Massive Anti-Racism Protests Respond to Recent Wave of Hate Crimes
U.K: anti-racism protesters rallied in thousands across the UK on Wednesday in response to a surge of far-right violence.
The protests, fueled by online misinformation, targeted cities in England and Northern Ireland following the murder of three children on July 29.
Protests Across Major Cities
In cities like London, Birmingham, Bristol, Liverpool, and Newcastle, anti-racism and anti-fascist demonstrators turned out in large numbers. In Walthamstow, northeast London, protesters chanted “Whose streets? Our streets!” and held banners reading “Stop the far right.”
“I live in the borough and we don’t want these people on our streets… they don’t represent us,” said Sara Tresilian, 58. “You have to turn out and give that message… I think it’s important that you show up for your friends and neighbours.”
Police Praise Community Spirit
Andy Valentine, the Met Police’s deputy assistant commissioner, thanked communities for showing unity and spirit.
In Sheffield, activists chanted “Say it loud, say it clear, refugees are welcome here,” as riot police observed. Birmingham saw hundreds gather outside a migrant support center, while Brighton hosted a peaceful demonstration with around 2,000 participants.
Government on High Alert
The government had 6,000 specialist police on standby for the approximately 100 demonstrations advertised by far-right activists and counter-protesters. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper thanked police officers for their efforts to protect and support local communities.
Courts Crack Down
Courts have started issuing jail terms to offenders involved in the unrest, Britain’s worst since the 2011 London riots. Nearly 430 people have been arrested and at least 120 charged, prompting travel warnings from several countries.
The violence erupted after a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport, where three young girls were killed. False rumors on social media initially blamed a Muslim asylum seeker, but the suspect was later identified as 17-year-old Axel Rudakubana, a Welsh-born son of Rwandan immigrants.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed that those involved will face “the full force of the law,” including those inciting violence online. He pledged swift and severe sentencing for rioters and announced an additional 500 prison places.
Blame on EDL
Police have linked the disorder to figures associated with the English Defence League (EDL), a far-right Islamophobic organization. EDL founder Tommy Robinson, currently in Cyprus, has been accused of stoking tensions.
Social Media Under Fire
UK lawmakers have criticized social media sites for exacerbating the violence. Tech billionaire and X owner Elon Musk has faced backlash for provocative tweets, including claims of an impending British “civil war.”
The protests underscore a widespread public rejection of far-right extremism and a demand for peace and unity in the UK.
Join our Channel...