Words by Smiley Team
Ten years ago, in August 2011, were the Tottenham riots. What started as a gathering of 200 protesters, who wanted answers over the death of Mark Duggan, who was shot dead by police, ended in a full-scale riot. More than a decade on, much has changed.
On 6 Aug 2021, Christians Together in Tottenham, Pray Haringey, and Haringey Citizens hosted a service to mark ten years since the shooting of Mark Duggan by police and the Tottenham Riots that followed.
“What we want to celebrate that in those 10 years [since the riots], many good things have happened in Tottenham.” – These were the words uttered at the service.
David Lammy, MP for Tottenham, attended the service, too. “I was born here in Tottenham 40 years ago, I’ve lived here all my life,” he said. “I love the people, the spirit, the energy. There’s a spirit in this community that’s very special.”
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After the service, many other local residents shared why they love Tottenham.
“Tottenham is a place of diversity, culture, it’s a place where you can truly be yourself.”
“I love it because it’s my home. I love the food and culture.”
“Tottenham is a place for everybody.”
“It’s a nice area and community, the people are lovely and support each other.”
“You see the love and empathy that people have for others and this is why I call this place home.”
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In 10 years time, residents would like to see more youth work in Tottenham, to further make sure the community is a safe and happy place.
Haringey Citizens is part of Citizens UK, the largest civil society alliance in the UK. For more information, visit www.citizensuk.org or follow @CitizensUK.
