The Lisburn and Castlereagh Councillor – who attended the rally against racism on Saturday – was speaking in the wake of the latest attacks on two Pakistani men in North Belfast.
Councillor Vasundhara Kamble said: “Saturday’s rally was really encouraging, showcasing the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland want a more inclusive and progressive society.
“Northern Ireland is my home and as an elected representative I am proud to serve everyone in the community. But we must go further. We are still waiting for the publication of the Racial Equality Strategy and the development of an action plan to make sure the initiative is implemented fully – this has to change.
“We all have a responsibility to make Northern Ireland an open and welcoming place, where people from all backgrounds feel safe and valued. We must unite together to signal Northern Ireland is open to everyone.”