Reform-led Gateshead Council has refused to light up the Millennium Bridge in red on October 16 in support of the anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card. The decision follows Sunderland City Council's withdrawal of its 30-year partnership with the charity last week.
Council Cites Socio-Political Activities
Reform UK Gateshead, which gained leadership of the local council in May 2026, announced it will not participate in the charity's annual 'Wear Red Day' campaign. A spokesperson for the Reform UK group in Gateshead stated: "Show Racism the Red Card's activities are socio-political and therefore support for them would be outside our policy of treating all residents as equals."
The spokesperson added that the council governs "without regard to race, sex, gender, physical capabilities, sexual orientation or any other personal characteristic" and will not support "campaigning/pressure groups organised around shared political, social or ideological goals."
Charity Responds to Sunderland Decision
Sunderland City Council pulled its partnership with the charity, claiming it had "increasingly become involved in activity which goes beyond straightforward anti-racism education and enters the political arena." A spokesperson for the Reform UK group in Sunderland said: "The council does not need an affiliation with Show Racism the Red Card in order to oppose racism."
Ged Grebby, Chief Executive of Show Racism the Red Card, said: "We are disappointed in the statement made by the Leader of Sunderland City Council stating that they will not be supporting Wear Red Day this year." He added: "In our experience, the people of Sunderland have traditionally demonstrated a welcoming, inclusive and anti-racist attitude."
Local Criticism of Gateshead Decision
The Gateshead decision has been criticised by Saltwell Labour councillor John Adams, who described it as an "own goal." Councillor Adams said: "Show Racism the Red Card is a long-standing anti-racism educational charity, not a political party. Whatever its Chief Executive thinks personally, that shouldn't be used as an excuse to turn our backs on its work."
Show Racism the Red Card has called on other local authorities and campaign supporters to continue their support for Wear Red Day, noting that Sunderland AFC will continue to support the charity's work.
