A NEW network of Black community activists want Luton council to debate a binding policy motion later this month.

Community groups say the motion could make far reaching and long term differences to Black communities in the town.

It would see Luton council acknowledge transatlantic enslavement and African colonisation as a holocaust against those of African heritage.

Community groups assisting Black Lutonians could also be helped by the motion, which would ensure that London Luton Airport Limited’s (LLAL) community funding policy adequately supports them.

The motion also includes a commitment to work alongside other councils to ensure Black children are engaged by the school curriculum.

Concretely, it would ensure that Black staff are not disproportionately reduced in any council restructuring, and that numbers increase by at least 2% each year until fair representation is reached.

The Better Together Network, who are advocating for the motion was formed when several community leaders came together and created a forum to address longstanding inequalities.

After consultation with younger members of the area’s Black community, they put a list of concerns to Luton council.

They now hope that the council will agree their comprehensive programme of action on January 19.

Michael Nanton-Knight, a local businessman said: “It is clear to me that within the ethnic minorities in Luton, the Black community are the least represented and mostly forgotten.

“The motion to me as a whole is symbolic. It is a piece of legislation that will safeguard the Black community’s opportunities and visibility for generations to come.”

The Better Together Network partnered with other groups such as the African-Caribbean Community Development Forum which has raised attainment in Luton for the past 20 years.

Lorna Markland, one of the group’s cofounders said: “Following last year’s protest, it is important for Luton Council to demonstrate in tangible ways that Black Lives Matter by improving prospects, especially for our younger generations.

“While the initial measures proposed are modest, they do, along with the fact that progress will be monitored, represent an important breakthrough after recent years.”