We must work together to build cohesive communities, says Tony Lloyd

Greater Manchester’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd

Greater Manchester’s Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner has hailed the role of local people in building strong and cohesive communities.

Tony Lloyd was speaking on the eve of International Roma Day, which celebrates Romani culture and raises awareness of the issues facing Roma people across the world.

He said: “Greater Manchester proudly welcomes people and communities from a wide-range of backgrounds, each contributing to the strength and success of our region.

“Our local Roma community has played an integral part in Greater Manchester’s past and will continue to be an important part of its future. Today we celebrate that and recognise the contribution of Roma people to our communities and society as a whole.

“As we celebrate the diversity and inclusivity of Greater Manchester, it’s also a time to reinforce our commitment to standing together against hate and prejudice, bringing communities together to promote understanding, tolerance and respect. Many Roma people have suffered hatred, fuelled by misinformation and ignorance – this is not the Greater Manchester way and I know the vast majority of residents stand with me in the fight against hate crime.”

International Roma Day is an annual event that takes place on the 8 April.