One year ago today, a TV show was broadcast that caused huge concern among Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people in Britain and beyond.
Channel 4’s “The Truth About Traveller Crime” has been accused of using “unsubstantiated data” and “divisive and racist rhetoric… to malign an entire community” – at a time when Travellers already face bullying in schools, discrimination, and widespread online abuse.
The programme triggered hundreds of complaints to the broadcasting regulator Ofcom – amid hope that an impartial investigation would objectively examine the claims made within the show.
Traveller activist Chris McDonagh recently wrote a moving blog for Stop Funding Hate, explaining how the programme had even prompted him to launch a new campaign challenging stereotypical views of Travellers within public discourse.
Yet months after Ofcom’s investigation was due to be completed – and a year since the programme was broadcast – those most directly affected are still waiting to hear whether any action will be taken.
Meanwhile there are growing concerns over reported plans to install the former Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre as Ofcom’s Chair, raising questions about the future direction of broadcasting regulation in Britain.
Stop Funding Hate is founded on the principle that the best way to challenge discrimination is to work together to challenge all forms of it. At a time of heightened polarisation, we believe it’s vital to stand together with everyone facing racism or other forms of identity-based hatred.
So today we’re joining forces with our partners at the Traveller Movement to urge Ofcom to conclude its investigation into “The Truth About Traveller Crime”, and publish the results.
If you’re on Twitter, you can support this action by sending a tweet to @Ofcom using the #WheresOfcom hashtag, asking them to publish their findings – or at least explain the reason for the delay.
Thankyou again for your support for Stop Funding Hate,
Richard Wilson
Director
Stop Funding Hate
PS – Our #StopTravellerHate Crowdfunder is now over 90% of its target – a huge thankyou if you’ve already supported and shared it!
Stop Funding Hate
http://stopfundinghate.nationbuilder.com/
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