16/06/2026
Statement
The members of the Inner East Forum, the Short Strand Community Forum and the East Belfast Tension Monitoring Group wish to extend our collective solidarity with the victim of Mondays horrific attack. Our thoughts are with him and his family and we wish him a speedy recovery.
As important as our condemnation of this despicable attack is the need for us to condemn the widescale violence and hatred aimed at ethnic minority families across the city that has overshadowed the seriousness of the incident in Kinnaird Way.
The sight of terrified families fleeing their homes because of their ethnicity and racial background is totally unacceptable in 2026 and can have no place in our society and should not be mistaken for protest.
The distruction of public services, the widescale vandalism and the general fear and disruption forced upon communities across the city is also unforgiveable and also should not be mistaken for protest. This episode should bring shame on those in our communities who seek to sow fear and division amongst us and our young people. There can never be an excuse for racism and violence.
People from our migrant communities play an essential part in keeping our City running, playing vital roles in sustaining our healthcare and public services and it is clear that without them, our city would be much poorer and less colourful. We wish to extend our solidarity with our neighbours, to let them know that we appreciate their contributions to our city and that we will continue to support their welcome inclusion in our communities.
Statement end.
