The Rise of Racial Tensions in Belfast: A Personal Reflection

In light of recent events, I feel compelled to address the situation we are facing as a nation. A horrific crime occurred in England where three children were tragically stabbed to death by a teenager. This incident has ignited emotions and fears across the nation, leading to protests and a disturbing increase in racial tensions. In Belfast, two communities have come together with the intention of opposing people of color residing in their country, claiming that immigrants are taking their jobs and living for free.

Firstly, I want to express my deepest condolences to the families who lost their children in this heinous crime. As a mother myself, I understand the profound grief and devastation that such an event can bring. I have a daughter, and the thought of losing her to such senseless violence is unbearable. It’s no surprise that this incident has triggered strong reactions within our society.

I decided to write this article after watching a live video on TikTok where three women, one of whom was visibly drunk, shared their opinions on the matter. It was shocking and deeply concerning to witness the level of hatred directed towards immigrants. Racial slurs were used freely during the broadcast.

As background, I came to Northern Ireland in 2016 to pursue my master’s degree and subsequently started a family here. Unfortunately, my relationship ended due to differences in our beliefs, but my connection to this nation remains strong. This personal journey adds depth to my perspective on the current events and their impact on our community.

However, the rhetoric I observed in the TikTok video resonated with me in a distressing way. These women expressed their desire for “Pakis” to leave the country, driven by fear for their children’s safety. As a person of colour, I share their concerns about safety, but from a different perspective. I worry about my daughter’s well-being, fearing that she may face discrimination and hostility in school due to her ethnicity.

The women in the video claimed that many crimes were committed by immigrants or people of color, perpetuating harmful stereotypes. This kind of rhetoric is dangerous and can incite further violence and discrimination. Since watching the video, I have been unable to sleep, consumed by anxiety for our safety.

As a society, we must remember that these protests and riots will eventually subside. However, the words spoken during these times have a lasting impact. It is crucial to choose our words wisely and avoid spreading hate. Children are watching and listening, and they are vulnerable to being influenced by the negativity they see online.

There should be stricter regulations on what can be said on live platforms like TikTok to prevent the spread of hate speech and misinformation. We need to foster a society that promotes understanding and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background.

In conclusion, while the pain and anger stemming from recent events are understandable, it is vital that we do not let fear and hatred dictate our actions. We must work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society, where everyone feels safe and valued.