Why we are Anti-Racist (and pro-migration)

So much of the current treatment of migrant and ethnic minority groups in the UK is ugly and unacceptable racism. We call this out because it is obstructing our purpose as a social housing provider in London.

Innisfree Housing Association was founded to provide decent affordable homes for Irish people who faced huge disadvantages in the housing market. We stood alongside other housing associations that were founded by and for minority communities, supporting each other to provide opportunities for people from many different ethnic and national backgrounds.

Although the proportion of Irish residents is falling, we are proud of our Irish roots and our founding aim to support migrant communities, in the certain knowledge that this makes London and the UK greater. Examples of the fantastic contributions of Irish people to British society – including our own tenants – are too numerous to list.

Every other migrant group in the UK, can say the same thing. Their contribution far outweighs the support that we have the good sense – and the privilege – to provide.

This is why the current anti-migrant and anti-minorities rhetoric is abhorrent. It is not just words: the recent violence at the Synagogue in Manchester, arson attacks on asylum seeker accommodation, fire-bombing of a Mosque and general rise in hate crime are all totally unacceptable. People who do not share our values are emboldened to commit horrendous crimes and spread fear and division that harms us all.

Intimidating communities, blaming migrants for poor services and huge anti-migrant demonstrations make people feel afraid and unwelcome, even in such a successful multi-cultural city as London

It is part of Innisfree’s mission to speak up for the communities we serve. This is a core aim for all social housing providers. Good community relations and tackling inequality are essential for great housing management outcomes.

Housing associations that were founded by and for minority communities often led the way for other housing and public service bodies. We strongly oppose discrimination and division on any grounds but now is not the time to dilute our view on growing racism in bland statements about inclusiveness. We hope all social housing providers will echo our position and collectively commit to opposing growing racism and hatred.

Written by Sean McLaughlin
Chair of Board, Member of Investment Committee and Governance, People and Culture Committee
Appointed to the Board in 2023

Sean, an independent consultant, was formerly Managing Director at Homes for Haringey and Corporate Director of Housing & Adult Services at Islington Council.

Sean brings extensive experience of strategy, front line service delivery and governance. He is also past Chair of New River College, Islington and Barnsbury Housing Association.

His roots are in Donegal