Anti-racism protesters have rallied in Glasgow to show their opposition to racism in the wake of recent disorder caused by anti-immigration thugs. Thousands of people gathered on Buchanan Street this afternoon as part of the Glasgow Reclaims The Streets From Far-right Hatred And Violence protest.
Police presence and counter protest
A large police presence was maintained in the city centre to support the rally going ahead peacefully and to minimise disruption. However, a small number of far-right thugs, some waving Union Flags or wearing Union Flag style face coverings, tried to launch a counter protest before being separated from the main demonstration by police.
Placards and chants
Placards featuring slogans such as 'Stop racist Reform UK', 'Women against the far right', 'We belong, racists begone' and 'We will fight their racism with radical solidarity' were carried by protesters as they chanted anti-racism lyrics.
Stand Up to Racism Scotland hailed the demonstration as a success despite the small number of far-right thugs who attempted to disrupt the day. Posting on social media, they said: 'Thousands of Glasgow anti-racists have officially reclaimed the streets!! 1000s of anti-racists & anti-fascists at Buchanan Steps, Glasgow to oppose a small rump of 30 far-right thugs who have come to counter our anti-racism rally. They are dressed for violence, trying to copy the racist thugs who lead a pogrom in Belfast this week. Nae Pasaran!'
Background of violence
The demonstration comes in the wake of violence and riots led by the far right following the death of Henry Nowak in Southampton and the stabbing of Stephen Ogilvie in Belfast. A number of police officers were injured following far right disorder in Glasgow and Greenock in the days following the incident in Belfast.
