A review of monuments, buildings and street names has been launched by Stroud District Council to ensure they represent Stroud’s inclusive values in light of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and the attention it brought to on-going racism in the UK, writes the Stroud News and Journal.
… ensuring that commemorations of history are appropriate to the current time…
Stroud News and Journal writes:
A review of monuments, buildings and street names has been launched by Stroud District Council to ensure they represent Stroud’s inclusive values in light of the Black Lives Matter movement and the attention it brought to on-going racism in the UK. This will include a public consultation on the statue named ‘Blackboy Clock’ and the building it is situated on, ‘Blackboy House,’ Stroud, which a council report described as coming about ‘directly or indirectly through the influence of slavery and colonialism.’ Residents have also been asked to nominate names of people, particularly from under-represented groups, who the district should celebrate. ‘In 2020, the Black Lives Matter movement brought to the world’s attention important issues relating to on-going racism in society,’ said a spokesperson for Stroud District Council. ‘An important issue that was raised related to ensuring that commemorations of history are appropriate to the current time, and the Council committed to consult with the community on any street names, buildings and statues within the district that may be considered offensive.’
Feedback from the consultation will be used to help determine Stroud District Council’s approach to public spaces. A review panel made up of community representatives, councillors and historians will review the findings to determine any action that should be taken.
The draft policy proposes how the council will act on equality, diversity and inclusion over the next four years and details the work the council have committed to undertake from April 2021 – March 2022.
