The most dangerous outcome of the EU referendum debate is the unleashing of the most heinous manifestations of racism and far right nationalism. This toxic discussion on immigration has turned the clock back on race relations in Britain and cost a Labour MP her life.
Last week, UKIP leader Nigel Farage stood boldly in front of a poster chillingly reminiscent of Nazi propaganda depicting long queues of refugees heading for Europe. Earlier, he stated that violence would be the ‘next step’ when people felt that nothing could be done about immigration through democratic means.
The decimation of living standards by a government imposing austerity has unfortunately meant immigrants have been wrongly scapegoated. However it’s time for politicians and the media to call out the lie that immigrants are to blame.
Mainstream politicians must lead and resist conceding to UKIP on immigration as this will only strengthen racism. Study after study shows the enormous economic benefits of immigration, as well as the social and cultural benefits.
Now the referendum is over, as a nation we must unite. Many people agree with us. Over the last few years we have organised some of the biggest demonstrations for decades against racism and for welcoming refugees and migrants.
We must redouble our efforts to make sure that this vote is is not used by the racists and the far right. As Jo Cox said we have far more in common than that which divides us. That means standing up to racism, recognising that generations of immigrants have made Britain great, addressing the problems austerity has created and addressing the problems austerity has created and standing for an economy that makes us all better off.
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