A reminder about respect!

A reminder about respect!

We have seen a number of comments on recent Facebook post's questioning the purpose of Hate Crime Awareness Week, and we welcome respectful discussion. However, it is important to remember that some of the comments being made demonstrate exactly why awareness and education remain necessary.

Disagreeing with police priorities is one thing. Making sweeping assumptions about people because of their race, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or other protected characteristics is another. Labelling entire communities, promoting stereotypes, or directing hostility towards people because of who they are is neither constructive nor acceptable.

Hate crime legislation does not give special treatment to any group. It exists to protect people from being targeted because of a protected characteristic. The law applies equally to everyone, regardless of background.

Our role is to police without fear or favour and to support all victims of crime. That includes victims of hate crime from every community.

Before commenting, we would simply ask people to remember a few basic principles:

• Treat others with the same respect you would expect yourself.
• Challenge ideas, not people's identity.
• Avoid stereotypes and generalisations about any group.
• Consider whether your comment contributes to a constructive discussion.
• Remember there is a real person reading the words you post.

We will continue to support victims, raise awareness of crime, and engage with all members of our community. Respectful debate is always welcome. Racism, discrimination and abusive behaviour are not.