An investigation by The Courier has revealed details of the extent of racist abuse and violence perpetrated in Perth and Kinross.
Statistics obtained using freedom of information legislation reveal almost 100 people have been convicted of racial assaults at Perth Sheriff Court over the last five years.
English, Irish, Indians and Pakistanis have been among those targeted thanks to nothing more than their country of origin, whith victims being subjected to a range of often unprovoked physical and verbal abuse.
In one of the most recent incidents, Brazilian Marcio Machado was targeted on his way home in Perth after a Scottish teenager shouted racial slurs at him from a passing car.
Mr Machado’s ordeal was far from unusual, with many local victims innocently going about their business when attacks were launched.
Figures obtained from the Crown Office and procurator fiscal service show there have been 95 convictions for racially motivated attacks at Perth Sheriff Court since 2005.
Proceedings in six cases are ongoing, but there is welcome evidence of a significant downward trend. Convictions peaked in 2005-06, when 32 criminals were brought to justice, but they have since been on a downward trajectory there were just 12 convictions last year.
Perth MSP Roseanna Cunningham last night said racism was an “evil” with no place in society.
“While welcoming this encouraging trend we must remember that racism can manifest itself in many ways, not just through people’s language or actions,” she said. “Racism is an evil which has no place in any civilised society.”
Councillor Archie MacLellan, co-chairman of the Perth and Kinross community equality advisory group and chairman of the equality and diversity member officer group, said the council was determined to play its part in stamping out racism.
“The council, together with its community safety partners, takes a strong stance against any type of racial abuse as it can seriously affect people’s lives,” he said.
“The council’s anti-social investigations team will respond to any concerns from members of the public about anti-social behaviour, including incidents of racial abuse, and provide appropriate assistance.”
He urged anyone affected by racist behaviour to seek help by calling the police or the council’s 24-hour anti-social behaviour line on 01738 476173.
Photo courtesy of Stewart Lloyd-Jones.