Bridget Phillipson MP: Sunderland will always stand against racism, even if our Reform council doesn’t

I was shocked, but sadly not surprised by the decision. A charity that has spent decades challenging racism, educating young people and strengthening communities across Sunderland and the wider country deserves support, not political point-scoring.

Founded here in the North East, Show Racism the Red Card has worked with schools, football clubs and community organisations for years to tackle prejudice and promote understanding. Its work has brought Sunderland’s footballing legends into our local schools, from Wilson Isidor to Kenwyne Jones to Gary Bennett, helping thousands of young people learn the values of respect, tolerance and inclusion.

Reform’s leader of Sunderland City Council pulled support after dismissing the charity as a “politically charged organisation with an agenda”. Their only agenda is tackling racism and bringing communities together, and it is one that I am proud to support.

From refusing to take action against councillors who have made unacceptable racist comments to withdrawing support for Show Racism the Red Card, Reforms record on racism raises serious questions about whether they are fit to represent our community.

Reform’s decision does not reflect the values of the people of Sunderland. Time and again, our city has shown that it rejects racism and embraces fairness. Our community's response to the council’s decision has demonstrated exactly that.

Sunderland AFC, club ambassador Gary Bennett and countless local residents have joined me in speaking out against the withdrawal of support. On Wear Red Day, I joined local MPs, representatives from Northumbria Police, trade unions and many others at the Stadium of Light to stand in solidarity with Show Racism the Red Card and reaffirm our commitment to building a community where everyone is respected.

I have also launched a petition calling on the council to reverse this decision. The strength of support it has received sends a clear message: Sunderland remains a proudly anti-racist city. Our community understands that celebrating diversity and challenging discrimination makes our communities stronger, not weaker.

There are forces on the Right of politics seeking to exploit fear and sow division for their own gain. The Labour Government is determined to defeat them and build a proud, tolerant, compassionate Britain.

That is why I will continue supporting Show Racism the Red Card, and why I call on the council to see sense, reverse this cruel and misguided decision, and listen to our community. Sunderland will always stand against racism, even if our Reform council doesn’t.