Nottingham City Council is to light up two key buildings tonight as a show of solidarity against racism in light of the death of George Floyd in America.

Cllr Rebecca Langton, PH for Communities said:

“The death of George Floyd at the hands of American police has rightly ignited anger not just in the USA but around the world. 

“Nottingham City Council recognises and shares this strength of feeling.  We want to express our solidarity with Nottingham communities who are rightly upset and compelled to respond.

“We know Nottingham is a place where people from different backgrounds get along well together. But we also know that racism and prejudice are not just issues in America, they are issues in our country and our city. We will not tolerate any form of racism, hate or prejudice and commit never to remain silent on these issues.

“Tonight we will light the Council House and Wollaton Hall purple as a mark of respect for George Floyd and to symbolise our solidarity against all forms of racism, hate and prejudice wherever they occur.

“We are aware of plans to peacefully protest this weekend and support the democratic right of Nottingham communities to do so.

“In line with the statement issued by Notts Police, we urge all those planning to peacefully protest to take personal responsibility for social distancing to reduce any risk that this protest contributes to the spread of the coronavirus.”