As a nation we face a choice: either follow the far-right rhetoric of hate and division, or unite under our values of decency and determination, writes Jeevun Sandher, a Sikh MP.
Like many, I was horrified by the video of Henry Nowak's death. I cannot imagine his family's grief. I utterly condemn Vickrum Digwa, the murderer, and welcome the IOPC investigation. A kirpan was not used, and the law on wearing them is settled.
I am appalled but not surprised that Nigel Farage and other hard-right politicians try to divide us. Farage called for 'pure cold rage', leading to violent protests with Tommy Robinson, injuring 11 police officers.
Yet I have seen a better Britain in the grace of Henry's family. His father, Mark Nowak, said: 'We do not want his death to be used to create further division, hatred or tension. We want his story to make our streets safer for everyone.'
The contrast between Farage and Nowak presents a fundamental choice. One path rejects grace, using tech-inspired hate to blame 'those people over there'. The other path of national unity and grace defines our nation at its best, where different communities come together as one people.
This second path lives up to our best traditions, forged in the second world war and its aftermath. Our modern nation continues to evolve, and at moments like this we stand together in grief for Henry Nowak. His father's words are a testament to our values: together we will meet this moment, divided we won't.
