Leeds arts leaders release Black Lives Matter statement of solidarity

Leeds-based arts leaders including Amanda Huxtable and Kully Thiarai have released a statement in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, pledging to continue to "fight racism and injustice in all its forms".

Huxtable, artistic director and chief executive of Eclipse Theatre, and Thiarai, who is creative director and chief executive of Leeds 2023, have joined together with chief executive and principal of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance Sharon Watson, director of RJC Dance Kathy Williams and artistic director and chief executive of South Asian Arts-UK Keranjeet Kaur Virdee.

The statement says: "As black and brown women leaders in the city of Leeds, we are no strangers to the systemic and structural issues of racism, sexism and inequality in our society.

"Our own personal experiences mean we know first hand the impact racism can have on us as individuals, on our families and friends, and on our wider society.

"For all of us, our work and practice represent our commitment and pledge to fight racism and injustice in all its forms. We do so in the organisations we lead, and now we do so as a united voice, with and for the people of Leeds and our region."

The statement adds: "Over many years, as female leaders in the creative sector, we have actively sought, in overt and discreet ways, to change the damaging cultural narratives that dominate.

"Through our creative practice we have made work that reveals the stories and lives of our diverse communities, our rich heritage, our unseen talent and our passion for life.

"Recent events do not deter or alter our course of action, indeed it has made us even more resolute."

The statement pledges to collaborate with local communities in "peaceful creative protest" in response to recent events.

"Like many of you out there, we carry huge hurt and sadness. We are with you in solidarity, and with an open heart," they add.

"We send our condolences to George Floyd’s friends and family at this time and demand justice for his community."