Darren Lewis serves as the Assistant Editor at the Daily Mirror and is a notable Mirror Football contributor known for his weekly news column.
In the sequel to the iconic Die Hard film, Bruce Willis ponders aloud: “How can the same thing happen to the same person twice?”
With Nigel Farage capitalizing significantly on the Epping asylum-seeker situation, the realm of possibilities seems expansive.
Observing the professional xenophobes and racist troublemakers on social media inciting potential riots akin to those in 2024 has been quite noteworthy.
When coupled with certain segments of the mainstream media providing a platform for and perpetuating bigotry, it becomes evident that efforts are essential to lower tensions this summer.
Caught amidst the Epping crisis are several homeless families, lawful citizens temporarily residing there before transitioning to more permanent housing, far predating the current turmoil.
Reports from residents in the vicinity indicate that these families are fearful due to the hostile mobs targeting asylum seekers at a local hotel.
Deputy PM Angela Rayner’s remarks, suggesting that immigration tensions and declining living standards could spark further unrest, are equally disconcerting. What actions is the government taking?
Why would any individual in a position of political influence amplify negativity and potentially justify violence as a response to grievances?
Those who suffered from property damage a year ago, targeted based on their race, and subjected to assaults in public spaces will not appreciate politicians being careless with their language. Their experiences matter.
It is expected from Farage, who has been vocal on TV about the tensions in Epping mirroring the national sentiment. However, this does not hold true – a minority of extremists have infiltrated social platforms to gain traction.
These actions epitomize the toxic environment Farage continues to foster. It cultivates a climate where individuals in masks forcibly remove Black and Brown individuals from the streets, reminiscent of occurrences in the US.
There is little doubt that such elements desire to lead us into a place where deception, aggression, and division thrive.
Let’s consider some facts. Seeking asylum is not illegal and is protected under the 1951 Refugee Convention.
The majority of asylum seekers reside in low or middle-income nations, often near their countries of origin.
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