Show Racism the Red Card saddened by decision from Sunderland City Council to withdraw support for Wear Red Day 2026
At a Council meeting on Wednesday 16th of September, the Leader of Sunderland City Council withdrew support for Wear Red Day 2026 – an initiative developed by Show Racism the Red Card twelve years ago to provide an opportunity for people across the UK to demonstrate their commitment to anti-racism and stand in solidarity with individuals and communities targeted by racism.
Through the 12-year history of the initiative, Sunderland City Council have shown their support by lighting key community and cultural assets red and promoting positive anti-racism messages. Statements made during yesterday’s meeting indicate that no such support will be in place this year.
At a time when racism is on the rise throughout the UK and Europe, support for initiatives like Wear Red Day and the work of anti-racism organisations is more important than ever – demonstrating visible solidarity with those who face racism and prompting conversations about the treatment of people based on aspects of their identity.
Commenting on the decision, Ged Grebby, Chief Executive of Show Racism the Red Card said “Show Racism the Red Card have worked with Sunderland City Council throughout its 30 year history, and are proud of the charity’s North East roots. We are disappointed in the statement made by the Leader of Sunderland City Council stating that they will not be supporting Wear Red Day this year.
In our experience, the people of Sunderland have traditionally demonstrated a welcoming, inclusive and anti-racist attitude, and believe it is important that voters see this decision as further evidence that the Council are unsupportive of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion initiatives.
Show Racism the Red Card will continue to build for Wear Red Day in Sunderland on Friday 16th October and encourage schools and businesses to sign up and show their support. We have already had a great response from Sunderland AFC, who will continue to support the work of Show Racism the Red Card including Wear Red Day.”
In light of this decision, Show Racism the Red Card are calling on other Local Authorities and campaign supporters to continue their support for Wear Red Day and send a message to minoritised communities that racism in all its forms should continue to be challenged, both through education and demonstrations of allyship in the face of current hostilities.