Nine years later – “Sophie Lancaster’s death changed the way we view hate crime”

Sophie Lancaster was killed as she tried to protect her boyfriend from youths

It is the ninth anniversary of the attack of teenager Sophie Lancaster, who was beaten to death in a park for dressing as a Goth.

Sophie died on 24 August in 2007 after spending almost two weeks in a coma, following the brutal attack on 11 August as she walked through a park in Bacup.

Her death prompted a new way of dealing with ‘hate crime’ and her story has become globally recognised.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/79213/gmp-begins-to-record-attacks-on-goths-emos-and-punks-as-hate-crimes

Nine years on, Sophie’s death still hangs in the memories of those who knew her and those who read about her horrific death.

To help tackle hate crime, a group was set up called The Sophie Lancaster Foundation, and her name was separated for each letter to form a message:

Stamp Out Prejudice Hatred and Intolerance Everywhere

A spokesperson for The Sophie Lancaster Foundation said: “As you will know today marks the ninth anniversary of the brutal, hate motivated attack that led to Sophie's murder.

“Our thoughts are with Sylvia (Sophie’s mother) and all who knew and loved Sophie.

“It was 13 agonising days before Sophie died on the 24 August.

“This is always a period of reflection for us whilst the work continues.

“Sylvia is en route to Sweden to work, and Adam and our fabulous volunteers are at Bloodstock Festival.”

Assitant Chief Constable Shewan from Greater Manchester Police said: “Sophie’s tragic death brought forward a need to recognise that there are many other victims of hate crime that should be protected by law.

“Hate crime ruins many people’s lives and in some cases can tragically cost lives.

“We work with many organisations to raise the awareness of what hate crime is and how victims can be supported and we will continue to encourage our communities to challenge it, report it and help us to stop it.”

Sophie Lancaster would have been 29 this year.

For more information on the Sophie Lancaster Foundation, visit:
http://www.sophielancasterfoundation.com