Statement following the racist, Islamophobic attacks in Leith at the weekend

We are saddened to hear about the racist and Islamophobic attacks in Leith, Edinburgh at the weekend, which began near a local mosque and spread into other parts of the community.

Equality Network has had a home in Leith for almost 30 years and we are proud to be part of the diverse and vibrant community that Leith is, which includes people of colour, people of various faiths, ages, backgrounds and nationalities. Only last month we celebrated our diverse community on the Links with many from the local Leith community. This is the Leith we know.

Yet, over the weekend we saw the horrific actions of a person who was no doubt emboldened by divisive, hateful rhetoric and disinformation. We want to be clear – racism, hate and intolerance have no place anywhere in Scotland, and were very glad to see that many people gathered in Leith yesterday to spread this message.

We stand in resolute solidarity with all ethnic minority and faith-based communities who are far too frequently scapegoated and unfairly targeted in today’s world. We are committed to come together with our community and partners to stand up against all forms of hate, violence and division.

We are deeply sorry for those who were targeted, injured, harassed and terrorised. We wish healing, peace and justice for them.