Showing your support

Women, ethnic minority, disabled and LGBTI people are more likely to experience online abuse and trolling which often makes them less likely to want to be involved in politics. Their experiences online can make people, particularly candidates, from these groups feel very isolated. They don’t always feel fully supported by the party or that the party puts enough resources into tackling these issues. Parties should have a duty of care towards their candidates and a responsibility to respond quickly to internet trolling and be more explicit about how online abuse and discrimination won’t be tolerated.

For example, if voters have been posting racist comments about one of your candidates, you should swiftly put out a public statement about how their comments are unacceptable, you are proud of diversity and you won’t tolerate racism. This sends a message to other minority ethnic people who might be considering joining or standing for the party that you will support them effectively if they experience discrimination. By saying nothing, you are giving the impression that unacceptable behaviour is tolerated in the party.

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