 Great to be part of the panel at Chestnut Grove Academy today. I joined some amazing women to discuss the importance of feminism.
The incredible young men and women from Year 9 showed themselves as real future change-makers: not only did the students ask thoughtful and challenging questions, they were engaged throughout, and gave me the warmest welcome. Thank you to the students and inspiring staff for a wonderful morning.
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 Honoured to host a roundtable on child slavery today with my friend, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, and pupils from schools across Tooting. What started with the screening of 'The Price of Free' at Parliament, continued with inspirational discussion, and was topped off with lots of pledges made by everyone in the room. It was exciting and so motivating to have all that energy in one room. Now to take action!  Today it was an absolute pleasure to celebrate one of Balham and Tooting Community and Social Club's founding patrons, Carmen Williams, for her 49 years of service. The local institution provides a safe haven for, and those that feel affiliated to, the West Indian Community. It was such a pleasure to share this special occasion with Carmen and the community. What a great way to spend a Sunday!  Thank you to the 2,300 local people who filled in my ‘Brexit Options’ survey - which helped inform my votes.
 After a couple of busy days (or weeks!) it was back to Tooting where Dee Light Bakery put together one of her legendary baking parties for my little girl's birthday. Needless to say, there were a lot of happy, cake-filled little ladies in Balham and Tooting this afternoon. Thank you Dee - already looking forward to my next visit.  A million of us marched for a People's Vote today!
People came from Ashford to Aberdeen, from Tyneside to Tooting. And the mood was incredible. The Brexit ship is heading towards an iceberg and the captain has gone full speed - the effect of Brexit will be devastating for jobs, living standards, and our economy. We won't let it happen; our voices will be heard. Proud to be marching alongside the masses for a People's Vote.  My favourite night of the year - BATCA Awards! This is always a great chance to celebrate all the unsung heroes of Balham and Tooting, and tonight was no different. I had a fabulous time meeting and speaking with the award winners - it was a pleasure to be part of it again. I am so moved by the incredible community I have always called home. It is heartbreaking to hear the reports coming out of New Zealand this morning - a barbaric act of terrorism. My thoughts and prayers are with all of those affected.
We heard poignant words from the Speaker in the Commons as we observed a one minute silence. "This sort of behaviour will never prevail, for it is fascist conduct. The notion that might is right, that if you're bestial enough, you'll get your own way. People who think that will have to be disabused of that notion. It will not happen." Locally, some community leaders have been in touch concerned about safety at prayers today. I have spoken to the police to ensure that assistance will be provided. I take this opportunity to thank them for their help.  Today is the Spring Statement. We urgently need to tackle violent crime by boosting police numbers. Over 70% of the Met's budget comes from the Government, and so every London Labour MP co-signed my letter to the Chancellor demanding more funding for the Met Police. It is very disappointing that NO Conservative MP wanted to add their signature.  It’s very easy to be reminded of why I love Tooting, and today was the perfect example of this.
‘Visit my Mosque Day’ at Balham Mosque was a fantastic community event. It was great to spend time here, sharing knowledge with open hearts and great food. I’m already looking forward to the next one! |