A Letter to the Mayor

Your Health and Society Officer Megan Cornes has written to the Mayor of Salford on behalf of students to discuss far-right activity and hate crime in Salford. And we thought YOU might want to hear what was said. 

Subject: Request for Statement on Far-Right Activity and Hate Crime in Salford 

Dear Mayor Dennett, 

I hope this message finds you well. 

My name is Megan Cornes and I am writing to you on behalf of the University of Salford Students’ Union Officer Team. We are reaching out with deep concern regarding recent developments in Salford relating to far-right activity, the display of nationalist symbols and the rising fear among our student community, particularly those who are visibly from minoritised backgrounds. 

Over the past few weeks, we have received troubling feedback from students who report feeling unsafe on campus and in the wider city. Some have expressed fears of being targeted due to their identity, with a few even considering withdrawing from their studies. This is occurring alongside a broader national context of increased hate crime and far-right mobilisation. 

We are aware of the recent appearance of Union Jack and St George’s flags along Broughton Road, into Salford Shopping City and wider areas of the city, as part of what has been described online as “Operation Raise the Colours.” While this campaign is presented by some as a patriotic gesture, there are growing concerns about its links to extremist far-right organisation and impact it is having on community cohesion. 

This is particularly significant in areas such as Salford Shopping City, which is not only a central hub for local residents but also home to a large number of international students living in nearby accommodation. Many of these students contribute actively to the local economy and community life, and it is vital that they feel welcomed and safe. The current atmosphere risks undermining the strong relationships that exist between students and the wider Salford community. 

We understand that Salford City Council has described these flags as “legitimate symbols of our shared national heritage” and has stated that they will not be removed unless they pose a safety risk or amount to an offence. While we appreciate the importance of civic pride, many students and residents feel that the current display is intimidating and exclusionary, particularly considering its potential associations. 

In light of this, we would be grateful if you could provide an extended public statement addressing: 

• The current situation regarding far-right activity and hate crime in Salford. 

• The Council’s response to the recent appearance of flags and symbols associated with far-right groups. 

• The specific actions being taken by your office and Salford City Council to combat racism, reassure affected communities, and promote safety and unity. 

• Any guidance or support you would recommend for students and young people who may be feeling vulnerable. 

We hope to share your statement with our student body to help reassure them that meaningful action is being taken and that Salford remains a city committed to diversity, safety and solidarity. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. We would be happy to meet or discuss further if helpful. 

Kind regards, 

Megan Cornes.