Paloma Faith condemns far-right riots: ‘Right wing fascists, f**k off’
The singer hit out in a statement shared to Instagram.
By Nick Reilly
Paloma Faith has become the latest high profile musician to condemn the far-right rioters sparking violent disorder across the country.
A wave of violence has erupted in cities such as Sunderland, Rotherham and Hartlepool over the last week in the wake of the Southport stabbings – where three children were murdered at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.
The killer, 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, was born in the UK, but far right rioters have repeatedly taken advantage of the incident to cause racial unrest. Mosques in several cities have been targeted, while footage has shown ethnic minorities being attacked by mobs.
While the likes of Massive Attack and Nova Twins shared their condemnation of the attacks over the weekend, Paloma Faith has added her voice to the criticism.
Posting a statement on Instagram, she wrote: “My message to the right-wing idiots ruining our country. As the mother of two half Muslim North African children and as a born and raised resident and proud member of the Hackney community, I stand vehemently against racism of any kind.
“I am proud of a Britain which is diverse, integrated and accepting of all cultures. We cannot scapegoat minorities for this country’s problems when in my experience all they have done is contribute to the rich, diverse culture I grew up in that has shaped the best parts of me and the people I love and adore.”
She concluded by writing: “With all due respect to the right wing fascists, fuck off.”
In a statement on Sunday, Keir Starmer condemned the violence as “far right thuggery” and said that those involved would face swift action.
“Be in no doubt: those who have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law,” he said. “The police will be making arrests. Individuals will be held on remand. Charges will follow. And convictions will follow. I guarantee you will regret taking part in this disorder.”