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The Culture Network Liverpool City Region (LCR), on behalf of the arts and culture sector across the city region, stands firmly against the rise in anti-racist, anti-immigrant and Islamophobic rhetoric and xenophobic narratives that are diving our communities and scapegoating migrants for systemic failures.
We know that many in our communities are struggling to access healthcare, housing, education, social services, or just the basic cost of living. Immigration is not the cause of these problems, it is because of poor political choices and constant underinvestment. Failures of government and relentless greed, not the presence of immigrants, is the real problem. Blaming migrants for these issues not only fuels hate but also distracts from the urgent need for accountable leadership and meaningful change.
Immigrants are not a burden. They are our neighbours, colleagues, artists, caregivers, and friends. They contribute to the richness of our society in countless ways; Liverpool is a city built on immigration. Within the arts sector especially, migrant voices and stories have always played a vital role.
As artists, arts practitioners and arts organisations we recognise the important role we play in promoting social justice and striving for a more equitable and empathetic society. Many in the communities we serve have experienced the transformative power of the arts. Art makes space for understanding. It elevates unheard voices. It spars dialogue and shifts culture. In times of division, it helps us imagine and build something better – together, and we will continue to do all we can to support greater social cohesion and inclusion through our work.
We call on leaders across the region, councillors, trades unions, and all those in positions of power in our regional authorities to publicly reject anti-immigrant rhetoric, in fact all forms of prejudice wherever it appears. The racist riots that took place last summer following the tragic events in Southport, which led to the arson attack on Spellow Library and the targeting of Abdullah Qulliam Mosque, are a warning of the violence and intimidation communities will face if these racist and prejudiced narratives are not challenged.
City and regional leaders have a responsibility to protect all residents, challenge scapegoating, put pressure on central government for increased funding for investment in education, and services and policies which improve the living standards, physical environment and opportunities of all our communities, and foster equity and inclusion.
We urge our cultural peers, civic institutions, and communities to join in standing against xenophobia and affirming the dignity, humanity, and contributions of migrants. A more just and compassionate society is not only, it is also necessary and our right!
