Labour's conference theme, "A New Path", invites us to reflect on what kind of country and communities we want to build. At its heart, hope is not simply about economic growth or political change. It is about whether people feel they belong, whether they are treated with dignity, and whether they can look to the future without fear.
For the Lewes District Anti-Racist Alliance, this raises an important question: Can a new path also mean an end to the divisions, hostility, and hatred that have increasingly characterised public debate about migrants, refugees, and those perceived to be "different"?
Across the country, communities have witnessed a worrying increase in anti-migrant rhetoric and actions. We have seen attacks on refugee accommodation, hostility towards people seeking sanctuary, and even incidents where those involved in life-saving humanitarian work, such as the RNLI, have been targeted simply for rescuing people in danger at sea. When organisations dedicated to saving lives become the subject of abuse, it should give us pause for thought.
The language of "patriots versus others" is particularly concerning. Genuine patriotism is rooted in pride, responsibility, and a commitment to making our country and communities better for everyone. It is not measured by hostility towards newcomers, people of different backgrounds, or those seeking safety and opportunity. History teaches us that when societies begin to define themselves by who does not belong, division deepens and social cohesion suffers.
A genuinely hopeful future requires us to reject false choices. We can support secure borders while treating people humanely. We can recognise the pressures facing local communities while challenging myths and misinformation about migrants. We can celebrate our shared values without demanding cultural conformity.
Lewes District has a proud tradition of community spirit, volunteering, and standing up for fairness. Our district is strongest when people work together across differences, whether those differences are race, faith, nationality, age, or background. Hope grows when people encounter one another as neighbours rather than stereotypes.
The challenge for all political leaders, regardless of party, is to ensure that the promise of a "new path" is not simply an economic or political slogan, but a commitment to rebuilding trust, reducing division, and fostering belonging. Hope must be felt not only by those who have lived here for generations, but also by those who have arrived more recently and are seeking to contribute to our communities.
As an anti-racist alliance, we believe that the future depends on creating communities where disagreement does not become hatred, where difference does not become division, and where every person is recognised first and foremost for their shared humanity.
If a new path is to mean anything, it must lead us towards greater understanding, compassion, and unity. That is the kind of hope our communities need now more than ever.
Janet Baah
Chair
Lewes District Anti-Racism Alliance