Civic, faith and community leaders unite to support councils' pledge against hate crime
Having signed the Guildford Declaration of Freedom of Religion and Belief in January 2025, both councils reaffirmed their commitment to create safe, inclusive communities where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their faith or belief.
Pledging community solidarity, the two Councils committed to openly celebrate their diversity, to work with communities, and to stand together, rejecting all forms of hate crime and hate incidents, including those motivated by race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.
Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of Guildford Borough Council said:
"Following the appalling incidents of hate crime that have happened recently, I believe it's important that we stand together as a community in solidarity and hope.
"As leaders it's vital that we find our voices to speak out against hate attacks and support those in our communities that are feeling afraid and unsafe.
"Diversity and difference enriches our community. Hatred and violence will not divide us. Our shared values of compassion, tolerance and respect are stronger than those who seek to undermine them."
Cllr Paul Follows, Leader of Waverley Borough Council said:
"Our councils remain steadfast in our commitment to mutual respect, inclusion and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
"At times like this, with antisemitism and islamophobia on the rise, it is vital that communities come together in solidarity. We stand firmly alongside communities of all faiths and none, and we reaffirm our commitment to working with partners, residents and community organisations to promote understanding, cohesion and safety."
Rabbi Alex Goldberg, the Rabbi of Guildford, reflected on the past few weeks, saying:
"These have been painful and unsettling days for many in our communities. We cannot live under intimidation, nor allow hatred and fear to divide us.
"But we must also not lose hope. The overwhelming majority of people want peace and dignity for all. If we stay focused, stand together, and refuse to retreat into silos, with an emphasis of building a shared future then we can overcome this moment together."
Other faith leaders and representatives shared their thoughts, highlighting the theme of common values, resilience in the face of hatred, and the strength of interfaith relationships.
Surrey Police's Deputy Chief Constable, Mark McEwan said:
"Surrey Police remain firmly committed to the prevention of crime and pursuing those who commit hate crimes across the county. Hate will not be tolerated in Surrey, and our work continues to focus on giving victims the confidence to report such offences and to feel supported throughout the investigative process.
"As an organisation, we are equally dedicated to strengthening and developing our collaborative working relationships with key partners. This is particularly important in the context of the local government restructure, as we work together to build more effective, inclusive, and cohesive working relationships that best serve our communities."
Published on: 8 May 2026.