AS WE approach a snap general election in May or a possible election in November this year, we will see Britain’s Tory-led government ramp up the racist rhetoric against refugees and asylum-seekers, which will continue to hurt communities up and down this country.
 
A prime example is when Lee Anderson, who defected to the Reform party from the Conservatives stated, “I don’t actually believe that the Islamists have got control of our country, but what I do believe is they’ve got control of Khan, and they’ve got control of London.”
 
And more recently over the last few days, Frank Hester, a businessman, and big-time Tory donor, made a comment about Diana Abbott MP, in a meeting in 2019, stating “It’s like trying not to be racist but you see Diane Abbott on the TV, and you’re just like  …  you just want to hate all black women because she’s there.
 
“And I don’t hate all black women at all, but I think she should be shot.”
 
Overt racist commentary backed up by the actions of well-known Tory politicians, the likes of Priti Patel and Suella Braveman attacking refugees fleeing war-torn countries like Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, who they proudly state need to be sent off to Rwanda. Politicians were emboldened to push far-right policies with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak supporting the dreadful “Rwanda plan.”
 
A leader who failed to challenge and condemn the likes of Anderson and Hester. Sunak, an unelected and failed leader, who will forever be known for his austerity politics, food banks, and racist, bigoted policies, designed to create deep divisions and hatred among us.
 
In Wales, the Welsh government has introduced an Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan — anti-racist by 2030. Yes, it’s ambitious, but it demonstrates the government’s genuine vision to embed systemic structural change while being proud to be known as a nation of sanctuary.
 
Talking of challenging racism, there’s no doubt that our union movement has its own issues in tackling racism and discrimination  —  be it within rank and file or wider union structures. But with the support of the TUC Anti Racism Taskforce, we've begun the difficult conversations and actions required to make positive, lasting change.
 
The Wales TUC is on its own journey of culture change. We’ve introduced several actions such as the 10-point anti-racism action plan booklet, and the introduction of a second phase of the successful Black Activists Development Programme, which will prepare under-represented members to get active in their own unions so that activists resemble branch membership.
 
To conclude, we have seen the Tory government attack the working class, the vulnerable and free speech. So, it is important we all come together this weekend, stand side by side, demonstrate solidarity and commit to making sure that any newly elected incoming British government stops the rhetoric against refugees and migrants and instead celebrates the positives they bring.
 
The trade union movement has a proud history of standing up against racism. You will see trade union banners and flags on the rally and march on Sunday March 17, as we show solidarity with the diverse community of Butetown and Grangetown. Join us as we say, no to Islamophobia, anti-semitism, bigotry, and hatred. As internationalists, socialists, and trade unionists, let’s stand tall, protect our nation of sanctuary and respect each other.
 
Shavanah Taj is the general secretary of Wales TUC.