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Middlesbrough Mela, the region’s largest celebration of multiculturalism, was forced to postpone due to unprecedented riots and scenes of deplorable violence and criminality in the town, just over two weeks ago. Since then, organisers have been overwhelmed with hundreds of messages of support, stating it was the right decision to prioritise public safety and encouraging them to reschedule the festival as soon as possible.

A meeting between Mela leaders, the town's MP, Mayor, and Police Chiefs was held, symbolically coinciding with the weekend the Mela was originally scheduled to take place. The outcome of this meeting has led to swift action, resulting in the decision to bring back the Mela in less than three weeks, on the 7th and 8th of September.

A joint statement from Mela bosses expressed their gratitude, stating:

“We’d like to thank everyone who attended the emergency meeting over the weekend. We were deeply encouraged by the solidarity of all those who recognised the importance of Mela and the need to embed real social cohesion from the top down. We’re confident that with the support of our MP, Mayor, and Police, Middlesbrough Mela will continue to be a beacon of hope and unity for our town and the wider region.”

Middlesbrough Mela is widely recognised as the region's flagship multi-cultural event and exists to promote community cohesion, positive integration, and inclusivity in a town that has recently been shaken by racial tensions and riots.

When asked what Mela means to the town’s Mayor, Chris Cooke said:

“It’s a really important event and it’s an honour to have it here in Middlesbrough because it really showcases exactly what Middlesbrough is and what it’s all about - unity and celebrating diversity.”

This sentiment was also echoed by Middlesbrough MP, Andy McDonald, who commented:

“Everybody in Middlesbrough and across the region really looks forward to Mela because it’s an expression of ourselves, it is a beautiful celebration of diversity.”

The Police Crime Commissioner, Matt Storey, added:

“Mela is a fantastic way to highlight the diversity of our communities and something which I am incredibly proud of. Bringing people together takes the heat out of those discussions around race and hate and things that have happened recently.”

The return of the Mela so soon after the recent unrest in the town is a powerful testament to its resilience and unwavering commitment to uniting people from diverse backgrounds. Through performing arts, culture, and celebration, the Mela continues to foster a sense of community, bringing people together collectively in the spirit of harmony.

The multi-award-winning event, now in its 34th year, remains one of the region’s most popular and longest-standing celebrations. It draws visitors from across the UK, who come together to enjoy the vibrant weekend festivities, now rescheduled for the 7th and 8th of September.

The event is free for all to attend, and tickets are not required.