Choosing Solidarity through Anti-Racist Action this Summer
The recent racist and Islamophobic riots following the attempted murder in North Belfast on the 10th June exposed real divisions in our society and the growing power and influence of the far-right. The analysis afterwards also revealed that most people in Northern Ireland reject violence, reject intimidation and want to build a more inclusive society. Recent research from More in Common found that a large majority of people condemned attacks on migrant communities, expressed concern about rising racism, and believe that people here generally look out for one another. The same research found that 60% of people believe Northern Ireland's best years are still ahead of us.
At WRDA, we believe that hopeful future will only be possible if we actively stand alongside those who have been targeted by racism and hate. This is a call to prepare yourself for active allyship across the summer.
From Condemnation to Action
It is encouraging that most people agree that racist violence is unacceptable. More in Common's polling found that 83% of people are concerned about individuals being forced from their homes or businesses because of their nationality or ethnic background, while 76% see racism as a serious issue facing Northern Ireland today. However, concern alone is not enough. Real change happens when people move from being bystanders to being allies.
That is why WRDA recently updated our Anti-Racist Actions for Everyone resource. The resource provides clear, accessible advice on how to respond to racism safely and constructively, including guidance on bystander intervention, having difficult conversations, and a handy list of everyday anti-racist actions we can all incorporate into our lives.
What Does Allyship Look Like?
Allyship is not about having all the answers. It is about taking consistent action to support people who experience discrimination and exclusion.
For many of us, that can begin with simple steps:
If someone voices support for a racist policy, party or viewpoint, try to challenge these ideas in a calm and constructive way—aim for engagement rather than confrontation, and help them reflect on the impact of their words.
If you notice that your child’s educational materials don’t actively promote anti-racism, consider raising your concerns with the principal or Board of Governors so positive changes can be made.
Does your workplace have an anti-racism policy or offer training on anti-racism? If not, speak to your Trade Union representative about supporting your employer to introduce one.
Consider supporting efforts to close Larne House Detention Centre, the only facility of its kind in Northern Ireland. Due to the absence of separate spaces for women, many women detainees spend most of their time in their cells for safety reasons. Raising awareness and advocating for improved conditions can help ensure dignity and safety for all
Expand your understanding of racism within the UK by exploring books such as Akala’s Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire, Reni Eddo-Lodge’s Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race, and Angela Saini’s Superior. These resources can help inform your conversations and efforts to challenge racism in your community
Tackling Misinformation and Fear
The More in Common research found widespread concern about misinformation and the growth of racism online. Most people believe politicians and public figures should actively help reduce tensions and correct false information when communities are under strain. We have a resource that can help politicians to do this. A simple action you can take now is to email a copy to your Cllr/MLA/MP.
Before sharing a post or forwarding a message, take a moment to check whether it is accurate. Seek information from trusted sources. Challenge misleading claims respectfully. Refuse to amplify content that seeks to divide communities or place blame on entire groups of people. In an age where harmful narratives can spread quickly, choosing facts over fear is a powerful act of allyship.
Creating Communities Where Everyone Belongs
The riots highlighted the reality that many people are not equally safe in Northern Ireland. More in Common’s research found particular concerns about safety among migrants, Muslims and Black communities.
Creating safer communities requires more than responding to hate when it happens. It means building belonging every day.
This can involve:
Welcoming new neighbours.
Supporting local cultural and community events.
Encouraging inclusive policies in workplaces, schools and community organisations.
Making space for diverse voices in decision-making.
Celebrating the contribution that people from different backgrounds make to our communities.
A Future Worth Building
It would be easy to look at recent events and conclude that division is growing stronger. Yet there is another story emerging from Northern Ireland. Three-quarters of people believe that people here generally look out for each other, and most remain optimistic about the future. That optimism matters. As we head into the summer months we all have an opportunity to decide what kind of society we want to build. We can choose fear, suspicion and division. Or we can choose solidarity through anti-racist action.
If you're wondering where to start, download our Anti-Racist Actions for Everyone resource and commit to taking one action today. The resource is designed for use by individuals and is part of WRDA’s ongoing work to build an equal society where women are empowered and are a visible force for change and influence in all areas of life.