Joanne Thomas – Usdaw general secretary says: “Our thoughts and solidarity are with Stephen Ogilvie and his family after the horrendous attack he suffered on Monday evening. We also applaud the intervention of residents who came to his assistance.
“We condemn hatred in all its forms, including the horrific scenes seen in Belfast, causing families to have to flee their homes because of their ethnic and racial background. No one should be forced from their home by violence, in any circumstances. The scenes of burning homes were chilling.
“People from migrant backgrounds are very often key workers delivering essential services to keep society running. Their vital role in our communities must be respected. As trade unionists, we reject misleading, racist hate speech and stand up for working people to challenge the genuine grievances they face.
“We call on all workers and trade unionists to unite to challenge division and fight collectively for a fairer future for all.”
Notes for editors:
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is one of the fastest growing unions in the TUC and the UK's fifth biggest with around 370,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also represents many workers in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades www.usdaw.org.uk
For Usdaw press releases visit: www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Bluesky @usdawunion.bsky.social and Twitter/X @UsdawUnion