• August 7, 2024

Thousands of counter-protesters take to streets as far-right protests don’t materialise

Thousands of counter-protesters take to streets as far-right protests don’t materialise

LONDON Aug 7: Across the UK, hundreds of people have gathered to counter the more than 100 far-right rallies planned at immigration centres, lawyers’ offices and charities.

In Liverpool, hundreds formed a human shield around a church targeted for its immigration advice centre. About 200 counter-protesters gathered in Birmingham, chanting “Fascist scum out of Brum”.

In Brighton, the few anti-immigration protesters gathered outside a law office were so outnumbered by counter-protesters that the police there surrounded the anti-immigration protesters for their protection. With the exception of a small scuffle that broke out earlier on Queens Road, the counter-protest had the atmosphere of a street carnival, with a samba band playing and people loudly singing.

Meanwhile, in Walthamstow in east London, crowds of anti-racist protesters amassed in the streets, holding signs reading “EDL (English Defence League) Not Welcome in Walthamstow” and “No Room for Racism”.

While there have been a few sightings of the right-wing agitators promised, overall they have been far outnumbered by the anti-racist community members.