Putting people before politics
At tonight’s Full Council meeting, Calderdale Labour Group will oppose Reform UK’s motion to withdraw from the council of sanctuary programme.
Calderdale has always been a place that believes in looking after people. When Putin launched his illegal invasion of Ukraine, communities across our borough opened their doors and offered support to families forced to flee war and tyranny. We showed the values we would hope others would show if we were ever in need.
Only recently, the Mayor visited a local School of Sanctuary, celebrating the values of welcome, fairness and inclusion that we want our children to learn and live by.
Being a place of sanctuary is not about party politics. It is about recognising our shared humanity and standing up for people who need support.
This move isn’t about saving money. Indeed, this could result in it costing the council money. It is, however, about causing fear and uncertainty among people who have fled brutal regimes.
While Reform focus on division and symbolic gestures designed to grab headlines, Labour councillors will continue to focus on the things that matter most to residents: safer communities, stronger public services, better opportunities for our children and a Calderdale that people can be proud to call home.
We will always put people before politics.