New poll shows racism has been given a shot in the arm, says TUC

New opinion polling released today (Friday) by Opinium Research shows the majority of ethnic minority people in the UK (52%) think the UK has become less tolerant since the Brexit vote.

This follows TUC/ICM polling released last month which showed that over a third (34%) of Black, Asian or minority ethnic people (BAME) witnessed or experienced racial abuse in the months after the Brexit vote.

The TUC/ICM poll also showed that:

• 1 in 5 BAME people (19%) have suffered or witnessed racial assault
• 2 in 5 (41%) have heard racist remarks or opinions
• 2 in 5 people (38%) have seen racist material online
• 1 in 4 (27%) have seen racist graffiti, posters or leaflets

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:

“This is further evidence that Brexit has given racism a shot in the arm. Discrimination has never gone away, but since the referendum racism has been on the rise.

“It’s time for the government to act. Employers should be held accountable for staff abused by members of the public, and employment tribunal fees should be dropped.

“I’d encourage anyone who has been harassed or mistreated at work to talk to their union rep or join a trade union. And we all have a responsibility to call out racist harassment wherever we see it.”

Over 200 delegates will attend the TUC Black Workers’ Conference this weekend. The conference will discuss issues relating to race, debate motions, and pay tribute to the life and achievements of the late campaigner Darcus Howe.

Commenting on the passing of Darcus Howe, Frances O’Grady added:

“Darcus Howe’s activism on behalf of the UK’s black community set the standard for all those who fought and demanded a better British society.

“As a journalist and broadcaster, his wit and intelligence gave no quarter to those in society who sought to divide or discriminate.

“Darcus will be sorely missed and he leaves behind many friends who will strive to continue his legacy of challenge and change.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:
- The full release from March of the TUC/ICM polling on post-Brexit racism is here: bit.ly/2nTWB7k
- All TUC press releases can be found at tuc.org.uk/media
- TUC Press Office on Twitter: @tucnews