Swastika graffiti on migrant homes in Holylands condemned

Anti-racism campaigner calls for community to stand together against racism The appearance of racist graffiti on homes of migrant workers in the Holylands area of South Belfast has been condemned by an anti-racism campaigner. Paddy Meehan, who organised a community solidarity protest against attacks on Romanian families in South Belfast in 2009, claimed“Several homes have been targeted with racist graffiti in the Holylands area. Swastikas and slogans such as ‘Pakis Out’ are aimed at intimidating migrant workers and ethnic minorities in the area. If these racists are allowed to continue this unacceptable behaviour people will begin to fear for their safety.

“There are real issues of deprivation in the Holylands area, such as growing unemployment but especially so in the extremely poor housing people are expected to live in. Slum landlords are responsible for massive overcrowding, which can cause resentment. These conditions are being exploited by racists to whip up hatred against ethnic minorities. The entire community needs to stand firmly against any attempt to whip up racist division and demand jobs and proper housing for all in South Belfast.

 

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