Poetry tour to spread messages of hope
A ‘Poems of hope tour’ will travel across Kirklees in support of National Hate Crime Awareness week from Saturday 9 October.
What’s happening?
Each of the six themed events will feature poems specially written and performed by Batley Poets, information about hate crimes and the importance of reporting them, children’s activities, readings from local writing groups and an open mic for anyone wishing to get up and share messages of unity.
There will also be informational stalls popping-up throughout the week at various supermarkets and at Huddersfield Bus Station as we continue raising awareness amongst local communities.
Councillor Carole Pattison, Cabinet Member for Learning, Aspiration and Communities said:
“We’re proud to host the Poems of Hope Tour in support of National Hate Crime Awareness Week.
Being targeted with verbal or physical acts of hate is simply not acceptable. Hate crimes can have a deeply damaging impact on not only those who experience them, but their families and their neighbourhoods too.
That’s why events like this are so important to raise awareness. Only by helping people to understand what a hate crime is and how to report them can we make sure victims get the support they need. Their bravery in coming forward could also prevent someone else from experiencing a hate crime. Not only that but reporting is vital to help us to build a true picture of what’s happening locally, so we can work with our partners to take necessary action.
I’d urge anyone who’s experienced a hate crime to report it. More information can be found on the council’s website.”
Tour dates
These are free, outdoor events, so please remember to come dressed for the weather. You are welcome to bring your own camping chair.
- Saturday 9 October 11am – 1pm
Nelson Mandela Corner (behind the library), Huddersfield Town Centre, HD1 2QF
Theme: Race
- Saturday 9 October 2.30pm – 4.30pm
Beaumont Park, Crosland Moor, HD4 7AY
Theme: Faith
- Sunday 10 October 2pm – 4pm
Greenhead Park Band Stand, Huddersfield, HD1 4DT
Theme: Sexual Orientation
- Wednesday 13 October 2pm – 4pm
Longcauseway Band Stand, Dewsbury, WF12 8DG
Theme: Transphobia
- Saturday 16 October 11am – 1pm
The Green, Heckmondwike, WF16 0HE
Theme: Misogyny
- Saturday 16 October 2.30pm – 4.30pm
Batley Market Place, Batley, WF17 5DA
Theme: Disability
More information
Further information about the tour is available by email at cohesion@kirklees.gov.uk
What is a hate crime and how do I report it?
Hate crimes include physical attack, damage to property, offensive graffiti and inciting hatred, perceived to be aimed at someone because of their race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity. Hate incidents are similar, but not to a criminal extent, such as verbal and online abuse.
More information about hate crimes, and how to report them.