Tory leadership candidate Kemi Badenoch stated in a BBC interview this weekend that not all cultures were “equally valid” citing “cultures that believe in child marriage” as an example, before saying that she thought it was “extraordinary” that people thought this view was controversial.

Here at Savera UK, what we believe to be “extraordinary” is Ms Badenoch’s startling lack of knowledge and understanding of the issue of child marriage, and her dangerous conflation of culture with abuse.

No culture ‘believes’ in child marriage. It is not a part of any culture. Child marriage is a violation of human rights that is perpetrated by abusers who use culture or religion as an excuse to abuse.

For a person being considered for one of the highest seats of power in the UK to so wrongly conflate abuse with culture is irresponsible, dangerous and fans the flames of hate that we have seen targeted at people of diverse cultures over the summer in the UK.

All cultures are valid. They allow a sense of belonging, shared history and place of joy and celebration. Culture is beautiful #NoExcuseForAbuse

If, like Ms Badenoch, you are confused about the difference between culture and abuse, visit the Savera UK Learning Hub for free resources: https://www.saverauklearninghub.co.uk/

Image Credit: By UK Government – Cabinet Ministers Announcements, CC BY 2.0