today we mark the anniversary of the tragic murder of George Floyd in the United States. We mourn his death and the death of all those who have sadly lost their lives due to the scourge of racism.

“We stand in solidarity with all those who campaign for equality and for an end to institutional racism. I want to make clear that the Welsh Government will always fight for a more equal and just society.

“Racism and all forms of hate and bigotry have no place in our society.”

Highlighting the importance of this anniversary and the importance for immediate action to tackle racism, the minister outlined the key aims of the Welsh Government’s Race Equality Action Plan.

She added: “Tackling racism and inequality isn’t just about words, it’s about our deeds and actions. It is only by listening and acting that we can achieve real change.

“That’s why I’m proud that the Welsh Government published our draft Race Equality Action Plan for consultation on March 24. “The plan, developed collaboratively, will help us forge the truly anti-racist Wales we all want to see.

“We intend this to be a practical plan, outlining specific actions to be taken across all the key policy areas which emerged from our co-construction work.

“Once finalised, the Welsh Government will be committed to and held accountable for it.

“Being anti-racist requires us to all make a conscious, active effort to call out racism wherever we see it.

“There is so much to do to tackle long-term systemic inequality and racism. That’s why we want all parts of Welsh society to engage with the consultation and help us deliver it.

“It’s time for change. The time to tackle racism is now.”