We must be unselfconscious about defending the values we share- Ruth Davidson, Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party

Scotland’s cultural and racial diversity continues to be one of our nation’s great assets.

We have a reputation as an open, tolerant and welcoming society – one that values all people, no matter their colour, creed, gender or sexual orientation.

Those of us who believe in this vision cannot shy away from championing it. We must be unselfconscious about defending the values we share and be steadfast in our commitment to seeing them upheld.  

2016 has been a momentous year – for Scotland, the United Kingdom and our friends and allies on both sides of the Atlantic.

However, there are constants even in this period of flux.

Rooting out prejudice is as important today as it ever has been and we have a duty to further the message that whether prompted by skin colour, religion or nationality, discrimination is completely unacceptable in modern Scotland.

But we cannot be complacent.  

Across the country, our communities continue to be enriched by those who have chosen to make this country their home.

And we are better for our acceptance of different faiths and the protection we afford minorities.

But we must be honest with ourselves too. There remain hostile voices and backward glances.

Instead of wishing them away, we must challenge these views directly; redoubling our efforts to root out prejudice and tackle abuse. 

It’s to the STUC’s enormous credit that the trade union movement is in the vanguard of Scotland’s Anti-Racism movement. Once again, I’m proud to offer this longstanding event my wholehearted support.

Ruth Davidson 

Leader, Scottish Conservative Party

For details of the St Andrew's Day Anti-Racism March see the STUC Website or the St Andrew's Day Facebook Page