A powerful gathering of civic leaders, police officials, and community advocates marked Stephen Lawrence Day 2026 in Birmingham, as stakeholders renewed calls for transparency, accountability, and stronger community trust in policing.
Hosted by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office at Bringing Hope, Handsworth, the event brought together a broad coalition of voices committed to advancing the Police Race Action Plan (PRAP) and addressing long-standing concerns around justice and equality.
Opening the evening, West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster set a reflective yet forward-looking tone. He acknowledged the enduring legacy of Stephen Lawrence and the responsibility institutions carry today.
“Stephen Lawrence’s story is not just history—it is a constant reminder of the work still ahead. Accountability is not optional; it is the foundation of public trust,” Foster said.
He emphasised that meaningful reform must go beyond policy documents and be felt in everyday policing experiences.
Acting Chief Constable Scott Green followed with remarks focused on operational change within the force. “We are committed to building a police service that reflects fairness, professionalism, and respect. Progress is being made, but we recognise there is more to do—and we are listening,” he stated.
Assistant Chief Constable Mike O’Hara provided a detailed overview of the Police Race Action Plan, outlining its four core workstreams: culture and workforce, powers and procedures, trust and reconciliation, and safety and victimisation.
“This is not a tick-box exercise. It is a long-term transformation agenda that requires honesty, consistency, and partnership with communities,” O’Hara said.
A key highlight was the address from Abimbola Johnson, Chair, National Independent Scrutiny and oversight board, who reinforced the importance of independent scrutiny.
“Oversight is not about criticism for its own sake—it is about ensuring that commitments translate into real outcomes for communities,” Johnson noted.
Bishop Robin Thompson, echoed this sentiment while facilitating community feedback discussions, “Trust is built through listening, humility, and action. Communities must see themselves reflected in the system that serves them,” he said.
Chief Superintendent Kim Madill spoke on future engagement strategies, stressing the need for deeper and more sustained dialogue , “We are moving from consultation to collaboration. Communities are not just participants—they are partners in shaping policing,” Madill explained.
A panel discussion featuring members of the Black and Asian Police Association (BAPA) offered candid reflections on internal progress and challenges.
“Representation matters, but inclusion matters more. We need to ensure voices are not only present but heard and acted upon,” one panel member shared.
The event also saw strong representation from community organisations, including the Sandwell Black Voices Council. The delegation was led by Chairperson Emma Harriet and Vice Chair Patrick Aderemi.
The workshop sessions that followed allowed attendees to engage directly on the four PRAP workstreams. Discussions were described as “honest and necessary,” with participants raising concerns around stop-and-search practices, workforce diversity, and victim support.
The evening concluded with a renewed commitment from all parties to maintain momentum. “Reflection without action is not enough. Tonight must translate into tomorrow’s progress,” Foster said in his closing remarks.
Stephen Lawrence Day continues to serve as both a memorial and a call to action. This year’s event in the West Midlands demonstrated a shared recognition: while progress has been made, the journey toward equitable policing is far from complete.
For many in attendance, the message was clear—change must be continuous, collaborative, and accountable.
As one participant aptly put it: “This is not about one day. It’s about every day.”
