Chichester, a city often lauded for its charm and desirability, is grappling with concerns over a reported increase in racist and homophobic incidents. These fears have surfaced following comedian and actor Munya Chawawa's account of experiencing significant abuse during his six-week stay in the city for a theatre production.
Chawawa, who performed in William Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' stated that he encountered more racism, xenophobia, and homophobia in Chichester over those six weeks than he had experienced in his entire lifetime. He described incidents including racial slurs directed at him and other audience members, and one cast member being attacked before a performance. He also noted instances of hate speech aimed at visitors and residents, such as a car shouting racial slurs and individuals being followed to their hotel while being verbally abused.
Following Chawawa's allegations, other Chichester residents have voiced similar concerns, reporting fears of growing far-right thuggery and a general decline in societal respect. Everett Dean, 34, expressed belief in Chawawa's account, citing a breakdown in respect and disaffected youth directing anger at various groups. Cheryl Haines noted the hateful nature of the alleged incidents, specifically mentioning a victim being chased down the street.
These accounts contrast with Chichester's reputation as a desirable place to live, known for its boutique shops, Georgian architecture, and proximity to the South Downs National Park. The city has been home to notable figures and has been recognized as a growing tourist destination. However, the past year has seen symbolic acts of intolerance, including the graffitiing of the St George's Cross, a symbol associated with the far-right, and anti-migrant protests outside a hotel that was reportedly considered for housing refugees.
Mayor Sean McHale acknowledged the seriousness of Chawawa's experiences, calling them "appalling" and expressing sadness and disappointment. He stated that while the majority of Chichester residents are open and welcoming, as evidenced by the city's reception of Ukrainian refugees, the reported incidents indicate a problem caused by a minority. The Mayor has reached out to Chawawa to understand the situation firsthand.
Sussex Police have confirmed they are investigating a homophobic attack in the city, leading to the arrest of a 16-year-old boy who was later bailed. The force is treating the incident involving three young men on bicycles directing abuse at a man as a hate crime. Residents like Tudor Watkins suggested a rise in prejudice fueled by the right wing, emboldening individuals to target those perceived as different. Will Van Dyke expressed hope that the incidents were isolated, rather than indicative of a growing trend.
Chichester Festival Theatre's artistic and executive directors, Justin Audibert and Kathy Bourne, responded to the incidents by stating they were "appalled and profoundly saddened" and that it was "deeply dismaying" to see a nationwide increase in toxic behavior reflected in their city.