Lerwick Up Helly Aa committee responds to concerns from Ability Shetland
THE LERWICK Up Helly Aa committee says it recognised the “hurt and upset caused” by a social media post that has led to one of its members resigning.
Ability Shetland urged the Lerwick committee to make a public statement about the comments from a now-deleted Facebook post, calling on them to address the situation before the next festival in January.
The charity said that there was “hurt within the disabled community” as a result of the post.
The member has denied making the online post.
In a response this afternoon (Monday), the Lerwick Up Helly Aa committee said it recognised how people with additional needs and their families would have been adversely affected.
The committee said it would not comment publicly on the details of the investigation, but said concerns had been treated “seriously” and the investigation had now concluded.
“The committee does not condone discriminatory, derogatory or offensive language or behaviour towards anyone in our community,” it said.
“We take the conduct of our members seriously and recognise the responsibility that comes with representing such an important community event.
“We understand the calls for a public acknowledgement and hope this statement provides reassurance about the values and standards expected of those involved in Up Helly Aa.
“Up Helly Aa is, first and foremost, a community event, built on generations of volunteers, businesses, charities and individuals coming together. Respect, inclusion and community spirit are fundamental to what makes the festival special.”
The Lerwick committee said it had been in direct contact with the businesses and organisations named in the now-deleted social media post to “listen to their concerns”.
“Visits by the guizer jarl and their squad to schools, businesses, charities and community organisations are among the most meaningful traditions of Up Helly Aa,” it said.
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“We understand that recent events may have caused some individuals and families to feel apprehensive about these occasions.
“We want to reassure everyone that Up Helly Aa is for the whole community, and all should feel welcomed, respected and valued as part of the celebrations.
“This isolated incident should not define the wider festival or diminish the dedication of the hundreds of volunteers who contribute positively each year.”It said that it recognised its responsibility “to uphold appropriate standards and respond when concerns arise”.
“We appreciate Ability Shetland raising these concerns and recognise the importance of listening to those affected.
“Through our actions and continued engagement, we hope to rebuild confidence and reinforce the positive role Up Helly Aa plays in bringing our community together.”
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