A BLACK Lives Matter demonstration is set to take place in King Square, Barry, at 1pm on Saturday, June 13.

The gathering, supported by campaign group, Stand Up To Racism (SUTR), will see a number of speakers address the audience until around 4pm.

Speakers include Vale residents. Hilary Brown and Louis Williamson.

Mrs Brown said: “We are having a social distanced gathering of people who support the Black Lives Matters movement and are objecting to institutional racism – whether it’s authorities, employers or schools.”

She said the Vale council had not lit up premises, unlike its Cardiff City Council neighbour, despite a request to join in.

She added: “Some people have said ‘All Lives Matter’ but if you take that view you are part of the problem.

"Of course, all lives matter, but we are not dealing with that right now.

"It’s not black against white – it’s how we treat everybody.”

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Vale Buttrills ward councillor, Owen Griffiths said: “As we enter Pride month, in memory of a riot started by a trans woman of colour, it’s more important than ever that we stand in solidarity with those being unfairly discriminated against for the colour of their skin. People have the right to have their voices heard and for substantial change to be enacted.”

Vale council leader, Cllr Neil Moore said it had made clear its absolute and unequivocal opposition to racism and discrimination of any kind.

He said: “Our work to tackle such abhorrent prejudice dates back many years and includes a longstanding relationship with Show Racism the Red Card.

“We remain committed to equality for all regardless of race, age, gender, religion or sexual orientation.

"I was shocked and deeply moved by pictures of how George Floyd was treated before his tragic death.

“Black Lives Matter and in support of that campaign the iconic shelter at Barry Island will be lit up in purple light over the weekend.”

He added: “I fully understand the strong desire people have to protest on this emotive and powerful issue.

"This is a right that we should be proud of – free speech is important. As we remain in the midst of a global pandemic, I would urge everyone to stay safe.”