My name is Dionne Kerr.  I have been a Newham resident all my life, being the first born to the UK, of parents from the Caribbean.  I have had to grow up, knowing, that because of my heritage and because of my skin colour, numerous assumptions and judgements are placed upon the community and culture, to which I proudly belong, and I have had to observe as individuals as well as our clubs and organisations are persistently harassed and persecuted, for fabricated or over exaggerated behaviours, throughout my growing years. I am now 56 and still the Council's and Services, designed to serve and aid Its community, shows itself as a threat to our community and disrespects our culture.  In this case, The Hibiscus Community Centre. A place that gives support to its members and wider the community.  A welcoming space. A safe space, for all. A space where the generations come together. A place of learning. A place of expression, through art, music, dance, and comedy.  A place where We, I, and any, is accepted and encouraged to grow and overcome the pressures of city living. All things that aid a community to thrive, which in turn, when done well, filters to a society, working together, so there is better for ALL.

I have always questioned, if these attacks upon our organisations are by design, after all, systemic racism must come from somewhere, doesn't it? Does it not make sense that if something is of benefit to the majority, it takes presidency over the concerns of the minority? Was that not the principal behind Covid vaccinations? Well, I only ask because Newham Council is taking nine complaints from four households to destroy the work of two generations of a community settled in the UK since 1950. This decision was taken in the height of the pandemic, and if allowed to stand will destroy jobs, and care leisure and entertainment services designed to meet the needs of Newham African Caribbean community. This is race equality today in Newham: a place where blatant racism masquerades as public administration: it is a disgrace and an affront to all right thinking people. I will do all within my power and will, to oppose the removal of the premises licence for Hibiscus Community Centre from Hibiscus Caribbean Elderly Association.