Police have issued a plea for lawful conduct during an anti-racism demonstration in Glasgow on Saturday, emphasising that there “must be no repeat of the disorder” seen earlier in the week. The protest, organised by Stand Up To Racism Scotland, is expected to draw large crowds in response to violent incidents on Tuesday night.
Background of the Unrest
On Tuesday, two police officers and three other individuals were injured amid clashes at an anti-immigration protest in Scotland's largest city. The unrest forced Glasgow Central Mosque to lock worshippers inside as the protest moved along Buchanan Street. The trouble followed a knife attack in Belfast, which had already sparked rioting in Northern Ireland.
Police Statement
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell stated on Friday: “Large numbers are expected in Glasgow city centre tomorrow, and a significant policing operation will be in place to support public safety and minimise disruption. Our role is to facilitate lawful activity, protect the public and respond appropriately to any incidents that may arise.” He added: “There must be no repeat of the disorder and violence seen in the city earlier this week, when members of our communities were targeted because of the colour of their skin and officers working to keep people safe were injured.”
Community Support
A coalition of groups is supporting the Stand Up To Racism demonstration, which begins at 1pm on Saturday at the Buchanan Steps. Supporters describe it as a “day for celebration, not hate.” Lawyer Aamer Anwar, among those backing the event, said: “The hate we saw on the streets of Belfast on Tuesday was unleashed on the streets of Glasgow, Edinburgh and Liverpool... Saturday is about reclaiming our streets, not a day for hate, but a celebration of our city and many cultures.” Scottish Labour MSP Paul Sweeney added: “The violence and racist thuggery witnessed in Glasgow on Tuesday does not represent our people or our city – what truly defines the city is the overwhelming compassion and support shown by Glaswegians in response.”
