Leading Black Figures Criticize Labour’s Treatment of Diane Abbott

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Prominent Black British figures have expressed outrage over the Labour Party’s handling of Diane Abbott, accusing the party of systemic racism and disrespectful treatment. An open letter, signed by a range of notable Black actors, professors, authors, and broadcasters, calls on Labour to rectify and reverse its actions towards Abbott, warning that the party risks losing the support of one of its most loyal voter bases.

 

The letter was signed by influential figures including Lenny Henry, David Harewood, Reni Eddo-Lodge, Misan Harriman, Afua Hirsch, Jackie Kay, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Adrian Lester, and Gary Younge. They described the briefings and the apparent barring of Abbott from standing for the party as "disproportionate, undemocratic and vindictive."

 

Abbott, who was the MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington when the election was called, has had a turbulent relationship with the Labour leadership. After being suspended for a letter she wrote to The Guardian regarding antisemitism, she completed the required antisemitism training and had the Labour whip restored six months after the investigation concluded. However, despite this, speculation continues about whether she will be allowed to stand for Labour in the upcoming election. 

 

Reports have suggested that Abbott received a letter from Labour chief whip Alan Campbell confirming the restoration of the whip and offering her a chance for a "dignified exit," possibly hinting at a peerage. However, Abbott claimed that Labour leadership reneged on their deal, and she was reportedly dismayed by the news that she might still be barred as a candidate. Keir Starmer, Labour leader, has insisted that no final decision has been made.

 

Abbott’s supporters argue that the delay in making a decision on her future, despite the conclusion of the disciplinary process months ago, reflects a determination to humiliate her. The open letter from Black public figures states: “Sir Keir Starmer’s denials on this matter must be treated with some scepticism. Just last Friday he said the investigation into her conduct had not been resolved even though Abbott had satisfactorily completed the disciplinary process in February. Indeed, the fact that the party reached its conclusion several months ago and failed to readmit her to the parliamentary party until earlier this week, after the story broke, indicates a determination to humiliate her. Coming from a community where discrimination is a daily reality, we know unfairness when we see it.”

 

The signatories highlight the systemic racism detailed in the Forde report on Labour factionalism, commissioned by Starmer himself. They argue that Labour’s actions towards Abbott are a glaring example of this racism. The letter also points out the hypocrisy in Labour's treatment of Abbott compared to others within the party who have faced disciplinary issues but were not excluded in the same manner. 

 

The open letter also references a recent incident where the Conservative Party’s chief funder, Frank Hester, made racist comments about Abbott. Despite this, Labour attempted to fundraise using Abbott’s situation, while simultaneously excluding her from the parliamentary party. The signatories argue that this reflects a disgraceful double standard.

 

The letter underscores the deep sense of betrayal felt by Black communities, who have been steadfast supporters of Labour for generations. It warns that this loyalty is not unconditional and criticizes Labour’s apparent strategic decision to overlook the significance of the Black and brown vote.

 

The signatories include:
- David Harewood OBE, actor
- Lenny Henry, actor
- Adrian Lester, actor
- Gary Younge, professor
- Yomi Adegoke, author
- Reni Eddo-Lodge, author
- Misan Harriman, Oscar-nominated director
- Afua Hirsch, writer and producer
- Jackie Kay, novelist
- Emma Dabiri, author
- Dr. Shola Mos-Shogbamimu, lawyer
- Diane Evans, author
- Simon Frederick, director
- Carys Afoko, podcaster
- Sharmaine Lovegrove, publisher
- Lola Olokosie, teacher and writer
- Azieb Pool, journalist and author
- Lemn Sissay, poet
- Giles Terera, actor
- Patrick Younge, media executive
- Afua Hagan, journalist and broadcaster
- Rowena Twesigye, media and communications consultant
- Lynda Smith, self-love and empowerment coach
- Hugh Woozencroft, presenter
- Maxine Wilson, executive producer
- Nelson Abbey, author
- Scarlette Douglas, TV presenter
- Juliana Olayinka, presenter
- Ayo Bakare, reporter
- Marvyn Harrison, business leader
- Ekow Eshun, writer and journalist

 

This letter serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role that Black and brown communities play in the Labour Party’s support base and the need for the party to address and rectify issues of systemic racism within its ranks.

 

Update: Diane Abbott can stand as Labour candidate, says Starmer

 

Related Topic:

Diane Abbott Accuses Starmer of 'Culling' Labour Left-Wingers

 

Credit: The Guardian 2024-06-01

 

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[Martin71]

Labour are not doing this due to her colour... it is due to the fact she is thick as two planks nailed together....as she has shown publicly a few times...

[JonnyF]

So Labour is racist now as well as anti-semitic? I hope more prominent black people come out to highlight this disgraceful discrimination by the champagne socialists of Islington. It simply must be stopped. We cannot tolerate it.

 

WHAT DO WE WANT?

JUSTICE FOR DIANE

WHEN DO WE WANT IT?

NOOWWWWW

 

Please make a comeback Diane. We need you.