SWEET-TOOTHED residents are invited to help show hate the door.
The ‘Cake Not Hate’ event, part of Hate Crime Awareness Week, takes place at Leamington’s Spa Centre on Saturday (October 19) from 11am until 2pm.
The event is a joint effort between Warwickshire Police, Warwickshire County Council, Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Philip Seccombe, and the Equality and Inclusion Partnership (EQuIP).
It aims to raise awareness of hate crime, while highlighting its impact on the lives of victims and what can be done to support them.
The day will be compered by BBC journalist and presenter Trish Adudu and will feature a series of talks, including from Figen Murray, who lost her son Martyn Hett in the Manchester bombings.
There will also be a question and answer session, where questions about hate crime can be put to police.
Visitors are encouraged to bring cakes along to the event to share with others.
Ch Insp Lee Kemp said: “Hate crimes have traditionally been under-reported and we have done a huge amount of work in recent years to give victims the confidence to come forward and report their ordeal, something that has led to an increase in reporting.
“We welcome the fact that more people have the confidence to come forward but it is concerning because behind each of the reports is someone who has been victimised because of who they are, by someone who thinks that this is acceptable.
“Our message is therefore clear – there is simply no excuse for hate crime and we will not tolerate this type of behaviour. We will always support victims of hate crime and continue to work to prevent crimes motivated by prejudice and hate.”
Hate crime occurs when someone displays hostility or prejudice towards someone because of their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or other characteristics such as culture, physical appearance or style of dress.
The event is free to attend. To register visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘Cake not Hate’ in Warwickshire for more details.
Visit www.reporthatenow.com to report hate crime, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or call Victim Support on 02476 351 003.
