Appropriateness of Calderdale statues and memorials to be reviewed if concerns are raised

Calderdale Council will review the appropriateness of its statues, sculptures and memorials if concerns are raised – but is not aware of any issues as it stands.
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The Leader of Calderdale Council, Coun Twim Swift (Lab, Town) said the council was committed to reviewing any concerns that were raised.

The issue has arisen in many local authorities following some of the Black Lives Matter protests and campaign rallies last weekend which resulted in a stature of Bristol slave trader Edward Colston being toppled and dumped in the city’s harbour.

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In the aftermath, many councils have said they are reviewing such objects.

The Leader of Calderdale Council, Coun Twim Swift (Lab, Town)The Leader of Calderdale Council, Coun Twim Swift (Lab, Town)
The Leader of Calderdale Council, Coun Twim Swift (Lab, Town)

Coun Swift said the council had shown its support for the Black Lives Matter camoaign with one of Calderdale’s most famous landmarks, Wainhouse Tower at Halifax, lit up to symbolise the borough’s diversity.

On the issue of memorials, Coun Swift said: “There are many statues, sculptures and monuments around the Calderdale area, both historical and modern.

“Whilst we’re not aware of issues around the appropriateness of these, we will listen to and work with our local communities, and I have pledged my support and commitment on behalf of the whole council to review any concerns.”

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Coun Swift said it was important everyone understood the history and context of the statues they may pass on a regular basis and perhaps know little about.

“Although our libraries may be closed, there’s lots of information available online about the history of our towns and villages and the stories of the people behind the statues,” he said.

Coun Swift encouraged people to log on to www.calderdale.gov.uk/libraries to find out more and spoke about the Black Lives Matter campaign.

“We continue to show our support for the Black Lives Matter campaign and one of our most iconic landmarks, Wainhouse Tower is lit in purple to stand as a proud symbol of recognition for the borough’s diverse communities.

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“Of course, whilst symbols of support and solidarity are important, they’re not enough alone.

“Together with our partners we want to ensure that time and resource is deployed to reduce racial inequality in Calderdale and to listen and learn what actions make a difference.

“By listening to each other now and learning from our past we can make a future we can all be proud of – supporting inclusion and opportunity for everyone,” he said.