Derry’s Kerala community has raised safety concerns following racist attacks in Belfast.
SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan said members of the community, from the Kerala state in India, have contacted him over anti-immigrant attacks and protests in Belfast.
The large Kerala community has been settled in Derry and the north-west for many years, having integrated in the region.
Mr Durkan said he was “sick, angry and sad” that the community felt frightened because of the actions and words of a small minority of people.
“I’ve lost count of how long I’ve known some of these people. I’ve joined them countless times in celebration and also, sadly, in sorrow,” the MLA said.
In 2022, two 16-year-old members of the Kerala community in Derry drowned in a tragedy at Enagh Lough.
“Our children have played together. I’ve seen their contribution to society through their work, their involvement in sports clubs and community organisations; their commitment to our schools and to their parishes.”
Many members of the community have worked in Derry’s Altnagelvin Hospital, where are were held in high esteem by colleagues and patients. Mr Durkan said the community was known as a quiet and peaceful one.
He said everyone could help make the Kerala community and other people of different ethnic origin feel welcome.
“Please make an extra effort even to smile and say hello to people of different ethnic origin that you encounter over the next wee while,” Mr Durkan added.
“Something as simple as that can go a long way to helping someone else feel welcome and safe.”
