Dear Editor
I write from two black organisations who find the actions of Cllr Brian Gordon deeply offensive. In dressing up as an insulting caricature of ex president of South Africa Nelson Mandela, blackening his face in attendance at a Jewish religious festival of Purim he has managed to anger both London's Black and Jewish communities. We find it remarkable that in this day and age a politician from a mainstream political party, representing a multiracial community, still feels it acceptable to stereotype black people - and to boot one of the worlds most dignified leaders.
We would urge the Barnet Conservative Group to censure or reprimand Cllr Gordon. It is important that minority communities feel valued and respected and such boorish behaviour is unbecoming of someone who holds public office.
Yours
Karen Chouhan
1990 Trust board and
Chair, Black Londoners Forum