skip to main content

TUC Midlands Statement on Racist Riots Supported by MU

TUC Midlands has released a statement against the racist riots taking place across the UK.

Published: 08 August 2024 | 12:58 PM Updated: 08 August 2024 | 2:10 PM
Wooden figures in a circle to represent equality.
Our unions call for an end to the violence and intimidation, and for all those who perpetrate these acts to be brought to justice. Image credit: Shutterstock.

The MU Midlands Region, along with all affiliated unions, has signed a statement from Trades Union Congress (TUC) Midlands on the racist riots taking place across the UK.

Read the full statement below.

We stand in unison against racism and hatred

As trade unions in the Midlands we stand together in peace and solidarity with the people of Southport following the horrific events that took place on Monday 29 July, and which have left us all in shock.

Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those who have died and are receiving treatment for their injuries. They should be the priority for everyone who cares about what has happened. 

Instead some have sought to use the tragic event in Southport to divide and spread hate - based on mistruths and false information. Far right thugs have taken to the streets to attack Police and emergency service workers, to target Muslim communities with xenophobic hatred and to despoil the memories of those whose lives were so tragically cut short.

We must not let them get away with their lies and division. Trade unions have always been at the heart of efforts to unite communities and stand against hate. But the challenge feels even more urgent now.

We have some of the most diverse communities here in the Midlands. Whenever the far right have attempted to sow division and to whip up hatred in our region before they have failed. And they will fail again. Because our diversity and unity is our strength.

As trade unions, we will continue to work with our members in workplaces, to provide practical support and solidarity and defeat the narrative of hate.

Our unions call for an end to the violence and intimidation, and for all those who perpetrate these acts to be brought to justice.

Unity is our strength, and we will stand firm against those that aim to pit different workers and communities against each other.

Read more about the MU's statement on recent events.

Representing and advocating on behalf of musicians experiencing racism

Our network for members who experience racism is a space where people with shared identities and backgrounds can connect, network and make positive change across the MU and the music industry.

Join our Member Network

The network ensures that the voices of members who experience racism are heard and that opportunities for activism and leadership are created.

Sign up if you are a musician from a Global Majority background to get your voice heard.

Sign up now

Representing and advocating on behalf of musicians experiencing racism

Continue reading

Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
A black placard being held high in a crowd. The design is of a fist being raised powerfully in solidarity holding a piece of paper in bright blue and pink. The text says

MU to Join Together Alliance Northern Summit on the Role of Arts and Culture in Challenging the Far Right

The MU will be represented at a major anti-racism and community organising event in Manchester on 17 October. The Together Alliance North Summit will bring together trade unionists, activists and community leaders to develop practical strategies to challenge the growth of the far right.

Published: 08 October 2026

Read more about MU to Join Together Alliance Northern Summit on the Role of Arts and Culture in Challenging the Far Right