Last Friday at the Civic Centre, Newcastle City Council formally signed up to Become the Bridge, becoming the first local authority in the North East to join the campaign. The signing was led by Councillor Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, alongside North East Anti-Racism Coalition planning group members Nitin Shukla, Menisha Gela and Ngozi Lyn Cole, marking the city’s public commitment.
Become the Bridge supports organisations to move beyond statements and take practical, accountable action to challenge racism within their systems and day-to-day practice. Councillor Karen Kilgour said:
Newcastle has a proud and longstanding reputation for standing up to racism. When our values are tested, this city doesn’t stay silent, we stand together. Becoming part of Become the Bridge reflects who we are as a city and the kind of future we want to build. Challenging racism requires honesty, leadership and action, and we’re committed to playing our part alongside partners across the North East to help create a fairer, stronger society for everyone.
Newcastle’s commitment builds on a history of communities coming together in response to division, but also recognises that this work requires ongoing, deliberate action. By joining the campaign, the Council is committing to work collaboratively with organisations across the region, share learning where appropriate, and develop practical anti-racism actions over the next 12 months. It also includes a commitment to reflect on progress and contribute to understanding what meaningful change looks like in practice.
The North East Anti-Racism Coalition co-founder Ngozi Lyn Cole said:
Newcastle has a strong track record of standing against racism and supporting its communities through action, not just words. The city’s commitment to Become the Bridge sends a clear message that tackling racism is a shared responsibility. I am incredibly thankful to Councillor Karen Kilgour and officers at Newcastle City Council for standing alongside us to show Newcastle is a city for all.
As the first local authority to join, Newcastle City Council’s involvement sets an important precedent and strengthens the growing network of organisations across the North East choosing to take part.
Organisations can find out more and join the campaign here: Become the Bridge