Have you experienced racism over coronavirus in Southampton? Tell us

In the UK, there are now 85 Government-confirmed cases of the virus. Worldwide, people are affected by coronavirus in over 70 countries, and it has caused over 3,200 deaths.

There has been one confirmed case of coronavirus in Hampshire. Last month, a Soton student tested negative for the virus, a Southampton school was closed and evacuated, and a University of Southampton graduate is in quarantine in Tenerife, over coronavirus fears.

It has been reported that police are investigating allegations of racism, after there were five alleged racist incidents in four days, last month in Southampton and Portsmouth.

One University of Soton student had a stone thrown at him in the city centre, being told: “Go back to your fucking country.” Another student, wearing a face mask, was called a “virus”, and people have been targeted by racial slurs and verbal abuse.

There have been other similar incidents across the country. Earlier this week, a London student was attacked by four men, who allegedly shouted “I don’t want your Coronavirus in my country”. The Met Police are treating the incident, which left the Singaporean student with facial fractures and which may require reconstructive surgery, as racially aggravated. Students in Cardiff and London have spoken out on the racism they have experienced in the wake of coronavirus; and a student in Sheffield was called a “killer”.

Have you experienced any incidents such as these in Southampton, or do you know someone who has? Fill out the form above. Alternatively, you can speak to us in confidence by DMing us on Instagram @sotontab.

Stock featured image via SWNS

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