Together we're stronger. Let's be 100k strong

Black and minority ethnic (BME) communities face the biggest challenge for a generation: A challenge which we can only confront if we have the greatest show of solidarity and unity ever seen in the UK.

It is true that the racism of the 70's, 80's, and 90's is no longer with us. This was a shocking era of race relations: a time when, what was crudely termed as 'Paki bashing', was the norm, and, certain police officers not only harassed you because you were Black, but all too often 'fitted you up', to feed the cancer of racism.

But after years of progress helped by campaigners, changes in legislation and the spirit of British fairness, we are back on the slide. Black deaths in police custody have risen sharply and levels of 'Stop and Search' are at record levels. These elements along with high levels of unemployment and opportunism were said to be key factors in last summer's riots.

Together we do have a strong voice. In this coming year there'll be Mayoral elections in London, referendums for further directly elected Mayors in twelve cities around the country and, for the first time elections for Police and Crime Commissioners.

We must have a say in all of these areas and more, including mental health, education and political representation.

The first step is to be united. A few years ago our ambitious campaign to bring 100k voices together to demand race equality and opportunity gave us a strong database of 20k. Now is the time to reach that magic number. You all have email lists from your friends, family and colleagues. Forward this message and urge them to join us with one voice that is 100k strong.

Yours

Simon Woolley